Monday, September 27, 2010
Great Groupon deal in the East Bay!
Click here to get a East Bay Winery tour by bike for only $44. Hurry! You've only got 13 hours left to buy! ;)
Friday, September 24, 2010
Milat
First published in the Benicia Herald on July 27, 2008.
Since joining the Herald staff and moving to Benicia, I have been lured by the siren song of the Napa Valley. I am the kind of person who loves everything to do with wine - the aroma and flavor, the ceremony involved in pulling in sips to taste, the tangled vines arranged in rows in vineyards, the elegant shapes of the bottles - and most especially - the way the bottles look reclining in the metal shelves of my wine racks, each one just waiting to be retrieved for its turn in the place of honor upon my dinner table.
I can think of no better way to celebrate my passion for fermented grapes than to start up a weekly column that allows me to share the winners and losers I come across in my ongoing quest to assemble a collection of vintages to be envied. There are about a million ways I could do this, but I have settled on a template that will focus on one particular producer each week. I hope that you will find my musings helpful and entertaining.
To start off, I have decided to focus on a family-owned winery in St. Helena called Milat Vineyards. The estate began as a summer home to Richard and Izetta Milat in 1949. The couple soon moved their whole family to the vineyard, and their four sons were raised there. During the 1970's, two of the sons, Mike and Bob, took over the day-to-day operations of the vineyard. Grapes grown there were primarily sold to the Napa Valley Cooperative Winery.
It wasn't until 1986 that the first vintage, produced by the brothers and their wives, Carolyn and Joyce, came out under the Milat Vineyards label. The winery is still running successfully, putting about 3500 cases of estate-grown, produced, and bottled wine each year. The tasting room, located right on Highway 29, pulls in a steady draw of wine lovers.
I had the pleasure of stopping in the tasting room a week ago with some friends. We could not have been more impressed with the thoughtful and attentive service we received from Bob Milat. As he poured various varietals into our glasses, he told us stories about his family, the operations of the vineyard and even a few jokes to keep us smiling. It was the last stop for us that Saturday afternoon, and we had seen both sides of customer service. It was clearly agreed that Bob had succeeded in winning our vote as Mr. Congeniality.
I will admit that I tend to favor the reds, but the '07 Chenin Blanc we tasted first was perfect that toasty afternoon. Made up of 75 percent Chenin Blanc and 25 percent Chardonnay, its flavor was light and had an airy finish. I was equally impressed with its reasonable $18 price tag.
We sampled four reds during our visit, and my favorite had to be the '05 Zinfandel. The nose was sweet with vanilla and oak. The flavors, mostly citrus and other tangy fruits, led me to believe that the vintage would be great paired with the summer barbecue dinner we had planned for later that evening. Again, it's price tag - $23 per bottle - made purchasing a couple bottles an easy decision.
But I would be remiss if I didn't tell you about the best the discovery I have made in years. The Milat brothers have teamed up with local chocolatier to produce a chocolate sauce that is leaps and bounds better than anything I have ever poured over ice cream. Made with Milat Vineyards' Zivio port, the sauce has brings the hint of berry flavor into the deep richness of the chocolate. My companions and I were smitten as soon as the tiny tasting spoons hit our taste buds. Needless to say, more than one $18 bottle of the indulgence made it out the door with us. I can honestly say that I have yet to make it through one dessert without it since our visit. It's that good.
Milat Vineyards is located at 1091 St. Helena Highway in St. Helena. You can order wine and learn more online at www.milat.com.
Since joining the Herald staff and moving to Benicia, I have been lured by the siren song of the Napa Valley. I am the kind of person who loves everything to do with wine - the aroma and flavor, the ceremony involved in pulling in sips to taste, the tangled vines arranged in rows in vineyards, the elegant shapes of the bottles - and most especially - the way the bottles look reclining in the metal shelves of my wine racks, each one just waiting to be retrieved for its turn in the place of honor upon my dinner table.
I can think of no better way to celebrate my passion for fermented grapes than to start up a weekly column that allows me to share the winners and losers I come across in my ongoing quest to assemble a collection of vintages to be envied. There are about a million ways I could do this, but I have settled on a template that will focus on one particular producer each week. I hope that you will find my musings helpful and entertaining.
To start off, I have decided to focus on a family-owned winery in St. Helena called Milat Vineyards. The estate began as a summer home to Richard and Izetta Milat in 1949. The couple soon moved their whole family to the vineyard, and their four sons were raised there. During the 1970's, two of the sons, Mike and Bob, took over the day-to-day operations of the vineyard. Grapes grown there were primarily sold to the Napa Valley Cooperative Winery.
It wasn't until 1986 that the first vintage, produced by the brothers and their wives, Carolyn and Joyce, came out under the Milat Vineyards label. The winery is still running successfully, putting about 3500 cases of estate-grown, produced, and bottled wine each year. The tasting room, located right on Highway 29, pulls in a steady draw of wine lovers.
I had the pleasure of stopping in the tasting room a week ago with some friends. We could not have been more impressed with the thoughtful and attentive service we received from Bob Milat. As he poured various varietals into our glasses, he told us stories about his family, the operations of the vineyard and even a few jokes to keep us smiling. It was the last stop for us that Saturday afternoon, and we had seen both sides of customer service. It was clearly agreed that Bob had succeeded in winning our vote as Mr. Congeniality.
I will admit that I tend to favor the reds, but the '07 Chenin Blanc we tasted first was perfect that toasty afternoon. Made up of 75 percent Chenin Blanc and 25 percent Chardonnay, its flavor was light and had an airy finish. I was equally impressed with its reasonable $18 price tag.
We sampled four reds during our visit, and my favorite had to be the '05 Zinfandel. The nose was sweet with vanilla and oak. The flavors, mostly citrus and other tangy fruits, led me to believe that the vintage would be great paired with the summer barbecue dinner we had planned for later that evening. Again, it's price tag - $23 per bottle - made purchasing a couple bottles an easy decision.
But I would be remiss if I didn't tell you about the best the discovery I have made in years. The Milat brothers have teamed up with local chocolatier to produce a chocolate sauce that is leaps and bounds better than anything I have ever poured over ice cream. Made with Milat Vineyards' Zivio port, the sauce has brings the hint of berry flavor into the deep richness of the chocolate. My companions and I were smitten as soon as the tiny tasting spoons hit our taste buds. Needless to say, more than one $18 bottle of the indulgence made it out the door with us. I can honestly say that I have yet to make it through one dessert without it since our visit. It's that good.
Milat Vineyards is located at 1091 St. Helena Highway in St. Helena. You can order wine and learn more online at www.milat.com.
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars
First published in the Benicia Herald on September 28, 2008.
Sometimes its absolutely thrilling to sample wine from a legendary winery. Sometimes, it's even better to find out just how impressive the winery's history after the fact.
Such was the case a couple weeks ago when I visited Stag's Leap Wine Cellars in Yountville. The plan for the day, as set forth by my companion, was to stop at the first winery we came across that day with an animal on its sign (or at least with an animal in its name). Stag's Leap happened to be just that place.
What I didn't realize until I hunkered down at my computer to write this week's column was that it was Stag's Leap that had made history at the infamous 1976 'Paris Tasting.' For those unfamiliar with the history, it was on May 24, 1976 that Steven Spurrier, an English wine merchant in Paris, organized a blind tasting of Cabernet Savignons and Chardonnays from both France and California. This tasting in particular is significant because in both categories, the winners were California bottles. As well, the judges were all highly regarded French tasters, who had scoffed at the idea that a California wine would be better than a French. They were stunned when the winners were revealed.
It was this event that put California on the wine-making map. And it was Stag's Leap that had produced the winning red.
Today, the wine at Stag's Leap remains noteworthy, although the whites really caught my attention. My favorite selection from the tasting I had was a 2006 KARIA Chardonnay. I relished the buttery flavors and the subtle creaminess. The bouquet, filled with honeysuckle, roses and other floral notes, was a delight to take in. And to top it off, I got my little bit of trivia while tasting this wine - the fact that thename 'Karia' was given to this wine because it is Greek for 'graceful.' Fitting.
My companion fell for the Sauvignon Blanc, although he was not impressed enough to purchase a bottle for later. The aromas were heavily fruity - bringing to mind lemon-lime and tropical notes. The tasting notes mention that the wine would be good with a peach salsa - which is on target.
I would be remiss not to mention the Cab, as it is this varietal that made such history at the Paris Tasting. The 2005 ARTEMIS Cabernet Sauvignon is made up of 94 percent Cabernet and four percent Merlot. The peppery aroma lent to more earthy scents such as black olive and truffles. The flavors of violets and vanilla, however,were a bit of a surprise on the palate. Overall, it wasn't bad, but it did make me wish I could go back to 1976 and taste the champion Cab.
To learn more about Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, drop by their tasting room at 5766 Silverado Trail in Napa. You can also check them out online at www.cask23.com.
Sometimes its absolutely thrilling to sample wine from a legendary winery. Sometimes, it's even better to find out just how impressive the winery's history after the fact.
Such was the case a couple weeks ago when I visited Stag's Leap Wine Cellars in Yountville. The plan for the day, as set forth by my companion, was to stop at the first winery we came across that day with an animal on its sign (or at least with an animal in its name). Stag's Leap happened to be just that place.
What I didn't realize until I hunkered down at my computer to write this week's column was that it was Stag's Leap that had made history at the infamous 1976 'Paris Tasting.' For those unfamiliar with the history, it was on May 24, 1976 that Steven Spurrier, an English wine merchant in Paris, organized a blind tasting of Cabernet Savignons and Chardonnays from both France and California. This tasting in particular is significant because in both categories, the winners were California bottles. As well, the judges were all highly regarded French tasters, who had scoffed at the idea that a California wine would be better than a French. They were stunned when the winners were revealed.
It was this event that put California on the wine-making map. And it was Stag's Leap that had produced the winning red.
Today, the wine at Stag's Leap remains noteworthy, although the whites really caught my attention. My favorite selection from the tasting I had was a 2006 KARIA Chardonnay. I relished the buttery flavors and the subtle creaminess. The bouquet, filled with honeysuckle, roses and other floral notes, was a delight to take in. And to top it off, I got my little bit of trivia while tasting this wine - the fact that thename 'Karia' was given to this wine because it is Greek for 'graceful.' Fitting.
My companion fell for the Sauvignon Blanc, although he was not impressed enough to purchase a bottle for later. The aromas were heavily fruity - bringing to mind lemon-lime and tropical notes. The tasting notes mention that the wine would be good with a peach salsa - which is on target.
I would be remiss not to mention the Cab, as it is this varietal that made such history at the Paris Tasting. The 2005 ARTEMIS Cabernet Sauvignon is made up of 94 percent Cabernet and four percent Merlot. The peppery aroma lent to more earthy scents such as black olive and truffles. The flavors of violets and vanilla, however,were a bit of a surprise on the palate. Overall, it wasn't bad, but it did make me wish I could go back to 1976 and taste the champion Cab.
To learn more about Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, drop by their tasting room at 5766 Silverado Trail in Napa. You can also check them out online at www.cask23.com.
Ferrari-Carano
First published in the Benicia Herald on September 14, 2008.
This week, I had the pleasure of dining at Captain Blyther's, a first for me as I continue to get acquainted with Benicia. I know that most Benicians are quite familiar with the dining at the waterfront establishment, but it was not the food that hooked me. It was, of course, the wine list.
As my date was set on ordering the filet mignon and I was feeling a bit more fishy, I was glad to see some good options for wines by the glass. Whilst scanning the whites, my eyes landed squarely on the Fume Blanc by Ferrari-Carano.
Now, I visited Ferrari-Carano's tasting room last fall, during a day-long tasting session in the Sonoma area. It was the place we stopped last on our limo tour, and needless to say, I had consumed more than a few glasses over the course of that day. I remembered the wines being amazing and buying a bottle or two for my cellar. The chance to order the Fume Blanc at Captain Blyther's seemed like a great way to refresh my memory, in a more sober state.
When my large, bulbous glass arrived, it didn't take long for me to remember just why I had taken such a liking to the brand. The wine had a pleasant, light floral aroma that reminded me of springtime in a garden - perhaps one such as the luscious garden that surrounds the winery's tasting room in Healdsberg (a must see). Moreover, when I pulled the first cool sip to my lips, I got the acidity I expect from a wine made of Sauvignon Blanc grapes. The acidity was mild, though, and that worked out well with the sweet finish the wine left on my palate. Overall, I was inspired to reaquaint myself with the Ferrari-Carano label.
The next night, I stopped by the grocery store to pick up some pork chops for dinner. I cruised through the wine selection, with my Ferrari-Carano radar turned on. I was pleased to see the same Fume Blanc on the shelf, and for a modest price. I also spotted a Merlot, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. As much as I'd like to say I decided to venture toward something different, as I had intended, I walked out with the Fume Blanc again. I decided the sweetness would compliment the Raspberry-Chipotle marinade I had a hankering for that night. When the dinner bell rang, my man agreed that the pairing was perfect.
I finished up eating and ultimately decided I wouldn't be doing my column any justice if I took this week to again really only examine just one bottle. I tromped down to the basement wine cellar and pulled the Ferrari-carano bottle from the rack, praying it wasn't also the Fume Blanc. I sighed in relief when I glanced the different label. The guilt soon returned when I looked a little closer. The wine was labeled 'Moscato.'
I guess I can't help but have my biases, huh? But I can say with some authority that it's not enough to rely on my descriptions of these fine wines and a trip to the supermarket to get the Ferrari-Carano experience. Looking back at my photos from last fall, I remembered just how grand the winery itself is, even compared to others in the area. the tasting room is large and has thick marble columns. The gardens stretch way beyond a small little picnic area and would have kept Monet busy for years painting all the blooms that fill its spaces. And of course, there is the must-see giant boar statue (please, when you go, snap a photo with it and email it to me - I'm starting a silly collection).
Ferrari-Carano Winery is open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 8761 Dry Creek Road in Healdsberg. Learn more by visiting them online at www.ferrari-carano.com or by calling them at 707-433-6700.
This week, I had the pleasure of dining at Captain Blyther's, a first for me as I continue to get acquainted with Benicia. I know that most Benicians are quite familiar with the dining at the waterfront establishment, but it was not the food that hooked me. It was, of course, the wine list.
As my date was set on ordering the filet mignon and I was feeling a bit more fishy, I was glad to see some good options for wines by the glass. Whilst scanning the whites, my eyes landed squarely on the Fume Blanc by Ferrari-Carano.
Now, I visited Ferrari-Carano's tasting room last fall, during a day-long tasting session in the Sonoma area. It was the place we stopped last on our limo tour, and needless to say, I had consumed more than a few glasses over the course of that day. I remembered the wines being amazing and buying a bottle or two for my cellar. The chance to order the Fume Blanc at Captain Blyther's seemed like a great way to refresh my memory, in a more sober state.
When my large, bulbous glass arrived, it didn't take long for me to remember just why I had taken such a liking to the brand. The wine had a pleasant, light floral aroma that reminded me of springtime in a garden - perhaps one such as the luscious garden that surrounds the winery's tasting room in Healdsberg (a must see). Moreover, when I pulled the first cool sip to my lips, I got the acidity I expect from a wine made of Sauvignon Blanc grapes. The acidity was mild, though, and that worked out well with the sweet finish the wine left on my palate. Overall, I was inspired to reaquaint myself with the Ferrari-Carano label.
The next night, I stopped by the grocery store to pick up some pork chops for dinner. I cruised through the wine selection, with my Ferrari-Carano radar turned on. I was pleased to see the same Fume Blanc on the shelf, and for a modest price. I also spotted a Merlot, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. As much as I'd like to say I decided to venture toward something different, as I had intended, I walked out with the Fume Blanc again. I decided the sweetness would compliment the Raspberry-Chipotle marinade I had a hankering for that night. When the dinner bell rang, my man agreed that the pairing was perfect.
I finished up eating and ultimately decided I wouldn't be doing my column any justice if I took this week to again really only examine just one bottle. I tromped down to the basement wine cellar and pulled the Ferrari-carano bottle from the rack, praying it wasn't also the Fume Blanc. I sighed in relief when I glanced the different label. The guilt soon returned when I looked a little closer. The wine was labeled 'Moscato.'
I guess I can't help but have my biases, huh? But I can say with some authority that it's not enough to rely on my descriptions of these fine wines and a trip to the supermarket to get the Ferrari-Carano experience. Looking back at my photos from last fall, I remembered just how grand the winery itself is, even compared to others in the area. the tasting room is large and has thick marble columns. The gardens stretch way beyond a small little picnic area and would have kept Monet busy for years painting all the blooms that fill its spaces. And of course, there is the must-see giant boar statue (please, when you go, snap a photo with it and email it to me - I'm starting a silly collection).
Ferrari-Carano Winery is open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 8761 Dry Creek Road in Healdsberg. Learn more by visiting them online at www.ferrari-carano.com or by calling them at 707-433-6700.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Chandon
First published in the Benicia Herald on Septmeber 21, 2008.
Last weekend, I finally made a stop at Chandon in Yountville. If you're like me, you see the big signs off the highway and think about stopping from time to time, but ultimately, end up passing by on the way to some other place. The sign that declares "Oysters" has always taunted me, and I decided it just wasn't going to escape my attention for one more trip.
Every Friday - Sunday, the winery offers "Bubbles and Oysters." Now, I am a fool for oysters. I had to check this out and see just how it works.
Once you arrive at Chandon, head upstairs to the tasting bar and order some bubbly. Your server there can also take your order for oysters, served on the half shell. For a half dozen, expect to pay $18; $30 for a dozen. This may sound a bit steep, but oh, the oysters are worth it.
The oysters are served up by Michael Watchorn, founder of the Hog Island Oyster Company. He stands out on the patio, knife in hand, shucking the little shells open and filling plates of orders. As Chandon tends to be a bit on the fancy side (most of the patrons are wearing a little nicer clothes than the average jeans and t-shirt), Watchorn is easy to spot as more down to earth in his ballcap. Moreover, the guy is really nice and generally appreciative of any conversation that is above, "Are my oysters ready yet?"
As well, Watchorn comes with all the toppings you need - tobasco, lemon and better yet "hog wash." The hog wash is some blend involving vinegar and cilantro that was delish on my dozen. I highly recommend it.
As for the bubbly, I decided to try a prestige tasting, featuring three samples plus a logo flute for $16. My host at the tasting bar assured me that the etoile selections, which made up two of my three pours, would go well with my shellfish. First I tried the etoile Brut, which had a great aroma. It smelled of almonds and honey. Yummy! On the palate, I really tasted the soft creamy citrus flavor. My taste left me excited for my second taste.
Next up was the etoile Rose, which, in my opinion, was even better. The flavors were much more muddled and complex, and presented a deeper mystery for me to solve. I took in the scents of deep red fruits like plum and cherry on the nose, and thought they transformed well in my mouth.
But I'll be honest. The sparkling wine was great and I am glad I got some samples, but they didn't hold a candle to the oysters. Make sure to visit on a day when Watchorn is there. You'll see how it's easy to lose enthusiasm for the wine when the oysters are so amazing.
The Chandon tasting room is located at One California Road, Yountville. For more on their wines and the winery, visit www.chandon.com or call 1-888-242-6366
Last weekend, I finally made a stop at Chandon in Yountville. If you're like me, you see the big signs off the highway and think about stopping from time to time, but ultimately, end up passing by on the way to some other place. The sign that declares "Oysters" has always taunted me, and I decided it just wasn't going to escape my attention for one more trip.
Every Friday - Sunday, the winery offers "Bubbles and Oysters." Now, I am a fool for oysters. I had to check this out and see just how it works.
Once you arrive at Chandon, head upstairs to the tasting bar and order some bubbly. Your server there can also take your order for oysters, served on the half shell. For a half dozen, expect to pay $18; $30 for a dozen. This may sound a bit steep, but oh, the oysters are worth it.
The oysters are served up by Michael Watchorn, founder of the Hog Island Oyster Company. He stands out on the patio, knife in hand, shucking the little shells open and filling plates of orders. As Chandon tends to be a bit on the fancy side (most of the patrons are wearing a little nicer clothes than the average jeans and t-shirt), Watchorn is easy to spot as more down to earth in his ballcap. Moreover, the guy is really nice and generally appreciative of any conversation that is above, "Are my oysters ready yet?"
As well, Watchorn comes with all the toppings you need - tobasco, lemon and better yet "hog wash." The hog wash is some blend involving vinegar and cilantro that was delish on my dozen. I highly recommend it.
As for the bubbly, I decided to try a prestige tasting, featuring three samples plus a logo flute for $16. My host at the tasting bar assured me that the etoile selections, which made up two of my three pours, would go well with my shellfish. First I tried the etoile Brut, which had a great aroma. It smelled of almonds and honey. Yummy! On the palate, I really tasted the soft creamy citrus flavor. My taste left me excited for my second taste.
Next up was the etoile Rose, which, in my opinion, was even better. The flavors were much more muddled and complex, and presented a deeper mystery for me to solve. I took in the scents of deep red fruits like plum and cherry on the nose, and thought they transformed well in my mouth.
But I'll be honest. The sparkling wine was great and I am glad I got some samples, but they didn't hold a candle to the oysters. Make sure to visit on a day when Watchorn is there. You'll see how it's easy to lose enthusiasm for the wine when the oysters are so amazing.
The Chandon tasting room is located at One California Road, Yountville. For more on their wines and the winery, visit www.chandon.com or call 1-888-242-6366
Summer White Wines
First published in the Benicia Herald on September 7, 2008.
I so enjoyed sipping on the cool Sauvignon Blanc I picked up last week, I thought maybe I'd have a little fun with summer wines in my column this week. After all, although it is hard to image, our warm weather days are numbered, and soon winos everywhere will be warming their bellies with deep reds. The crisp, cool whites will seem as uninviting as a popsicle in a snow storm (okay, not quite, but you still get my point).
Mainly, this altered format gives me the opportunity to pay tribute to my absolute favorite summer wine. The 2005 Moscato d'Asti produced by Bonny Doon Vineyards. This wine is a delight. It is my go-to for any really special celebration in the warm months, as it's balanced flavor cannot be beat. Now, I know that many wine lovers are skeptical of sweet grape varietals like the moscato bianco, but the good folks at Bonny Doon were careful not to make their moscato too saccharine. The wine is a white, with a playful fizz to it that puts a little tickle on your tongue as is spills into your mouth. The sweetness that fills the flavor is reminiscent of a light juice more than a sugar cube. And on a hot day, I have been known to throw back a few glasses like the stuff was some kind of magically-refreshing ice water. Lucky for me, moscatos are pretty low in alcohol content - usually hovering around 11 percent - and so they are also a pretty safe bet when bringing wine to a hostess who doesn't drink much.
I will admit, the Bonny Doon Moscato d'Asti was a wine club exclusive, and even as a longtime member of the club, I am having difficulty getting more bottles, so don't be surprised if you can't get your hands on one. I will say, V. Sattui's 2007 Moscato Frizzante, although sweeter, is a comparable alternative for around $20 per bottle. As well, Lone Madrone winery in Paso Robles makes a equally delightful wine called Sweet Cheeks, made with the Viognier varietal.
I so enjoyed sipping on the cool Sauvignon Blanc I picked up last week, I thought maybe I'd have a little fun with summer wines in my column this week. After all, although it is hard to image, our warm weather days are numbered, and soon winos everywhere will be warming their bellies with deep reds. The crisp, cool whites will seem as uninviting as a popsicle in a snow storm (okay, not quite, but you still get my point).
Mainly, this altered format gives me the opportunity to pay tribute to my absolute favorite summer wine. The 2005 Moscato d'Asti produced by Bonny Doon Vineyards. This wine is a delight. It is my go-to for any really special celebration in the warm months, as it's balanced flavor cannot be beat. Now, I know that many wine lovers are skeptical of sweet grape varietals like the moscato bianco, but the good folks at Bonny Doon were careful not to make their moscato too saccharine. The wine is a white, with a playful fizz to it that puts a little tickle on your tongue as is spills into your mouth. The sweetness that fills the flavor is reminiscent of a light juice more than a sugar cube. And on a hot day, I have been known to throw back a few glasses like the stuff was some kind of magically-refreshing ice water. Lucky for me, moscatos are pretty low in alcohol content - usually hovering around 11 percent - and so they are also a pretty safe bet when bringing wine to a hostess who doesn't drink much.
I will admit, the Bonny Doon Moscato d'Asti was a wine club exclusive, and even as a longtime member of the club, I am having difficulty getting more bottles, so don't be surprised if you can't get your hands on one. I will say, V. Sattui's 2007 Moscato Frizzante, although sweeter, is a comparable alternative for around $20 per bottle. As well, Lone Madrone winery in Paso Robles makes a equally delightful wine called Sweet Cheeks, made with the Viognier varietal.
Cartlidge & Brown
First published August 31, 2008 in the Benicia Herald.
With summer coming to a close, I feel I have to get out and get out of town, even for just a minute, as often as I still can. Thursday, I flitted out of the Herald offices just a bit early to cool off and cross over to wine country before the crowds moved in for the holiday weekend.
I directed my GPS and my inspiration for this week's column to Cartlidge & Brown Winery in American Canyon. Honestly, it was the closest tasting room I could find during my online search.
One of the things that makes hitting a tasting room on a slow day so enjoyable is all the stories your host can spend time sharing with you. The best story Lynae Anderson, Cartlidge & Browne's tasting room manager, told me was about the Rabid Red. On the label, there is a painting of a white dog with a black spot around one eye. As Lynae explained, owner Tony Cartlidge was dining at a restaurant in New York when he first saw this painting. He so liked it, he purchased the rights to the work and returned to California to work with his winemaker to come up with the perfect wine to pair with this image. Rabid Red, a blend of Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, now features this canine image on its label every year. So, if you think about it, the art comes free to you with each $15 bottle.
During my visit, Anderson also told me a little about the philosophy of wine maker Paul Moser. Moser, who has been with Cartlidge & Browne since 1982, favors blending, she explained. By this, he enjoys taking grapes of the same variety from various growing regions to create more complex flavors than can be achieved by producing wine with grapes all of the same vineyard.
My pick for winning wine, however, was one that came from a single vineyard. The 2007 Dancing Crow Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc from Lake County was the highlight of my afternoon. I was blown away by the bounty of fruit that tickled my nose as I lifted my glass. It smelled better than your average fruit stand! Naturally, I expected the flavor to be rather sweet, and tipped my glass toward my sweet tooth. Imagine my surprise when the wine proved to hold its own in terms of acidity. The cool, clean taste left me pondering whether I really had any need to taste further! If not for my sense of duty to review other varietals, I would have had a parking lot picnic with this $14 chilled bottle! I did leave thinking about what kind of fish to pick up on the way home that would pair well with this wine. Did I mention that this one's all organic too?
The biggest revelation I had during my visit to Cartlidge & Browne came from Anderson, not from a bottle. While we were chatting away about uncommon grape varietals sometimes used to produce wine, she told me about the Wine Century Club. The club is basically a fun little game for any true wino. Basically, they offer a downloadable list of different grapes, and as you try wines made with each one, you check it off your list. Once you made it through 100, you send in your list and four to six weeks later, voila! A certificate comes to your mailbox declaring you a member. I downloaded my form when I got home, and without putting too much thought into my history as a wine guzzler, I had 19. Now I can't wait to check off more. Check it out and let me know where you're at - let's see who hits 100 first!
If you would like to aquaint yourself with the Cartlidge & Browne Winery, you can visit their tastingroom at 205 Jim Oswalt Way in American Canyon or browse their website at www.cartlidgeandbrowne.com.
With summer coming to a close, I feel I have to get out and get out of town, even for just a minute, as often as I still can. Thursday, I flitted out of the Herald offices just a bit early to cool off and cross over to wine country before the crowds moved in for the holiday weekend.
I directed my GPS and my inspiration for this week's column to Cartlidge & Brown Winery in American Canyon. Honestly, it was the closest tasting room I could find during my online search.
One of the things that makes hitting a tasting room on a slow day so enjoyable is all the stories your host can spend time sharing with you. The best story Lynae Anderson, Cartlidge & Browne's tasting room manager, told me was about the Rabid Red. On the label, there is a painting of a white dog with a black spot around one eye. As Lynae explained, owner Tony Cartlidge was dining at a restaurant in New York when he first saw this painting. He so liked it, he purchased the rights to the work and returned to California to work with his winemaker to come up with the perfect wine to pair with this image. Rabid Red, a blend of Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, now features this canine image on its label every year. So, if you think about it, the art comes free to you with each $15 bottle.
During my visit, Anderson also told me a little about the philosophy of wine maker Paul Moser. Moser, who has been with Cartlidge & Browne since 1982, favors blending, she explained. By this, he enjoys taking grapes of the same variety from various growing regions to create more complex flavors than can be achieved by producing wine with grapes all of the same vineyard.
My pick for winning wine, however, was one that came from a single vineyard. The 2007 Dancing Crow Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc from Lake County was the highlight of my afternoon. I was blown away by the bounty of fruit that tickled my nose as I lifted my glass. It smelled better than your average fruit stand! Naturally, I expected the flavor to be rather sweet, and tipped my glass toward my sweet tooth. Imagine my surprise when the wine proved to hold its own in terms of acidity. The cool, clean taste left me pondering whether I really had any need to taste further! If not for my sense of duty to review other varietals, I would have had a parking lot picnic with this $14 chilled bottle! I did leave thinking about what kind of fish to pick up on the way home that would pair well with this wine. Did I mention that this one's all organic too?
The biggest revelation I had during my visit to Cartlidge & Browne came from Anderson, not from a bottle. While we were chatting away about uncommon grape varietals sometimes used to produce wine, she told me about the Wine Century Club. The club is basically a fun little game for any true wino. Basically, they offer a downloadable list of different grapes, and as you try wines made with each one, you check it off your list. Once you made it through 100, you send in your list and four to six weeks later, voila! A certificate comes to your mailbox declaring you a member. I downloaded my form when I got home, and without putting too much thought into my history as a wine guzzler, I had 19. Now I can't wait to check off more. Check it out and let me know where you're at - let's see who hits 100 first!
If you would like to aquaint yourself with the Cartlidge & Browne Winery, you can visit their tastingroom at 205 Jim Oswalt Way in American Canyon or browse their website at www.cartlidgeandbrowne.com.
J. Lohr
First published in the Benicia Herald on August 24, 2008.
Living so close to California's Wine Mecca, it's sometimes hard to remember that there is lots of great grappa besides in the Napa Valley. I though, if you'll indulge me, that I'd take a week away discuss a winery just a quick drive South, in San Jose, where I grew up.
The J. Lohr Winery has been in San Jose since 1974, when Jerry Lohr first expanded his business beyond the 280 of vineyards he planted in the previous two years in Monterey County's Arroyo Seco. The tasting room is conveniently located just blocks from downtown, in the Rose Garden neighborhood. It's the kind of little place where the staff recognize the wine club members and other regulars when they walk through the door. My best friend Emily being one of their wine club members, I like to pop in with her when I am in town because it has a very welcoming atmosphere and generally, the wines are pretty good.
I paid a visit to my hometown last weekend to attend to some family business. I hadn't seen Emily in a while, and we decided a nice little tasting a J. Lohr would make for a fun thing to do while catching up.
Now, since Emily gets monthly selections from the club, I let her take the lead on the 21 options listed on the day's tasting list. Anyway, she is my best friend and knows a lot about what I like in a wine. We decided we'd go for five samplings this time, and maybe sample the ones she likes best so I could share them with all of my devoted readers, both of you.
As hot as it has been in San Jose lately, we started off with the chilled 2007 Carol's Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc. Emily told me that she likes this particular wine in the summer because it has a wonderful aroma of fresh peaches and honeysuckle. When I dropped my nose in the glass, I instantly understood what she meant. The fruitiness carried over well into the flavor, and yet the sweetness was well balanced by the crispness of the varietal. The winery has a two-bottle limit on purchases, and each bottle runs $24.
Next, we grabbed a pour of the 2006 Arroyo Vista Vineyard Chardonnay. Our server described this particular chardonnay by saying, "this is as buttery as it gets at J. Lohr!" When I tasted it, he did have the company line down. The 2008 California State Fair silver medal winner did have a creamy flavor, but it was far from the most intense I have tasted (Chateau Ste. Michelle, located just outside of Seattle, WA makes a varietal that rivals butter itself for the most buttery flavor!). Overall, it was good, but it didn't have me scrambling for $25 to bring a bottle home.
The 2006 Late Harvest Riesling was the final white we tasted. Emily was really excited about it, explaining to me that she was sure I'd love it. I was not as convinced, just because I know my friend can be partial to the rieslings (one of her favorites wines is the riesling made by Bonny Doon), but I had to concede that she knows me too well. The thickness of the sweet wine made it perfect for sipping on a warm evening. Emily was quick to make sure I took note of the lightness of it - indeed, it was sweet in a way that kept it from being too much like a syrup. Again, our server chimed in, calling it "poetry in a bottle." Em, add this $25 bottle to my Christmas list please!
I insisted we try the 2006 Los Osos Merlot, if only because it raked in two gold medals at this year's state fair. The purple pour gave off a strong cherry aroma and yet maintained a good amount of earthiness in its flavor. I liked the pour and was surprised to see that it goes for only $15 a bottle. In my opinion, that is more than reasonable for a good wine I could see bringing to a dinner party host.
Finally, we tasted the 2006 Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon. What came to mind as soon as the wine hit my palate was how great it would be with a nice plate of spaghetti topped with a hearty meat sauce. Now, I will admit that it was getting close to dinner time, but I think my initial reaction stands. The dry, not too peppery flavor was coupled with a subdued oak undertone that really appealed to me. Emily told me she often debates between this and the Hilltop Vineyard Cab when bringing a wine to family steak dinners, but personally, I would go for this over the other. The Seven Oaks sells for $17 per bottle, which is considerably less than the $35 price tag on the Hilltop.
If you would like to learn more about J. Lohr wines, check them out online at www.jlohr.com or visit one of their tasting rooms. The San Jose tasting room is located at 1000 Lenzen Avenue, just off The Alameda. A second tasting room in Paso Robles is at 6169 Airport Road. And of course, if you happen to see Emily picking up her monthly club bottles, feel free to ask her for some suggestions.
Living so close to California's Wine Mecca, it's sometimes hard to remember that there is lots of great grappa besides in the Napa Valley. I though, if you'll indulge me, that I'd take a week away discuss a winery just a quick drive South, in San Jose, where I grew up.
The J. Lohr Winery has been in San Jose since 1974, when Jerry Lohr first expanded his business beyond the 280 of vineyards he planted in the previous two years in Monterey County's Arroyo Seco. The tasting room is conveniently located just blocks from downtown, in the Rose Garden neighborhood. It's the kind of little place where the staff recognize the wine club members and other regulars when they walk through the door. My best friend Emily being one of their wine club members, I like to pop in with her when I am in town because it has a very welcoming atmosphere and generally, the wines are pretty good.
I paid a visit to my hometown last weekend to attend to some family business. I hadn't seen Emily in a while, and we decided a nice little tasting a J. Lohr would make for a fun thing to do while catching up.
Now, since Emily gets monthly selections from the club, I let her take the lead on the 21 options listed on the day's tasting list. Anyway, she is my best friend and knows a lot about what I like in a wine. We decided we'd go for five samplings this time, and maybe sample the ones she likes best so I could share them with all of my devoted readers, both of you.
As hot as it has been in San Jose lately, we started off with the chilled 2007 Carol's Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc. Emily told me that she likes this particular wine in the summer because it has a wonderful aroma of fresh peaches and honeysuckle. When I dropped my nose in the glass, I instantly understood what she meant. The fruitiness carried over well into the flavor, and yet the sweetness was well balanced by the crispness of the varietal. The winery has a two-bottle limit on purchases, and each bottle runs $24.
Next, we grabbed a pour of the 2006 Arroyo Vista Vineyard Chardonnay. Our server described this particular chardonnay by saying, "this is as buttery as it gets at J. Lohr!" When I tasted it, he did have the company line down. The 2008 California State Fair silver medal winner did have a creamy flavor, but it was far from the most intense I have tasted (Chateau Ste. Michelle, located just outside of Seattle, WA makes a varietal that rivals butter itself for the most buttery flavor!). Overall, it was good, but it didn't have me scrambling for $25 to bring a bottle home.
The 2006 Late Harvest Riesling was the final white we tasted. Emily was really excited about it, explaining to me that she was sure I'd love it. I was not as convinced, just because I know my friend can be partial to the rieslings (one of her favorites wines is the riesling made by Bonny Doon), but I had to concede that she knows me too well. The thickness of the sweet wine made it perfect for sipping on a warm evening. Emily was quick to make sure I took note of the lightness of it - indeed, it was sweet in a way that kept it from being too much like a syrup. Again, our server chimed in, calling it "poetry in a bottle." Em, add this $25 bottle to my Christmas list please!
I insisted we try the 2006 Los Osos Merlot, if only because it raked in two gold medals at this year's state fair. The purple pour gave off a strong cherry aroma and yet maintained a good amount of earthiness in its flavor. I liked the pour and was surprised to see that it goes for only $15 a bottle. In my opinion, that is more than reasonable for a good wine I could see bringing to a dinner party host.
Finally, we tasted the 2006 Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon. What came to mind as soon as the wine hit my palate was how great it would be with a nice plate of spaghetti topped with a hearty meat sauce. Now, I will admit that it was getting close to dinner time, but I think my initial reaction stands. The dry, not too peppery flavor was coupled with a subdued oak undertone that really appealed to me. Emily told me she often debates between this and the Hilltop Vineyard Cab when bringing a wine to family steak dinners, but personally, I would go for this over the other. The Seven Oaks sells for $17 per bottle, which is considerably less than the $35 price tag on the Hilltop.
If you would like to learn more about J. Lohr wines, check them out online at www.jlohr.com or visit one of their tasting rooms. The San Jose tasting room is located at 1000 Lenzen Avenue, just off The Alameda. A second tasting room in Paso Robles is at 6169 Airport Road. And of course, if you happen to see Emily picking up her monthly club bottles, feel free to ask her for some suggestions.
V. Sattui
First published in the Benicia Herald on August 10, 2008
Last month's news about the passing of California State Senate Bill AB 2004, which made it legal to drink wine in winery picnic areas, got me thinking about one of the top picnic sites in the Napa Valley, V. Sattui Winery.
The last time I had been to the winery was during the winter a few years ago. I have fond memories of the grounds, where my family shared a picnic with my grandmother only months before she passed away. We had purchased an array of cheese, wine and other picnic fare from the deli adjacent to the tasting room and settled at one of the tables outside for lunch one of the days we spent wine tasting in the region. It was the final vacation my family spent together with my grandmother before she became terminally ill and I carry nothing but fond memories about that getaway.
I should point out that this trip was in January of 2001, and I was still a few months shy of my 21st birthday, so I could not taste at any of the places we visited. My parents and extended family, though, let me have sips from their glasses in what I suppose was an effort to keep me included (although, to be fair, I probably did a lot of whining about wanting wine as well).
V. Sattui stood out as one of my favorite spots that trip. When I read the news about the laws changing to allow patrons to drink bottles on Winery picnic grounds, I set out to V. Sattui to see what had changed for them. According to the staff at the winery, nothing much. Somehow, the winery claims, they had the right to allow their patrons to drink on their picnic grounds all along (I still haven't figured out exactly how that worked). Anyway, I figured that since I was there already, I might as well lift a glass and do some tasting.
At V. Sattui, patrons can choose to sample from the regular selections for $5 or spring for the reserve tasting for $10. I decided on going the reserve tasting route. After all, it was a beautiful day and I was happy to be in the wine country.
Quickly, my overall mood began to change. It was a Saturday and the winery was more crowded than I could have ever imagined. The tasting bar was packed - and our pourer was friendly, which meant there were long periods between pours. I was trying to be responsible and so I was taking small sips and pouring out most of my samples so I could stay sober to drive. I had to fight to get to the pour bucket after each taste. This became annoying. I don't mind sharing, but with the number of patrons crowded around the bar, a few more pitchers on hand would have been nice.
But what really matters is the wine. I chose six wines from a list of about 10 that I really wanted to sample. Sadly, I was only impressed with one, the dessert Madeira that I tasted last. Winery Vice President Robert O'Malley, who had taken over for the woman who had originally been serving us, described it as "great after dinner when the dishes are done." I agreed. Its sweetness and layers of flavor is partially due to the fact that every year a portion of the starter created over 120 years ago is added to make the freshest batch. According to V. Sattui, this Solara, fortified with brandy, is one of the oldest in the U.S. It comes in a short, stout bottle, sealed with red wax, reminiscent of the rum bottles I remember from Disneyland's Pirates of the Caribbean ride. I brought home a couple of the $45 bottles for my collection. Having popped one open after a great dinner, and after finishing up the dishes, I agree with O'Malley. The Madeira is divine.
V. Sattui Winery is located at 1111 White Lane at Highway 29 in St. Helena. Check them out online at www.vsattui.com.
Last month's news about the passing of California State Senate Bill AB 2004, which made it legal to drink wine in winery picnic areas, got me thinking about one of the top picnic sites in the Napa Valley, V. Sattui Winery.
The last time I had been to the winery was during the winter a few years ago. I have fond memories of the grounds, where my family shared a picnic with my grandmother only months before she passed away. We had purchased an array of cheese, wine and other picnic fare from the deli adjacent to the tasting room and settled at one of the tables outside for lunch one of the days we spent wine tasting in the region. It was the final vacation my family spent together with my grandmother before she became terminally ill and I carry nothing but fond memories about that getaway.
I should point out that this trip was in January of 2001, and I was still a few months shy of my 21st birthday, so I could not taste at any of the places we visited. My parents and extended family, though, let me have sips from their glasses in what I suppose was an effort to keep me included (although, to be fair, I probably did a lot of whining about wanting wine as well).
V. Sattui stood out as one of my favorite spots that trip. When I read the news about the laws changing to allow patrons to drink bottles on Winery picnic grounds, I set out to V. Sattui to see what had changed for them. According to the staff at the winery, nothing much. Somehow, the winery claims, they had the right to allow their patrons to drink on their picnic grounds all along (I still haven't figured out exactly how that worked). Anyway, I figured that since I was there already, I might as well lift a glass and do some tasting.
At V. Sattui, patrons can choose to sample from the regular selections for $5 or spring for the reserve tasting for $10. I decided on going the reserve tasting route. After all, it was a beautiful day and I was happy to be in the wine country.
Quickly, my overall mood began to change. It was a Saturday and the winery was more crowded than I could have ever imagined. The tasting bar was packed - and our pourer was friendly, which meant there were long periods between pours. I was trying to be responsible and so I was taking small sips and pouring out most of my samples so I could stay sober to drive. I had to fight to get to the pour bucket after each taste. This became annoying. I don't mind sharing, but with the number of patrons crowded around the bar, a few more pitchers on hand would have been nice.
But what really matters is the wine. I chose six wines from a list of about 10 that I really wanted to sample. Sadly, I was only impressed with one, the dessert Madeira that I tasted last. Winery Vice President Robert O'Malley, who had taken over for the woman who had originally been serving us, described it as "great after dinner when the dishes are done." I agreed. Its sweetness and layers of flavor is partially due to the fact that every year a portion of the starter created over 120 years ago is added to make the freshest batch. According to V. Sattui, this Solara, fortified with brandy, is one of the oldest in the U.S. It comes in a short, stout bottle, sealed with red wax, reminiscent of the rum bottles I remember from Disneyland's Pirates of the Caribbean ride. I brought home a couple of the $45 bottles for my collection. Having popped one open after a great dinner, and after finishing up the dishes, I agree with O'Malley. The Madeira is divine.
V. Sattui Winery is located at 1111 White Lane at Highway 29 in St. Helena. Check them out online at www.vsattui.com.
Whitehall Lane
This column was first published in the Benicia Herald on August 3, 2008
I may not look like I've got money to spend on nice bottles of wine, but my credit card statements beg to differ. I belong to two wine clubs and I have no problem pulling out my friend Mr. Visa if a particular vintage strikes my fancy. But I am far from a wine snob. Wine snobs, and snobby wines, are not for me.
When I pulled into the Del Dotto Vineyards in St. Helena, I didn't realize I had just pulled into one of these places. The sign on the road boasted cave tours and great tasting wine, and so I figured it was worth a stop. I should have known what I was in for as soon as I got back by the parking. Directly adjacent to the front doors was space marked for "limos only."
Once my crew and I made it past the grand fountain at the entrance, we were abruptly told that we were not welcome to taste, as the winery only accepts visitors by appointment. We looked past the receptionist at the Docker-clad tasters behind her, dwarfed by the large, marble columns and over-the-top castle-esque decor, and noted the room was no where near filled. Again, we asked if we could make an on-the-spot appointment or maybe squeeze in for a cave tour, and we were turned away.
Disgruntled, we left from there and made our way over to the Whitehall Lane Winery & Vineyards just a short drive away. The tasting room was inviting - with plenty of space for us at the counter and a smiling, warm face greeting us as we approached. The decor was simple, and much more our speed. The crisp '07 Sauvignon Blanc we tasted first helped us to calm down and forget about the unwelcoming experience just before. We were quick to warm up to the Whitehall staff.
Whitehall Lane was founded in 1979 but the history of the soil cultivation dates back two centuries. In the mid 1800's, Napa Valley settlers were drawn to the deep, loamy soils and ideal climate, planting high quality grape vines at the Whitehall Lane Winery site. A barn constructed in the early 1900's for equipment storage is still used today. In 1979, two brothers started the winery and directed their winemaking efforts successfully to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. They named the winery after the road that runs along the south border of the property, Whitehall Lane.
In 1993, the Leonardini Family of San Francisco took control of the Whitehall Lane estate. They updated the winemaking and instituted a new barrel-aging program. The quailty of the vines is evident in the flavors that come from the grapes grown here.
But to discuss the wines I tasted at Whitehall would be to get back to my favorite, Cabernet Sauvignon. Of five pours, two were of this variety - and they were amazing. First up was the '05 Napa Valley Cab - the recipient of four stars from the Quarterly Review of Wines and a 2007 bronze winner at the Decanter World Wine Awards. I absolutely fell for this wine when I lifted the glass. The aroma was berry-filled and sweet. The finish was smooth and simply a delight. There was no way I was leaving without a bottle in hand. Mr. Visa was good for the $40.But the star of the Whitehall line-up is the '04 Silver Anniversary Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet. This may be a $75 bottle, but every drop is worth it. The flavor is mature and oaky. It has a creamy vanilla undertone to it and velvety tannins keep it balanced. It is the kind of red best saved for a really special dinner with premium cuts of red meat. It seems the judges for Wine spectator agreed - bestowing 92 points (out of 100) on the vintage - a true mark of great vino.
Two of my companions purchased bottles of the Anniversary vintage. I plan on helping them get through those bottles in the near future.
To learn more about Whitehall Lane Winery and Vineyards, visit www.whitehalllane.com or stop by the tasting room at 1563 St. Helena Hwy, St. Helena.
I may not look like I've got money to spend on nice bottles of wine, but my credit card statements beg to differ. I belong to two wine clubs and I have no problem pulling out my friend Mr. Visa if a particular vintage strikes my fancy. But I am far from a wine snob. Wine snobs, and snobby wines, are not for me.
When I pulled into the Del Dotto Vineyards in St. Helena, I didn't realize I had just pulled into one of these places. The sign on the road boasted cave tours and great tasting wine, and so I figured it was worth a stop. I should have known what I was in for as soon as I got back by the parking. Directly adjacent to the front doors was space marked for "limos only."
Once my crew and I made it past the grand fountain at the entrance, we were abruptly told that we were not welcome to taste, as the winery only accepts visitors by appointment. We looked past the receptionist at the Docker-clad tasters behind her, dwarfed by the large, marble columns and over-the-top castle-esque decor, and noted the room was no where near filled. Again, we asked if we could make an on-the-spot appointment or maybe squeeze in for a cave tour, and we were turned away.
Disgruntled, we left from there and made our way over to the Whitehall Lane Winery & Vineyards just a short drive away. The tasting room was inviting - with plenty of space for us at the counter and a smiling, warm face greeting us as we approached. The decor was simple, and much more our speed. The crisp '07 Sauvignon Blanc we tasted first helped us to calm down and forget about the unwelcoming experience just before. We were quick to warm up to the Whitehall staff.
Whitehall Lane was founded in 1979 but the history of the soil cultivation dates back two centuries. In the mid 1800's, Napa Valley settlers were drawn to the deep, loamy soils and ideal climate, planting high quality grape vines at the Whitehall Lane Winery site. A barn constructed in the early 1900's for equipment storage is still used today. In 1979, two brothers started the winery and directed their winemaking efforts successfully to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. They named the winery after the road that runs along the south border of the property, Whitehall Lane.
In 1993, the Leonardini Family of San Francisco took control of the Whitehall Lane estate. They updated the winemaking and instituted a new barrel-aging program. The quailty of the vines is evident in the flavors that come from the grapes grown here.
But to discuss the wines I tasted at Whitehall would be to get back to my favorite, Cabernet Sauvignon. Of five pours, two were of this variety - and they were amazing. First up was the '05 Napa Valley Cab - the recipient of four stars from the Quarterly Review of Wines and a 2007 bronze winner at the Decanter World Wine Awards. I absolutely fell for this wine when I lifted the glass. The aroma was berry-filled and sweet. The finish was smooth and simply a delight. There was no way I was leaving without a bottle in hand. Mr. Visa was good for the $40.But the star of the Whitehall line-up is the '04 Silver Anniversary Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet. This may be a $75 bottle, but every drop is worth it. The flavor is mature and oaky. It has a creamy vanilla undertone to it and velvety tannins keep it balanced. It is the kind of red best saved for a really special dinner with premium cuts of red meat. It seems the judges for Wine spectator agreed - bestowing 92 points (out of 100) on the vintage - a true mark of great vino.
Two of my companions purchased bottles of the Anniversary vintage. I plan on helping them get through those bottles in the near future.
To learn more about Whitehall Lane Winery and Vineyards, visit www.whitehalllane.com or stop by the tasting room at 1563 St. Helena Hwy, St. Helena.
Welcome to Bouteille Call Online!
At the suggestion of a friend, I have decided to resurrect my once weekly wine column "Bouteille Call." (Thanks Nate! Good idea!)
If you never met the first incarnation, I'll give you a brief explanation before I explain how this version will be a little different. "Bouteille Call" was a Sunday column I wrote during my tenure as Assistant Editor at the Benicia Herald. In a small town like Benicia, there's not always a ton of breaking news to fill the newspaper - Sunday especially - and there is always space to fill with features, columns and other editorial mish-mash. So when I began covering the small community just 20 minutes south of Napa, I decided writing about wine would be a great excuse to get out and visit the tasting rooms of the world famous region. It was also give me permission to ask lots of questions of the people who make and sell the wine. This was, in my opinion, the best way possible to study wine. Instead of classrooms, professors and lecture notes I could learn in tasting rooms from winemakers and scribble adjectives on wine-stained tasting lists. What could be better?
And so "Bouteille Call" was born. I managed to get out and taste at least once a month, visiting a few tasting rooms each day I ventured out, and I never had much trouble finding friends or family to keep me company. It was unbelievably amazing.
So here, I'm bringing it all back, starting with my columns previously available only in the printed version of the Herald. It's my hope that as I continue to post here, I'll also be inspired to get back out there, taste and share. I don't claim to have any expert knowledge of wine; I'm a girl who just about everything wine and wine culture sharing my opinion. Take it or leave it...or now that Bouteille Call is a blog...comment on it!
Happy reading!
If you never met the first incarnation, I'll give you a brief explanation before I explain how this version will be a little different. "Bouteille Call" was a Sunday column I wrote during my tenure as Assistant Editor at the Benicia Herald. In a small town like Benicia, there's not always a ton of breaking news to fill the newspaper - Sunday especially - and there is always space to fill with features, columns and other editorial mish-mash. So when I began covering the small community just 20 minutes south of Napa, I decided writing about wine would be a great excuse to get out and visit the tasting rooms of the world famous region. It was also give me permission to ask lots of questions of the people who make and sell the wine. This was, in my opinion, the best way possible to study wine. Instead of classrooms, professors and lecture notes I could learn in tasting rooms from winemakers and scribble adjectives on wine-stained tasting lists. What could be better?
And so "Bouteille Call" was born. I managed to get out and taste at least once a month, visiting a few tasting rooms each day I ventured out, and I never had much trouble finding friends or family to keep me company. It was unbelievably amazing.
So here, I'm bringing it all back, starting with my columns previously available only in the printed version of the Herald. It's my hope that as I continue to post here, I'll also be inspired to get back out there, taste and share. I don't claim to have any expert knowledge of wine; I'm a girl who just about everything wine and wine culture sharing my opinion. Take it or leave it...or now that Bouteille Call is a blog...comment on it!
Happy reading!
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