Review: Ancient Peaks 2019 Renegade and 2018 Oyster Ridge
You just can’t stop these guys. We’re back again with two fresh looks at the wines of Paso Robles-based Ancient Peaks, both red blends.
2019 Ancient Peaks Renegade Paso Robles – A weird blend of 57% syrah, 33% petit verdot, and 10% malbec. Initially daunting, I slowly gravitated to this wine with ample time in glass, its initial rush of currants and roasted meats giving way to gentle florals, strawberry, and vanilla notes. This is a huge wine — as the name would suggest — but paired with an appropriate meal it allows its well-hidden charms to find some purchase. Some time in cellar may be of assistance in that regard. B+ / $26
2018 Ancient Peaks Oyster Ridge Santa Margarita Ranch – A blend of 75% cabernet sauvignon, 9% petit verdot, 9% malbec, 5% cabernet franc, and 2% merlot. At 75% cab, the DNA doesn’t stray far from expectations, offering a very tannic experience that’s weighted with currants and black cherries… but touched with exotic, dried floral notes that emerge with some time in glass. It’s a touch doughy on the back end, with green, grassy elements emerging over time as well as a balsamic edge. All told, this is a wine that will probably benefit from several years of cellaring, allowing its disparate parts to coalesce. B / $50 [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]
2018 Ancient Peaks Oyster Ridge Santa Margarita Ranch
$50
