2018 Downstream Red Wine | Paso Robles, California 1.5L Magnum

Downstream is a joint project between Justin Smith - a world-class vigneron, Philippe Cambie - a famous Rhone enologist, and Sasha Verhage - the visionary connector. Philippe wanted his first California wine project to be with the formidable Justin Smith of Saxum. Sasha united them.
The project, wine, and sensibility bridge the best of California's Central Coast and France's Southern Rhone. It honors California's heritage by using Zinfandel, Mataro, and Petite Sirah as the core varietals. | Downstream Wines

Normally a Zinfandel-dominated blend with a splash of Grenache and Mourvedre, the 2018 Downstream comes from a collaboration between two great winemakers, Justin Smith in Paso Robles and Philippe Cambie in the Southern Rhone. I've loved every vintage of this cuvee, and the 2018 is no exception, showing a more Rhone-like style in its darker berry fruits, bouquet garni, pepper, and flowery incense aromas and flavors. Where previous vintages were incredibly expressive and almost overflowing with Zinfandel character, the 2018 is more masculine and structured and benefits from plenty of air. With full-bodied richness, a polished, elegant texture, ample tannins and structure, and a blockbuster of a finish, give bottles another year or two and enjoy over the following decade or more. This will stand toe to toe with any top Chateauneuf du Pape out there. | 98 points, Jeb Dunnuck for jebdunnuck.com