1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Varietal/Style: Cabernet Sauvignon Origin: Paso Robles Vintage: 1997 Winemaker: John Munch (consultant) Rating: 14/20 Retail Price: $24

Tasting Notes: The new kid on the Central Coast block, this winery's reputation is rapidly rising, thanks in part to great fruit from one of Paso Robles finest Cabernet vineyards, Cougar Ridge. The supple, full-bodied style of French Oak aging never overshadows cassis flavors. A very drinkable style, the wine finishes with soft tannins and a hint of mocha. (Date tasted: 03/03/00)

Profile: One of the Central Coast's newest wineries, Rio Seco is quick to establish a reputation for producing quality, boutique wines. Well known throughout the Paso Robles community for their leadership efforts as local sports team coaches, husband and wife winery founders and elite athletes, Tom and Carol Hinkle, have a great deal of regional support for their latest endeavor. Recently employing the expertise of consulting winemaker John Munch, former winemaker for Aldelaida Cellars, the pair seems poised to score a few perfect tens. With current production including Zinfandel, Rousanne, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Viogner/Orange Muscat blend, the Hinkles have set sights on expanding their current 1,000 case production to as much as 10,000 cases in the years to come.

Address
4295 Union Rd.
City: Paso Robles, CA USA
Phone: (805) 460-9463
Web site: n/a
E-mail: rioseco@thegrid.net

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