Epoch Block B Paderewski Vineyard Syrah Paso Robles 2019 750ml
Description
Epoch Block B Paderewski Vineyard Syrah Paso Robles 2019 750ml
The 2019 Block B Syrah opens with an arresting bouquet of fresh blackberry, crushed violets, and cracked black pepper that leaps from the glass. First impressions reveal concentrated dark fruit—ripe boysenberry and black plum—followed by savory notes of cured meat, wild sage, and a distinctive minerality that speaks directly to the limestone-rich soils of the Paderewski Vineyard.
On the palate, this Syrah unfolds deliberately, presenting layers of dark cherry, black olive, and dried herbs. The mid-palate introduces subtle notes of espresso, licorice root, and smoked salt that balance the fruit intensity with remarkable precision. The finish extends with persistent blue fruit, graphite, and a whisper of chaparral that echoes the rugged Paso Robles landscape.
Sourced exclusively from Block B of the historic Paderewski Vineyard—once owned by the famed Polish pianist and statesman Ignacy Jan Paderewski—this wine embodies the distinct character of its terroir. Situated on the westside of Paso Robles, the vineyard’s steep hillsides and limestone-rich soils create natural stress that produces fruit of extraordinary concentration and character.
What distinguishes this Block B bottling is its remarkable balance between power and restraint. While many Paso Syrahs lean heavily into ripeness and extraction, Epoch’s approach highlights precision and site-specificity. The 2019 vintage particularly shines through its structural integrity—firm, integrated tannins provide architecture without overwhelming the fruit’s natural vibrancy.
Winemaker Jordan Fiorentini employs a gentle hand in the cellar, utilizing native yeast fermentation and minimal intervention techniques that allow the vineyard’s voice to speak clearly. The wine matures in a thoughtful combination of new and neutral French oak barrels and larger puncheons, adding subtle complexity without masking the fruit’s inherent character.
The 2019 growing season in Paso Robles provided ideal conditions for Syrah, with moderate temperatures throughout summer allowing for extended hang time and phenolic development. A cooling trend during harvest preserved crucial acidity, resulting in a wine of remarkable freshness despite its concentration.
This Block B Syrah brilliantly showcases why Paso Robles has emerged as one of California’s most exciting regions for Rhône varieties. It offers an experience that bridges Old World structure with New World fruit expression—a compelling invitation to explore the possibilities of this terroir.
Perfect for those seeking wines of character and place, this Syrah pairs exceptionally well with herb-crusted lamb, wild mushroom dishes, or slow-braised short ribs. While drinking beautifully now, especially after decanting for 45-60 minutes, this wine has the structure and balance to evolve gracefully over the next 7-10 years.
- Producer
- Epoch
