2012 Linne Calodo Perfectionist Paso Robles

The 2012 Perfectionist is mostly Syrah, yet incorporates 12% Grenache and 11% Mourvedre. Fermented with 100% whole clusters and aged mostly in concrete (one puncheon was used), it has complex, savory aromas and flavors of red and black fruits, bouquet garni, crushed rock and smoked herbs all emerging from the glass. While savory and rich, it shows that whole cluster doesn't mean rustic, and this beauty is full-bodied, seamless and incredibly polished on the palate, with no hard edges and high-quality tannin. It's another superb blend from Matt that will have a decade or so of evolution. I had a fantastic tasting with owner/winemaker Matt Trevisan, and to my palate, this estate is at the top of their game. The wines have incredible purity across the board, and while they pack serious flavor and depth, they never seem heavy, over-the-top or cumbersome in the least. You can't go wrong with any of these. (JD) Review Date: August 2014