Team C&J
Within the sun-drenched vineyards of Paso Robles is Cordant Winery, a family-owned wine brand known for its approachable Rhone-style blends and elegant Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Founded in 2014 by husband-and-wife duo David and DeAnn Taylor, this boutique winery has carved its niche within a crowded wine community.
Let’s delve into the world of Cordant via their 2020 Cordant ‘Bedlem”, a Rhone-style blend that epitomizes their approach to winemaking and demonstrates what makes their bottles so cherished by enthusiasts.
David had the idea to open a winery shortly after he retired. Once out of the corporate world, he needed another outlet for his business skills (he’s a retired entrepreneur) and an avenue to explore his love of French wines more deeply – particularly Pinot Noir.
At the heart of Taylor’s journey is a simple goal: to craft expressive wines that reflect the distinct terroir of the Central Coast and celebrate the joy of sharing a bottle with loved ones. This personal touch remains at the core of Cordant, with David overseeing the winemaking process and DeAnn managing the business side.
If you do visit Cordant’s Tin City tasting room on the outskirts of Paso Robles, you will often see David and DeAnn in the tasting room interacting with guests! Something that seems to be rarer and rarer in California wine-tasting rooms.
Cordant’s winemaking philosophy revolves around meticulous attention to detail when it comes to selecting vineyard sites and throughout the entire winemaking process. Winemaker Ryker Wall sources grapes from a diverse range of premier sites across Monterey and Santa Barbara Counties, each with its own microclimate and soil composition.
This meticulous focus on terroir throughout Central California shines in their flagship Pinot Noirs, Rhone blends, and limited edition Chardonnays. The unifying theme across the entire portfolio is a selection of wines known for their vibrant fruit notes, silky textures, and elegant complexity. Even the 2020 Cordant “Bedlam”, which we review here, has waves of elegance within the powerfully tannic and robust palate.
A few of the vineyards that currently supply fruit to Cordant include Bien Nacido, Coastview, Escolle, Radian, and Solomon Hills.
Cordant’s wines resonate with wine lovers for several reasons. First, their focus on quality and terroir translates into consistently delicious and expressive wines. They offer a diverse portfolio, catering to various palates, from the fruit-forward charm of their Pinot Noirs to the bold complexity of their Rhone blends. If your palate falls somewhere within softer Pinot Noir and jammy, brambly Paso Robles, these wines will appeal to you.
Secondly, the family-owned and operated nature of the winery allows for a commitment to exceptional customer service. Just about every review of Cordant Winery’s tasting room mentions the warm and welcoming atmosphere and intimate tasting experience. When we return to Paso Robles, we fully intend to add Cordant to our list of must-visit Paso Robles wineries.
The 2020 Cordant “Bedlam” is a Rhone-inspired blend of 45% Syrah, 35% Petite Sirah, and 20% Grenache. In the glass, this Paso Robles is a deep shade of garnet, hinting at the robust palate that’s to come. The nose is pronounced and explodes with dark fruit – blackberry, plum, black currant – laced with intriguing notes of graphite, potting soil, and a touch of lavender.
The palate mirrors the nose, offering bold black fruit flavors complemented by earthy tones and subtle oak spice. Dry, full-bodied, and boasting high tannins, this wine demands attention. Its long, lingering finish leaves a lasting impression of dark fruit and spice, making it a perfect companion for robust dishes that can match its intensity.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your exploration, Cordant Winery offers a unique and rewarding experience. With its commitment to quality, terroir-driven wines, and warm hospitality, it’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the art of winemaking. So, raise a glass with us and discover the charm of Cordant!
USA
Paso Robles
Red Blend
15.5
Ryker Wall
62–68°F / 16–20°C
Burgundy
60 Minutes
Now to 2030
Cordant Winery
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