The 2021 Vintage in Paso Robles
There is a year about once a decade that amazes winemakers, and 2021 was one of those. The 2021 vintage in Paso Robles had near-perfect conditions leading to a stunning vintage. With a mild winter and a warm, dry summer, the grapes had the ideal conditions to develop concentrated flavors and balanced acidity.
The wines crafted in 2021 have stunned both winemakers and Paso Robles visitors alike with their exceptional depth, vibrant aromas, and rich, complex profiles. Here is more information on how the growing season and vinification process led to our beautiful 2021 vintage of BENOM Wines.
The 2021 vintage began with a dry winter in Paso Robles. In a span of three days, the region received nearly all of its annual 14 inches of rainfall, a brief but intense downpour that would set the tone for the growing season. As spring arrived, the air warmed quickly, prompting an early bud break. However, this early warmth was soon followed by cold spells, with frosted evenings that vintners across the region holding their breath in concern for the budding vines.
At the other end of the spectrum, an untimely heat wave pushed the vines into an early flowering, adding another layer of complexity to the vintage. Despite this, the weather soon mellowed, leading to a temperate summer that was marked by minimal losses. The season saw very few heat spikes and no major weather concerns, allowing the grapes to develop steadily.
Our harvest in Paso Robles was perfectly timed, neither early nor late, starting with Sauvignon Blanc in Paso Robles and ending with Syrah from Edna Valley. The balanced weather patterns throughout the season allowed for a harmonious ripening process, resulting in grapes that were bursting with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity. This precise timing and careful attention in the vineyards ensured that each grape was picked at its optimal moment, capturing the essence of the 2021 vintage.
Additionally, the lower temperatures during vinification contributed to a remarkable brightness in our wines, enhancing their vibrant character. Coupled with the beautiful acidity developed due to the previous weather conditions, the 2021 vintage in Paso Robles rivals some of the best in recent memory. This extraordinary year has produced wines that not only showcase the best of our vineyards but also stand as a testament to the skill and resilience of our winemaking team.
This vintage is meant for both the immediate drinker and the cellar ager, one that will amaze you and go above and beyond all expectations. Guillaume Fabre, the winemaker at BENOM Wines, expressed that the 2021 vintage, "reached above all my expectations. It really came out amazing.”
Whether you choose to enjoy it now or let it age gracefully in your cellar, the 2021 vintage from BENOM Wines promises a remarkable experience that reflects our commitment to crafting high-quality French and Spanish-inspired wines that embody the heart and soul of Paso Robles.