Introduction:
The 2021 Dirt Worshipper by Denner Vineyards is a striking, high‑end blend from Paso Robles in California, showcasing Syrah‑led intensity, Rhône‑style depth, and a polished New World execution. With its generous oak influence, rich varietal composition and refined structure, this wine delivers both immediate impact and cellar‑worthy potential.

Terrior:
Crafted from multiple vineyard parcels across Paso Robles—including the estate Denner Vineyard and other select sites—the wine benefits from the region’s diverse soil profiles, warm daytime warmth and cool marine‑influenced nightly airflows. This combination yields riper fruit while preserving acidity and structure. The fruit is carefully selected from low‑yielding vines, capturing concentrated flavour and terroir expression.

Appearance:
In the glass the 2021 shows a deep, inky ruby‑to‑garnet hue, nearly opaque in the core with vivid purple reflections. The intensity of colour signals the richness and extraction level of the wine, setting the expectation for a fuller‑bodied experience.

Nose:
The aromatics are bold and evocative—violets and fresh black berries open the profile, followed by notes of blueberry, sarsaparilla, wild mint, Kalamata olive, white pepper and dark chocolate. There’s also a presence of Spanish chorizo spice and savory complexity that hints at Syrah’s more gamey side. The oak ageing contributes sandalwood and subtle mocha tones.

Palate:
This is a full‑bodied wine with a wealth of dark fruit—blackberry and black raspberry dominate, while plum and cassis underpin the mid‑palate. Fine but firm tannins give structure, and the acidity remains vibrant enough to keep the wine fresh despite its weight. Secondary flavours of hoisin, smoked meat, olive tapenade and dried herbs add depth, framed by rich oak and a smooth yet muscular texture.

Finish:
The finish is long, with lingering layers of dark fruit, black pepper, violet florals and fine tannins that taper off slowly. Mineral and iron‑kin notes emerge late, adding savory persistence and a fine grip that leaves the palate clean but clearly marked by the wine’s power.

Overall Impression:
The 2021 Dirt Worshipper is a sensual yet serious, polished yet primal wine—a fusion of Rhône‑inspired Syrah complexity and California richness. It promises both enjoyment now (with decanting) and meaningful evolution over the next 8–15 years. If you seek a bold, character‑driven blend with attention to detail and terroir, this wine delivers emphatically.

Recommended Food Pairings:
Meat Dish: Grilled Colorado lamb chops with rosemary and char‑grilled vegetables, or smoked brisket with a peppery rub and a reduction sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Portobello mushroom steak with truffle butter and roasted root vegetables, or roasted eggplant steak topped with olive‑tapend infused tomato ragù and aged Manchego.
Cheese / Charcuterie Pairing: Aged Manchego or hard Pecorino, paired with Iberico ham slices, chorizo‑spiced salami, and tangy black olive tapenade on crusty bread.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.2%
Farming Practices: Sustainable viticulture with precise vineyard selection (low yields, focused blocks, hand harvesting) under the Denner team’s regime.
Producer Name: Denner Vineyards
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: California – Paso Robles
Grape Varietals: 88% Syrah, 7% Petit Verdot, 4% Graciano, 1% Viognier
Vintage: 2021
Wine Style: Red, Full‑bodied, Barrel‑aged
Winemaking Techniques: Cold soak followed by native yeast fermentation (~12 days) including a portion (~28‑40%) whole cluster; aged approximately 18‑20 months in 96% new French and Hungarian oak barrels (225 L) and a portion in used barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Standard wine bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork