Wines Paso Robles Rushrose - Grenache Syrah Mouvedre - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Rushrose 2020 is a beautifully crafted GSM blend, featuring Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, a trio of grape varieties that thrive under the Californian sun. This red wine expresses generous notes of ripe cherry and blackberry from the Grenache, a touch of pepper and floral nuance from the Syrah, and a subtle earthiness and structure provided by Mourvèdre. The 2020 vintage, marked by warm days and cool nights, yields a wine with plush tannins, balanced acidity, and impressive depth. The wine is aged in oak which lends hints of vanilla and spice, smoothing the blend and enriching its aromatic complexity.

Paso Robles, the source of this cuvée, is one of California’s most dynamic AVAs. Located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the region benefits from a Mediterranean climate: warm, arid days ensure grapes reach optimal ripeness, while cool nighttime breezes from the Pacific Ocean preserve the fruit's freshness. The soil diversity, combining calcareous shale, loam, and clay, contributes to complex flavor development. Paso Robles has a history rooted in pioneering Rhône-style blends, and its winemakers are celebrated for combining innovation with respect for the land’s rich viticultural tradition.

For food pairings, this GSM blend is versatile and thrives alongside heartier dishes. Classic Provençal fare such as lamb stew with thyme or grilled duck breast with aromatic herbs work beautifully, as do Mediterranean roasted vegetables and wild mushroom ragout. The wine also stands up well to richer American barbecue dishes, such as smoked ribs or brisket, where the fruitiness of the blend complements smoky flavors.

For the best enjoyment, serve this red at 16-18°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes prior to tasting helps the wine open up and fully reveal its aromatic spectrum. With its robust yet refined character, Rushrose 2020 is ideal both for immediate pleasure and further cellar aging over the next few years.