Located in the Paso Robles AVA, Law Family Vineyards sits at 1800 feet of elevation, higher than most vineyards in the area. This gives Law Estate distinct microclimates in an appellation already known to have a greater day-to-night temperature swing than any other in California. Calcareous soils with high lime content make these vineyards the best of the best. John Crossland at Vineyard Professional Services, with input from the Laws and winemaker Scott Hawley, designed and planted the thirty-two acres of Rhone varietals in 2008. Eighty percent of the vineyard is planted in multiple clones of Grenache and Syrah with smaller blocks of Mourvedre, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Carignane and Tempranillo. Sustainable farming with minimal applications results in premium fruit.
JEB DUNNUCK 96 POINTS - "A blend of 39% Grenache, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Carignane, and 13% Syrah vinified with 9% whole clusters and aged 22 months in 60% new French oak puncheons, barrels, and 10% foudre, the 2023 Audacious has beautiful black cherry and darker, raspberry-like fruits, leather, peppery herbs, and incense on the nose. It's incredibly complex, and I guess the closest thing that comes to mind would be a beautiful Priorat if tasted blind. It's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a pure, focused mouthfeel, ripe and polished tannins, and a great, great finish. The acidity is nicely integrated, as is the oak, and this complex, nuanced beauty has so much to love. I'd be thrilled to drink a bottle today, yet it will keep for 15 years or more. Drink 2026-2041."
ANTONIO GALLONI'S VINOUS MEDIA 95 POINTS - "The 2023 Audacious is hauntingly dark and youthfully brooding, with a smoldering wave of black fruits elevated by minty herbs, nuances of camphor, cedar box and citrus zest. This is bright and punchy on the palate, with silky textures enhanced by a core of vibrant acidity as mineral-inflected wild berry fruits cascade across the senses. It tapers off wickedly fresh, long, structured and refined, with a web of sweet tannins that frame hints of graphite. The Audacious is a high-energy blend of 39% Grenache, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Carignane and 13% Syrah.
JEB DUNNUCK 96 POINTS - "A blend of 39% Grenache, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Carignane, and 13% Syrah vinified with 9% whole clusters and aged 22 months in 60% new French oak puncheons, barrels, and 10% foudre, the 2023 Audacious has beautiful black cherry and darker, raspberry-like fruits, leather, peppery herbs, and incense on the nose. It's incredibly complex, and I guess the closest thing that comes to mind would be a beautiful Priorat if tasted blind. It's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a pure, focused mouthfeel, ripe and polished tannins, and a great, great finish. The acidity is nicely integrated, as is the oak, and this complex, nuanced beauty has so much to love. I'd be thrilled to drink a bottle today, yet it will keep for 15 years or more. Drink 2026-2041."
ANTONIO GALLONI'S VINOUS MEDIA 95 POINTS - "The 2023 Audacious is hauntingly dark and youthfully brooding, with a smoldering wave of black fruits elevated by minty herbs, nuances of camphor, cedar box and citrus zest. This is bright and punchy on the palate, with silky textures enhanced by a core of vibrant acidity as mineral-inflected wild berry fruits cascade across the senses. It tapers off wickedly fresh, long, structured and refined, with a web of sweet tannins that frame hints of graphite. The Audacious is a high-energy blend of 39% Grenache, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Carignane and 13% Syrah.
