Review: Wines of Alta Colina, 2021 Releases
Alta Colina can be found in California’s Paso Robles region, and recently the winery sent us four of its new releases, overseen by new winemaker Molly Longborg, for review. All were tasted, unusually, from small sample bottles, not commercial bottles, though I don’t think that should overly influence this coverage.
2020 Alta Colina Grenache Blanc Estate Bottled – Tart and gently floral, this wine evokes green apple, lime leaf, and gooseberry, a touch unripe and almost sour on the back end, but not quite, with floral elements lingering on the finish. B+ / $30
2019 Alta Colina Claudia Cuvee Marsanne – Heavily floral, almost perfumed. A touch of honey and lemon curd temper the florals, with a hint of melon enduring on the finish. B / $38
2018 Alta Colina GSM Grenache Blend – 73% granache, 15% mourvedre, 12% syrah. A bit beefy, with notes of tea leaf, currants, and a toasted barrel note adding depth and some needed acidity. The brighter finish offers touches of cherry and a pop of dark chocolate. B+ / $43
2018 Alta Colina Old 900 Syrah – 96% syrah, 2% grenache, 2% viognier. The big, savory punch of syrah is unmistakable here, giving the palate a well-charred burnt end barbecue kick, slightly smoky with (again) a tea and cola note complementing a brighter cherry and raspberry character. Rounded and balanced, it’s easily the best wine in the mix. A- / $58
2018 Alta Colina Old 900 Syrah
$58
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