Denner “Ditch Digger” Paso Robles Red 2021

96 Points, James Suckling 
This flagship wine is designed to show the best qualities of the Denner estate. It evokes a Chateauneuf vibe, blended from 33% grenache, 32% mourvedre, 22% syrah, 5% cinsault, 4% counoise, 2% tannat and 2% carignan. Nicely layered red and black fruit with meaty, peppery accents. Full-bodied and moderately tannic, showcasing the vineyard rather than any new oak influence. Drink or hold.

96 Points, Parker’s Wine Advocate
The 2021 Ditch Digger is a blend of 33% Grenache, 32% Mourvèdre, 22% Syrah, 5% Cinsaut, 4% Counoise, 2% Tannat and 2% Carignan. It has kaleidoscopic aromas of wild berries, dried mint, mushrooms, forest floor and hints of floral perfume. The medium-bodied palate is notable for the concentration, definition and layering of its spicy fruit. It has a structure of chalky tannins, fireworks of fresh acidity and a long, dynamic finish.

95 Points, Jeb Dunnuck
The 2021 Ditch Digger is based on one-third each of Grenache and Mourvèdre, with the balance Syrah, Cinsault, Counoise, and other red varieties, and it was fermented with 35% stems and aged in used barrels, with a small portion in concrete. Rockingly good darker raspberries, mulberries, peppery herbs, and gamey, floral notes all emerge from this brilliant effort, a pure, medium to full-bodied, focused red that has ripe, nicely integrated tannins, a silky, layered mouthfeel, and a great finish. It’s a killer bottle of wine to drink over the coming decade.