Ep 193: Rhône Roots: Exploring Châteauneuf Varietals in Paso Robles with Jason Haas of Tablas Creek (Part 1)

In this episode, I sit down with Jason Haas, proprietor of the renowned Tablas Creek Vineyard, a leader in California’s Rhône varietal revolution. Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of Tablas Creek, founded in partnership with the iconic Château de Beaucastel from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France. Jason shares his deep knowledge of the unique characteristics of Rhône varietals that thrive in California’s terroir. Whether you’re a Rhône enthusiast or new to these varietals, this episode offers insights into the grapes behind one of the world’s most revered wine styles.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

Cheers!

If you want to skip ahead:

02.23: How the relationship started between Tablas Creek and  Château de Beaucastel

07.15: Why choose Paso Robles wine region for planting Rhône Varietals

10.55: Terroir differences further inland in Paso Robles where more  Bordeaux, Spanish varietals and Zinfandel are being planted

13.09: How does the Adelaide AVA region where Tablas Creek is, compare to Châteauneuf-du-Pape

15.17: The best advice recieved from The Perrin Family of Château de Beaucastel

18.00: The Challenges of importing cuttings from Château de Beaucastel and the complications of them passing their quarantine

23.32: Muscardin - the final grape to be imported and soon to be released as a single varietal

25.12: Tasting the flagship red - Espirit de Tablas Rouge 2020 and what each varietal adds to the blend (Mourvedre, Grenache, Syrah, Counoise, Vaccarese, Cinsaut) Vinvm (2017 vintage) £50.30

30.12: The benefits of Mouvedre being the lead in the wine

31.31: Vintage differences, the fires of 2020, and five year drought

36.04: Tasting the flagship white- Espirit de Tablas Blanc 2020 and what each varietal adds to the blend (Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Picpoul Blanc, Bourboulenc, Clairette Blanche, Picardan) Vinvm (2019 vintage) £44.05

40.22: Comparing the 2019 vintage to 2020

41.50: Discussing the single grape varietal wines

45.48: Growth of Rhône Rangers in California and the Tablas Creek Nursery supplying them

 

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

 

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