Cline 2023 Mourvedre Ancient Vines Contra Costa County

The 2023 Cline Mourvèdre Ancient Vines is a richly expressive red that captures the warmth and depth of Contra Costa County fruit through the lens of one of California’s longest-established Mourvèdre plantings. It offers ripe berry intensity, savory complexity, and supple structure — a bold yet balanced wine that bridges Old World character with New World richness.

Origins & Craftsmanship

This Mourvèdre comes from ancient vine plantings on the historic estates of Cline Cellars, rooted in Contra Costa County, California — a warm, Mediterranean-like terroir that nurtures late-ripening varieties. The “Ancient Vines” program highlights head-trained, dry-farmed blocks planted decades ago that naturally yield lower quantities of intensely flavored fruit with concentrated aromatics.

Fermentation practices emphasize gentle extraction to preserve varietal aromatics and textural finesse, and the wine is matured in a selection of neutral and seasoned French and American oak barrels to integrate wood influence without masking the grape’s distinct profile. The result is a Mourvèdre that captures both depth and nuance — fruit-driven yet anchored by savory undertones.

Critics Reviews

There are no widely published formal professional critic scores from major wine publications (e.g., Wine Spectator, Wine Advocate, Vinous, Burghound) specifically for the 2023 Cline Mourvèdre Ancient Vines. However, Cline’s Mourvèdre has a long history of favorable reception among regional wine critics and enthusiasts, frequently noted for its approachable yet substantive profile and consistent quality from vintage to vintage. In consumer and retailer tastings, this bottling is often highlighted for its generous fruit, spice complexity, and excellent value in the Mourvèdre category.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
A vibrant aromatic bouquet of ripe black raspberry, wild blackberry, and plum, layered with hints of white pepper, dried herbs, and subtle smoked meat — redolent of warm Contra Costa fruit and Mourvèdre’s savory character.

Palate:
Medium-to-full-bodied with a rich core of dark berry fruit and pomegranate, accompanied by earthy spice, black pepper, and notes of leather and dried herbs. The wine’s texture is plush yet structured, with fine tannins and balanced acidity.

Finish:
Smooth and lingering, with persistent berry richness, gentle spice, and a touch of savory complexity that leaves a memorable imprint.

Quick Overview

Food Pairings

• Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and peppercorn — complements the wine’s earthy spice.

• Beef or pork stews with herbs and black pepper — mirrors the wine’s savory character.

• Mature hard cheeses like aged Manchego or Pecorino — pairs with structured tannins and dark fruit.

Serve slightly cool (~60–62 °F) in a standard red wine glass to highlight the aromatic depth and savory nuance.