The 2010 Willow Creek Cuvee is another striking wine from Villa Creek. Even with the presence of 20% Syrah and 20% Mourvedre, this Grenache-based blend comes across as lighter than the Garnacha. Dark red cherries, plums and smoke flow through to the intense, layered finish. The Grenache and Syrah components were raised in French oak puncheons (50% new), while the Mourvedre was fermented with 50% whole clusters and aged in standard French oak barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018. Villa Creek is one of my favorite wineries in Paso Robles. The wines are bold, exuberant and bursting with the essence of everything that makes Paso such a compelling region. Tel. (805) 238-7145