Eve's Wine 101

Embrace California’s Newest Beverage Frontier With “Space For Savoring” Lompoc’s Wine Country

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Lompoc, CA – As the wine harvest approaches next month, what better time than now to escape to Lompoc, home to some of the industry’s most creative beverage makers. From estate wineries to regional brews, this Central California city in Santa Barbara County is bursting with refreshing wine and beer choices. Below are top picks to experience the destination’s wine bar scene and new and existing craft breweries.

https://explorelompoc.com/lompoc-wine-tasting/

https://explorelompoc.com/wine-bars-breweries-pubs/

Lompoc is located in a valley, which provides a consistent, ideal climate for grapes. As a result, several wineries and vineyards have popped up in and around the region. There are four main must experience wine-tasting areas: 

1. Lompoc Wine Ghetto

Lompoc possesses a hip industrial park area that transformed into a wine-lovers paradise, affectionately called the Lompoc Wine Ghetto. Inside, are 11 small, boutique wineries and tasting rooms that locals and visitors adore.

While visiting “the ghetto,” try: 

2. Midtown Wineries

Just a few blocks from Midtown Lompoc, visitors find a handful of wineries that are worth a stop. Brewer-Clifton, Longoria Wines, Turiya Wines and Camins 2 Dreams make up the Midtown Wineries. Here’s a list on these top spots: 

  • Brewer-Clifton
    Owner Greg Brewer was recently named Winemaker of the Year at this well-known winery, and is the man behind the flavorful wines on tap. Tastings are served by appointment only at this location, and when visitors set up a time to visit, they can try the 2015 Acin Pinot Noir.
  • Longoria Wines
    Established in 1982, Longoria is a small family-owned winery producing acclaimed artisanal wines. Travelers cannot miss this location, as it resembles a red barn. During a visit, taste the 2016 Chardonnay Cuvee Diana. The winery is open daily
  • Turiya Wines
    It is at this boutique winery that one can sample entirely hand-crafted red blends and Bordeaux-style wines. The tasting room is open on Friday and Saturday. If you swing by, try the 2016 Chardonnay Cuvee Diana.
  • Camins 2 Dreams
    Camins 2 Dreams makes their wine with grapes sourced from Sta. Rita Hills vineyards. The boutique winery looks forward to sharing their love of wine with each guest.

3. Sta. Rita Hills Wineries

A short drive outside of town takes visitors to the rolling landscape of Sta. Rita Hills. Here one will discover large estate vineyards and wineries, most of which are open daily. Here are a few suggestions for a countryside wine tour: 

  • Babcock Winery and Vineyards
    This winery has a hangar-sized tasting room with a retro rock-and-rock theme. It’s a great spot for a group of friends to visit. The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon “Block 15” is a must-try.
  • Dierberg Starlane
    With 40+ years of winemaking experience, the owners of Dierberg Starlane know what it takes to make good wine. Wine enthusiasts can stop in and enjoy a flight of five wines
  • for $25.
  • Sanford Winery & Vineyards
    The Sanford family was among the first to start vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills regions and specialize in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. For a truly distinctive experience, consider taking an ATV tour of the vineyard and follow it up with a tasting. 
  •  
  • Sta. Rita Hills Wine Center
  • At the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Center, grape lovers can experience three award-winning tasting rooms. Book a private tour or enjoy a tasting on the delightful patio area.

Lompoc’s craft brewery and wine bar scene

The region is known for its wines, but a number of bars serve handcrafted beers from the area too. For those in the mood for a draft or wish to relax at a wine bar, try these locations:

·         PCH Street Wine Lounge
Stop by the PCH Street Wine Lounge in historic old town Lompoc for a fun time and delicious wine. This Wine Lounge has a great selection of beer and wine on tap or by the bottle. Check their calendar for trivia and karaoke nights.

·         Cold Coast Brewing Company
Opened by four Lompoc locals, Cold Coast, which debuted this year, features great beers on tap like their Tropical IPA or the Happy Blonde.

·         Solvang Brewing Co. Hoptions Taproom & Eatery
Hoptions offers visitors a wide selection of craft beers at their on-site taproom. Enjoy a cold beer and delicious food.

·         Tap & Cork
Located in Old Town, the Tap & Cork is a local pub with a dozen local and regional beers on tap. Pool tables, karaoke, and poker nights add to the fun.

·         Jasper’s
The locals love Jasper’s and you will too. It has 20+ beers on tap and a pool table that’s ready for action. 

Travelers can spend an entire weekend enjoying the crafted drinks throughout the Lompoc area. Prior to a visit, book a hotel room, and use the recon above to plan their tasting itinerary.

ABOUT LOMPOC                                                                                                                                                                             Lompoc’s New Cold Coast Brewing Company

Located on scenic Pacific Coast Highway 1, just 155 miles northwest from Los Angeles with close proximity to Santa Barbara and Solvang, Lompoc takes on a world of its own. Its valley setting, surrounded

by spectacular rolling hills and vineyards, creates an invitation for visitors to detour off the main road, and explore what’s around the bend. Lompoc is a destination for wine tasting, golf, cycling, hiking, skydiving, birding, and surfing at nearby Jalama Beach. It is home to La Purisima Mission State Historic Park, the most fully restored and furnished of the 21 California missions, and adjacent to Vandenberg Air Force Base, where rockets are launched throughout the year by such entities as NASA, SpaceX, and ULA, to name a few.Lompoc has 12 hotels to welcome visitors. To discover more about the Lompoc Valley, and the range of things to see and do, visit: www.explorelompoc.com.   

THESE EIGHT ICONIC WINERY EXPERIENCES AIM TO SPARK WINE WANDERLUST

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From Napa Valley to the Central Coast, these Eight Wineries from Foley Family Wines Offer Exciting Tasting Experiences Throughout California

SANTA ROSA, Calif. -With travel back on the agenda for 2021, wineries are welcoming visitors with open arms and a slew of entertaining and engaging experiences that go beyond the usual swirl-and-sip tasting. These eight California wineries, all part of the Foley Family Wines portfolio, beckon travelers up and down the state with activities ranging from weekend brunch to strolls among horse stables to cave tours and more. Reservations are available online at each winery’s website; all winery information is available at https://foleyfamilywines.com.

Ferrari-Carano, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County – Sycamore Grove Wine & Brunch by @allisonuncorked

Ferrari-Carano, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County – Sycamore Grove Wine & Brunch

Long known for its unparalleled hospitality, Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery recently unveiled new tasting experiences that showcase this Sonoma County winery’s stunning gardens, vineyards and outdoor enclaves. Enhanced appointment-only tastings held in the Sycamore Grove or outdoor Terrace invite guests to sit amongst shady trees and experience the winemaker’s favorite wines paired with Italian-inspired bites prepared by the Estate Chef. On Sundays, visitors can enjoy La Colazione Italiana (Breakfast Italian Style) at the signature Sycamore Grove Wine & Brunch. $30 per person, Il Terrazzo Tasting; $85 per person, Brunch. Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 5 PM; Sunday Brunch, 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM only. Book online at www.ferrari-carano.com. 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Chalk Hill Estate, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County – Vineyard Overlook Experience

Founded in 1972, Chalk Hill Estate Vineyard and Winery is a premier Sonoma County wine estate best known for its iconic Chardonnay, as well as its limited-production, estate-grown wines. The spectacular 1,300-acre estate is home to multiple venues hosting elevated experiences, organic culinary gardens and largely uncultivated wilderness in an effort to preserve the land. Its signature wine tasting, The Vineyard Overlook Experience, offers guests an elegant and immersive guided-tasting experience with picturesque vineyard views of the Russian River Valley alongside an array of estate-grown wines. $40 per person. Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 3 PM at www.chalkhill.com. 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448.

Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery, Sonoma – Historic Cherryblock Vineyard Tour and Tasting

Sebastiani’s historic Cherryblock Vineyard Tour and Tasting takes guests on a private 90-minute excursion with a Senior Wine Educator to learn about the winery’s rich history, unique viticulture and the winemaking philosophy behind their world-famous estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Cherryblock. Tasting includes five signature wines, including two vintages of Cherryblock. $110 per person. Reservations available daily from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM at www.sebastiani.com. 389 4th St E, Sonoma, CA 95476.

Chalone Vineyard, Soledad, Central Coast – Signature Tasting

Monterey County’s oldest winery, Chalone Vineyard, is perched in the ruggedly beautiful terrain of the Gavilan Bench with a storied past as remarkable as its acclaimed wines. Located 1,800 feet above the Salinas Valley and bordering Pinnacles National Park, the estate’s rolling vineyards benefit from a unique combination of limestone and granite soils that create wines with distinctive minerality. Visitors will enjoy an intimate wine tasting of five estate wines while learning about a winery whose Chardonnay brought California wines to the world stage during the landmark Judgment of Paris tasting in 1976. $25 per person. Reservations available Friday through Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM at www.chalonevineyard.com. 32020 Stonewall Canyon Road, Soledad, CA 93960.

Lincourt Vineyards, Central Coast

Lincourt Vineyards is nestled in Santa Barbara County outside of the Dutch-inspired town of Solvang in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, one of the most coveted cool-climate AVAs in California. Lincourt’s tasting room is located in an original 1926 Sears Craftsman Kit Home that has served as the farmhouse of what was once a dairy farm. The property has retained the rustic, rural charm and simplicity of an earlier era. Named for Bill and Carol Foley’s daughters, Lindsay and Courtney, Lincourt produces small-lot bottlings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Guests can enjoy views of the beautiful estate vineyard for their seated tastings on the patio, with the option of an accompanying cheese and charcuterie plate. $30 per person; additional $30 for charcuterie plate. Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 5 PM at www.lincourtwines.com. 1711 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463.

Firestone Winery, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County – Friday Night Wine Experiences

Firestone is located in a unique cusp region with a “Goldilocks” climate that is neither too hot nor too cold. Visitors can enjoy seating tastings in the tasting room, on the lawn or in the courtyard, with flights including wines ranging from crisp white to intense red blends. Throughout the summer, Firestone offers a coveted Friday Night Summer Concert Series, featuring live music from 6 PM to 9 PM and wines by the bottle. Food is available for purchase from either Filthy Filly’s Steakhouse Food Truck or Tom’s BBQ for tri-tip sandwiches. Friday concerts are free; reservations are required and available at www.firestonewine.com. 5017 Zaca Station Rd, Los Olivos, CA 93441.

Lancaster Estate, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County – Hillside Cave Tour & Tasting

An exceptional cave tour experience, highlighting our unique wine library & our detailed barrel aging process. Based on County restrictions, you may experience limited access during your visit. Join us in our Garden Grove for an intimate tasting of four estate wines in a relaxed outdoor setting, overlooking our premier Bordeaux varietals grown exclusively in Alexander Valley. Allow our wines to reveal the unique character of our hillside estate. $75 per person. Reservations available daily from 10 AM to 4 PM at www.lancaster-estate.com. 15001 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448.

Foley Johnson, Rutherford, Napa Valley – Three Wineries in One Stop

Housed in a converted 1920s redwood barn, Foley Johnson’s tasting room offers three iconic Napa Valley winery tastings in one location. Guests can reserve an indoor or patio tasting of wines from Foley Johnson, Kuleto Estate and Merus wineries — three distinctive Napa Valley wineries brought together under one roof by Bill Foley and his wife, Carol Johnson. $85 per person for Luxury Cabernet Vertical; $50-55 per person for Foley Johnson or Kuleto Estate patio tasting. Reservations available daily from 10 AM to 5 PM at www.foleyjohnsonwines.com. 8350 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573.

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About Foley Family Wines

Established by Bill Foley in 1996, Foley Family Wines is a portfolio of highly-acclaimed wines from some of the world’s greatest vineyards. Every brand in the company’s portfolio has a distinct style and legacy. Encompassing more than two dozen wineries across the globe, Foley Family Wines is the proud steward of some of the wine world’s iconic brands and winery experiences. The Foley Food & Wine Society, the world’s leading luxury lifestyle community, provides members with a gateway to an unmatched variety of culinary, travel, and entertainment experiences around the globe, including the US, New Zealand, Italy, France, Argentina, and Chile. 200 Concourse Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA 95403; (707) 542-4565; https://foleyfamilywines.com.

 

The Hilt Estate Opens Highly Anticipated Tasting Room: The Barn at The Hilt Estate

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Lompoc, Calif.—The Hilt Estate, one of Santa Barbara County’s premier wine estates and producer of JONATA and The Hilt wines, has opened its highly anticipated tasting room, The Barn at The Hilt Estate. Designed by renowned architect Howard J. Backen and Silvia Nobili of the firm Backen & Gillam Architects with interiors by Amber Lewis of Amber Interiors Design Studio, the venue will offer one of region’s most diverse lineups of wine in a space that overflows with sophisticated yet unassuming California farmhouse elegance.

Designed to highlight the agricultural foundation of The Hilt’s dramatic 3600-acre property and the wines grown and made from the unique estate, guests are encouraged to travel to The Barn along the scenic Highway 1, an open and undeveloped coastal stretch that echoes California’s unmatched natural beauty. The Hilt Estate is located just miles from the Pacific Ocean in the far south-west corner of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA winegrowing region and is comprised of three vineyards, Bentrock, Radian and Puerta del Mar. The property consists of a large tree-lined hill and vineyard extending outward. Using the natural geography of the property as a guide, the winemaking and hospitality buildings on The Hilt Estate are intentionally separated to define their uses. The winemaking production follows along the base of the hill and the hospitality barn comes out and sits among the vineyard. The new, state-of-the-art 50,000 square-foot gravity fed winemaking facility is where form and function in winemaking truly connect for long-time winemaker Matt Dees and his team, and where they will now produce the distinct wines of JONATA and The Hilt.

The reclaimed historic barn is home to the hospitality and tasting spaces and was updated using reclaimed woods and metals from the original structure. The interior speaks to the rustic beauty of the environment, with vintage textiles and leather. With wines available from two renowned estates—JONATA and The Hilt—numerous spots are available for curated tasting experiences, including a communal living room, and two themed rooms inspired by the individual wine estates. All the materials and finishes used in the hospitality barn are a direct tribute to the people of the area who have made their living off the land. The Hilt room features cool-toned artwork from Jack McConville, representative of the windy and unpredictable nature of the rugged estate. The JONATA room features warm-toned artwork from Gwen O’Neil to reflect JONATA’s warmer climate and sandy soils. The venue also features a professional kitchen, as well as numerous outdoor spaces to accommodate special events.

Several tasting flights are available, offering experiences for wine loving novices and collectors alike. Selections range from the vibrant chardonnay and pinot noir wines of The Hilt in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA to JONATA in the Ballard Canyon AVA’s portfolio of structured estate-grown blends from varieties such as cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and syrah. Exclusive to The Barn, guests may also taste each of the estate’s limited, experimental and library bottlings. Those looking to experience something truly unique will have the opportunity to discover some of the The Hilt’s more avant-garde wines, ranging from Pét-Nat to Botrytis chardonnay. The wines are estate-grown via cutting edge farming and winemaking practices, and authentically express Santa Barbara County’s vines, climate and unique soils.

The Barn at The Hilt Estate will initially offer four tasting options, which are fully tailored to the guests’ preferences. Tasting fees begin at $50 per person and average $85. Upon making a reservation guests will be contacted by a knowledgeable wine expert to determine their interests and facilitate a unique and memorable wine experience.

Tastings:

  • La Tierra “The Earth” ($50): Crafted as the perfect introduction to wines of both JONATA and The Hilt, this flight presents a selection of six of the most popular wines from both estates.
  • The Point ($50): Drawing inspiration from nearby Point Conception, The Point features six wines from The Hilt that pay tribute to the profound impact of the Pacific Ocean on The Hilt’s wind-whipped estate.
  • Jalama ($85): Derived from a Chumash word meaning “bundle,” the Jalama flight captures an elevated collection of seven wines from both The Hilt and the JONATA estates.
  • ​Seven Crossings ($85): An in-depth exploration of the southwest corner of the Sta. Rita Hills, featuring seven pinot noir and chardonnay wines from The Hilt Estate.

Reservations must be booked in advance, either online or by calling (805) 564-8581. Tastings may be scheduled during one of two time slots, 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

About The Hilt Estate
In 2014, The Hilt acquired the historic 3,600-acre Rancho Salsipuedes, setting the stage for the ultimate home of The Hilt Estate. Located in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA in northwestern Santa Barbara County, California, the property is home to three distinct vineyards: Radian and Bentrock, on the original Rancho Salsipuedes, once known as Rancho Cañada de Salsipuedes, and Puerta del Mar, which surrounds the winery. To best appreciate the wines made by The Hilt Estate, ideally one would visit these dramatic and even extreme vineyards where the grapes are farmed. Just as all great wines tell the story of their place of origin, The Hilt’s pinot noirs and chardonnays are the bold expressions of the unique estate. By employing innovative viticultural practices, selecting clones strategically, and making the most of the coastal influence, winds, and soils, Winemaker Matt Dees is pushing the vineyards to the hilt of their potential and creating wines that are lively, fresh, and well structured.

For more information on The Hilt Estate, please visit www.thehiltestate.com

Follow on Social Media:
Hashtag: #TheHILT #TheHILTEstate
Instagram: @thehiltestate

About JONATA Estate
Born in 1998 out of a desire to explore and expand world-class winegrowing in Santa Barbara County, JONATA is an estate like no other. Set amongst the rolling hills in the moderate climate of the Ballard Canyon appellation in Santa Ynez Valley, the 600-acre site is home to 84 acres of vines and over 12 grape varieties planted in Careaga sand. More than just a vineyard, most of the property is comprised of ancient oak trees, gardens, fruit orchards and diverse variety of animal life. Through years of farming the estate at the highest standards, the winery team, led by long-time winemaker Matt Dees, has tirelessly forged its own path. JONATA has gained recognition from collectors and critics alike for making captivating wines which authentically express the estate’s vines, climate and unique soils.

For more information on JONATA Estate, please visit www.jonata.com

Follow on Social Media:
Hashtag: #JONATA #JONATAEstate
Instagram: @jonataestate

Prestigious Wine Region Celebrates 20 Year Anniversary of AVA Status

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The Sta. Rita Hills AVA, established in 2001, is located on the central coast of California in Santa Barbara County. The Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance is preparing to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of the AVA designation with a series of educational events planned for the weekend of August 12th through the 15th . The events will pay tribute to the first planted  vineyard, Sanford & Benedict, as well as honor the founding pioneers of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. The annual Wine and Fire celebrations will culminate with a Grand Tasting at the beautiful La Purisima Mission located just outside of Lompoc’s Santa Rita Hills.

Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, 135 acres, was planted in 1971 by Richard Sanford and Michael Benedict. Through research and development, they determined what wine grape varieties were best suited for the area. Earthy soils, containing large deposits of limestone and diatomaceous earth, to sandy loam, coupled with daily ocean winds that tunnel up the transverse valley from Point Conception create the perfect environment to grow Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Lafond Vineyards and Winery followed suit  in 1972 but it was not until the early eighties that additional plantings ensued. Over the next 20 years approximately 1,100 acres were planted, predominantly to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In 1999 winegrowers began the pursuit of establishing the Santa Rita Hills as a distinctive growing region, and submitted their application in 2000 to the TTB to be recognized as an American Viticultural Area (AVA). Granted recognition in 2001 the rest is history, the region is currently planted to just under 4,000 acres of vineyards.

The 20 year anniversary weekend celebration will kick off Thursday night with a tasting at the first vineyard planted and winery established in the Sta. Rita Hills, Sanford & Benedict. The iconic vineyard offers stunning vistas of Fiddlestix and Sea Smoke vineyards. Ten producers will pour Sanford & Benedict vineyard wines ranging from current to library offerings.

Production of sparkling wine is on the rise in the region and Friday morning’s event will be an opportunity to meet some of those producers and sample the wines. Moderator Adam Lee will lead the discussion  followed by a walk around tasting.

Friday evening the celebration continues at the beautiful Alma Rosa Vineyard as the Pioneers of the Sta. Rita Hills are honored La Paulee style. Richard Sanford was inducted into the California Vintner’s Hall of Fame in 2012 and was honored as Vintner of The Year for 2020 by the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance will be one of 6 honorees.

Saturday morning’s event “Time in a Bottle” will delve into the aging potential of Sta. Rita Hills wines. Gregory Brewer, Wine Enthusiast’s Winemaker of the Year, will join 5 other long-time producers for this intimate event that will take place at Spear Vineyards and Winery.

The Saturday evening Grand Tasting at the stunning La Purisima Mission will be the finale of the Alliance events and will showcase 40 wineries, local farmers, caterers, and BBQ chefs for a taste of the Sta. Rita Hills.

Tasting Rooms will be welcoming Passport holders for a weekend of specials and wines.

For more details visit staritahills.com / Wine and Fire 2021. 

SLO Coast Wines’ Roll Out the Barrels Celebration Is Back — Refreshed and Reinvented for 2021

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The longtime regional wine experience returns after a Covid hiatus, offering its first-ever auction of rare bottles and a series of new, exclusive experiences at the wineries.
The SLO Coast Wine Collective’s annual Roll Out The Barrels celebration, which has drawn thousands of wine lovers to San Luis Obispo’s wine country since 1990, returns this year with an all-new format: A series of exclusive events held at member wineries throughout the Central Coast, and for the first time, an auction of rare bottles curated by the winemakers. 
All of the events and the auction will take place June 24 through June 28.
As the region emerges from the 2020 Covid-19 shutdown, the SLO Coast Wine Collective is committed to restarting its popular yearly event, but in a way that is safe and comfortable for participants and winemakers. “Roll Out the Barrels is the perfect opportunity to taste new wines and say hello to our winemakers as Covid restrictions loosen up,” says Stephen Ross Dooley, President of the group’s Board of Directors. “We’re excited about being open again and seeing the people who’ve enjoyed our wines all these years.”
Roll Out the Barrels 2021 will offer unprecedented opportunities for wine lovers throughout the long weekend: Most events will be limited to 10 to 25 participants, allowing plenty of individual interaction with winemakers — and giving winemakers the chance to pour wines made in limited quantities and older bottles pulled from deep in their cellars. 
Among the wineries offering tasting flights of older vintages are Laetitia, Baileyana Wines, Edna Valley Vineyard, and Absolution Cellars. Other wineries will extend their hours into twilight, with tastings and tours that immerse you in the beauty of Edna Valley as the sun goes down. Sinor-LaVallee in Avila Beach will be featuring freshly shucked Pacific Gold oysters from Morro Bay Oyster Co, and at Center of Effort Winery, attendees will be guided through every step of the winemaking process — from grape to glass — while sipping current releases in the newly renovated facility.
Because attendance is limited and available by reservation only, we strongly suggest checking out the event list on the SLO Coast Wine Collective website at https://bit.ly/2TaC5Dp to secure reservations as soon as possible.
For the first time in history, Roll Out the Barrels will include an auction of exclusive wine lots curated by our members. And you don’t have to attend an event to bid: Anyone can take home our stellar selections of vintage Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Albariño, Grenache, Zinfandel, and more. Among the lots: large format bottles from Tolosa Winery, Biddle Ranch Winery, and Stephen Ross Wine Cellars; vertical collections from Talley Vineyards and Timbre Winery; mixed assortments from Croma Vera Wines, Absolution Cellars, Autry Cellars, and Saucelito Canyon Vineyard; plus some surprising bottles and limited releases. 
To view the lots and place bids, go to https://bit.ly/3hKXhKy. The auction site goes live 9 a.m. June 24 and closes at noon June 28.
Previously Roll Out the Barrels centered on a grand tasting in downtown San Luis Obispo featuring all of the wineries pouring their latest releases. This year, the SLO Collective emphasizes the one-on-one relationship wine lovers have with the wineries. Says Kathleen Naughton, the Executive Director of SLO Coast Wines: “We are ecstatic about the return of the event. We’ve put safety at the top of our list by shifting all of our events to the individual tasting rooms — with the happy result of everyone having a better chance to connect.”   
This year’s event also arrives as the region is on the verge of a new AVA (American Viticultural Area) designation, a coveted classification awarded by the Federal government that recognizes the distinct character of a region’s wines. It will put wines grown and made on the Central Coast in the company of AVA designates such as Napa Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Sta. Rita Hills.
“The SLO Coast is gaining great momentum as a wine region due in large part to the influence of the many incredible things to offer in San Luis Obispo,” Dooley says. “We’ve missed so much since the start of COVID and we urge all attendees to also explore the restaurants, shops, and galleries in the area when they’re visiting the wineries. We do hope you’ll come, enjoy the wines, stay and explore and fall in love with the SLO Coast.”
About The SLO Coast Wine Collective: SLO Coast Wine Collective is where the coast meets the vines. Our 30 wineries are in San Luis Obispo County on California’s Central Coast, encompassing vineyards and wineries along a 60 mile-long, 15 mile-wide stretch of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountain Range. This is the coolest-climate winegrowing region in California and has long been the source of some of the state’s most respected Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. It has recently won renown for its production of aromatic grape varieties such as Albariño, Grüner Veltliner, and Grenache. Website: https://slocoastwine.com/ 

Taste of Santa Rita Hills: Top Scoring Wines

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Let’s talk wine scores.

If you have been to our tasting room, you probably have noticed that we do not talk about wine scores. That doesn’t mean that we don’t pay attention to wine scores and read reviews, but we trust our own palates. When it comes to wines from Sta. Rita Hills, we have the experience to understand if a wine offers what we expect in a wine from the area, and to judge as to whether or not the wine is priced appropriately for its quality and complexity. So we don’t feel the need to promote or choose wines based on scores.

We have been asked in the past, why not discuss a wine that has a stellar score? We could, but we want our customers to trust our palates and their own. If you like a wine, it doesn’t matter whether the wine received a 80 or 100 points. In addition, there are many wines that do not get sent out for review so will never receive a score.

There are many of you that live far away and cannot be here to try the wines yourselves, or perhaps do not know our expertise well. In that case, scores might be helpful for you to have a third party recommendation about some of the wines we carry. In addition there are many of you that have cellars and like to collect top-scoring wines. We understand that.

So here you go…a short list of some of the top-scoring wines we are currently carrying.

Cheers,
Jeni and Antonio

Taste of Santa Rita Hills

98 Points:

Paul Lato Pinot Noir “Lancelot”, Pisoni Vineyard, 2018 (Jeb Dunnuck)

97 Points:

The Hilt Pinot Noir “Old Guard” 2017 (Antonio Galloni)
Paul Lato Syrah “Cinematique”, Larner Vineyard, 2017 (Jeb Dunnuck)
Paul Lato Syrah/Grenache “Space Cadet” 2018 (Wine Advocate)
Paul Lato Pinot Noir “C’est la Vie”, Drum Canyon Vineyard, 2018 (Jeb Dunnuck)
Paul Lato Pinot Noir “Atticus”, Sebastiano Vineyard, 2018 (Jeb Dunnuck)
Paul Lato Pinot Noir “Victor Francis”, Peake Ranch, 2018 (Jeb Dunnuck)

96 Points:

The Hilt Pinot Noir “Vanguard” 2017 (Jeb Dunnuck)
Paul Lato Chardonnay “Ma Jolie”, Peake Ranch, 2018 (Jeb Dunnuck)

95+ Points:

Paul Lato Pinot Noir “Seabiscuit”, Zotovich Vineyard, 2018 (Jeb Dunnuck)

94 Points:

Walt Pinot Noir, Clos Pepe Vineyard, 2017 (Wine Enthusiast)
Spear Pinot Noir 2018 (Jeb Dunnuck)
Samuel Smith Chardonnay, Spear Vineyard, 2018 (Wine Enthusiast)

93 Points:

Bonaccorsi Pinot Noir, Sebastiano Vineyard, 2013 (93 Wine Advocate)
Ryan Cochrane Pinot Noir, Fiddlestix Vineyard, 2017 (Wine Enthusiast)

92 Points:

Walt Pinot Noir, Clos Pepe Vineyard, 2018 (Wine Spectator)
Spear Chardonnay, Gnesa Vineyard, 2017 (Wine Advocate)
Ground Truth Pinot Noir, La Encantada Vineyard, 2016 (Wine Enthusiast)

Note: Some wines are extremely limited.

 

Tolosa Winery Announces New Futures Program for 2019 Single Vineyard Wines

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San Luis Obispo, Calif. — Tolosa winery, acclaimed producer of estate and single vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines from the Edna Valley, announced a look into the future of its much-anticipated 2019 Single Vineyard wines with private tastings of barrel samples.
Private seated tastings, available by appointment, are currently offered on the winery’s expansive outdoor patio, allowing guests the rare opportunity to explore these exclusive small-lot wines prior to release. The 2019 Single Vineyard wines will be released November 1, accompanied by the 2019 Primera, also scheduled to be released on November 1, 2020. Futures of the Primera and the Single Vineyard series wines are now available for purchase. Given the prestige of these limited-production bottlings, with under 250 cases of each produced, many of these wines are expected to sell-out prior to release.
“2019 was a textbook cool climate grape growing vintage. Harvest unfolded nicely, the mild weather letting us call for the perfect picking dates with no need to rush things, which is a nice feeling for once. In their youth, the wines are showing bright fruit (definitively on the red side for the Pinots and on the stone fruit one for the Chardonnays) and great freshness. And I am really excited about this, because it is also a guarantee of the aging potential they have,” said Winemaker Frederick Delivert.
Ideally situated close to the Pacific Ocean in California’s coolest wine region, Tolosa is blessed with a myriad of microclimates and soils that prove ideal for growing delicate Burgundian grapes. As a testament to the winery’s dedication to crafting exemplary Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Tolosa looks beyond Edna Valley for their Single Vineyard series, selecting the best sites and fruit for these varietals throughout California.
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The artisanal wines of the Single Vineyard series invite exploration of renowned appellations and acclaimed vineyards — including Tolosa’s own SIP Certified estate vineyard, Edna Ranch — confirming Edna Valley’s place in this distinguished company.
Through November, guests are invited to visit Tolosa to experience barrel samples of the 2019 Single Vineyard Series, each crafted with a similar approach in the cellar in order to capture the true essence of each vineyard and its unique terroir. The following wines are now available to taste:
Bien Nacido Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley 2019
This iconic vineyard in Santa Barbara County’s Santa Maria Valley AVA benefits from one of the longest growing seasons in California. Located 16 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the vineyard was first planted in 1973 and is acclaimed for its world-class Chardonnay. Situated at 600 feet of elevation on the valley floor, the site is punctuated by mild sunny days, an afternoon sea draft, and foggy nights and mornings to moderate the temperature of the vines. These conditions translate into a wine with vibrant acidity, recognized through essences of grapefruit, nectarine and pineapple. Oak aging in 35% new, lightly toasted puncheons adds notes of vanilla and walnuts, while partial Malolactic fermentation reveals fresh green apple flavors on the mineral-driven mid-palate. Tolosa is honored to be one of the few producers to source fruit from this highly sought-after vineyard located just south of us in the Santa Maria Valley.
Poletti – Edna Ranch Chardonnay, Edna Valley 2019
The Poletti portion of Edna Ranch is located on the mountainside slopes of the Edna Valley — home to block 569, featuring own-rooted Tepesquet Chardonnay vines. The slopes offer more sun exposure, while the vineyard sits in the direct path of the coastal sea breeze, offering a cooler temperature to maintain natural acidity and citrusy aromatics. After completing malolactic fermentation, the wine was aged in 30% new, lightly toasted oak puncheons, allowing it to develop a creamy, seamless texture layered with notes of hazelnut, citrus and stone fruit. This elegant Chardonnay encapsulates the Edna Valley, with a refined structure and uplifting acidity that stands out on the finish.
El Coro Vineyard Pinot Noir, Petaluma Gap 2019
El Coro translates to “The Chorus” in Spanish. This site is farmed by the Keller family and is located within the Petaluma Gap AVA, the premier gateway to the Sonoma Coast. Located just 7.5 miles from San Pablo Bay, here maritime wind and fog roar into the region cooling off the vines, while less sun exposure from north-facing slopes contributes to the wine’s bright, complex berry fruit flavors. Adding to its appeal is a silky texture and racy acidity that lingers on the impressively long finish. In reverence to its name, this wine brings harmony to the palate.
Apex Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands 2019
Farmed by the Franscioni family, Apex Vineyard is located 28 miles from the cold water of Monterey Bay in the heart of the renowned Santa Lucia Highlands. The vineyard rests high atop a bench receiving morning sun exposure before being influenced ever so slightly by the daily fog and ocean winds. Typical of its region, this wine paints itself darker, lending more robust flavors of juicy fruit, ripened cherry and sweet spice. This is a Pinot Noir for the Cabernet lover.
Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2019
Solomon Hills Vineyard takes its name from Salomon Pico, a celebrated bandit who travelled frequently along the El Camino Real in the 1850s — and may have inspired the legend of Zorro. This acclaimed Santa Barbara County vineyard is located at the westernmost end of the Santa Maria Valley AVA, where its close proximity just 10 miles to the Pacific Ocean reveals itself through the wines that flourish in its sandy soils. Floral and red fruit aromas carry on through the palate, showcasing notes of pomegranate, raspberry, cherry and rose petals that integrate seamlessly into its fine-grained tannic structure.
Drum Canyon Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2019
Farmed by the Dierberg family, Drum Canyon Vineyard thrives in the eminent Sta. Rita Hills AVA of Santa Barbara County. Adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, the region is famous for its transverse mountain range, which allows strong coastal breezes to drift through the vines. These cooling influences, coupled with the vineyard’s sandy loam soils, produce a beautifully structured Pinot Noir with velvety tannins and signature notes of dark cherry, cola and raspberry. A more structured Pinot Noir than many others in the line-up, this is a wine with well-developed tannins that will soften beautifully as it ages.
Gunsalus Vineyard Pinot Noir Green Valley of Russian River Valley 2019
The newest single vineyard Pinot Noir in the series balances the collection as an excellent cellar addition for the wine enthusiast. This small vineyard resides 12 miles from the coast at an elevation of 242 feet in the Green Valley region of Sonoma’s Russian River Valley, known for its maritime fog that rolls in and lingers throughout the day. Big and bold in structure, this garnet-colored Pinot Noir leads with aromas of black cherry, strawberry, pine and rose petal. Bright red fruit, fig and tobacco flavors linger on the palate, accented by gentle mouth-coating tannins on the flawless finish.
Hollister – Edna Ranch Pinot Noir, Edna Valley
Located in the core of the Edna Valley, the Hollister section of Tolosa’s home vineyard, Edna Ranch, is the closest to the Pacific Ocean. Located just 5 miles away, it receives a moderating maritime influence to maintain composed acidity in the grapes, while varied soils, including chalky limestone and sand, contribute to the minerality and complexity in this wine. Made from a single block in the vineyard, Block 579, the wine displays aromas of blood orange, wild strawberry, anise and rose petals. Black cherry notes shine on the palate, which is layered with stone fruit and clove to express an exceptional sense of place.
Primera Pinot Noir, Edna Valley 2019
Tolosa’s flagship Primera demonstrates the full potential of the varietal, revealing what makes Pinot Noir one of the most coveted grapes in the world. Primera is a small-lot selection of the best of Tolosa’s estate vineyard, Edna Ranch, located a mere 5 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Here, daily fog and prevailing winds funnel into the transverse valley from Morro Bay, cooling off the vines. The result is a wine of power and length characterized by notes of hibiscus, strawberry and dried herbs, enhanced by a seamless mouthfeel and structure. This is truly a vintage-specific statement Pinot Noir for the oenophile looking to add a marquee wine to their cellar.
Futures of the Single Vineyard 2019 series as well as the Primera 2019 are available to taste by appointment through October 2020, with tastings available to both Club Members and non-members. Purchase of wine futures is available prior to their release, November 2020. Tolosa also invites qualified media to look behind the curtain at the winery with a tasting of the Single Vineyard Series. For media inquiries, please contact: Linda@parkersanpei.com.
About Tolosa
Cowboy dreams of owning a cattle ranch brought Robin Baggett to California’s Edna Valley over 40 years ago. The cold Pacific wind and soils from ancient seabed to limestone made him realize he was on a frontier of a different sort. Tolosa is the expression of his commitment to spare no effort to craft Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines of distinctive character to rival any in the world. Founded in 1998 and guided by the core values of integrity, teamwork and meticulous craftsmanship, Tolosa is committed to creating complex, balanced and nuanced wines that are the purest expressions of Edna Valley. The Tolosa winemaking team combines traditional winemaking techniques and cutting-edge technology to achieve the purest translation of place to taste. Tolosa supports numerous environmental and philanthropic initiatives and is an active member of the Central Coast community, welcoming guests daily to enjoy its trademark gracious hospitality and a variety of luxury tasting experiences surrounded by its Sustainability in Practice (SIP) Certified vineyard, Edna Ranch. Tolosa is open daily at 4910 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. You can find them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or visit the website at tolosawinery.com.

Rediscovering Jalama and Winemaker Mark Cargasacchi

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Oh what a treat! I forgot how entertaining winemaker Mark Cargasacchi was! And of course, what a great winemaker he is! It had been a few years since I visited the Lompoc Wine Ghetto, aka the Lompoc Wine Trail, and when I found a photo in my Facebook memories of me at the ghetto, at Jalama wines, I re-shared it. That’s when I knew that I was way overdue for a visit. So overdue in fact that I had to learn that Mark had moved their tasting room to Palm Springs, though currently closed due to Covid. Mark often comes to Lompoc, as that is still where the winery is, so I got my foot in the door during one of his visits.

Mark picking up the wines from the tasting room before our meeting outside.

The move to the desert proved to be quite profitable for Mark, he said he had his best sales there in 2019. He sold out of all of his library wines, from 2004 through 2015, as well as his current 2016 vintages of both his Syrah and El Capitan “signature blend” and most of his 2017s! He did find a few wines to share with us, so there should be a few for you too, even better if you are a wine club member.

We caught up on some local gossip during our tasting, always fun, and heard all about his new spot in the desert. We were very happy to hear how well he is doing there and can’t wait to visit when the weather, and Covid, cools off. And by the time that happens we can try his wines again.

Note: All of Mark’s wines have had no new oak since 2015. So if you use the word “oaky” as a descriptor in talking about any of his wines from 2015 on he will snort, or giggle, as it’s simply not there.

Tasting

We started with a barrel sample of Mark’s Grenache/Roussanne Blanc. It had spent time in stainless steel and neutral oak barrels, with four to five more months to go before he bottles (what Mark refers to as “a second winter”) before he will release the wine. It is also unfiltered and unfined. We thought it was super fresh, good fruit.

Next up was his 2017 Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills. We found it earthy as Mark had described, also with notes of dried black cherry and meaty plum. Then we sampled a 2016 Grenache with 13.5% alcohol, he had just released the wine six months before. We found it bright, smokey, rich and some of those earthy qualities again.

The 2016 Refugio blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah was very nice, with rich and spicy bold blue fruit. A “not so petite” 2016 Petite Sirah was a big wow for me, my favorite in the tasting. Wine Enthusiast awarded it as the Editor’s Choice and 91 points, I would give this wine with a bold 15% alcohol more. Plenty of big, dark and dry black fruit, peppery and balanced.

For a finisher Mark brought out his latest wines, 2018 Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Both needed “another winter”, six to eight months or so, in bottle before he will release, but we could tell they would be worth the wait. The Merlot had outstanding blue to black fruit; rich, layered, spice, smokey and very aromatic. The Cab was bright now, but again, had that good fruit and earthy qualities we kept finding in the Jalama wines.

https://www.facebook.com/jalamawines

https://www.instagram.com/jalamawines/

https://www.jalamawines.com/

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Fan Girl Alert: Margerum and Barden Tasting Rooms in Santa Barbara

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During my Santa Barbara trip this past summer – the word trip is used lightly as we only stayed two days – my focus was on the winery tasting rooms in the Funk Zone for an article for Elite magazine.

Photo credit: Mergerum’s Facebook page.

One of the winemakers that I interviewed was Doug Margerum of Margerum Wine Company. (Photos) I’d tasted Doug’s wines, mostly Rhônes, at different events over the years but when I learned he had just opened this new tasting room I really wanted to visit. I wrote up some for the magazine, below, but also had a LOT of notes on the wines and on Doug himself. Hence, this blog article just to cover all of the bases. First, we’ll start with the section in the magazine:

From Elite Magazine

Margerum Wine Company and Barden: Not what I expected when I walked into the new tasting room for Margerum wines. First of all Doug Margerum, owner and winemaker, was there – a special treat – as my eyes also took in two stories, lots of seating, a “from the kitchen” menu (rarity in tasting rooms, and probably the only one in the Funk Zone), open in the evenings on weekend, and a tasting flight showing off all of his Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator high scorers: 2017 D Sauvignon Blanc, 2017 M5 White Rhone, 2017 Grenache, 2016 M5 Red Rhone Reserve, 2017 Black Oak vineyards Syrah and an Amaro liqueur that was also infused in an ice cream! At his second label, Barden up the road award winners included their 2018 Vin Gris of Pinot Noir, 2018 Viognier, 2017 Fonte (white blend), 2017 Chardonnay, 2018 Grenache and 2016 Pinot Noir.

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Doug shared more than his wines, at both Margerum and Barden with me. He shared some of his stories. And over the years I’ve learned that connecting to a winery – how much we like the wine, how they treat us in the tasting room and knowing the stories behind some of the labels – compel us to become fans. Here’s what I learned from Doug that turned me into a bigger fan:

  • Each of Margerum’s wine bottles are individually hand-numbered, as they are all small lot wines and collectibles. His first vintage was 2001. (Click through the link for the website below to see some of the library wines available.)
  • The name Barden is Welsh for “boar’s den” and happens to be Doug’s middle name, though he wasn’t born with it. At his 40th birthday party, he asked his friends to help come up with a suitable middle name for him. His grandmother, 89-year-old Ruth Barden, suggested that his middle name be her surname. His friends agreed.
  • The Margerums lost 23 neighbors during the Montecito floods.
  • Barden, located in downtown Santa Barbara, serves a “couture collection” of “limited release wines from the cold climate of the Sta. Rita Hills.”
  • Doug had been in the restaurant industry before the wine industry. The Wine Cask, his former restaurant in Santa Barbara, was sold in 2007 and he stayed on as a consultant for a few years. His restaurant experience made having a kitchen at Margerum a natural fit, and he hopes to have a full time chef in the near future.
  • Open just since this past May, the Margerum Tasting Room, with tastings, wines by the glass, light fare at the bar and the upstairs mezzanine, is available for private parties and special events.

 

*Margerum Tasting Room

19 East Mason
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

805-845-8435

www.margerumwines.com

www.facebook.com/margerumwine/

 

*Barden Wines

32 El Paseo in the Center Courtyard

Santa Barbara, CA 93101

805-686-8500

www.bardenwines.com

 

*Note: Both Margerum and Barden have tasting rooms in Buellton, this article is about the tasting rooms in Santa Barbara. 

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Vintage Eve Circa 6/2016: Can’t Get Enough…STARS of California Part One

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This time wine-expectant palates would sample over 100 wines from 40 wineries – and grow a knowledge of our varied California terroir – courtesy Ian Blackburn of WineLA.com in yet another “STARS” event. As you should’ve guessed, it was Stars of California, once again at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

And, as some of these participants (listed below) were familiar to me from other tasting events in the last six months, which I have written about, this tasting I only tasted new vintages from those same sources, and a few wineries I was unfamiliar with. My likes and brief tasting notes are below under “Pour List” in italics. (And for my pals with a short attention span, of course I created a slideshow of the event.

The Pour List at Press Time:

ADOBE ROAD
Redline Cabernet Blend, Sonoma County 2012
Chardonnay, Bacigalupi Vineyard, Russian River Valley 2014
Cabernet Franc, Bavarian Lion Vineyard, Knights Valley 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Beckstoffer Georges the III, Napa Valley 2012

ALMA ROSA
Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2013
‘Clone 667’ Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills 2013
Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County 2014
Chardonnay, El Jabali Vineyard 2014

Always a pleasure to taste with winemaker Richard Sanford. His Pinot Noirs are continually well done, and along with Clos Pepe, really set the bar nice and high for Pinot in Sta. Rita Hills. This time I enjoyed the 2013 Pinot Noir and a 2014 Pinot Gris.

ANCIENT PEAKS WINERY
Sauvignon Blanc, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2014
Cabernet Sauvignon, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2014
Merlot, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Renegade, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Oyster Ridge, Margarita Vineyard, Paso Robles 2013
Loved the lemon and white peach in this Sauv Blanc, the Oyster Ridge Cab blend, the Renegade Syrah and the big, dry yet balanced 2013 Zin they also poured.

ARCHIUM CELLARS
Rose of Grenache 2015 – Watch Hill Vineyard, Los Alamos
“Dissident” GSM, Stolpman and Watch Hill Vineyards, Santa Barbara 2014
“Faction” Syrah, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon 2014
“Haven” Grenache, Stolpman Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Ballard Canyon 2014

Every darn wine in this line-up made me smile. The Grenache was one I noted as an easy drinker, which translates to Drink Now.

BEEKEEPER CELLARS
Zinfandel, Madrone Spring Vineyard, Rockpile 2013
Zinfandel, Montecillo Vineyard, Sonoma Valley 2014

This is Ian’s wine, I have it every time, don’t miss it when you see it.

BERNARDUS WINERY
Pinot Noir, Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Pinot Noir, Gary’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands 2013
Rose of Pinot Noir SLH 2014

If you are ever in Carmel Valley, visit this winery.

BOUGETZ CELLARS
Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford 2014
Pinot Noir, Catie’s Corner Vineyard 2014
Jovana Merlot/Cabernet Franc 2013
Cabernet Sauvignon, Amaryllis Spring Mountain District 2012

CA’ DEL GREVINO
Element Pinot Noir, Santa Maria 2012
Element Chardonnay, Santa Maria 2012
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria 2013
Riesling, Santa Maria 2013

CELLARS 33
Grenache Blanc 2015
Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2013
Pinot Noir, Gloria Vineyard 2013
Pinot Noir, Keefer Ranch 2013

COLE BAILEY
“Sesquipedalian” Cabernet Sauvignon, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley , Mendocino 2007
“Otters Road Trip Red, Cole Bailey Vineyards, Redwood Valley, Mendocino County NV

COQUELICOT ESTATE
Sauvignon Blanc, Coquelicot Estate Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley 2015
Riesling, , Santa Ynez Valley 2015
‘Estate Mon Amour’ Bordeaux Blend, Santa Ynez Valley 2011
‘Estate Sixer’ (94% Syrah, 6% Viognier), Santa Ynez Valley 2012

New vintages for me to try, that I thoroughly enjoyed, included the Mon Amour and Sixer. And they are all organic wines if that’s your preference.

CORDON
“L’Inox” Sauvignon Blanc, Lucas & Lewellen and Star Lane Vineyards, Happy Canyon 2015
“Les Jumeaux” Pinot Noir, Theresa Noell and John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2014

DUTTON ESTATE
‘Karmen Isabella’ Pinot Noir, Russian River, Sonoma 2013
‘Kyndalls Reserve’ Chardonnay, Russian River, Sonoma 2013
‘Kylie’s Cuvee’ Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River, Sonoma 2015

FATHERS & DAUGHTERS CELLARS
Pinot Noir (Ella’s Reserve), Ferrington 2012
Pinot Noir (Ella’s Reserve), Ferrington 2013
Sauvignon Blanc, Ferrington 2014
Chardonnay, Ferrington 2014

FOXEN
Chenin Blanc, Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard 2014
Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Block UU 2014
Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley 2014
Pinot Noir, John Sebastiano Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 2013

Always a favorite.

GALATEA EFFECT
Genception of Giants California Super Syrah 2011
Laminar Flow Pinot Noir 2013
Conoscenti Syrah 2011
Conoscenti Pinot Noir 2013
Conoscenti Rose’ 2013

This was a fun discovery, especially chatting with devoted CA winemaker that lives in AZ, Joel Clapick. My favorites were the Giants’ blend and the Rose.

GARDEN CREEK
Tesserae, Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

GRAEF WINE
Viognier, Casey Flat Ranch, Capay Valley 2015
Chardonnay, Bell Vineyard, Yountville, Napa County 2013
Syrah, Remembrance Vineyard, Lake County 2012

GROTH VINEYARDS & WINERY
Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2014
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Napa Valley 2012
Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville Napa Valley 2012
Hillview Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2014

HAHN FAMILY
‘SLH’ Chardonnay, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
‘SLH’ Pinot Noir, St. Lucia Highlands 2014
Pinot Noir, Lucienne Lone Oak Vineyard 2013
Pinot Noir, Lucienne Smith Vineyard 2013

Had the SLH (new label designation for Santa Lucia Highlands, much like Ballard Canyon’s new embossed bottle – both designed to help separate AVAs from the pack) Pinot Noir in my American Wine Cert class (yes I passed) and became an instant fan. This time I tried the Lucienne label and rejoiced in loving both that were shared. I found the Lone Oak slightly more delicate than the more traditional Smith vineyard.

HAWK AND HORSE
Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, Lake County 2011
‘Block Three’ (95% Cab & 5% Petit Verdot), Red Hills, Lake County 2011
‘Latigo’ Cabernet Sauvignon fortified Port style Dessert Wine, Red Hills, Lake County 2011

I was introduced to Hawk and Horse when they sent me a “diamond” along with wines to sample. The marketing (diamond) caught my attention, as did the wines I was sent for review. I was happy to try the 2011 Cab and the Block Three red blend. These wines, both 2011 vintages, were just released. Love a wine that has spent a little more time in barrel and oak to suit the winemaker’s desired results.

HOYT FAMILY
Chardonnay, Santa Barbara 2014
Pinot Grigio, California 2013
Cabernet, Paso Robles 2012
Petite Sirah, Paso Robles 2012

Originally tasting Hoyt in a now defunct wine tasting room in Malibu, I was happy to see them at Ian’s event. Loved the Cab, Petite Sirah and a 2011 Tempranillo – all draped in medals.

L’AVENTURE WINERY
‘Optimus Estate’ Red Blend, Paso Robles 2013
Côte à Côte, Paso Robles 2013
Estate Cuvée, Paso Robles 2013

Always a treat when winemaker Stephan Asseo and/or L’Aventure comes out to any event. None of his wines ever disappoint my Rhône-driven palate. And this time, the Estate Cuvee made me pause; a smoky wine with rapturous balance. As I noticed every other taster at his table fail to pour out, I was so jealous to have to be working. 

Read Part 2 here next week! I will begin with the rest of this list and finish with what we tasted from the Paso Robles Cab Collective.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.