The 2019 Epoch Authenticity is a proprietary blend red wine hailing from the Central Coast region of California, specifically from the San Luis Obispo sub-region of Paso Robles. This wine is crafted by Epoch and presents itself in a deep inky hue, characteristic of its varietal Syrah composition. It is sealed with a cork and boasts an alcohol content of 15.0%.
Jeb Dunnuck rated this wine a 97, noting its "blockbuster-style array of black and blue fruits, ground pepper, violets, and hints of game." He further described it as "rich, full-bodied, and powerful on the palate" with "ripe tannins, beautiful overall balance, and a great, great finish" (jebdunnuck.com, 9/26/2022).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave an even higher score of 98, praising its "opaque ruby-purple color" and "inviting aromas of cassis, blueberry, and ringing violet perfume." The review also highlighted touches of "coffee beans and brown sugar" from its 18-month maturation in 42% new French oak. The wine was described as "ripe and powerful without losing its detail," loaded with "powdery tannins" and offering "seamless freshness" with a "tremendous floral perfume" (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 12/31/2022).
Wine Enthusiast also had high praise, awarding the wine a 96. Matt Kettmann described the concentrated aromas of "black plum, pressed purple flowers, and dark-roast coffee bean" on the nose. The palate, he noted, is "firmly positioned and still young, but packed with powerful flavors of mildly bitter espresso, Tootsie Roll, and stewed berry that slowly seep out" (Wine Enthusiast, 3/1/2023). He recommended drinking this wine between 2024 and 2040.
Vinous gave the wine a score of 94. Eric Guido observed that it is "lifted and peppery in the glass with savory herbal tones and crisp black fruits." He mentioned its "soft-textured" nature with "cooling acidity and intense black fruits that saturate the senses." Guido further noted that it finishes "grippy and long with a licorice tinge and a sour citrus hint that adds freshness" (Vinous, 5/18/2023).
Overall, the 2019 Epoch Authenticity is a highly acclaimed wine with a strong, complex profile and significant aging potential.