2005 Denner Ditch Digger
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The 2005 Denner The Ditch Digger shows a big, heady nose of ripe raspberries, earth, vanilla, spice and wood aromas and as this sat in the glass, it really gained in intensity and complexity. The palate is stunning and despite all of the ripeness, holds everything together with a restrained, balanced character. Medium to full bodied, this has a great mid palate and a superb, full and lush texture that has you pouring another glass. The finish shows more pure, clean fruit and subtle tannins. A stunning wine.
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Robert Parker
Jeb Dunnuck
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The 2005 The Ditch Digger is a blend of 43% Grenache, 26% Syrah, 23% Mourvedre, and 8% Counoise (could this be a Paso Robles version of the famed Chateauneuf du Pape Beaucastel?). A deep ruby/purple color, full body, superb richness, and notes of truffle oil intermixed with black cherries, blackberries, asphalt, smoke, and camphor emerge from this complex, finesse-styled red. It also possesses silky tannins and a long, heady finish. The good news is there are over 1,000 cases of this blockbuster. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. Denner Vineyards is still under the radar, but is undoubtedly an up-and-coming source for good Rhone Ranger offerings. And why shouldn’t it be as its vineyards are situated just across the street from the fabulous grand cru site of Saxum’s James Berry Vineyard. Tel. (805) 239-4287; Fax (805) 239-0154