Downstream Paso Robles Red Blend Horizontal (OWC) 2016 4pack

98 points Jeb Dunnuck

Downstream is a project between well-known oenologue Philippe Cambie and Saxum’s Justin Smith. The wine is Zinfandel focused and the 2016 comes mostly from the Dusi Vineyard, which in on the westside of Paso Robles and has produced some of the great Turley Zinfandels.

I loved the 2016 Downstream and even bumped it up a point from last year, which is always a good sign when a wine improves with bottle age. Thrilling notes of black raspberries, spice box, white pepper, and crushed flowers all emerge from the glass, and it’s full-bodied and concentrated, yet as seamless, silky, and polished as they come. The 2016 is 76% Zinfandel, 8% Syrah, 6% Mataró, 6% Petite Sirah, and the rest Tempranillo, brought up in a mix of vessels. Count yourself lucky if you have a bottle or two!

4-pack Downstream OWC contains three 750 ml 2016 Downstream wine and one Magnum