Introduction
The 2023 Colori Wines Teroldego from Paso Robles, California, is an exciting and unique expression of this Northern Italian grape varietal in a New World setting. Known for its bold color, vibrant fruit, and natural acidity, Teroldego is rarely seen outside of Italy’s Trentino region. Colori Wines has skillfully adapted this varietal to Paso Robles, bringing out its signature richness and depth while adding a touch of California ripeness and warmth. This is a wine that both intrigues and delights, with a distinctive balance of fruit, spice, and earthy undertones.

Terrior
Paso Robles, located on California’s Central Coast, offers a Mediterranean climate ideal for growing bold, structured wines. The region’s warm days promote full ripeness in the grapes, while cool nights help preserve acidity. Teroldego thrives in Paso’s varied soils, particularly the limestone-rich and well-draining soils, which impart minerality and a solid backbone to the wine. These conditions allow for a ripe, fruit-driven style while retaining the grape’s naturally vibrant acidity and structure.

Appearance
Deep, almost opaque purple with violet hues, reflecting Teroldego’s characteristic intensity and depth of color. The wine is clear and has high viscosity, suggesting richness and concentration.

Nose
The nose is aromatic and complex, offering bold aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and dark cherry, intertwined with notes of black pepper, violets, and a hint of earth. Subtle undertones of leather, tobacco, and crushed stone add depth, while a touch of baking spice from oak aging enhances the wine's overall complexity.

Palate
Full-bodied and robust, the palate reveals concentrated flavors of black plum, blueberry, and ripe red currant, balanced by savory notes of black pepper, dark chocolate, and a hint of smoky earth. The tannins are firm and well-integrated, providing structure and balance to the wine’s lush fruit profile. A bright, refreshing acidity gives lift to the wine, adding elegance and making it food-friendly. The oak influence is restrained, adding subtle hints of spice and vanilla that enhance the fruit flavors without overshadowing them.

Finish
The finish is long and smooth, with lingering notes of dark fruit, spice, and minerality. The balanced acidity and refined tannins leave a fresh and vibrant impression, inviting another sip.

Overall Impression
The 2023 Colori Wines Teroldego is a well-crafted, modern expression of this rare Italian varietal, adapted beautifully to Paso Robles. With its bold fruit, firm structure, and bright acidity, this wine is versatile and pairs well with grilled meats, pasta with rich sauces, or hard cheeses. It’s enjoyable now for its intensity and freshness, but it has the potential to develop additional complexity over the next 5–7 years, making it an intriguing option for those looking to explore something beyond the traditional varietals.

Published Rankings
Wine Enthusiast Rating: 91
Wine Enthusiast: 91

Published Awards and Recognition
Awarded Silver Medal at the 2024 Paso Robles Wine Competition; featured in Wine Enthusiast’s "Top New Varietals in California"; recognized by Decanter as a "Rising Star Red from Paso Robles."

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Colori Wines
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Paso Robles, California
Grape Varietals: 100% Teroldego
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Dry Red
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel to preserve fruit purity; aged in neutral oak barrels to maintain freshness and enhance complexity without overpowering the fruit
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork