Midnight Cellars by Michael Perlis and Gloria Stahly

Our next stop was Midnight Cellars.
www.midnightcellars.com

 
I’ve been going to Midnight Cellars for many years. Actually, I remember going there my first time on Father’s Day and meeting winemaker Rich Hartenberger, who was celebrating his first Father’s Day! That must have been some time ago, as it is my understanding that his daughter is now a teenager.

Midnight produces several different wines, a white blend, chardonnay, and several reds. My favorites have been the Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, and the Estate Zinfandel.

Our group was hosted by Rich’s father, Robert. For whatever reason [palate fatigue?], I elected not to taste this time. I am sorry I didn’t, because the group was clearly enjoying themselves and I know that I enjoy Midnight’s wines. Fortunately, All Corked Up carries them.

Since I did not taste, I asked our group for help here. Our wonderful friend Gloria Stahly had this to say:

“Having been to Midnight Cellars a couple of months ago and tasting their wines, I opted not to do any tasting this day (hey, I gotta pace myself, I was driving) and remembering how much I enjoyed both the 2008 Estate Reserve Chardonnay and the 2008 Estate Chardonnay, I had to purchase them. I’m partial to the Estate Reserve because it’s full-bodied, with hints of vanilla and has a long oak finish. Yummy.

It was nice to see Nicole again pouring in the tasting room. She’s knowledgeable, friendly and funny.

Larry tasted a few and really liked the 2006 Capriccio Italien, a Tuscan blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which is drinking nicely now and should age well.

Larry also enjoyed the 2004 Mare Nectaris Reserve Red, a complex, dark red that is full of tannins with a long finish.”

Thanks Gloria, for saving the day!

To be continued…

Michael Perlis provides outsourced controller services to businesses that do not need a full-time controller. He balances this with his interest in wine: reading and writing about it and, of course, drinking it. He is still trying to figure out how to combine these two pursuits. Feel free to contact him about either at mcpfinancial@aol.com or michaelthezinfan@aol.com.  “It is common practice for wine industry workers, wine writers and winery club members [and members of their party] to receive complimentary tastings and discounted purchases. Unless it is otherwise noted, it should be presumed that this is the case.”