Villa Creek is making red and white wines entirely unlike the conventional archetype of Paso Robles these days. Rather than jammy fruit bombs or super smooth patio sippers, the biodynamic wines of the Maha Estate are earthy, mineral, and soulful above all else, reflecting both the care Villa Creek is taking in the vineyard and the location of the vines themselves.
Nestled in the hills at 1800 feet above sea level, Grenache vines make up the core of Villa Creek's vineyards, alongside other Rhône varietals like Carignan, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Clairette and Roussanne. Today their wines resemble Châteauneuf du Pape more than warm climate California reds, with a restraint and elegance that has wone over top critics.
Embracing biodiversity in the vineyards, it's not uncommon to find a flock of sheep roaming the land during Winter and Spring, nibbling on grass and fertilizing as they go. That attention to detail in the vineyard yields a purity of fruit that is unparalleled in many California red wines at this price point.
Check out the glowing review from Vinous, or take our word for it. If you like Rhône style blends, then Villa Creek needs to be on your radar.
Villa Creek Cherry House Red Paso Robles 2020 750ml - $22.99
92 POINTS: VINOUS - Saturated magenta. High-pitched red fruit, floral and spice qualities on the incisive nose. Juicy and energetic on the palate, offering zesty raspberry, boysenberry and candied lavender flavors sharpened by a spicy suggestion of white pepper. Finishes long and tight, with smooth tannins and lingering spiciness. Cris Cherry continues to refine his style at Villas Creek. One thing that has impressed me in recent years is the lack of what I would call a house style. These elegant wines, vary quite a bit, depending on variety, which I find impressive as many other wineries, including some of the best, do express a winemaker's signature, but not in this case.