PasoWines.com

Robert Parker notes that "this soft, expansive blend of 50% Syrah, 45% Mourvedre, and 5% Grenache is meant to be a Paso Robles-styled Cotes du Rhone. Its deep ruby hue is accompanied by attractive peppery, earthy, underbrush, black currant, and cherry characteristics. The fine aromatics, good entry on the palate, and decent finish suggest it will drink well for 2-3 years."

Robert Parker notes, "The 2006 Optimus Proprietary Red, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Syrah, and 5% Petit Verdot, performed slightly better than it did last year. Reminiscent of a northern Rhone blended with a Bordeaux, it exhibits sweet cassis, graphite, and a chalky, powdery minerality, good structure, and full body. As the wine sits in the glass, hints of espresso roast and white chocolate emerge. This structured, slightly backward, well-endowed 2006 should age effortlessly for 10-15 years. One of the reference point producers in Paso Robles, Frenchman Stephan Asseo continues to turn out an intriguing as well as provocative range of brilliant red wines."