Looking at the 2011 reds and Paso Robles’ take on a Cotes du Rhone (and a good one), the 2011 Patelin de Tablas (52% Syrah, 29% Grenache, 18% Mourvedre and a splash of Counoise) offers up a great bouquet of crunchy black cherry fruit, roasted herbs, pan drippings and licorice that gives way to a medium-bodied, fresh and lively palate feel. Upfront, loaded with fruit, and yet also lively and fresh, this beauty should be purchased by the case and consumed over the coming 3-4 years. Drink now-2017. Certainly a reference point for Paso Robles, Tablas Creek continues to produce wines in a restrained, age-worthy and savory style that sets them apart. Both 2010 and 2011 are strong here, with the 2010s showing additional depth and concentration and the 2011s showing pretty, elegant profiles. I suspect the 2011s will be on faster evolutionary tracks, but given their balance, they could surprise in the cellar. In addition to their current releases, I was able to do short verticals of their Esprit de Beaucastel (which is now called Esprit de Tablas) and Panoplie. To say I came away impressed would be an understatement. Tel. (805) 237-1231; www.tablascreek.com