Paul Lato Wines Paul Lato Space Cadet 2020 750ml

The 2020 Space Cadet is the star in this range from Paul Lato. Silky and aromatic, the 2020 is hauntingly beautiful from the get-go. Inky red/purplish fruit, sage, cedar, tobacco, incense and dried flowers are some of the many notes that race across the palate. All the elements are so well balanced. Space Cadet is mostly Syrah and some Grenache, but the Grenache really seems to drive the profile today. (Antonio Galloni)

A 65/35 split of Syrah and Grenache from the Bien Nacido and Larner vineyards, the 2020 Space Cadet reveals an almost opaque ruby/purple hue to go with a rocking nose of red, blue, and black fruits as well as ground pepper, violets, and some gamey, meaty nuances. It’s full-bodied on the palate, has a wealth of fruit, plenty of tannins, and a great finish. It’s going to benefit from a year or two in the cellar and drink brilliantly over the following decade.

The 2020 Space Cadet comes from 20- to 30-year-old vines at Bien Nacido and Larner vineyards and is a blend of 65% Syrah and 35% Grenache. It was matured in 57% new French oak and concrete eggs for 22 months. Medium ruby-purple, it’s reticent then floral, unfolding to violet, powdered sugar, black raspberries and cherries. The full-bodied palate is chalky with powerful, ripe fruit, rounded acidity and a long finish with spicy accents. 144 cases were made. (Erin Brooks)