Quillon Ember Upland Trousseau 2020
Quillon · Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California, USA
At a glance
- Producer
- Quillon
- Region
- Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California, USA
- Grape variety
- Trousseau
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $50-$60
Tasting profile
Red cherry, earthy forest floor, dried herbs, subtle spice
Evolution: Will gain complexity with secondary aromas of leather and richer earth tones over next 3-5 years
At peak: Harmonious interplay of fruit, earth, and spice with supple tannins and lingering finish
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium-high, balanced
- Tannins
- Medium, slightly fine-grained
- Alcohol
- 14.2%
- Aging potential
- 8-10 years with good cellar conditions
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2025 to 2029
- Optimal window
- 2023 to 2030
- Current status
- Young but approachable with some aerobic decanting
- Current condition
- Fresh bright acidity with youthful tannins, slight primary fruit notes, will benefit from 1-2 hours decanting
Trousseau from cooler California sites like Adelaida District tends to evolve gracefully with balanced acidity and restrained tannin, enabling a medium-term aging potential that rewards patience without requiring long-term cellaring.
Food pairing
Roasted pork, mushroom risotto, grilled vegetables, charcuterie, dishes with herbs de Provence
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 15-17°C / 59-63°F
- Decant
- Yes (60-90 minutes) — To soften youthful tannins and allow aromatic complexity to blossom
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Use of dry farming techniques, solar panels onsite for energy, water recycling, minimal intervention winemaking
Quillon focuses on sustainable dry-farming methods that conserve water in the Paso Robles appellation, combined with renewable energy use. Their packaging uses lighter glass to lower carbon footprint. While not fully organic or biodynamic, their CSWA certification indicates strong environmental stewardship. Local market distribution further helps moderate transportation emissions.