Écluse Wines, a boutique, family owned winery located on Kiler Canyon Road on the Westside of Paso Robles was awarded three Double Gold medals and four Gold Medals in the 2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. The competition is the largest in the United States, attracting more than 7,000 entries from 28 states this year.  
 
Results announced earlier this week gave the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon a Double Gold medal – the only Cabernet to earn this distinction in its class in the $39-$42.99 suggested retail price (SRP) category. The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon showcases enticing bright cherry aromas leading to dark fruit, currants and a hint of espresso on the palate for an elegant and luscious finish.
 
“The 2014 wines are complex and showcase layers of flavors unique to our vineyard,” said Pam Lock, proprietor. “We are honored that nearly 67 judges from across the United States feel the same as our customers, and that our wines continue to earn high scores across the board.”
 
Écluse Wines also received a Double Gold medal for their 2014 Petite Sirah, which begins with black plums, blackberry and caramel with a velvety richness and spice on the mid-palate and a long, lingering finish. The other Double Gold winner was the 2014 Zinfandel, which begins with aromas of bright red fruit and hints of oak and vanilla. These flavors continue on the palate with notes of cassis and blackberry, a full mouthfeel and an incredibly smooth finish.
 
The winery also took home four Gold medals for the following: the 2014 Ensemble, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec; the 2014 Improv, a blend of Petit Verdot, Merlot, Petite Sirah and Syrah; the 2014 Insider, a blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon; and the 2014 Rendition, a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Écluse also scooped up two Silver awards, one for their Blind Dog Midnight Run Cuvee and the other for their 2014 Lock Vineyard Syrah.
 
“Since we began entering the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition in 2008 our results have been consistent, every wine we have entered has medaled. In 2011 our 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon won the sweepstakes award for Best Red. It’s great exposure and an honor for our small brand,” Lock concluded.  
 
Écluse Wines are crafted from their 30-acre Lock Vineyard. Known for producing some of Paso Robles most sought-after grapes and terroir driven wines, proprietors Pam and Steve Lock are dedicated to making small, limited production award-winning wines. Wine enthusiasts interested in tasting these award-winning wines may visit the Écluse tasting room Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 am – 4 pm or order online at www.eclusewines.com.