A Virtual Visit to the Tasting Room at …Peachy Canyon

By Thom Elkjer, Wine Editor

The Beckett family has been in business in the Paso Robles AVA for 20+ years and has things grooved in under second-generation winemaker Josh Beckett. There's also a shiny new tasting room near Paso proper, but the “Old Schoohouse” tasting room west of 101 off Vineyard Drive gives you the real feel of the family and it's open seven days, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm (except major holidays, naturally). Peachy Canyon Winery is known as a Zinfandel house, but there's plenty of other delights in store. Here are some to look for this season:

	Peachy Canyon Zinfandel California "Incredible Red Bin 118" 2004 ($12): Sweet, mouth-filling Zin for everyday drinking -- California-style, that is, with nearly 15% alcohol. A great way to introduce your friends to Zin now, so they're ready for BBQ season next summer.
	Peachy Canyon Red Wine Paso Robles "Jester" 2003 ($19) : One of the more successful blends of Cab and Syrah, because each is backed by a native partner (Cabernet Franc and Petite Sirah); a pleasing mix of red and black fruit with well-balanced vanilla, toast and nubbly texture.
	Peachy Canyon Zinfandel Paso Robles "Westside" 2003 ($19): Not the biggest or jammiest or chocolatiest, but with a balletically brawny and brainy combination of all three plus a finish that lets them linger a long, long time. Consistent winner.
	Peachy Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2000 ($25): A claret-like Paso Cab, meaning the wine's fruit, weight and alcohol are on the elegantly drinkable side and aimed at good dinner companionship. Cheers!