Wine With Wanda

Talking About Wine, Writing, and More with Jason Haas of Tablas Creek Vineyard

I'm usually the one asking the questions, but Jason Haas, partner & general manager of Tablas Creek Vineyard, did a beautiful job interviewing me on Instagram Live. I had the pleasure of visiting Tablas Creek on my 2021 visit to Paso Robles, CA, and featured Jason and the winery in my article about the region for Food & Wine magazine. 

And talk about a small world -- Jason and I went to high school together and shared many friends in common, but we didn't know each other until our 2021 meeting. I'm thrilled that wine has been the catalyst for our paths finally crossing. During the Instagram Live chat, Jason shared details about what's happening in the vineyards and cellars of Tablas Creek and gave me an update on their flock of sheep! Authentically committed to sustainability, Tablas Creek became the first Regenerative Organic Certified Vineyard in the United States.

Watch the video to learn more about Tablas Creek and for Jason's thoughtful questions about my career as a wine writer. 

The Class of 1972 Celebrates 50 Years of California Winemaking Excellence

The Class of 1972 is still going strong! Fifty years ago, some of California’s most important wineries were founded. Recently, six of these Napa & Sonoma trailblazers gathered for a surreal tasting, organized by Jordan winery, at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, in St. Helena, California. 

Chateau Montelena, Jordan, Burgess, Diamond Creek, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, and Dry Creek Vineyard each shared a selection of three wines, including some impressive library vintages. 

Stag’s Leap took the assignment to heart and dazzled the group of professional wine tasters with a 1972 S.L.V Cabernet Sauvignon that displayed impressive vitality and grace at 50. (You may recall that 1973 Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon won the Judgement of Paris in 1976, the legendary tasting that showed the world that California was a premier wine region.) 

Chateau Montelena’s 1973 Chardonnay won the Judgement of Paris tasting in the white wine category. And the 2002 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon they poured at the Class of 1972 tasting made a strong case for their prowess with red. 

Jordan knocked it out of the park with a 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Burgess charmed the group with a 1989 Cabernet Sauvignon, and Diamond Creek shined bright with their 1993 Red Rock Terrace Cabernet Sauvignon. And Dry Creek Vineyard turned heads with their 1994 Fumé Blanc, a complex and elegant expression of Sauvignon Blanc. 

Each of these wineries has a different winemaking style and terroir, but there are some shared perspectives. Being good stewards of the land, crafting wines that are an expression of terroir, and making wines that can stand the taste of time, are guiding principles that have allowed each winery to innovate, remain authentic, and navigate the changing landscape of consumer preferences.  

Now elders and not rookies, the Class of 1972 has proven themselves, but they’re not just coasting along; they embrace the challenge of stepping up to the plate each vintage. That’s a wise approach to wine and life! 

Will Travel for Wine: Jordan Winery, Alexander Valley, Sonoma

How far will you travel for a delicious glass of wine? I just returned from a whirlwind 36-hour trip out west to Sonoma and Napa – almost 3,000 miles from my home in NYC. And visiting Jordan winery in Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, was worth the jetlag and flight delays. I’ve enjoyed Jordan’s wines for years; photos of their estate have always sparked daydreams of sipping their wine in the Sonoma sunshine. Well, darlings, dreams do come true!

Thursday morning, we drove up Jordan’s dramatic one-mile-long driveway to reach their beautiful château, which houses the winery and tasting room. Founded in 1972, Jordan is situated on 1,200 acres, but vineyards only occupy about 120 acres of the vast estate. Why? Because of the diversity of the terroir, Jordan identified the best plots for their Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Malbec. The remaining 1000+ acres provide a wild and natural habitat for flora and fauna. Sustainability isn’t just talk at Jordan.

Jordan is laser-focused on doing three things: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and hospitality. Maggie Kruse leads the winemaking team at Jordan; she was a protégé of Rob Davis, who joined Jordan just before their first harvest in 1976 and retired in 2019 -- a tenure of more than 40 years!

Jordan pours their passion, resources, and know-how into producing only two wines each year: one Cabernet Sauvignon and one Chardonnay. Inspired by the wines of France, Jordan’s style is balanced and not jammy, with vibrant but not over-ripe fruit, bright acidity, smooth tannins, and finesse. Their precise work in the vineyards and the cellar captures the nuances of each vintage while conveying the signature Jordan style.

And Jordan’s hospitality is top-notch. I enjoyed an excellent tasting and tour, led by with enthusiasm & expertise by Jordan team member Hannah Ingwerson, which included peeks into the château’s secret passageways, and delicious food & wine pairings. They have olive trees too and produce a superb oil.

By Old World standards, fifty is young for a winery, but the Jordan family is an example of New World vision and grit; they are Sonoma trailblazers. Happy 50th, Jordan!

Sip This: C. Elizabeth Single-Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley

 

“The wine is a very real metaphor for the favorite people in our lives—bold, layered, interesting, confident with gentle, soft edges.” 
 Christi & Dave Ficeli, founders of C. Elizabeth 
image courtesy of C. Elizabeth

Strong women and the power of love inspired the creation of C. Elizabeth Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2002, Christi and Dave Ficeli were newly engaged lovebirds and enjoying a quiet night out in Napa. As the conversation turned towards their future, Christi and Dave determined that wine would be an integral part of the life they were building together.

"We decided to create a wine that reflected our personal values, of the importance of family and friends, quality over quantity, and authenticity and passion in all that we do." The winery's name was inspired by three generations of strong and confident women named Elizabeth on Christi’s side of the family, including Christi - it’s her middle name. Fueled by their love for each other, family, the land, and Cabernet Sauvignon, C. Elizabeth debuted with the 2014 vintage. 

C. Elizabeth's Game Farm Vineyard is in the heart of Oakville, in Napa Valley, and consists of two distinct blocks: Rock Pit on the south and Trailside on the north. Believing that American oak is the best match for their fruit, they work with select cooperages for their barrel program and are particularly fond of Pennsylvania and Missouri oak. Their wines are aged in a combination of new and neutral American oak barrels to achieve a rich palate expression. Winemaker Bill Nancarrow hails from New Zealand and has an impressive track record in Napa. 


I recently enjoyed a vertical tasting of C. Elizabeth Cabernet Sauvignon that featured the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 vintages. Each was a unique snapshot of that year, but shared a common thread of balance, complexity, and vibrant fruit expression. 

Tasting Notes

2017 ($150): Young but ready to sip. Crisp bright fruit with some floral notes. From now until March 15, 2021, C. Elizabeth will donate 50% of all sales of the 2017 C. Elizabeth Game Farm Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon to the Napa Valley Community Foundation in support of their efforts to provide fire relief for those impacted by the wildfires of 2020. 

2016 ($150): Silky & rich red and black fruit. An intriguing hint of iron rich red meat.

2015 ($125): Rich black fruit with herbal and savory accents.

2014 ($125): The debut vintage and an impressive introduction to the C. Elizabeth style. Rich and velvety. Red and black fruit with hints of chocolate, vanilla and spice.

Gary Farrell Single-Vineyard Pinot Noir Is Intriguing and Precise

image courtesy of Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery

"I strongly believe in the Russian River Valley's capacity to consistently produce world class wines. The key is cool breezes and fog from the nearby Pacific Ocean blanket."
-Theresa Heredia, Winemaker, Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery

When does a wine cross the threshold from being good to very good, or even great? I don't seek perfection in wines because I'm not certain it exists. And let's be honest, barring technical flaws that render a wine undrinkable, perfect wines, just like self-righteous people, can be a bit boring. For me, a wine goes beyond the ordinary when it is intriguing. I'm not sure if the art of intrigue is taught at winemaking school, but intriguing wines don't just taste good; they captivate you. Each sip sparks an emotion, a question, a revelation. Winemaker Theresa Heredia, of Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery, certainly knows a thing or two about crafting intriguing wines.

When Gary Farrell founded his eponymous winery in 1982, Sonoma's Russian River Valley was not officially an AVA. He was indeed a pioneer in crafting small-lot single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Theresa Heredia has been at the helm of winemaking at Gary Farrell Winery since 2012 and carries on this legacy.

Theresa's studies honed her scientific approach to winemaking: she earned a bachelor's degree in biochemistry from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and was a Ph.D. candidate in chemistry, with an emphasis in enology, at the University of California, Davis. However, she opted out of the Ph.D. program to pursue hands-on experience as a winemaker.

image courtesy of Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery

I recently tasted several Gary Farrell single-vineyard Pinot Noir wines in a Zoom webinar led by Theresa. Her scientific prowess and commitment to precision were apparent, but Theresa also understands that there's an ineffable dimension to winemaking that adds a bit of magic.

I believe that when crafting single-vineyard wines, a cookie-cutter approach must be avoided. For the single-vineyard designation to mean something beyond a mere geographical description, the wine must convey that terroir's unique qualities. It should capture the essence of the variety as it manifests itself in that vineyard. Gary Farrell's single-vineyard Pinot Noir meets that criteria.

Gary Farrell has an impressive selection of single-vineyard Pinot Noir, and I've highlighted three that I found particularly intriguing. One of the reasons why winemakers worldwide are enamored with Pinot Noir is its capacity to express terroir transparently. Tasting these Gary Farrell wines side-by-side is a priceless master class in better understanding how a well-crafted Pinot Noir stays true to the variety's character and conveys a unique sense of place and time. My tasting focused on 2016 vintages, but the Gary Farrell website features many 2017 vintages.

Tasting notes courtesy of Gary Farrell Winery

2016 Gary Farrell Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir ($70) is a fantastic introduction to the Gary Farrell style. “This Bien Nacido Pinot Noir is like an elixir of exotic red fruit, exuding aromas of Açaí, Goji, pomegranate, dried stems, cardamom, powdered ginger and star anise, all balanced by an earthy under layer of dried stems, toasted cedar and sandalwood. The array of palate flavors is simultaneously fruit-driven and savory, exploding with hints of wild strawberry, raspberry, Mangosteen and crushed herbs, all wrapped up in a blanket of velvety grape tannins. The juicy acidity creates a persistent, tangy sensation, while the spicy oak and wood tannins add a polishing finish to this beautiful wine.”


If you really want to geek out, taste 2016 Gary Farrell Hallberg Vineyard Pinot Noir ($55) and 2016 Gary Farrell Hallberg Vineyard-Dijon Clones Pinot Noir ($60) side-by-side to see how different clones respond to the same terroir. The Hallberg is described as “Lush aromas of dark cherry, currants, and cola naturally follow the deep ruby hue of this wine in glass. Dried mushrooms, black tea, and an array of fresh violets, rose petals, and a hint of peppermint provide complexity and intrigue. Exceptional palate weight coupled with a tremendous concentration of fruit flavors and zesty acidity deliver a balanced package of power and finesse.”

And my favorite of the three, the Hallberg Vineyard-Dijon Clones is described as “A captivating bouquet of savory herbs and spice introduce this complex offering from the Hallberg Vineyard. Generous notes of white pepper, black tea, cloves and tobacco leaf are in the forefront but slowly give way to the classic red fruit aromas of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Flavors of dried cranberries and fresh raspberries entice the palate while subtle tannins from lightly toasted French oak barrels lend finesse. Exceptionally soft and approachable, this is wine is impeccably balanced from start to finish.”

Awaken Your Palate with Chardonnay & Pinot Noir from Talbott's Sleepy Hollow Vineyard

image courtesy of Talbott Vineyards

Even domestic travel is a dodgy venture these days, so I was thrilled to participate in a virtual wine journey to California’s Santa Lucia Highlands courtesy of Talbott Vineyards. Santa Lucia Highlands may not yet have the global name recognition of some other Golden State appellations, but it is home to some very impressive wineries, and Talbott is one of the most iconic.

Located in California’s Central Coast in the east-facing terraces of the Santa Lucia mountain range and south of Monterey Bay, wine grapes were first planted in the Santa Lucia Highlands in the 1790s by Spanish missionaries. But the region’s modern winemaking renaissance really kicked off in the 1970s when some farming families saw its potential to produce world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Sleepy Hollow Vineyard
image courtesy of Talbott Vineyards

Talbott’s acclaimed Sleepy Hollow Vineyard was first planted in 1972 and has been designated a California Grand Cru vineyard because of its ability to produce exceptional wines consistently. According to the Talbott team, "Near-perfect sun exposure and rolling fog from Monterey Bay extend the growing season and hang times, which helps the grapes develop full phenolic ripeness and spectacular acidity." Sleepy Hollow Vineyard is dedicated exclusively to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and comprises 565 planted acres divided into three vineyard parcels: Sleepy Hollow North, Sleepy Hollow West, and Sleepy Hol­low South.

Talbott's head winemaker, David Coventry, is a native of Monterey County and grew up surrounded by wine. David has fond memories of tasting wine at Talbott over the years and he honed his craft at other wineries in the region before joining Talbott in 2016. Committed to maintaining Talbott’s legacy of excellence, while pushing them to new heights, you can taste Coventry's talent for translating terroir in their single-block wines. Inspired by Burgundy, but not misguided mimics, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Talbott's Sleepy Hollow Vineyard are elegant and authentic expressions of their unique Santa Lucia Highlands terroir. 

David Coventry, Winemaker, Talbott Vineyards

Coventry said, “When making fine wine, so much of it is about philosophy. I view wine as a teeter-totter of sorts. And that balance point, that fulcrum, is the intensity of the fruit. So when you talk about a wine being balanced, it can have acidity, it can have tannin, it can have oak, it can have all of these things, but only to the extent that the fruit is there to support it. At the Talbott Vineyard Sleepy Hollow, we have the benefit of having beautiful cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that has great hang time and great intensity of fruit. And that really gives me every option to take our three Chardonnays and three Pinot Noirs, and push them apart in style, but have them be balanced and elegant.” 

Tasting Talbott's Sleepy Hollow Vineyard wines side-by-side is an excellent exercise for better understanding the unique characteristics that wines produced from the same variety can express as a result of terroir, and of course, winemaking techniques. I tasted three each of the Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and I was captivated by their shared qualities and notable differences, both subtle and dramatic. A common thread throughout all of the wines was freshness, lively acidity, and a respectful winemaking style that maintains the essence of the grapes. For that reason, Coventry actually prefers to bottle these high-end wines under screw cap, so that the wine reaches the consumer as intended, and avoids the risk of being tainted by flawed corks. I think that should quiet any naysayers who mistakenly view screw caps as a definitive marker of a lesser wine. 

In the interest of thoroughly describing each wine, I’ve provided a summary of Talbott’s tasting notes for Sleepy Hollow Chardonnay and Pinot Noir below. Whichever you choose, you won't be disappointed. 

2017 Sleepy Hollow Chardonnay ($42) is a great introduction to the Talbott style. Crafted from Talbott’s favorite blocks ranging from 8-45 years old, it “opens with aromas of Pink Lady apple, Bosc pear, pineapple and tropical fruit with a hint of brioche. These juicy tropical and stone fruit flavors continue on the palate along with accents of hard spices, vanilla and brown sugar. The mouthfeel is opulent and rich with a nimble and lively intensity. The finish is elegant with a creamy texture from extended lees contact and barrel aging which gives way to zesty acidity that keeps the wine clean and refreshing.”

2018 Block 4 North Chardonnay ($60) “originates from a small block planted with clones 95 and 76 in our Sleepy Hollow vineyard. These clones thrive in the near-perfect conditions of Sleepy Hollow and produce exceptional, complex fruit. We harvested and fermented these grapes in the best of the old-world techniques harkening back to an honorable tradition in winemaking rarely practiced today. Block 4 Chardonnay is elegant with aromatics of green apple, vanilla, brioche and guava that rise out of the glass. The palate delights with notes of ripe tropical fruits. Warm, toasty notes of brioche and vanilla follow on the palate to increase the hedonistic yet balanced feel.”


2018 Block 50 South Chardonnay ($60) was “sourced from the southernmost part of our Sleepy Hollow Vineyard, our Block 50 Chardonnay begins to beguile the senses immediately with aromatics that leap from the glass. Hailing from the top section of vineyard, this wine has a graceful aroma of white flowers, hints of brioche and Anjou pear. On the palate, a soft and opulent mouthfeel gives way to lively acidity with notes of lychee, Red Delicious apples and hints of vanilla. Block 50 is planted with many clones of Chardonnay—three of them have been blended together to bring dramatic layers to our Block 50 Chardonnay.”


2017 Sleepy Hollow Pinot Noir ($42) is Talbott’s flagship Pinot Noir and “offers aromas of cola, clove and opulent plum and blackberry. Luscious notes of black cherry, raspberry and vanilla deliver a rich, mouth-filling texture. Underlying minerality, vibrant acidity and well-heeled tannins add to the complex finish of this elegant, luxurious Pinot Noir.”



2017 Block 23 West Pinot Noir ($75) “originates from a small 4.2-acre block planted with clones 113, 114 and 115 in our Sleepy Hollow West Vineyard. These clones thrive in the near-perfect conditions of Sleepy Hollow and produce exceptional, complex fruit. We picked and co-fermented these grapes together, harkening back to an honorable tradition in winemaking rarely used today. The synergy of the co-ferment produces staggering intensity and complex wine. Layers of ripe dark cherry, raspberry and blackberry combine with notes of hard spices and vanilla. On the palate, dark berry aromas linger with notes of sweet blackberries and dark plum compote. Refreshing acidity, soft tannins and an amazing array of oak round out the finish in a classic style, while maintaining a powerful and rich finish.”



2017 Block 48 South Pinot Noir ($75) “originates from a small 2.4-acre block planted to clone 113 on our Sleepy Hollow south vineyard. Grown in the near-perfect conditions of Sleepy Hollow, this rare clone produces wines of exceptional character and stand-alone quality. Intense dark cherry aromas combine with accents of hard spices and vanilla. On the palate, sweet notes of pure dark cherry intertwine with layers of blackberries and raspberry compote. Refreshing acidity, soft tannins and oak round out the finish and deliver a well-structured style.”


image courtesy of Talbott Vineyards

When the world calms down, I look forward to visiting Talbott and exploring more of their elegant wines at their new tasting room in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea.   

EnRoute Winery Explores the Essence of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

Michael Accurso, winemaker, EnRoute
image courtesy of EnRoute

During my recent Instagram Live chat with EnRoute winemaker Michael Accurso, I discovered that his passion for Pinot Noir is only rivaled by his great sense of humor and love of cooking. That certainly makes sense: if he hadn't become a winemaker, Michael considered careers as a professional chef or comedian! But don't let his easygoing nature fool you; Michael is a precise and serious winemaker.

Founded in 2007 by the partners of Far Niente winery in Napa Valley, EnRoute is committed to crafting wines that express the essence of Pinot Noir from Sonoma's Russian River Valley. Michael describes the diverse terroir of EnRoute's vineyards as a spice rack because of the different elevations, range of soil types, and various clones. Michael draws from this spice rack of flavors to make EnRoute's unique expressions of single-vineyard Pinot Noir wines and the Les Pommiers blend. 

Click the video above, or watch on IGTV or YouTube, to learn more about EnRoute, what makes the Russian River Valley so special, and Michael's favorite food pairings with EnRoute Pinot Noir -- he really loves duck and wild mushrooms!


During our chat, we sipped EnRoute “Les Pommiers” Pinot Noir 2018, Russian River Valley ($60), and EnRoute “Northern Spy Vineyard” Pinot Noir 2017, Russian River Valley ($85). Les Pommiers blends Pinot Noir grapes primarily from EnRoute's vineyards in the Green Valley and upper Middle Reach areas of the Russian River Valley AVA. Fresh and vibrant with pristine red fruit flavors and hints of earth, Michael describes Les Pommiers as the quintessential Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Northern Spy Vineyard is crafted 100% from Pinot Noir grapes grown from a single-vineyard in the Green River Valley. Richer and more intense, its plush red fruit flavors are accented by hints of spice and forest floor. Both wines are beautifully balanced and full of life. 

Sip This: Blueprint Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Times have dramatically changed since I started blogging twelve years ago. Newer social media platforms like Instagram have fostered a vibrant and influential wine community. Surely, I'm not the only one that spends too much time scrolling through photos of beautiful vineyards and mouthwatering wines. In addition to my Instagram Live interview series, I frequently post wine reviews on Instagram and thought it would be great to start sharing reviews of the standout wines here on the blog. 

Shannon, Robin, and Erin Lail

I recently tasted two superb wines from Lail Vineyards in Napa Valley - Blueprint Sauvignon Blanc 2018 ($40) and Blueprint Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 ($90). Winery founder, Robin Lail, can trace her family's winemaking history in Napa back to 1879 with the founding of the legendary Inglenook. Twenty-five years ago, Robin founded Lail Vineyards with her daughters, Erin and Shannon. Lail has embraced "carbon farming" techniques that minimize carbon dioxide production and maximize carbon sequestration without sacrificing wine quality. Robin is also the U.S. Representative to The Porto Protocol, whose mission is "to drive collaborative action by bringing together a network of change-makers and workable climate solutions for and within the wine world."

Lail Vineyards says that the name Blueprint celebrates "the pioneers and architects of innovation for putting the health of our planet ahead of quarterly reports and the bottom line." Lail donates ten percent of sales from Blueprint wines purchased on their website to organizations fighting climate change. Lail's winemaker is the wildly talented and acclaimed Philippe Melka.

A Taste of Lodi and the Sierra Foothills: The Wines of Ironstone Vineyards

    Joan Kautz, Co-owner and Vice President of International Operations, Ironstone Vineyards

The Sierra Foothills may be best known as the epicenter of the California Gold Rush, but the region also has a rich wine history and the Kautz family has played an essential role. They settled in Lodi 1926 and opened their first winery in 1968. This family business has grown tremendously over four generations and their holdings in Lodi and the Sierra Foothills now span more than 5,000 acres. They protect these precious acres, and the environment, by adhering to sustainable viticulture practices.

I had the pleasure of learning more about the Kautz legacy, and their Lodi and Sierra Foothills wines, in an Instagram Live conversation with Joan Kautz, a fourth generation member of this influential winemaking family. If you missed the IG Live chat and tasting, watch it above or on YouTube. Equipped with broad knowledge of agriculture, wine making, and consumer trends; Joan has held the position of Vice President of International Operations for the family’s wine portfolio since 1993. Under her leadership, the Kautz family's wines are available in 50 countries around the world. 


2018 Ironstone Vineyards Chardonnay
"Our Chardonnay exhibits refreshing aromas of fresh green apples, citrus, and tropical fruits. As it dances across the palate, light citrus layered with fresh peaches fills the mouth as soft vanilla and oak notes linger. Good acidity gives it a crisp balance with a creamy medium-length finish."

During our conversation, we tasted Ironstone Reserve Cabernet Franc 2017 and Ironstone Chardonnay 2018. Ironstone is currently selling both wines on their website as a specially priced set for $37. You can also find Ironstone's wines at retailers around the country. 

2017 Ironstone Vineyards Reserve Cabernet Franc 
"Our Reserve Cabernet Franc is an elegant, rich yet soft wine. With fleshy black cherry, blackberry,  and spicy oak aromas this seductive Cabernet Franc is worth drinking now or cellaring for a special occasion. Succulent, dark fruit flavors of plum, black cherry with a hint of sweet oak fills the palate and gives way to a smooth, medium finish."

Time Traveling Through Wine: A Journey Through the Decades with Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

A winery’s reputation isn’t built on just one great vintage. Just like human beings, some years may be better than others, but it’s the total timeline that truly tells the story. Founded more than 100 years ago by Georges de Latour, the story of Beaulieu Vineyard certainly has more highs than lows. If you love Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley, tip your hat to Beaulieu. Since its inaugural vintage in 1936, Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon has been recognized as the benchmark Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa’s Rutherford appellation. When we talk about “cult” Cabernet, Beaulieu was the originator.

"Early in my winemaking career, I recall trying the 1968 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon with a family friend and it not only left an indelible impression on me, but it shaped the path in which I wanted to take my career and the wines I wanted to create." - Trevor Durling, General Manager and Chief Winemaker, Beaulieu Vineyard 

In a recent retrospective tasting with Beaulieu’s general manager and chief winemaker, Trevor Durling, I was humbled and amazed by the power of these wines to transmit a story through the ages. And my belief in the power of wine to change lives was validated -- it was a glass of 1968 Beaulieu that inspired Trevor's winemaking path. Trevor calls the 1968 his epiphany wine. Today, Trevor is only the fifth chief winemaker in Beaulieu’s 119-year history, following in the footsteps of his respected immediate predecessor Jeffrey Tambor and the iconic André Tchelistcheff.

Lured to wine by the combination of art, science, and agriculture, Trevor holds deep reverence for Beaulieu’s rich legacy and said, “It is an honor to craft wines off of these vineyards. They are some of the most historic in Napa.” But Trevor is also “excited to write the next chapter” and recognizes the role that state-of-the-art technology can play in crafting wines that consistently live up to the Beaulieu standard.

In my retrospective tasting with Trevor, we sampled a jaw-dropping selection of wines from the 1960’s – 2010’s. Words rarely fail me but it is daunting to describe the experience of traveling the decades through fine wine. The older vintages reminded me that wine is more than a beverage but a meditation on time. For example, at 51 years old, the 1968 vintage triggered a flood of thoughts. What was happening in the world that year? What was the harvest like? We do know that winemaker André Tchelistcheff called 1968 “the greatest vintage” due to its ideal growing conditions. And the 1968 is the wine that ignited the spark in Trevor to seriously pursue winemaking. Incredibly alive and exuberant with astounding acidity, I understand why Trevor was so moved by this wine. It has not only stood the test of time but has evolved in an extraordinary fashion. I think it will still be fantastic years from now.

The 1968 is absolutely exceptional but that is only one chapter of the Beaulieu story. A retrospective encourages you to look for connections through the ages. While each Beaulieu vintage that we tasted had unique qualities that reflected that particular harvest, winemaking technique, and approach of the winemaker; there was also a beautiful consistency that connected these wines and made it abundantly clear that they were from the same place and part of a larger vision. Across the board, from the 1960’s – the 2010’s, I found that the vast majority of the Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon shared some similar traits: luscious and rich fruit flavors, beautifully integrated oak, and mouthwatering acidity that keeps the wine alive through the decades. And, in some vintages, those fine and powdery cocoa tannins known as Rutherford Dust are practically cooing your name from the glass.

The 2016 Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($145), the 80th anniversary vintage, is now available. 2016 was considered a winemaker’s dream vintage and the wine displays impeccable balance and finesse. Cabernet Sauvignon (97%) with a kiss of Petit Verdot (3%), it was aged for 22 months in French oak barrels. Concentrated and bold but not flabby, the 2016 has rich dark berry flavors with tantalizing tinges of spice and chocolate. And that famed Rutherford Dust shimmies in each sip. The 2016 is beautiful now but I hope that the fates will afford me to opportunity to sip it again, many decades from now, so that I can take another journey through time.

From Drinking with Dad to Running the Show: Winemaker Jamie Benziger of Imagery Estate Winery

Jamie Benziger, Winemaker, Imagery Estate Winery

"Dad didn't raise daughters, he raised drinking buddies!" As soon as second generation winemaker Jamie Benziger uttered those words, I knew our wine tasting would be even more fun than most.

If you're a fan of wines from Sonoma, the Benziger name and the family's high-quality organic wines are bound to be familiar. In the 1980's Joe Benziger, Jamie's father, wanted to branch out from the family business and created a sister winery, Imagery Estate Winery. 

Crafting wines that are familiar yet unconventional, Imagery blends traditional varietals with a twist. Have you ever tasted Chardonnay blended with a dash of Chenin Blanc? Or what about Sauvignon Blanc with a hint of Muscat? These unexpected yet delicious blends exist in the Imagery universe.

Joe Benziger retired in 2017 and told Jamie, the second-born of his three daughters, 'It's your turn now. You got this." Indeed, she does. Not only was Jamie born into a winemaking family and has years of hands-on experience earned at the Benziger estates in Sonoma, her pursuit of wine knowledge led Jamie to spend time working at other wineries, including in New Zealand. Jamie has paid her dues and proven herself more than prepared to lead Imagery towards a fabulous future. 

Jamie describes Imagery Chardonnay 2017 ($17) as the "patio pounder of Chardonnays." Mostly Chardonnay (90%) with a kiss of Chenin Blanc (10%) to make it pop, this minimally oaked white wine is pleasingly juicy with vibrant flavors of green apple, citrus, and melon. A real crowd-pleaser with a tasty twist! 

Sauvignon Blanc (85%) blended with Muscat (15%), Imagery Sauvignon Blanc 2017 ($17) is a welcome alternative to aggressively zingy Sauvignon Blanc wines. The dry Muscat adds great texture that softens the lemon, lime, and grapefruit flavors. 

Imagery Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 ($20) gets a sassy kick of spice from the addition of Petite Sirah (15%). Juicy and earthy with mouthwatering flavors of blackberry, pepper, clove, and toast; this is a fantastic BBQ wine. 

If you're planning a trip to Sonoma, Imagery welcomes visitors for tastings. Their portfolio is quite expansive and includes everything from Albariño to Viognier. Art is also an important part of Imagery's identity and over the years they have commissioned original label artwork from many well-known contemporary artists. The entire collection contains works of art by more than 300 artists and around 60 pieces are on view in the gallery. 

California Ooh La La: Domaine Carneros Sparkling Wine & Pinot Noir

image courtesy of Domaine Carneros

Repeat after me - "Champagne only comes from Champagne, France." This mantra is one of wine's golden rules but what happens when an iconic Champagne house decides to make sparkling wine in California? That was the bold decision taken by Champagne Taittinger when they secured a 138-acre parcel in the heart of Carneros, Napa Valley in 1987. Focused on the production of traditional method sparkling wines and Pinot Noir, Domaine Carneros isn't in the business of foolishly trying to replicate what they do in France but rather on the creation of a "quintessential California expression of Taittinger style."

"Our job is to make wines that reflect our unique terroir," said TJ Evans, Domaine Carneros Pinot Noir winemaker, when I met with him recently. His colleague, Eileen Crane, is the founding winemaker and CEO of Domaine Carneros and is often referred to as "America's Doyenne of Sparkling Wine" because of her impressive 40 years of experience in the wine industry. Together, TJ and Eileen make a formidable team. 

There is certainly a French elegance to the Domaine Carneros wines that I tasted but that precision is punctuated with a tinge of California exuberance.  As TJ eloquently said, "Our wines show more of the sunshine."

Domaine Carneros Brut Cuvée 2015 ($35) is an elegant introduction to their style. A blend of Chardonnay (51%), Pinot Noir (47%), and Pinot Gris (2%), this charming bubbly is classic but not boring. Made in the same labor intensive method as champagne (Méthode Traditionelle), Brut Cuvée was aged three and half years in the cellar to enhance its complexity. Round and full with fine bubbles, a luscious creamy texture, and flavors of baked pear, lemon meringue, and a hint of citrus; this is a very versatile wine for food pairing -- winemaker Eileen Crane particularly enjoys it with cheeses or roast chicken.

Considered their finest sparkling wine, TJ  described Domaine Carneros Le Réve Blanc de Blancs 2012 ($115) as "made to age." Crafted from 100% estate grown grapes, it is a pure expression of terroir. Le Réve is French for "the dream" and there is certainly an ethereal quality to this beautiful bubbly. A complex and elegant tapestry of flavors, Le Réve sashays across the palate with flavors of white flowers, Meyer lemon, poached pear, honeysuckle, and a hint of luscious créme brûlée. Suggested pairings include lobster, scallops, fish, poultry, and rich creamy cheeses. 

A blend of Pinot Noir (59%) and Chardonnay (41%), Domaine Carneros Cuvée de la Pompadour Brut Rosé ($37) strikes that perfect balance between fun and sophisticated. Named after Louis XV's lover, Madame de la Pompadour, it is a tasty tribute to the woman who introduced sparkling wine to the court at Versailles. Fresh red fruit flavors are accented by hints of tangerine, orange, and peach. Vibrant and fruit-forward but quite dry, suggested pairings include duck, salmon, and desserts with fresh berries. 

Domaine Carneros Estate Pinot Noir 2016 ($42) lives up to winemaker TJ Evans's statement that "Pinot Noir is all about the texture." Crafted from 100% estate grown Pinot Noir, it is supple and nuanced with a dynamic range of red and dark berry flavors, earth, tea leaves, and a sassy kick of spice. Juicy and rich but very graceful, it pairs beautifully with beef, poultry, pork, and grilled salmon. 

If you're planning a trip to Napa, Domaine Carneros is about 50 miles from the Golden Gate Bridge and welcomes visitors, by appointment, for tastings and tours. Their stunning château is modeled after Château de la Marquetterie, the home of Champagne Taittinger in Champagne, France.

Pink Wines, Good Times: Let the Rosé Flow This Summer!

Can you even imagine summer without rosé? Luckily, we don't have to! Rosé wines are delicious year-round but there's no denying that these flirty pink sips are particularly suited to the sunny and carefree vibe of the summer season. Pretty and refreshing, rosé wines are a fun way to explore new regions and grapes. I plan on taking my taste buds on a delicious rosé journey all summer long and will keep you updated with short reviews of my favorites. Cheers! 

Blaine Ashley, co-creator of Lokē Rosé, is brightening up summer with a limited-edition Côtes de Provence Rosé inspired by her home state of Hawaii. 
image courtesy of Lokē Rosé

A blend of Grenache and Cinsault, Lokē 2018 ($18) is a classic Provençal style rosé wine. Dry and crisp with fresh red fruit flavors, Lokē is refreshing and lively. A portion of the proceeds from this charming wine benefit Ukulele Kids Club Inc., a non-profit that brings the gift of music to children in hospitals. A delicious way to make a difference! 

Elegant Pinot Noir gets to show off her playful side in Etude Pinot Noir Rosé, Santa Barbara County 2018 ($25). Very crisp and refreshing with delicate flavors of strawberry, cherry, blood orange, and watermelon; tangy acidity adds a dash of sass to this superb sip!   

Sip in style this summer with Hecht & Bannier “H & B” Côtes de Provence 2018 ($19.99). This elegant and vivacious blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle (Vermentino) is always one of my summer favorites. Boasting beautiful red fruit flavors with a touch of white peach, melon, and a tangy tinge of fennel; I dare you to drink it and not exclaim ooh la la after the first sip!  

Talent and Travel Texture the Wines of Jesse Katz's Aperture Cellars

"Building texture is what elevates good wine to a great wine."
Jesse Katz, Founder & Winemaker, Aperture Cellars

A conversation with Jesse Katz could easily make you feel like an underachiever but he's so humble and charming that you feel inspired instead of diminished. Jesse has achieved major success very early in his career -- the first winemaker included on the Forbes "30 Under 30" list, recognized by Wine Enthusiast as a "40 Under 40 Tastemaker", and the recognition of his Aperture Cellars as a "Rising Star" by Wine Spectator are just a few of this 35 year-old's impressive accomplishments. 

A native of Colorado, Jesse's career as a winemaker was set into motion at a young age when he traveled the world with his father, acclaimed photographer Andy Katz. Excellence is clearly in the Katz DNA because more than 6 million albums with cover photography by Andy Katz have been sold, including those by legendary rock groups like the Doobie Brothers. Wine is also a passion and frequent photographic subject of the elder Katz and Jesse spent his formative years accompanying him on journeys to some of the world's most famous wineries.

Jesse told me that he discovered his exceptionally good palate as a young man in Burgundy and by the age of 18 he knew that winemaking was his destiny. Honing his natural talent with hands-on experience by working the harvest at 15 wineries on multiple continents, Jesse also earned an enology degree from Fresno State University. After an accolade filled five-year tenure at Lancaster Estate, Jesse started Aperture Cellars in Sonoma. A collaboration with his father, Aperture is an artistic double-whammy: the labels feature Andy Katz's photography and the bottles contain Jesse's artful wines.

Aperture Barrel-Fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2018 ($40)
Inspired by Jesse's time in Bordeaux, this barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc balances lush creaminess with vibrant acidity. Rich and round but impressively fresh, crisp, and graceful with no overly zesty or harsh grassy flavors. (I tasted the 2017 vintage but 2018 is now available.)

Aperture Right Bank Red Blend 2016 ($55)
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (52%), Merlot (30%), Malbec (11%), and Cabernet Franc (7%), this silky yet substantial red wine beautifully expresses Jesse's talent at crafting wines where texture is not an afterthought but an important factor in flavor perception. Bold and juicy with well-integrated tannins, there is an elegant interplay between freshness and complexity. Fermented with native yeasts, unfiltered, and unfined, the smooth texture really allows the excellent quality of the grapes to shine through.


Aperture Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 ($70) 
Silky and spicy, a kiss of Merlot (7%) rounds out this Cabernet. The flavors are deep yet very fresh. Impressive balance and depth. 

Visit the Aperture Cellars website to learn more about these wines and others in the Aperture portfolio. And if you're looking for further proof that Jesse is the real deal, he is also the founder of Devil Proof Vineyards which produces highly acclaimed 100% Malbec. I don't know what's next for Jesse but his impressive track record bodes well for future endeavors and certainly has me intrigued! 

Paso Robles Is Your Next Great Wine Getaway!

image courtesy of Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance

I was determined to write my wine story about Paso Robles without mentioning their famous neighbor to the north, Napa Valley. As you can see, I failed in the first sentence. When talking about California wines, it's almost impossible, and perhaps unforgivable, not to recognize Napa's contributions to elevating the quality and reputation of American wines around the world. The story of modern-day California winemaking may indeed start with Napa, but Paso Robles is not only adding some exciting new chapters, it stands on its own as a world-class wine region.

The positive buzz from wine writers and sommeliers started as a whisper but it has grown into a joyful noise and I've noticed more wines from Paso Robles on restaurant lists and in shops. Where there's wine buzz, I happily follow, so I recently accepted a generous invitation from the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance to explore the region, meet winemakers, and taste plenty of fascinating wines.

Meet Clarabelle The Wine Cow, the grape loving mascot of the Paso Robles Inn. 

Paso Robles has plenty of small town charm. Downtown, you'll find spacious and well-appointed accommodations at the Paso Robles Inn, quaint shops, and fantastic restaurants; it is a great home base for venturing out to the nearby rural areas where the vineyards are located. Non-drivers like myself have several options for transportation, including The Wine Line -- a well-managed and friendly hop-on, hop-off van fleet that services the wineries.

Jason Westfall, the friendly and efficient owner of The Wine Line.

There's a bit of a Wild West attitude to Paso Robles, the winemakers that I met didn't seem encumbered to do things a certain way or follow convention. If anything, being unconventional is the norm in Paso Robles. Break the rules but make good wine seems to be the unofficial mantra of the region. The experimental nature of the winemakers combined with Paso Robles's ideal grape growing conditions, lead to some pretty exciting wines. 

Located along California's breathtaking Central Coast, Paso Robles is equidistant from Los Angeles and San Francisco. The region is actually divided into 11unique AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) that recognize the diversity of terroir, soil, and micro-climates. Paso Robles benefits from a long growing season of warm days and cool evenings that are perfect for growing ripe, beautifully balanced, and expressive grapes. And so many grapes! Yes, you'll find Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel in Paso Robles but the abundance of different wine grapes that thrive in the area is astounding -- more than 40,000 acres planted with 40 different varieties. Syrah, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Grenache, Pinot Noir, and more all have a presence in Paso Robles. I was impressed at how beautifully these international grapes express themselves in Paso Robles. 

Steve Gleason, founder of Four Lanterns Winery. Long before they opened their winery in 2014, Steve and his wife Jackie were long time visitors to Paso Robles and fans of the wines. Located on the west side of Paso Robles in the Willow Creek AVA, Four Lanterns specializes in Rhône and Bordeaux varietal wines. 

But no matter how great the grapes are, wine doesn't make itself. And more often than not, great winemaking is a group effort. Yes, a winemaker will have a vision but it takes the support of others to bring that dream to fruition. Camaraderie and community are words that I heard consistently when speaking with Paso Robles winemakers. Steve Gleason, founder of Four Lanterns winery, said, "It is a great community to be a winemaker in. Everyone is very willing to help and is very open. The better Paso does, the better we all do." 

Home to more than 200 wineries, it was impossible to visit each winery in Paso Robles during my visit. But I did get a great feel for the region and there really is a Paso Robles wine for every palate and budget. Here are a few suggested wines to look for in your hometown. All of the places listed welcome visitors. If you're looking for an easygoing, unpretentious, and high quality wine adventure, Paso Robles is the place for you. 

Four Lanterns Lamplight Viognier 2016 ($29) has crisp minerality and juicy stone fruit flavors. A great example of how international grapes can thrive in Paso Robles. 

Once home to a working horse ranch, Rava Wines is a 505 acre boutique vineyard in the heart of Paso Robles. Rava specializes in the production of traditional method sparkling wines. Their sparkling Grüner Veltliner 2016 ($32) is an elegant example of the innovative essence of Paso Robles. Indigenous to Austria, Grüner Veltliner is a vibrant and zippy grape. Rava's sparkling interpretation is crisp and delicate with beautiful flavors of green apple and pear. And if you're looking for a beautiful place to host a wedding or other special event, consider Rava's gorgeous grounds, event spaces, and guest house. 


Thacher Blanc de Blanc Sparkling Wine 2013 ($60) was an incredibly delicious surprise. 100% Viognier, produced in the traditional champagne method, it epitomizes creative and precise winemaking. 9 months on the lees and 36 months en tirage, it is complex yet fresh and flirty with vibrant citrus and stone fruit flavors with a touch of brioche.

Winemaker Sherman Thacher had a previous career as an award-winning brewmaster. In 2006 he and his wife Michelle moved to Paso Robles and opened their winery and tasting room in 2008. 

Terry and Jennifer Hoage, winemakers & owners of TH Estate Wines. 

From the gridiron to the vineyard! In 2002, former professional football player Terry Hoage and his wife Jennifer embarked on their Paso Robles winemaking adventure by purchasing a 26-acre vineyard on the west side of Paso Robles in the Willow Creek District. Jennifer describes their devotion to winemaking as a true labor of love. They built the winery from the ground up, their first plantings were Syrah, and in the early days they actually stomped grapes with their feet. The feet stomping may be a thing of the past but from the vineyard to the cellar and tasting room, the Hoages are still very hands on. They produce primarily Rhône style wines on their sustainably farmed estate. In addition to Syrah, they grow and produce wines with Grenache, Mourvèdre, Grenache Blanc, Picpoul Blanc, and Roussanne.  

The Reserve Tasting Flight, a seated tasting in their private tasing room, is a great introduction to the TH Estate Wines style. The 2015 Three-Four Syrah ($88) was a stand-out. A block-designate wine from a specific vineyard, the name was inspired by the spacing of the vines and Terry's jersey throughout most of his professional football career. A rich and zesty Syrah but not too peppery, this superb wine has tight tannins and beautiful dark berry flavors. 

The word iconic is grossly overused but the Hearst name is one of the few that lives up to the hype. Titans of industry, the Hearst family empire is well-known for their vast holdings in mining and media, but I had no idea that a member of the family was involved in the wine business. Not far from the famous Hearst Castle in San Simeon, the Hearst Ranch Winery project is a collaboration between Steve Hearst and Jim Saunders.

Hearst Ranch Winery vintner/owner Jim Saunders and winemaker Soren Christensen. 

I'll confess that I approached the Hearst wines with a bit of skepticism and wondered if the wines were just a marketing opportunity. I'm happy to report that I was wrong and these wines live up to the winery's motto "a legacy of quality." Their portfolio is quite extensive but to get started I recommend their superb 2016 Three Sisters Cuvée ($24). A rich and balanced blend of Syrah, Grenache, Petite Syrah, and Mourvèdre; this luscious red is juicy with a kiss of spice. 

If you're traveling to Paso Robles with a group of friends, Opolo rolls out the red carpet at their stunning property. The vibe is relaxed and festive but from the food to the service, every detail is meticulously executed. 

With some expert coaching and encouragement, I sabered my first bottle of bubbly at Opolo. Don't try this at home! 

The Opolo portfolio includes creative and elegant wines like this charming 2016 Montagna Mare ($28). An unexpected blend of Barbera and Sangiovese, I was astounded at how well these Italian grapes adapt to the Paso Robles terroir. Silky and rich, this is a beautifully balanced wine that puts a Paso Robles twist on these old country grapes. 

With world class wines, down-to-earth winemakers, great food, and beautiful scenery; Paso Robles is a winning wine getaway. No attitude, no snobbery; just a community of people working together to make the very best wine in their unique Paso Robles way. And no matter where you are, you can take your palate on a Paso Robles adventure. Give Paso Robles wines a swirl, you won't be disappointed. 

The Prisoner Wine Company Boldly Breaks Free With An Edgy & Immersive Wine Tasting Experience

With their striking labels and unconventional wines, The Prisoner Wine Company has always prided itself on being different. Now they finally have a tasting room experience that matches their provocative spirit. Located on Napa Valley's Highway 29, The Prisoner Wine Company recently debuted their new Tasting Lounge and Makery. The ambitious project was a collaboration between San Francisco architect Matt Hollis and Richard Von Saal, interior designer and Napa Valley native. Drawing inspiration from The Prisoner's bold personality and the Francisco Goya painting that graces their often-photographed label, the exterior and interior spaces are a vivid tapestry of textures, colors, and shapes.
The wine that started it all -- The Prisoner Red Blend 2017 ($49).

I was recently invited to visit The Prisoner Wine Company's new digs and they have truly created an immersive experience that stimulates the senses. The artwork and architectural details give your eyes plenty to feast on while you're sipping. Dramatically crowned with a vaulted ceiling, other intriguing design elements include reclaimed wood from the original Bay Bridge and a diesel tank reimagined as a custom chandelier. The outdoor courtyard has living walls of plants and a wood-burning oven used to prepare select items for the wine pairing experiences. The property also has a garden that grows herbs and produce used in dishes served at the winery.

Unlike many tasting rooms where you just sidle up to a bar and stand while tasting a flight of wines, The Prisoner pulls you completely into their world. There's no need to uncomfortably rush your wine tasting experience, The Prisoner Wine Company's bespoke chairs and sofas beckon you to sit down and stay awhile. 

The Makery

The Prisoner lets the sunshine in via an 8-feet wide by 57-feet long skylight over my favorite space on the property, The Makery. Thoughtfully designed and outfitted in a way that elegantly balances impressive contemporary design with a non-intimidating comfortable vibe, The Makery celebrates craft and community by providing space for an evolving cadre of artisans, designers, and creators to display and vend their wares -- the unifying thread is that like The Prisoner Wine Company, these makers have a passion for innovation.


Go ahead and call me greedy, but I believe the open kitchen is one of the key attributes that distinguishes The Makery as the heart of the property. Watching the perfect choreography of Executive Chef Brett Young and his team as they glide in their gleaming new kitchen is a sight to behold.

Chevrè Agnolotti (Tahitian Squash, Chanterelle Mushroom, Smoked Egg Yolk) paired with The Prisoner Red Blend.

Melt-in-your mouth A5 Wagyu Beef Rib Eye cooked lightning fast over a 900 degree stone, paired with limited-release Headlock 2016 ($60), a captivating blend of Charbono from Calistoga, Petite Sirah from Lake County, and Syrah from Oak Knoll.

The food coming from the kitchen is truly exceptional. Creative, flavorful, and matched to perfection with The Prisoner's wines; Chef Young's menu features locally sourced ingredients, and some specialty items from afar, in a stellar fashion.

“We’re excited to have a home for visitors to experience The Prisoner Wine Company, whose very reason for being is to create thought-provoking and bold wines. Part of the fun for me has been blending lesser-known, hard-to-find grapes together to create new wines to be shared exclusively at the winery.” - Chrissy Wittmann, Director of Winemaking

So what about the wines? After all, that's the raison d'etre of The Prisoner Wine Company. You'd be hard-pressed to find a wine drinker that isn't familiar with their luxury red blend -- it was The Prisoner bottle with the Goya artwork and unusual blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Charbono that put The Prisoner Wine Company on the map nearly two decades ago.

Blindfold 2016 ($32) cleverly blends Chardonnay with Roussanne, Viognier, Chenin Blanc, Muscat, and Vermentino.

As famous as THAT bottle is, on my visit I discovered that The Prisoner Wine Company's portfolio includes an impressive selection of red, white, and rosé wines, each with an interesting back story and striking look. While many are available across the country, some are exclusive to the winery. Winemaker Chrissy Wittmann said that making wine at this level "is not an easy job by any means but I didn't sign up because it was going to be easy." That refusal to take the easy path seems to be the force that fuels The Prisoner Wine Company in winemaking, architecture, design, dining, and more. 

If your travels take you to Napa, a visit to The Prisoner Wine Company's sensational, shiny, and new space is certainly worth your time. Tasting experiences start at $45 per person and reservations are required. Click here for more details and to book your visit. 

Mixed Case: 12 Wonderful Wines from Around the Globe

Which 12 different bottles of wine would you choose to create your own mixed case? I would definitely fill mine with a mix of sparkling, white, red and rosé; a few serious wines and some everyday easygoing sips. If you're looking for inspiration to create your own delicious dozen, keep reading for tasting notes on twelve winning wines that I recently sampled from Italy, France, Argentina, Germany, and the USA. Cheers!

Sparkling



DUBL di Feudi di San Gregorio Sparkling Falanghina Brut ($25)
Italy
A very unique sparkling wine that applies the traditional Champagne method to Falanghina, an iconic grape of Campania in the south of Italy. Elegant and exuberant with lively bubbles, DUBL is delightfully dry and crisp with balanced intensity. Superb!

Champagne Henriot Blanc de Blancs ($59)
France
A classic and captivating Champagne, Henriot Blanc de Blancs is an excellent expression of 100% Chardonnay. A bold but finely textured tapestry of crisp mineral, citrus, and brioche flavors. 

Sparkling Rosé



Le Marchesine Franciacorta Rosé Millesimato 2013 ($36)
Italy
The world of Italian sparkling wines extends beyond Prosecco and Franciacorta is one of the most elegant. Produced exclusively in the traditional Champagne method in the northern Italian territory of Franciacorta, Franciacorta was the first in Italy to receive DOCG status for sparkling wines - Italy's official top tier of quality for wines. A lovely blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Le Marchesine Franciacorta Rosé is a charming introduction to the category. A lovely pale shade of pink, it is precise and pretty with fine bubbles, fresh red berry flavors, and crisp texture. 

Rosé



M. Chapoutier Les Vignes de Bila-Haut Pays d'Oc Rosé 2017 ($15)
France
Season after season, this beauty from the south of France is one of my favorite rosé wines. A fresh and luscious blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault, it is fruit-forward, juicy, and vibrant with superb structure. Plenty of ooh la la at a great price! 

White



Feudi di San Gregorio Falanghina 2017 ($22.99)
Italy
Feudi di San Gregorio has distinguished themselves as one of the premier wineries in Italy's Campania region and beyond. I've yet to have a Feudi di San Gregorio wine that wasn't impeccably crafted and authentically evocative of the region and its terroir. The proximity of their vineyards to Mount Vesuvius created mineral rich soils which imbue their wines with depth and texture. An ancient grape that thrives in Campania, Falanghina may not be a household name but the variety has broad appeal. Fresh but very textured with crisp minerality, the 2017 Falanghina vintage from Feudi di San Gregorio balances soft fruit with a mineral core. (Fun fact: Feudi di San Gregorio's labels were created by Italian designer Massimo Vignelli - designer of the NYC subway map and Bloomingdale's shopping bags!) 

Frescobaldi Massovivo Ammiraglia Vermentino 2016 ($18)
Italy
Fresh, subtle and elegant, this charming Vermentino from Tuscany's coastal Maremma region has plenty of Mediterranean flair. Lively flavors of honeysuckle, chamomile, and white nectarine are balanced by crisp minerality. 



Nik Weis Mosel Urban Riesling 2017 ($15)
Germany
Juicy, crisp, and refreshing, this rocking little Riesling from Germany's renowned Mosel Valley has plenty of personality. Fruity with a hint of sweetness that is balanced out by a tinge of chalky minerality.  



Chehalem INOX Unoaked Chardonnay 2016 ($20)
Oregon
Unoaked but full of flavor, this fresh and vibrant Chardonnay from Oregon's iconic Willamette Valley is a charmer. Very crisp, round, and graceful.  



Trivento White Orchid Reserve Torrontes 2017 ($11)
Argentina
White Orchid is the perfect name for this flirty and aromatic Torrontes from Argentina's famed Mendoza region. Floral and tropical, a kiss of Pinot Grigio adds crispness and nuance. 

Red



Feudi di San Gregorio Rubrato Aglianico 2015 ($19.99)
Italy
What a sultry, sexy, and savory vino! Aglianico is one of southern Italy's iconic wines and Feudi di San Gregorio's Rubrato is an impressive expression. Crafted from 100% Aglianico grapes from the Irpinia region of Campania, Rubrato is is bold and elegant. Rich berry flavors meld seamlessly with hints of savory herbs and spice. 

Concannon Vineyard Clone 7 Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 ($90)
California 
This is no run-of-the-mill Cabernet Sauvignon, Concannon Clone 7 pays tribute to Concannon’s important role in viticulture - their clones account for 80% of all California Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Bold and rich with dark fruit, spice, and earth flavors; Clone 7 is crafted from vineyards in the Chalk Hill AVA located in the northeast corner of the larger Russian River Valley AVA. 



Westwood Estate Pinot Noir 2015 ($44)
California
An impressive Pinot Noir from Sonoma with finesse and fully developed flavors of ripe red berries, brambly fruits, baking spices, and well-integrated dusty tannins. 

Etude Explores & Respects the Essence of Pinot Noir

Jon Priest, Senior Winemaker & General Manager, Etude Wines

Pinot Noir people don't mess around. Known as the heartbreak grape, fickle and finicky Pinot Noir is one of the hardest grapes to cultivate. You can't make Pinot Noir half-heartedly, one has to completely devote themselves to its needs and there's no guarantee that this diva won't disappoint you. But Pinot Noir devotees will tell you that the stress it induces pales in comparison to its ethereal ability to transmit terroir. Jon Priest, Senior Winemaker and General Manager of Etude Wines since 2005, is absolutely a Pinot Noir person. Jon beams when he tells me that he appreciates Pinot Noir's demanding nature and its transparency. 

Founded in 1982, in the Carneros region of California, Etude means study in French and the winery crafts classic varietals that are modeled after the best in Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Alsace yet elegantly express their New World origins. Committed to sustainable practices, Etude was founded on the philosophy that winemaking begins in the vineyard. Etude is best known for their estate Pinot Noir and Jon's passion for Pinot has inspired him to explore "how does Pinot Noir manifest itself in different regions" by making wine in other parts of California, Oregon, and even New Zealand. Using a minimalist approach in his winemaking enables Jon to craft wines that are authentic expressions of the grape, terroir, and vintage. 

If you share Jon's passion for Pinot Noir and want to explore the differences in wines crafted from diverse terroirs, give one of these Etude wines a swirl! 

Etude Pinot Noir 2016, Grace Benoist Ranch, Carneros, Estate Grown ($47)
Described as a "true representation of the winery's estate vineyards at Grace Benoist Ranch," the vineyards are tucked away in the far northwest corner of the Carneros appellation, near Sonoma. The soils on Grace Benoist Ranch are variations of volcanic origin, unlike the rest of Carneros which is mostly composed of clay soils. Jon says these rocky & mineral-rich volcanic soils imbue the wine with richness and depth. Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, this vibrant Pinot Noir has lifted cherry and raspberry flavors and a hint of cinnamon graham cracker spice that is a signature of Pinot Noir from Grace Benoist Ranch. Silky, fresh, and elegantly structured, this charming wine has the potential to age for up to 10 years. 

Etude Heirloom Pinot Noir 2015, Grace Benoist Ranch Vineyard, Carneros, Estate Grown ($95)
This is no cookie-cutter Pinot Noir. Crafted from several heirloom selections of Pinot Noir that produce low yields but pristine fruit, Heirloom 2015 is a fine example of Pinot Noir's power to transmit terroir. Aged in French oak barrels for 13 months, this aromatic and richly colored Pinot Noir has soft tannins, lively acidity and intense, but balanced, red fruit and spice flavors. 

Etude Pinot Noir 2016, North Canyon Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley ($55)
Less than 20 miles from the Pacific Ocean, North Canyon Vineyard is located in a secluded canyon along the Santa Maria river bench in Santa Barbara County's northernmost AVA. Extended periods of sunshine mature the Pinot Noir grapes beautifully but the cool breezes of the Pacific maintain freshness. Jon says there is "a vibrant lift to the wine. Lifted red fruit and Asian spices" and he recommends salmon as a great pairing with this Pinot Noir. 

Etude 2015 Yamhela Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton District, Willamette Valley ($65)
Pinot Noir from Willamette is acclaimed for its elegance and affinity with Burgundy and this beauty from Etude certainly meets that standard. The Yamhela Vineyard  has rich marine-sedimentary soils that are among Willamette's oldest. The region's cool-climate and ideal amounts of sunshine, encourage slow maturation of the Pinot Noir grapes. Brambly and bright with crisp acidity and fine tannins, this beauty from Oregon is an elegant tapestry of red cherry, cranberry, hibiscus, tea leaves, and spice.

Visit the Etude website to explore their complete portfolio of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Gris. 

Spinning Bottles: Beaulieu Vineyard "BV" Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 2015

So much wine, so little time! My cell phone is filled with photos of almost every bottle that I taste but it is impossible to write about each one. Inspired by the childhood game of Spin the Bottle, instead of spinning an actual bottle and kissing the person that the bottle points at, I've opted to take a spin through my wine photos until one gives me that tingling feeling that reminds me of how delicious it was. After all, a great glass of wine is almost as good as kissing (sometimes better)! 



Founded in 1900, Beaulieu Vineyard holds a storied position in the history of Napa Valley. BV Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2015 ($45) is a wonderful expression of the fine cocoa powdery tannins known as Rutherford Dust. Intense in color, aroma, and flavors, BV is a classic Napa Valley Cabernet that displays added nuance from dashes of Petit Verdot, Petit Sirah, and Merlot. Bold and intense with layers of flavor, this robust red shows impeccable balance between rich fruit and hints of warm spice and vanilla. Lively acidity keeps the wine graceful and not cloying. BV is big enough to wow your tastebuds but fresh and approachable enough to enjoy in the backyard with a juicy grilled steak! Delicious now, BV has the structure and vibrancy needed to age beautifully. 

To learn more about Beaulieu Vineyard, read my article A Wine Worth Waiting For: Beaulieu Vineyard Rarity 2013.

Organic from Day One: Bonterra Makes Wines That Respect Mother Nature

"Just like people want to know where their food comes from, they want to know what's in their wine." - Jeff Cichocki, Lead Winemaker, Bonterra Organic Vineyards

Organic is pretty mainstream now, but it really wasn't so long ago that fans of organic foods were all considered hippy-dippy, tree hugging, health freaks. How times have changed! From food to fabrics to cleaning products, pretty much everyone embraces organics in some aspect of their lives. Wine is no exception and all over the globe winemakers are converting to organic farming practices. Better late than never for those winemakers but Bonterra Organic Vineyards doesn't have to jump on the bandwagon, they've been leading the way and their Mendocino County vineyards (north of Sonoma and Napa Valley, California) have been organic since they were founded in 1987. All of their wines are made from 100% organically farmed grapes. 

Jeff Cichocki, Bonterra's lead winemaker, has been with the winery for more than ten years and jokes that "other winemakers think that I'm a glutton for punishment" but he truly believes that keeping chemicals out of the vineyard makes better wine. After all, no wine lover has ever tasted a glass of wine and lamented about the lack of chemicals  -- we want to taste the wine and Bonterra asserts that "organic grapes produce the purest expressions of the varietals and land on which they are farmed."


image courtesy of Bonterra

Winemaking begins in the vineyard and organic practices certainly start the grapes off on the right track. But organic doesn't guarantee that the wine will be good. The winemaker still has to apply their intuition and skill to make crucial decisions on when to harvest and how to transform the hard-earned fruits of their labor into wine. I don't drink organic wine all the time but I was introduced to Bonterra a few years ago and the wines have impressed me with their freshness, expressiveness, and balance. Organic farming is an added bonus that I really appreciate when it comes to wine: it is better for the land and the vineyard workers, and I certainly want to reduce the amount of chemicals I consume. Added bonus -- Bonterra's well-made & earth-friendly wines don't break the budget. 



Have you been a part of the anything-but-Chardonnay camp? Bonterra Chardonnay 2017($14) may make you reconsider! Made from organic grapes and easy on the budget, this vibrant wine tastes fresh and alive. Zesty citrus flavors are rounded out by a hint of creaminess and crisp minerality. A great everyday wine! 



Stop hating on Merlot because of THAT movie! Just because Merlot is pretty doesn't mean it isn't interesting. Bonterra Merlot 2015 ($16) is a delicious reminder of Merlot's charms. Luscious and plummy, this juicy red gets extra complexity and hints of spice from small amounts of Petite Sirah and Malbec. 

Beyond their organic farming, Bonterra also has three ranches that are certified biodynamic. Their simple definition of biodynamic is "a holistic view of agriculture with high awareness of the interconnectivity between earth, plants, animals, humans, the moon and planets." For example, preparations made from herbs, minerals, and manures are applied to the soils at specific times to enhance their fertility. The Roost "Blue Heron Vineyard" Chardonnay 2015 ($40) is a superb single-vineyard wine that eloquently expresses the terroir of this special land nestled between the shore of the upper Russian River and a blue heron nesting site and preserve.  A voluptuous and elegant Chardonnay, The Roost glimmers in the glass and captivates the palate with rich flavors of lemon curd, butterscotch, pear, and kisses of spice. 

The Butler 2013 ($50) is another standout from Bonterra's biodynamic, single-vineyard selections. A blend of mostly Syrah with Mourvedre, Grenache, and Zinfandel, this bold wine is intriguingly intense. Exquisitely structured but not aloof. The Butler serves up rich dark fruit with sexy hints of spice and licorice. 

Are you ready to explore wines made with organic grapes? Bonterra is a great starting point. Visit their website to learn more about Bonterra's full portfolio of wines; they have an impressive selection of varietals. Cheers! 

The Tannin Tamers of Napa Valley: The Hess Collection Makes Magic with Malbec

Oh, those tricky tannins. Found naturally in grape skins, tannins contribute tremendously to a wine's structure, texture, and aging ability. Without detectable tannins, you might as well be drinking grape juice and not fine wine. But when a wine is too tannic, its bitter and astringent sensations can knock the wine out of balance so that it tastes too dry and unappealingly abrasive. Tannins can soften over time but the clever winemakers at The Hess Collection have found a surprising solution to soothing the powerful tannins in their Lion Tamer Napa Valley Red Wine 2015 ($45) - Malbec! Yes, Malbec - Argentina's signature red wine grape, with roots in France, has proven itself right at home at Hess's Napa Valley vineyards. In fact, Hess has more Malbec planted on Mount Veeder than any other winery in Napa.   

A touch of Malbec finds its way into many of Hess's blends but Lion Tamer 2015 has a hearty 50%, combined with Zinfandel (23%), Petite Sirah (11%), Cabernet Sauvignon (6%) Petit Verdot (4%), Merlot (4%), and Mourvedre (2%). The regal lion has been the emblem of the Hess Family for nine generations. Like a lion tamer who deftly calms the king of the jungle, Hess uses Malbec to coax aggressive tannins into submission in their Lion Tamer wine. But this rich red wine still roars beautifully. Big and luscious with smooth round tannins, Lion Tamer is a rich tapestry of juicy fruit, tinges of spice, and kisses of vanilla. A wow wine! 


In addition to the Lion Tamer, the Hess Collection portfolio features a superb selection of wines at various price points, including their Napa Valley Allomi Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 ($32) and Napa Valley Chardonnay 2016 ($22). 

Nicole Carter, Director of Winemaking and Chief Marketing Officer for Hess Family Wine Estates

The Hess Collection story begins in 1978 when Swiss entrepreneur and prolific contemporary art collector Donald Hess started acquiring land on Mt. Veeder. Hess was determined to create world-class wines from the rugged California terrain and the winery was established in 1986. Well-established and respected, exciting things lie ahead for Hess - the winery is now under the stewardship of the next generation and talented wine industry veteran Nicole Carter has recently been appointed Director of Winemaking for Hess Family Wine Estates; she will also retain her role of Chief Marketing Officer. In addition to California, Nicole's responsibilities will include oversight over winemaking at Hess's estates in Argentina. Dynamic, innovative, and with prior winemaking experience; Nicole is a force to be reckoned with. 


If your travels take you to Napa, schedule a visit to Hess. In addition to wine tasting and fine dining, the estate's Hess Art Museum houses an impressive collection - friends tell me it's fabulous! 

Seven Sexy Wines for Chilly Winter Nights, Not Just Valentine's Day!

 

Real romance isn't just a one-day phenomenon but at least Valentine's Day puts love and affection in the spotlight. We need more love in the world and the vibrant reds and good vibes of Valentine's Day brighten up the grey mood of winter. Chilly nights are the perfect time to share a bottle of wine with someone special. Heat things up on February 14th, and all winter long, with one of these sexy wines! 


Vilarnau Brut Reserva ($14.99)  

Your romantic soundtrack should include the sound of a popping cork! Share a bottle or two of beautiful Vilarnau Cava with your sweetie. Founded in 1949, Vilarnau is highly regarded for their superb expressions of Spain's famous sparkling wine.


Vilarnau Brut Reserva Rosé  ($15.99)

The colorful bottles of their Cava Brut Reserva and Rosé pay homage to Vilarnau's Catalan heritage with a design inspired by the iconic architect Antoni Gaudí. His monumental Basilica de La Sagrada Familia has yet to be completed but these two fresh and flirty bottles of sparkling wine are easy to finish. Dry and balanced with vibrant fruit and persistent fine bubbles, these bubblies are pretty delightful. 

Bonterra Organic Vineyards Viognier 2016 ($16)

Rich and luscious with flavors of vibrant juicy peaches & apricots with sassy hints of cream and spice, I have a crush on this organic California beauty from Mendocino County.

Gérard Bertrand Grand Terroir Les Aspres 2013 ($20.99)
An unabashedly sexy blend of Syrah, Mourvédre, and Grenache, this silky and earthy red from Roussillon, in the sunny south of France, will add some ooh la la to your evening. 

Left Coast Cellars Latitude 45 Estate Pinot Noir 2015 ($38)

Wow someone special with this absolutely elegant Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley (Oregon). Beautifully crafted from grapes (Dijon clones) grown in a vineyard that is directly on the 45th parallel, like many of the world's greatest wine regions, this wine is a classic beauty with the timeless finesse of Fred Astaire. 


Frescobaldi Nipozzano Vecchie Viti Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG 2013 ($24)

Pour a little love, Italian style, with this terrific Tuscan vino. Sourced from the oldest and most deeply-rooted vines of Frescobaldi’s thousand-year old Nipozzano estate, it blends Sangiovese with kisses of Malvasia Nera, Colorino, and Canaiolo. Silky and sultry with rich red berry flavors and hints of spice and cocoa, this is what la dolce vita tastes like! (I sampled the 2013 vintage but 2014 is currently available.)



Imagery Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.99)
A juicy red from Sonoma (California), Imagery blends classic Cabernet Sauvignon with a bit of racy Petite Sirah. Smooth with a subtle pop of spice, it strikes the perfect balance between plush and polished. 

Warm Up with Wine: 5 Sizzling Reds for Chilly Winter Nights

Baby, it's cold outside! Warm up these chilly winter nights with a hearty but elegant bottle of red wine. My five picks from Argentina, Spain, Italy, France, and the USA are certain to tastefully thaw you out! 

Bodega Norton "Privada" Family Blend 2014 ($26)
Mendoza, Argentina
The first taste of this beautiful wine transported me back to my 2015 visit to Bodega Norton in Mendoza and each sip carried me further along on that journey. But even if you've never been to Mendoza, this superb vino is an excellent example of the region's commitment to quality winemaking. Privada blends Argentina's signature variety Malbec with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon to create a wine that is rich and silky with great balance. Luscious with dark berry flavors and an earthy thread of cocoa and coffee, Privada is complex but approachable. Founded in 1895, Bodega Norton has been owned since 1989 by the Austrian family that owns the glittering Swarovski crystal empire. Privada was once reserved for the family's private cellar and I'm thrilled that they opted to share it! And if you're planning a trip to Mendoza, I highly recommend a tour & tasting at Bodega Norton. Be sure to save room for the mouthwatering empanadas at their restaurant La Vid. 

Viña Real Rioja Reserva 2013 ($31.99)
Rioja, Spain
 Rioja is Spain's most famous wine region but that doesn't mean that the wines are homogenous -- there is a wide range of quality and styles. If you've ever doubted Rioja's ability to express finesse, depth, and personality, Viña Real will convince you. A blend of mostly Tempranillo with kisses of Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo; this fantastic vino strikes that perfect balance between elegance and earthiness. Matured in a mix of American and French oak casks for about 22 months before being bottled, the wine is not overwhelmed by the wood but is beautifully enhanced by this prolonged contact. Alive with luscious berry flavors and impressive minerality, Viña Real evolves eloquently in the glass and is alluring down to the last drop. 
 

Michel Chapoutier "Les Vignes de Bila-Haut" Côtes du Roussillon Villages 2016 ($15)
Roussillon, France
Who says that a superb French wine has to cost a small fortune? Acclaimed winemaker Michel Chapoutier has an impressive portfolio of wines at all price points but authenticity, quality, and respect for the environment are always the common denominator. Chapoutier is best known for his Rhône wines but his passion for the terroir of Roussillon led him to purchase an abandoned 190-acre estate there in 1999. Chapoutier passionately states that “Roussillon has the potential to be as great as Bordeaux, Burgundy or the Rhône.”  I agree. Just a few months ago I visited this picturesque region in the south of France, between Spain, the Mediterranean Sea, the Pyrenees & the Corbières Mountains; and I was impressed by the quality, diversity, and accessible price points of Roussillon's wines. A blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Carignan, Les Vignes de Bila-Haut is fresh, full, and juicy. Easy-drinking and elegant with a perfect balance of rich plum and berry flavors with sassy dashes of herbs and spices. 



Tasca d'Almerita "Lamùri" Nero d'Avola 2014 ($18.99)
Sicily, Italy
It isn't easy to capture the sexiness and sultriness of Sicily in a glass but this elegant red succeeds beautifully. Nero d'Avola is Sicily's signature grape and can produce wines of tremendous power but Lamúri beautifully balances that strength with grace. Rich and silky, Lamúri means love in Sicilian and this wine's seductive tapestry of dark fruit, spice, and herbs is easy to adore. 

Mauritson Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel 2014 ($35.00)
Sonoma, California
Drink well and do good with this delicious bottle of wine - all proceeds benefit the Sonoma County Resilience Fund to assist those impacted by the wildfires. A softer and more subdued style of Zinfandel, this California beauty has loads of rich berry flavors and Zinfandel's signature hints of black pepper and licorice.
 

Geeking Out with Don Melchor and Robert Mondavi: Iconic Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile and California

On a recent chilly night, I enjoyed the company of good friends and two iconic wines: Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 from Chile and Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville 2014 from California. Same grape and same vintage, but these elegant red wines from different continents were dramatically different in style. Of course, being a certified wine geek, I seized this moment to give my very patient friends a short talk on Cabernet Sauvignon. (Wine Rule: She who brings the fine wine gets to deliver a lecture!)

image courtesy of Don Melchor

Cabernet Sauvignon may trace its heritage back to France but this adaptable red grape is planted in vineyards around the globe. A natural crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon produces full-bodied red wines that are rich in color and flavor. Its excellent acidity and firm tannins also make Cabernet Sauvignon perfect for aging. A staple on any wine list, Cabernet Sauvignon is a crowd pleaser and although there are some common traits, the flavor profile can vary widely depending on the region and winemaking technique. Cabernet Sauvignon's versatility was perfectly expressed in both Don Melchor and Robert Mondavi. 


Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 ($125)
Puente Alto Vineyard, Maipo Valley, Chile
Considered one of Chile's iconic wines, Don Melchor is an outstanding example of Cabernet Sauvignon's capacity to express power and nuance. "A sense of place" is a common wine descriptor and although I've never been there, Don Melchor transported me to its Puento Alto (High Bridge) vineyard on the north bank of the Maipo River, at the foot of the Andes Mountains. Planted with vines imported from France, Puente Alto is grouped into seven blocks that are further divided into 142 parcels -- each parcel offers a unique expression that varies from year to year. Winemaker Enrique Tirado says that "Don Melchor is not a single Cabernet Sauvignon, but multiple expressions." That multiplicity is detected in the glass - Don Melchor is fruity and earthy, powerful and nimble. Its rich red fruit flavors are beautifully accentuated by hints of tobacco, earth, graphite, and cocoa floating ethereally on a pillow of velvety tannins. A relative newcomer to the wine scene, the first vintage of Don Melchor was released in 1987 but it has made an astounding nine appearances on Wine Spectator's annual Top 100 list, including this superb 2014 vintage (96 points) on the 2017 list. 



Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 ($62.50)
Oakville, Napa Valley, California

In any game of word association, Napa Valley leads to Cabernet Sauvignon which leads to Robert Mondavi. When he founded his eponymous winery in 1966, Mondavi didn't just take California winemaking to the next level, he elevated the reputation of American wines around the world. Mondavi passed away in 2008 but the winery remains committed to crafting wines that truly express Napa. Geneviève Janssens, Director of Winemaking, says "It is an honor to work in Oakville for the winery that really put this appellation on the map. Since the moment Robert Mondavi chose Oakville for his vineyards and winery, his vision of gracious living and world-class winemaking has extended all the way down into the soils." And what soils they are - Mondavi described his celebrated To Kalon Vineyard as possessing "ideal soils, sunlight, and rain" -- essentials for growing quality grapes.


Mondavi's To Kalon Vineyard was originally planted in 1868 and was named Vineyard of the Year by the California State Farm Bureau. To Kalon means "the highest beauty" in ancient Greek.
image courtesy of Robert Mondavi Winery 

If someone asked me to recommend a classic bottle of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, I would not hesitate to suggest this bottle of Mondavi. A wine that elegantly demonstrates the union between fruit and oak, its intense dark fruit flavors are heightened by spicy hints of vanilla, coffee, and nutmeg that were integrated into the wine via meticulous barrel aging. Not shying away from its power but still silky and seductive, this superb wine is unabashedly and quintessentially Napa. 

Are you ready to embark on your own Cabernet Sauvignon tasting journey? I recognize that both Don Melchor and Robert Mondavi Oakville are on the pricier side (and worth every penny). However, both producers have less expensive wines in their portfolios and you can conduct this side-by-side tasting with an endless selection of wines from around the globe. Go ahead - geek out, drink, and be merry! 

Five Fabulous Red Wines for Chilly Fall Nights

When the sky is pitch black at 5pm and sweater weather is in full effect, rich and full-bodied red wines are a delicious way to warm your spirit and battle the chill. Whether you're cocooning at home with Netflix or entertaining friends with a hearty home-cooked meal, here are five fabulous wines from around the globe that are a perfect match with the mood and flavors of autumn. 

Salentein 'Numina' Gran Corte 2014
Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina ($39.99) 
I first tasted Salentein's impeccable Numina blend from iconic Argentine winemaker José Galante a few years ago and I've loved every vintage of this regal red. Truly an artist, Galante deftly blends Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Merlot to create a wine that beautifully expresses the exceptional terroir of Mendoza. Sexy and elegant like the Argentine tango, Numina displays precise choreography between vibrant fruit and sultry spice.


Beaulieu Vineyard 'BV' Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 
Napa Valley, California ($33)
A superb wine from one of Napa Valley's legendary wineries, BV Cabernet Sauvignon is like a kiss that you never want to end. Rich and luxurious but not flashy, BV has beautifully integrated flavors of dark fruit and spice. Luscious and juicy with graceful structure, BV captivates with every silky sip. 

Abadia Retuerta Selección Especial 2013
Sardon de Duero, Castilla y León, Spain ($30)
What a vino! Mostly Tempranillo with a kiss of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, Abadia Retuerta Selección Especial is dangerously delicious - one glass just won't satisfy you. Quite seductive from the first sip, this rich but earthy red comes more alive with each nuanced sip. 



Castello di Gabbiano 'Dark Knight' 2015
Tuscany, Italy ($17)
Silky and spicy, this Dark Knight from Tuscany will sweep you off your feet! A beautifully balanced blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese; Dark Knight displays fruit, finesse, and fantastic layers of flavor. 




Château Tour Castillon 2014
Cru Bourgeois, Médoc, Bordeaux, France ($23)
Delicious proof that you don't need big a bankroll to enjoy wines from Bordeaux, this charming red is an approachable blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carmenere. Fresh, fruit-forward, and vibrant, this wine has plenty of ooh la la but zero pretension.