Pedernales winemaker David Kuhlken takes a page from the Rioja playback with this old-world-style Tempranillo. I wish more warm-weather vineyard properties had elevations above 3,500 feet, like those that sourced the fruit for this wine. The Temp Reserve is restrained and balanced with a thoughtful and measured use of French and American Oak. I want to taste fruit and freshness in a wine, and this one delivered. Despite its 13.8% alcohol, the wine balances fruit with pleasant acidity.
This is an outstanding medium-bodied wine, smooth and long on the finish. I get density of dark cherry fruits on the palate, with black pepper and baking spices. I can almost imagine the dusty and brambly high plains of Texas. Kudos to Pedernales for contributing a perfect pairing with our evening meal – pasta marinara with beef, veal, and pork meatballs – homemade by yours truly. Read David Kuhklen’s Wine Characters interview.