Proprietary Red Estate Blend, Epoch Estate Wines 2017

While the estate blend used to function as an entry level cuvée, today it's as good as the other cuvées and well worth seeking out in its own right. Based on 36% Syrah, 21% Grenache, 17% Mourvèdre, 14% Tempranillo, and the rest Zinfandel and Carignan, the 2017 Estate Blend’s vivid purple color is followed by a juicy bouquet of black raspberries, ground pepper, leafy herbs, chocolate, and a touch of chalky minerality. With medium to full body, a juicy, elegant, balanced texture, and a great finish, it's a great wine to enjoy over the coming 7-8 years or so. I don't think it will be the longest lived in the lineup, but for the sheer yum factor, it's hard to beat. Drink between 2020-2028.