At a glance

Producer

Cline Cellars

Region

California, USA

Grape variety

100% Mourvèdre

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$16–$22 USD per bottle (750ml retail, as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Ripe blackberry, plum, and dark cherry with hints of black pepper, smoked meat, and earthy, herbaceous undertones. Subtle oak influence with a touch of spice.

Evolution: Primary fruit will recede, emphasizing earthy, savory, and dried herb notes. Tannins will become smoother, and palate will grow rounder.

At peak: At peak, expect integrated fruit and earth, with complex layers of spice, mushroom, game, and a harmonious, velvet-textured palate.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to medium-plus acidity, supporting freshness and aging; will gradually mellow

Tannins

Medium, supple tannins; beginning to soften but still offering structure

Alcohol

Moderate (14–14.5% ABV), well-integrated for the style

Aging potential

5–7 years from vintage; best to drink by 2027

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2023 to 2025

Optimal window

2021 to 2026

Current status

Ready to drink, developing complexity

Current condition

Youthful yet approaching maturity, with primary fruit blending into emerging secondary notes

The 2023–2025 window marks the optimal balance between fresh fruit, lively acidity, and emerging secondary/tertiary flavors (like earth and leather). The wine’s tannins become fine and polished, while the palate grows more complex. Post-2025, fruit fades and savory/oxidative notes dominate, risking diminished vibrancy.

Food pairing

Perfect with grilled lamb chops, braised short ribs, barbecue pork, duck confit, and hearty Mediterranean dishes (ratatouille, olive tapenade). As the wine matures, pair with earthy mushroom risotto, roast game birds, charcuterie, or aged Gouda/Comté. Lighter fare preferred while youthful; more umami/savory dishes as secondary notes develop.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that are beginning to soften, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its aromas and flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Dry-farming, solar-powered winery, cover-cropping, biodiversity enhancement, water conservation

Cline Cellars is a leader in sustainable viticulture in California, employing regenerative practices and alternative energy. The Mourvèdre is a lower-impact option relative to larger-production, less sustainably-minded producers.