I’ve been compiling wine reviews to add for a little while, but I figured I would kick off with something unique and pretty special. I do plan on tasting much less expensive wines of course, but working at Sculpterra does allow me access to some awesome wines that people deserve to hear about. I hope you will join me as I continue my wine journey and improve my tasting and descriptive skills along the way. 

Paul Frankel, winemaker at Sculpterra, wanted to create something that would be the ultimate fusion of art and wine: A very limited release collector’s item, highlighting the very best that Sculpterra has to offer. Only 88 bottles of this wine were produced, and the only place to get it is in Sculpterra’s tasting room, here in Paso Robles.

Here’s what Paul had to say about the 2016 Winemaker’s Signature, which was the first release using this bottle: 

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0aAnVt_tGM

The award-winning bottle design works as its’ own decanter. It features John Jagger’s “Eternal Flame” sculpture, etched and painted by Atascadero artist, Don Landy. They are all hand filled, signed, waxed and numbered by Paul. These bottles are $200 each to buy unless you want two, then there’s a discount.

There was a little left over from bottling, and some of the staff were fortunate to be able to try it. Here’s what I made of it.

Tasting Notes

50% Cabernet Franc / 33% Syrah / 17% Petite Sirah – 15.8% Alc

Deep Ruby in color, with some purple at the edges.

Pronounced youthful dark fruit on the nose. Ripe black and red fruits, framed with spiced vanilla from American oak.

On the palate, it’s full-bodied and dry, with medium+ tannin, acidity, and alcohol. This wine really does fill the palate well. The tannin is strong but well structured and pleasant, and a sure sign that this wine will age very well indeed.

It has a long, complex, and balanced finish, with mostly dark fruit, a hint of redcurrant, and sweet spice.

For the lucky few who obtain a bottle or two of this wine, congratulations! Can we be friends?
Paul suggests this wine will develop very nicely over the next 10 or 15 years, and I certainly wouldn’t argue with that.

If you happen to be in Paso Robles, California, come by Sculpterra Winery and Sculpture Garden, and see what all the fuss is about.

Darren