Paul Lato 2023 “Ora Et Labore” Grenache, Bien Nacido – 95 Points

Jeb Dunnuck 95 Points: “Coming from an ocean-influenced site in the Santa Maria Valley, the Paul Lato Grenache Ora Et Labora offers more black raspberry, cassis, crushed stone, and seaside, sea breeze-like hints as well as plenty of violets and flowery incense notes. Medium to full-bodied, it has the classic Bien Nacido structure, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Where the Lumiere Larner Vineyard is all about elegance and charm, this is more burly, masculine, and structured.”

Paul Lato Notes: “The exceptional 2023 vintage of Ora et Labora from Bien Nacido Vineyard is one of our best showings of a single-vineyard Grenache from this site. A deeply red violet color, the wine brings Bing cherry and crushed stones on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied, with fine tannins, offering notes of kirsch, bacon, and licorice.  The wine finishes rich and long. A classic Vin-de-Garde Châteauneuf-du-Pape style wine from one of the best California terroirs.“