Reynolds Family Winery

This article was originally published in the Benicia Herald on February 1, 2009.

Continuing on the Silverado Trail theme, this week I am thinking about my visit to the Reynolds Family Winery. The Tuscan-style vineyard, constructed on a former chicken farm, opened in the mid-90s and has established itself as noteworthy wine house in the Napa Valley.

To begin, when you first come up to the tasting room for the Silverado Trail, you pull up to the large building nestled simply next to a pond that will have you reminiscing about feeding ducks as a child. There are table and chairs along the side for a peaceful picnic, although I was there earlier this month, so I pretty much hurried to get inside.

When we walked into the tasting room, a large, fluffy cat greeted us just as quickly as the staff. To you, Bert Reynolds may be a celebrity who hit his prime in the 70s, but around the tasting room, he's a fat, orange cat. And if you ask me, I am definitely more of a fan of the kitty. He was quite a good host and he warmed up to me instantly, jumping on my lap without any regard to his size or weight.

But enough about the feline and onto the wine!

I found the 2004 Persistence - a blend created by owner Steve Reyonlds - to be quite agreeable. Comprised of 60 percent Cab, 15 percent Merlot,15 percent Cab Franc, eight percent Syrah and two percent Petit Verdot, the resulting melange is bursting with fruit - the call it jammy would be an understatement. The flavor of ripe, sweet raspberries hit me hardest. For a man that used to have a dental practice, I am impressed with his natural sensibilities when it comes to the make up of this bottle.

The 2004 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon was my favorite here. It smelled of black cherries, chocolate and leather. I made a note that this is the kind of wine I love to sip while I cook - it tastes yummy and goes great with a stewy smell wafting off the stove. On the palate, it has a nice currant and blackberry flavor that make the transition from the nose smooth and satisfying.

The Reserve Cab, which I am confident is just as good if not better, is the gem of the Reynolds Family business. Although all their wine labels feature their signature mustard flower image, the labels for the reserve Cab are handmade with actual pressed flowers in them, making each one just a little different.

Overall, I enjoyed each wine I was served during my visit. I thought the tasting room staff was excellent - and they offered up a lot of information on the brand, the family, the grounds and the wine. We felt welcome during our visit - if for no other reason because Bert treated us like old friends.

The Reynolds Family Winery is located at 3266 Silverado Trail in Napa. To learn more about the business, call them at 258-2558 or check out their website at www.reynoldsfamilywinery.com.