2015 Austin Hope Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles
In 1978 Chuck Hope left his beverage job, moved to Paso Robles, became farmer, & top grape grower. Working with his father, Austin led family into winemaking in ‘95, creating his label in 2000. Grapes from 5 small blocks in AVAs of Paso Robles, aged in 75% new French oak, 18 mos. Dark Ruby, aromas of sweet ripe black fruits & dried smoky spices. Flavors of ripe blackberry, sweet cacao, espresso & vanilla oak. Big wine, fine tannins that needed 45 minutes, lingering fruit finish.
WE97-Wine Enthusiast: Vintner Austin Hope, whose family is intertwined in the rise of Paso Robles, spent years working to release a wine of this caliber. Dark and thick in the glass, aromas of black currant and blueberry meet with roasted coffee, chocolate syrup and baked plum on the wondrous nose. The palate is soft and extremely expressive, with blueberry, black pepper, firm midpalate tannins and a finish that’s redolent of cappuccino candies.
WW92-Wilfred Wong of Wine.com: How do I feel about Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon? Over the decades of tasting, I have gone from not a big fan to really liking them. Today, I am mixed in my feelings because the range of wines are often variable. This 2015 Austin Hope stands out and could become the vanguard of where this region is going with their Cabs. At first sniff I found a lot of black fruit and tar, with a hint of a savory mint. This was good, but I was sure how I felt. As I gave the wine additional time in the glass and it paid off. In spite of its high extraction and elevated alcohol (15%), this wine is quite fine. Enjoy its bold black fruit, aromatic coffee grinds, and tar-like notes with a healthy serving of barbecue pork ribs with the sauce on the side. Hey Paso Robles, I am with you! (Best Served: 2017-2025)
Robert Parker 89 points: The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles features a deep garnet-purple color and nose of baked black currants, black cherries and dried herbs with touches of menthol, baker’s chocolate, licorice and black soil. The full-bodied palate has a solid structure of chewy tannins and lively acid framing the muscular black fruit preserves, finishing on an earthy/dried herbs note.