Qupé Modern Red Central Coast 2013: Mulberry color; cherry, spice, flowers on lively nose;
berry fruits, cherry, raspberry, plum on the palate; just dad-gum, plum delicious pour; medium body, gentle on the tannin, smooth, astonishingly easy drinker. Winemaker Bob Lindquist is one of the original Rhône Rangers (California makers who use traditional Rhône gapes, but with noticeable California style); his latest effort targets Millennials on their palate and their wallet. It is blend of syrah, grenache and mourvèdre (a slight twist on the standard formula where grenache plays lead). Qupé (kyoo-PAY—Native American Chumash name for the California poppy) is one of Central Coast’s most storied wineries; Lindquist started the winery in 1982 and was one of the first to promote American-made Syrah and other Rhône varietals. The winery typically is regarded as California’s preeminent producer of cool-climate Syrah and Rhône varietals; it consistently produces refined, elegant, drinkable wines with structure and balance that express climate and terroir—not something every California or Central Coast winery aims for, much less achieves. This is dead-center-perfect pour for the price. Find it. Enjoy. $14-17 