Introduction:
The 2023 Cline Cellars Ancient Vines Mourvèdre is a bold and expressive red from Contra Costa County, California. Made from heritage vines planted nearly a century ago, it offers concentrated dark fruit, warm spice, and a structured yet approachable profile that highlights the varietal’s rustic elegance and regional character.

Terroir:
Sourced from dry-farmed, head-trained vines in sandy soils near Oakley, the vineyard site benefits from warm daytime temperatures and cooling breezes from the Sacramento River Delta. These conditions allow Mourvèdre to ripen fully while retaining vital acidity, resulting in a balanced and flavorful wine.

Appearance:
The wine pours a deep ruby with purple edges, showcasing its concentration and youthful energy. The clarity and depth suggest a medium-full to full-bodied red.

Nose:
On the nose, ripe black cherry, plum, and wild blackberry take the lead, layered with notes of clove, cedar, dried herbs, and a faint smokiness. Floral hints of violet and anise add aromatic lift and complexity.

Palate:
The palate is lush yet structured, opening with juicy black fruit—plum, currant, and mulberry—then evolving into savory tones of earth, spice, and subtle oak. The tannins are firm but well-integrated, and a bright line of acidity keeps the wine fresh and balanced throughout.

Finish:
The finish is long and dry, with lingering black fruit, hints of baking spice, and a touch of minerality. Tannins gently grip the palate, providing a satisfying and food-friendly close.

Overall Impression:
The 2023 Ancient Vines Mourvèdre is a compelling example of this often-overlooked varietal. It marries richness and structure with old-vine complexity and balance. Whether served now or held for a few years, it’s a standout offering from one of California’s most consistent heritage producers.

Food Pairing Suggestions:

• Meat dish: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary or smoked pork shoulder with spice rub — the wine’s structure and savory spice pair perfectly with robust flavors.

• Vegetarian option: Mushroom and lentil shepherd’s pie or roasted eggplant with za’atar — earthy dishes that highlight the wine’s depth and spice.

• Cheese pairing: Aged Manchego or firm goat’s milk cheese — the wine’s tannins and spice complement nutty, savory cheese profiles.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable, dry-farmed old vines
Producer Name: Cline Cellars
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Contra Costa County, California
Grape Varietals: Mourvèdre (100%)
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Dry red; dark-fruited, savory and structured. Medium-full body.
Winemaking Techniques: Destemmed fruit, fermented with moderate maceration; aged in a mix of new and neutral American oak barrels to balance varietal purity with soft oak character
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork

 
Press:
93 points & #33, Top-100 Best Buys of 2025, Wine Enthusiast:
"The Ancient Vine series is a unique selection of ancient vineyard sources in Contra Costa County, which is well-known for heritage varietals. The site is entirely dry-farmed and organic. One of my favorite expressions to experience is mourvèdre; this one is deep, with savory aromas of mulberry, huckleberry, clove, dried florals, and toasted oak on the nose. The palate is fresh, with juicy raspberry, pomegranate, grilled tangerine, white pepper, star anise, and supple tannins on the finish."

Order the fantastic 2023 Cline Ancient Vines Mourvèdre for the terrific price of $14 per bottle. Mail in your $18 rebate and bring the price down to $11 per bottle for a savings of 45%. 
Get an $18 rebate per six bottles, up to two cases or 24 bottles. 
One rebate per household; rebate expires 12/31/25.

ABV: 14.5%