Item Number: 6535 UPC: None

Country: USA
Region: California Sub Region: San Luis Obispo
Appellation/AVA: Paso Robles
Vineyard Designation: James Berry Vineyard
Vintage: 2011
Grape(s): 40% Grenache / 40% Syrah / 20% Mourvèdre
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750ml Pack: 12
Closure: Cork
Case Production: 300
Alc by Vol(%): 15.2
Viticulture: Practicing Organic
About the Vineyard: Pebble and Terry Smith were among the first to recognize the potential for Rhone varieties in Paso Robles. Together, with their son Justin, they have created what Robert Parker calls one of five grand cru vineyard sites in California. As a continual model for studies in progressive farming practices, the Smith family has worked to create a sustainable ecosystem that produces the finest grapes in the area. Limestone covered hills under which an ancient seabed floats, are the foundation for this amazing planting. The Villa Creek High Road blend is always comprised of this world class James Berry Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah. This particular vintage is no less than a stunning representation of the power of this site. Cris Cherry is among the fortunate few that have access to this fruit.

Tasting Notes: Vibrant aromatics of candied orange peel, boysenberry, and pomegranate, lead one into the voluptuous palate. Red berry pie topped with vanilla bean and black pepper ice cream, is followed by a meaty finish (dessert before dinner is okay sometimes!). It is exquisitely balanced and will give years of pleasure. Drink 2013-2025

96pts by Antonio Galloni for Vinous
"Villa Creek's 2011 High Road is easily one of the wines of the vintage. A GSM blend from James Berry, the High Road is also fascinating, because it shows the stylistic breadth that is capable from this site. Rich, savory and finely knit but never heavy, the 2011 impresses for its combination of power and elegance. The 2010 is a wine of more immediate impact while the 2011 is more subtle, but ultimately even more delicious. In 2011 the Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre components were all co-fermented."