Category: Wine Blog/Reviews

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Showcasing the Exceptional Wines of Lucia by Pisoni!

THE STORY

Today’s post is about 2 exceptional Lucia by Pisoni wines we have enjoyed recently. One was given to us by a visiting friend and the other we ordered while dining at the The Fish Hopper on Monterey’s Cannery Row. 

I’ve written about Lucia by Pisoni a couple of times –the best way to find them would be to search “Pisoni” on the Decanting Monterey website.

THE WINERY

About Lucia by Pisoni:

“The terrain was rough.  There was no water.  ‘Gary is crazy’ everyone said.  Years later, he had developed one of “California’s great sites.” Read the whole story here!

Gary Pisoni is one of the pioneers in exceptional winegrowing and winemaking in the Santa Lucia Highlands. When he told his parents he wanted to plant vineyards on their farmland, his parents thought he was crazy.  He planted his first 5 acres in 1982 and, once he found a water source, he expanded the vineyard another 17 acres. Those grapes are now amongst the most respected and coveted in all of Monterey County.  He finally began producing his own wines in 2000.  His operation is a family affair, with his two sons, Mark and Jeff Pisoni, joining the team.

THE WINES

Today I am presenting 2 Lucia by Pisoni wines. As usual, the winery notes come from their tasting sheet, website, or conversations with the owner. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2022 Lucia by Pisoni Estate Cuvee Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $55 (#1545)

Winery Notes (2018 Vintage): “The Lucia Pinot Noir Estate Cuvée represents the synergy that develops when three estate-farmed vineyards are blended and bottled as a singular wine. The 2022 vintage is comprised of 70% Pisoni Vineyards, 14% Garys’ Vineyard, and 16% Soberanes Vineyard. As the wine’s medium-ruby hue fills the glass, aromas of crushed strawberry, spiced plum, and underlaying hints of dark berry develop. The Pinot Noir transitions to the palate and shows savory notes of Asian spice, black tea, then gains volume with notes of plush red berries and subtle vanilla—from eleven months of aging in 45% new French oak barrels. The heavy morning fog and bracing coastal winds of the mountainous Santa Lucia Highlands keep this wine fresh and provide acidity that reawakens the palate after each sip. The finish shows youthful and layered, yet distinctly approachable tannin.”

You can read more about this wine on its tech sheet here.

My Review: Translucent, dark ruby with a purple tinge in the glass. Faint cherry nose with a quaffable palate with cherry and brambly flavors. This is not your typical SLH Pinot Noir! April 2025

2021 Lucia by Pisoni Syrah, Soberanes Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.2% ABV, $65 (#1546)

Winery Notes (2018 Vintage): “Staking its claim as an immaculate representation of the new world, yet harkening back to its ancestral old-world roots, the 2021 Lucia Soberanes Vineyard Syrah is a harmonizing display of this variety. The explosive profile bursts from the bottle immediately upon removing the cork and amplifies as this deep purple wine splashes into a glass. The aromatic intricacies are woven around notes of macerated blueberries and blackberry compote paired with a perfume of anise, violets, and fresh herbs. Coating the palate, this Syrah manages an unmistakable concentration and an undeniable elegance. Berry cobbler, new leather, toasted vanilla bean, and olive tapenade flavors gain momentum as the wine takes each breath. Vibrant acid and firm tannin from 100% whole cluster fermentation proclaim this wine’s youth. Drink now if you must, but patience will reward those who can resist the temptation of early enjoyment.”

You can read more about this wine on its tech sheet here.

My Review: I am disappointed to discover that I did not take tasting notes for this wine. I recall it being very smooth, sophisticated and delicious.  I am not usually a fan of SLH Syrah but this one proved me wrong. The San Francisco Chronicle calls their Syrah “California’s Syrah at its best.” April 2025

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

A Cellar-Worthy Massa Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon by Outward Wines!

THE STORY

My partner is always on the lookout for Central Coast bargains on the K&L Wine Merchants, where he found this 2023 Outward Massa Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon on sale for $30.  We picked up a couple to try now and later. It’s pretty young for trying now, but we did.  Today’s post is about Outward and this single wine. You can read my previous posts about the Durney legacy of the Massa Vineyard here.

THE WINERY

About Outward Wines: “Outward Wines is a partnership between Ryan Pace and Natalie Siddique. We produce small-lot, site-specific wines from California’s Central Coast. We currently farm about 6 acres of vines ourselves and also source grapes from vineyards along the coast. All of these vineyards are organically farmed at minimum.

“In the winery, we strive to minimize our impact in order to allow for a clear picture of what the site can provide naturally, and to give our wines a true sense of time and place.”

THE WINE

Today I am presenting 1 Outward wine. As usual, the winery notes come from their tasting sheet, website, or conversations with the owner. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2023 Outward Cabernet Sauvignon, Massa Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.3% ABV, $42 (#1544)

Winery Notes (2018 Vintage): “With no new oak influence, our Massa Cabernet is our ode to the old-school Cabs of California. Our 2023 Cab from this site carries a robust bouquet of aromatics with well-integrated tannins to provide body and structure. Brambly red and black fruits, notes of leather, cedar, and herbaceousness bounce from the glass, while integrated acidity and soft tannins complete the palate. This is a ready-to-drink Cabernet for any occasion—with or without food.” You can read more about this wine and the Massa Vineyard’s legacy here which also has a link to its tech sheet.

My Review: Garnet in color. Fruity nose with scents of dark plum, crushed berries, and cherry. Raspberry jam with blackberry notes, chocolate and leather on the medium- weight palate, leaving you wanting more. The palate wraps with grippy tannins and lingering vanilla notes, wondering how this wine would taste if you could cellar it for a few more years. We’ll try. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Private tastings, by appointment

“We currently offer private, by-appointment tastings at our humble winery production space located in Grover Beach. Visits are approximately 75 minutes in duration and include a tasting of 5-7 wines. Tasting fees are $40 per person.” Please visit their website here for more information.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Shale Canyon’s New Release: 2019 Cabernet Franc

THE STORY

I popped into the Shale Canyon Tasting Room in Carmel-by-the-Sea in February and was informed their 2019 Cabernet Franc had just been released.  Their Cabernet Franc wines are their flagship, award winning wines. I presented an earlier vintage in one of my DC wine classes and was excited to try this one.

THE WINERY

About Shale Canyon from their website: “Shale Canyon Wines started vinting small lots of hand crafted varietals in 2008…Currently Shale Canyon Wines is comprised of Keith Prader, the winemaker, and Tim Prader tasting room and vineyard manager.

“Current production is about 1000+ cases per year with our main focus on producing wines that have outstanding nose, mouth feel and finish.  For the Estate wines we   are currently growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Zinfandel, Tempranillo, Petite Sirah and Mourvèdre.  We source fruit from larger, well established vineyards whose farming practices are exemplary in the industry and whose fruit is second to none.  The varietals include Syrah, Malbec, Chardonnay and Petite Sirah.  We enjoy making classic and unique blends as well .  Our Consortium is a classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.  The Striation is 75% Zinfandel and 25% Mourvèdre, a wonderful floral wine.  And Amalgamation, a very interesting blend of Zinfandel, Tempranillo and Petite Sirah. Quality is our main goal.  Quantity is always secondary. We hope you try and enjoy our wines!”

THE WINE

Today I am presenting 1 Shale Canyon wine. As usual, the winery notes come from their tasting sheet, website, or conversations with the owner. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2019 Shale Canyon Cabernet Franc, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 14.4% ABV, $40 (#1543) 

Winery Notes (2018 Vintage): “Our 2018 Estate Cabernet Franc starts with aromas of dark fruit, slight oak and a touch of floral.  A complex wine with flavors of dark cherry, dark berry and cassis.  A finish of vanilla with a hint of leather and medium firm tannins.

“Cabernet Franc is one of the world’s top 20 most popular grape varieties. Recent DNA testing has proven it to be an ancestor to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenère and Malbec. It is so popular that is has its own “wine” holiday, International Cabernet Day is celebrated August 30th.”

My Review: Rust in color. Cranberry leather, dark, plum eucalyptus and cassis on the nose. Juicy palate of blackberry, cherry, a touch of prune and anise on the finish. Medium to full bodied. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Visit Shale Canyon’s Tasting Room! You can try Shale Canyon wines ($20 and $25 tastings) at their tasting room on Paseo San Carlos Courtyard, Westside San Carlos between Ocean and 7th, Carmel-by-the-Sea.  Their Spring hours are Monday-Thursday 1–4pm; Friday 1-7; Saturday 12-7; Sunday 1 – 5 and suggest reservations for parties of 6 or more.  You can contact them at reservations@shalecanyonwines.com.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Wrath: Checking Out Some New Releases on a Winter’s Monday!

THE STORY

This past February, I met up with 2 of our departing Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society board members at the Wrath Tasting Room in Carmel Plaza to seek their advice before they departed the area. Today’s short post is about 2 new releases I tasted that day.

My last post about Wrath was here: Wrath: When the Power Goes Out, Let’s Go Wine Tasting! I’ve written about their wines a few times – just type “Wrath” in the Decanting Monterey search bar.

ABOUT WRATH

From the Wrath website:

“The wrath of Juno sent Aeneas wandering the Mediterranean in Vergil’s Aeneid. For the ancient Romans, ira or wrath, was a tool of a god, an unstoppable anger driven by forces greater than man. One can argue that we see such fury in both the might of nature and the passion of art. Wrath appears in the edgy power of Robert Plant’s voice and the raw wail of Eric Clapton’s guitar. It is frozen into Jackson Pollock’s violent splatters of paint. Wrath is in the wall of maritime fog that rolls into the Salinas Valley and the relentless afternoon winds that scream through our grape trellises. Wrath wines represent a nexus of nature and an unbridled passion for winemaking. Welcome to Wrath.”

“Wrath produces site-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc from our estate vineyard and respected properties in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Our production is small, our distribution is limited and our wines reveal attitude, passion, and an inherent respect for what a vineyard can give us.”

THE WINES

Today I am presenting 2 Wrath wines from this December mini-tasting. Winery notes come from the tasting sheet or their website, unless otherwise noted. You can read more about each wine on their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2021 Wrath Rosé Extra Brut, San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 12.3% ABV, $65 (#1541)

Winery Notes: “The inaugural vintage of our Brut Rosé, using sustainably grown estate fruit.  Primarily produced with chardonnay and a small amount of pinot noir for color and added flavor.  Bright aromas of pomegranate and watermelon lead to a flavors of Rainier cherry and rosehips with a clean, fresh finish.  With less than 200 cases produced, this is a wine to enjoy knowing that you’ve discovered a rare opportunity to enjoy what few will have.”

My Review: Yeasty apple notes on the nose. Crisp and bubbly with a tart apple, yet slightly sweet pleasant finish. February 2025

2021 Wrath Pommard 4/777 Pinot Noir , Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 14.4% ABV, $39 (#1542)

Winery Notes: “Wrath’s blend of clones 777 and Pommard 4 has always showcased the dark, earthy side of our estate pinot fruit and the 2021 vintage is no exception.  The nose shows off black cherry and forest floor. Whole cluster fermentation (20%) balances acidity and adds to its layered flavors, while a rich, seamless intensity defines the palate with bing cherry, black raspberry and an allspice element; all leading to a long, structured finish.”

My Review: Spice, plum and violets on the nose. Very much Monterey County Pinot Noir on the palate.  Very nice and a great value for the quality. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Wrath has 2 places to taste their wines and we think they are both lovely.  So handy to stop in at Carmel Plaza, but what a treat to drive out River Road to the bucolic setting of their winery – bring your lunch!

Winery Tasting Room: “Located at 35801 Foothill Road (at the junction of River Road) in Soledad, CA, 5 minutes west of Hwy 101.   Open Fri-Mon from 11-5pm, closed Tue-Wed-Thurs.    Direct: 831.678.2992” 

 Carmel Tasting Room: “Located in Carmel Plaza, downtown Carmel at the corner of Ocean Ave. and Mission St., ground floor. Open Fri and Sat from 11-6pm.  Open Sun through Thur from 11-5pm  

831.620.1909”

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Zinfandel Expert Carol Shelton: the Road to Zen

THE STORY

Sometimes you just want a good Zin, so I was delighted to find this 2019 Carol Shelton Oakley zinfandel open in our wine room. We met Carol Shelton a long time ago in Washington DC at a Zinfandel Advocated and Producers (ZAP) event and have been fans ever since.

My last post about Carol Shelton Wines is here: A Plentiful Supply of Central Coast Wines Right at Home. I’ve written about Carol and her wines several times – just type Carol Shelton in the search bar. 

ABOUT CAROL SHELTON WINES

Carol Shelton was one of the pioneer female winemakers in a man’s world.  She spent almost 2 decades as a winemaker for others until her husband urged her to start making her own wines.  You can read her full story here: THE ROAD TO ZEN. Here’s an excerpt:

“…Carol (Shelton) & Mitch Mackenzie, her husband and business partner, have sought out exceptional vineyards throughout California including Dry Creek Valley, Rockpile, Russian River Valley, Fountaingrove District, Paso Robles, Lodi, Mendocino County, and the Cucamonga Valley of Southern California. Many of her vineyard sources are organically grown, dry farmed and many decades old. She develops close partnerships with each grower to ensure her wines maintain and express the unique terroir of the vineyard.”

THE WINE

Today I’m presenting 1 wine, the 2019 Carol Shelton Oakley Zinfandel. Winery notes come from their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2019 Carol Shelton Oakley Zinfandel, Contra Costa AVA, Contra Costa County, 14.4% ABV, $32 (#1540)

Winery Notes: “Beautiful nose of sage, blackberry and milk chocolate, touch of caramel and cedar from the oak, bit of dusty earth. Almost Cabernet-like in its profile, from the kiss of green herbs to nicely structured tannins. Bright acidity while still creamy, and a plush, long finish.”

My Review: Dark garnet, jammy plum, blackberry, and vanilla on the nose. Finishes with a strong cassis, vanilla with some lingering tobacco notes. Reminiscent of a Amador Zin with less of the prune and more dark fruit. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM – Taste the Magic

“The setting for Carol Shelton Wines may not be what wine tasters envision when planning a visit to wine country. But Zin and fine wine lovers stepping into our homey, unpretentious tasting room will find a dream come true.

“After tasting through luscious award-winning wines including; Rose, White Rhone, Red Rhone and single-vineyard designate Zinfandels, finishing with our magical Late Harvest; our locale—an industrial section of Santa Rosa—becomes immaterial.

“We are open for tastings 7 days a week from 11 – 4.  Reserve tasting fee is $20 per person each tasting fee may be waived with purchase of one bottle.

“Walk-ins are welcome or give us a call (707-575-3441) to make a reservation and come on by to taste our award-winning wines.”

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

I Brand & Family- The 2025 Spring Releases!

THE STORY

On a whim, we stopped by the I Brand & Family @ibrandwinery tasting room last month to discover their spring releases were available to try! Angie walked us through them all. I like to see what Ian Brand is making, as you never know what surprises might be revealed – a rare varietal or an unusual source.  It is wine education in a bottle! Today’s offerings were new vintages of mostly familiar (by now) sources, some still young in the bottle – ones to cellar a bit before opening.  Again, I refer to the lost vintage of 2020 reds.

ABOUT I BRAND & FAMILY

I’ve written about I Brand & Family many times in Decanting Monterey. The most recent full post was here: I Brand & Family Presents a Stunning Collection of Petite Sirah! The rest you can easily find by typing I Brand in the search bar on www.decantingmonterey.com.

THE WINES – The 2025 Spring Releases

Today I am presenting 6 wines we tasted in mid-February. Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, their website, or from tasting room staff. This was our last stop of the afternoon. Any errors are mine and mine alone!

2024 La Marea Albariño, Kristy Vineyard, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 12.3% ABV, $25 (#1535)

Winery Notes: “Aromas of white nectarine and honeysuckle abound. Bright acidity leads on the palate framed by a redolence of underripe pineapple and stone fruit, which persist and blend with wet river rock on the finish.”

My Review:Light in the glass. Sweet floral and bubble gum (banana) nose, with a slightly sweet palate, missing some of the acidity and minerality we’ve come to expect. Worthy of a retaste, as this is usually one of our favorite wines year over year. February 2025

2024 Paysan Rosé, Central Coast AVA, 12.9% ABV, $19 (#1536) 72% Mourvèdre, 15% Cinsault, 14% Grenache

Winery Notes: “Initial aromas of watermelon and cantaloupe are inescapable, transitioning to trailside strawberry with a touch of air. Melons and strawberries persist on the palate, and bright red fruits continue into the finish transforming into a pleasing strawberry-basil herbaceous salinity.”

My Review: Pretty light pink in the glass.  Magnolia and wet hay on the nose. Good acidity on the bright palate. Young but good. February 2025

2021 La Marea Grenache, Central Coast AVA, 14.4% ABV, $30 (#1537)

Winery Notes: “Black Plum, currants and herbaceous notes like bay laurel abound on the nose framed by subtle hints of graphite.  Tree-ripened plum leads on the palate quickly revealing more subtle red fruit characteristics, including Bing cherry and strawberry with thyme.  The palate transitions into more river rock and broken stone characteristics and hint toward Tellicherry peppercorn.  Violets fill the mid palate and are wrapped neatly in dusty tannins.”

My Review: Bright, translucent ruby in the glass. Tobacco on the nose. Earth and light cherry on palate. Some sediment. February 2025

2023 I Brand & Family Mourvèdre, Graff Family Vineyard, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 12.5% ABV, $45 (#1538)

Winery Notes: “Telicherry peppercorn and carraway seed lead the bouquet, evolving into spiced black plum notes. The peppery and spiced plum carries over to the palate attack and the exquisitely spicy finish for a light-to-medium-bodied and chillable red. Pronounced yet balanced tannins. Finishes with notes of California garrigue; think sagebrush, manzanita, and mugwort.”

My Review: Almost purple in color. Bing cherry on the nose. Some violet and light cherry notes with a dark finish. A lighter palate than a typical Mourvèdre. February 2025

2022 I Brand & Family Pinot Noir, Flint Vineyard, Cienega Valley AVA, San Benito County, 13.2% ABV, $36 (#1539)

Winery Notes: “The Flint Vineyard is at the base of Mount Harlan, home to Calera, and because the cold air sinks off the mountain onto the property, it buds out late and picks about a month later than Enz and a couple of weeks later than the ‘cool climate’ Santa Lucia Highlands. The Flint Vineyard bears the signature of the special mixed granitic and calcareous soils of the Cienega combined with the darker red fruits and cherry compote character of a cool climate Pinot Noir…

“Berries were tiny in 2022 and the crop was light. Fermented uninocultated on 50% whole cluster with the balance whole berries for two and a half weeks. Aged in used French oak barrels on lees for 20 months. Our 2022 Flint Pinot Noir shows the tension of the vintage quelled by a long rest in barrique.”

 My Review:  Sweet fruit on the nose. Cherry and chocolate. Very smooth and drinkable. This wine makes me appreciate what Pinot Noir can be. We took some home. February 2025.

2022 I Brand & Family Syrah, Graff Family Vineyard, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 12.8% ABV, $48 (#1539)

Winery Notes: “Earthy, meaty notes of peppered beef jerky. Graphite and clay transition into a savory mix of fire-roasted tomato confit and guajillo chili, which evolve into dark fruit reminiscent of a spiced blueberry compote ending with cumin and cardamom on the finish.”

My Review:  This was our last wine of the day, so the notes are a little skimpy and don’t do service to the wine – will need to try this one again. Cherry flavors on a lean palate. A tad acidic. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

The I Brand & Family Tasting Room, located at 19 Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village. It is open Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 5 pm.  Reservations are recommended – more information here.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Introducing Our East Coast Friends to Corral’s High Quality Wines!

THE STORY

When six couples from our East Coast life joined us here on the Monterey Peninsula, it wasn’t hard to come up with wineries we wanted them to experience. Corral Wine Co. @corralwineco was an easy choice to make. This was the perfect opportunity to expose them to Adrien Valenzuela’s fine winemaking.  In addition, there were 4 new releases to try, which are the centerpiece of today’s post!

Many thanks to owner Larry Bell for his surprise appearance to host our group and share stories about the winery and the wines. (Our friends proclaimed “There’s a cowboy in there!” as we walked into the tasting room.) His humility and honesty about their experiences, successes and challenges to date are refreshing. As their slogan says: they’re not fancy, but they make good wine. And a very special shout out to Marissa for pouring for us and amplifying the wine descriptions along the way – she is the consummate professional! Our friends commented for days about the high quality of the Corral Wine Co. wines.

My last post about Corral Wine Co.  was here: A Rare Chance to Attend a Corral Release Party!  I’ve written about them several times – just type “Corral” in the Decanting Monterey search bar. A couple of updated reviews from that previous posting:

My Chardonnay-loving friend declared the 2022 Corral Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay as the best of the day.  My updated review: “Yellow-gold in the glass. Butter and caramel balanced by a touch of lime on the nose. Quite flavorful and classic. A nice tang on the palate and acidity on the finish saves it from being too buttery from the malolactic fermentation. November 2024 and March 2025”

And, finally, the 2021 Corral Cabernet Sauvignon has come into its own on this third (for me) tasting: “Purple in the glass. Raspberry and plum on the nose, reminiscent of a balsamic vinegar, savory and slightly sweet at the same time. Juicy, balanced palate, like a rich raspberry jam on toasted sourdough. A blue, tannic crunchiness of Concord grape skin, finishing with intensely dark plum and mint.  Very complex and delicious. March 2025”

THE WINERY

From their website: “In 2017, in a barn in Corral de Tierra, California, we barreled our first batch of estate Pinot Noir. We’re still in that same barn, but we’ve made even more varietals from some of the best grapes on the Central Coast.

“We’re a family-owned operations – we’re not fancy, but we make good wine.”

THE WINES

Today I am presenting 4 Corral Wine Co. new releases from this reunion experience. Winery notes come from their website or the tasting sheet. My notes are amplified by the East Coast Chapter of the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 Corral Estate Rose of Pinot Noir, Bell Ranch, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, $36 (#1531)

Winery Notes: “Vibrant aromas of strawberry, peach ring, and red fruit. Leading way into flavors of watermelon, passion fruit, and orange citrus with hints of white peach and mandarin.” Getting the color right remains a challenge – from their previous vintage of a bright deep color to this year’s pale version.

My Review: Very pale and viscous in the glass. Floral nose, followed by a crisp palate highlighted by pink grapefruit tartness. I would drink this in the micro-climate. March 2025

2023 Corral Sauvignon Blanc, Zabala Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 13.4% ABV, $30 (#1532)

Winery Notes: “Aromas of stone fruits, citrus, wet stone, and hints of gooseberry. On the palate lemon, citrus, peach while finishing with its nice racing acidity and minerality.”

My Review: Pale golden in the glass. Grilled pineapple on the nose. Very tasty crisp palate with gooseberry and pineapple flavors. Perhaps the tastiest Monterey County Sauvignon Blanc currently on the market. February and March 2025

2022 Corral Pinot Noir, KW Ranch, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.5% ABV, $58 (#1533)

Winery Notes: “Rich, full flavors of drk cherry, blackberry, bay leaf, clove, spice, and a long finish.”

My Review: Garnet in color. Violet and light cherry on the pleasant nose. Rich cherry jam countered by leather on the hot palate, with lingering menthol on the finish. A richer flavor than most SLH Pinot Noirs, slightly sweet on the front with a little lingering menthol on the finish. Consistently one of our favorite SLH Pinot Noirs. February and March 2025

2021 Corral Petite Sirah, Paso Robles AVA, San Luis Obispo County, 14.5% ABV, $56 (#1534)

Winery Notes: “Dark and rich in color with aromas of dark fruit, and ripe red fruits leading way into hints of sage, nutmeg, spices, and leather. With flavors of blackberries, sweet baking spices finishing with nice velvety tannins and a long flavorful finish.”

My Review: Rich, thick, dark purple in color. Crushed black currant with eucalyptus and sage notes on the nose. Huge, rich palate of dark fruit, finishing with lingering intense black currant and saddle leather. This is one delicious wine. We took some home! February/March 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

VISIT US

*Please note that Corral is moving very shortly (if not already) next door in the stand-alone white house formerly occupied by Albatross Ridge!*

“We’d love to pour for you at our Tasting Room in Carmel Valley Village: 19 East Carmel Valley Rd. Suite C, Carmel Valley, CA”

Open Sunday – Thursday 12-5 p.m., Friday – Saturday 12-6-ish p.m.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Chesebro Releases Its 2017 Classics!

THE STORY

Usually, I catch the announcement when a new Chesebro La Montagne Sauvage is released, but the release of their latest vintage of this wine caught me by surprise. La Montagne Sauvage is one of the Monterey County wines I presented in my very first class many moons ago – it holds a special place in this aficionado’s portfolio.  I discovered the release of this wine and 2 other new releases when I stopped in to pick up a couple of bottles of their Sparkling rosé. I came back with one of my Decanting Monterey Wine Pod expert tasters to make sure I got these classics right. We were fortunate to be hosted that day by Alex Lallos, their Tasting Room Manager.

I commend Chesebro for continuing to produce exceptional wines at affordable prices – something they should be extremely proud of.

THE WINES

Today, I am presenting 3 Chesebro Wines.  I last presented their wines to you in January 2025 here: Kicking Off the New Year with a Chesebro Favorite! Winery notes come from the label, their tasting sheet or their website, unless otherwise noted.  Any errors are mine and mine alone; however, as a general rule, I do not correct any typos from the winery’s website.

2017 Chesebro Piedras Blancas, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.4% ABV, $30 (#1415)

Winery Notes: “A Rhone style white (85% Roussanne, 10% Vermentino, 5% Sauvignon Blanc) Our richest and most complex / ageworthy white. Don’t be afraid to put this Rhone syled white from our estate vineyard in Carmel Valley deep in your cellar. A blend of mainly Roussanne, it is modeled after the most famous white wines in Chateauneuf du Pape, France. Rich and viscous with aromas of stone fruit and flavors of baked apples and oak. A full bodied and very srious white for the true connoiseur in mind. Pair this heady white whith cream sauces, roasted fowl and sweetbreads.”

My Review: Pale, dusty gold in the glass. Light mouthfeel. Peach and melon on the nose. Mellow palate with gardenia, white peach flavors, a lot of minerality, and balanced acidity. Turns out this wine was released in Summer 2024 – but I have better tasting notes this time! February 2025

2017 Chesebro La Montagne Sauvage, CM Ranch, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.7% ABV, $35 (#1524)

Winery Notes: “Our proprietary Rhone belnd of Syrah (80%), Grenache (15%) and Mourvedre (5%) modeled after the legendary wines of the Southern Rhone Valley in France. Grown at 1800′ elevation, this is our flagship wine and our most popular blend from a small 2.5 acre vineyard in the mountains of Carmel Valley. Rich and broading with aromas of dark blackberries, chaparral, sage and all-spice. An ageworthy and deeply profound example of what these Rhone varietals can do on the granite soils of Upper Carmel Valley. ONLY 80 Cases Produced.”

My Review: Dusty garnet in color. Jammy nose with dark cherry and spicy notes. Medium palate with dark cherry flavors and a dry finish. Tasty. This is one of my favorite wines to present in a class. We took some home. February 2025

2017 Chesebro Syrah, CM Ranch, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.6% ABV, $38 (#1525)

Winery Notes: “Single barrel series. Only 25 cases produced. 100% single vineyard Syrah from our estate vineyard in Carmel Valley. Aromas of dark blueberry and currants, spice, sandal wood and cedar. Some deep earthy forest notes as well. Wonderfully balanced with chalky tannins, fine acidity and brambly fruit. Medium-full bodied.”

My Review: Big bright flavors on the exploding palate. A range of cherry flavors. Really delicious. Probably my favorite wine of the day. Took some home! February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Come Raise a Glass with Us! We are located at 19D East Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village.”

From the Chesebro Facebook Page, used with permission

“We are now open for tasting on Friday through Sunday from noon until 5 PM and by apointment on other days. Due to our limited capacity please make an appointment on all days so that we may better serve you. Appointments can either be set up through this page…or by contacting Alex directly at Alex@chesebrowines.com or 831-238-2618. Due to our remote location, appointments are not available for the winery itself….”

SOME SPECIALS AT WINE.COM TO SHARE WITH YOU

New Customer March Promotion

  • Promotion: $20 off $150 on your First Order at Wine.com 
  • Code: MARCH20
  • Dates Live: NOW-3/31/25
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Top Themes this Week

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Rombi’s 2018 Petite Sirah Expresses Its Napa Pedigree!

THE STORY

One of the first places I went when my Dry January ended was to see Sal Rombi @rombiwine in his Carmel Valley tasting room.  He said he had something for me. Yes, folks, February 1 and I was there! He told me he was going to be releasing his 2018 Petite Sirah this spring and he wanted me to try it. I gladly took it home. Impatient as we are, on February 2, we double decanted it (the best way to enjoy a Rombi wine!) and enjoyed it with our Sunday night dinner.

As my avid readers know, I fund this blog out of pocket.  The industry recognition for waived tasting fees and discounts on wines is greatly appreciated; and the occasional gifting of a bottle of wine (or more), even more so.  It doesn’t happen often, so I am so grateful when it does.

Grazie mille, Sal!

As I looked through my files, I realized we had tried this wine in August 2024 – but without the luxury of double decanting and at the end of a Decanting Monterey Wine Pod evening of tasting – not the best way, for sure. So today, I am happy to present both tastings together here in one place.

ABOUT ROMBI WINES

“Since 2006, hands-on winemaking that reflects a unique sense of place”

“Wine is a gift from nature, and every bottle produced at Rombi Wines tells a story of the land, the geography, the climate, and the hands-on philosophy of one man. Salvatore Rombi takes winemaking personally, obsessing over every detail — from harvest to barrel aging — to produce a unique range of elegant yet bold and complex red wines from the Carmel Valley Appellation. Rombi’s small vineyard and intimate tasting room provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable wine journey. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a strict allegiance to sustainable farming practices, Rombi creates award-winning, limited-production vintages. As an ode to terroir — the rock and soil, but also the land and legacy, culture and commitment, time and tradition — the wines from Rombi are always bottled poetry.”

THE WINE

Today I’m presenting 1 wine, the 2018 Rombi Petite Sirah expected to be released soon, and my two sets of tasting notes, as explained above. 

2018 Rombi Petite Sirah, Napa Valley AVA, 14.6% ABV, $75 (#1128) (pre-release)

My New Review: This wine was gifted to me. Big jammy nose, including plum, violet, blackberry, licorice and Chinese five spice. A huge palate of jammy blue and black fruits, wrapped in Chinese five spice with a licorice and cassis finish. Definitely has the Napa pedigree. February 2025

My Previous Review: This was the evening’s bonus wine, so it was not decanted. Always a mistake. Rombi wines must be decanted.  Late in the evening, our notes were not as extensive: Very dark purple in color. Dried fig, cigarettes and a touch of barnyard on the nose. Super rich, big palate. This wine comes off a little hot, yet is an extremely tasty wine. Next time I get my hands on one of these, we are decanting it! August 2024

And so I did!

THE TASTING ROOM

Taste Award-Winning Vintages at Rombi Wines:

“At Rombi Wines, our unique tasting room provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. Salvatore Rombi is most often on hand to guide you through the winemaking process and your tasting experience. Step off the beaten path and discover Rombi, where every bottle tells a story.

“Rombi Wines Tasting Room is at 1 Center St., in the charming Carmel Valley Village. We are open Saturdays and Sundays from noon–5 p.m., although appointments can be made for weekday visits.”

(831) 659-7200

© Decanting Monterey 2025

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

And the 2021s Keep Rolling Out at Parsonage

THE STORY

Today’s story seems simple on the surface: a Parsonage wine pickup and more 2021 releases to taste. We enjoy our wine pickups – a chance to chat up the staff, hear what’s new, taste new releases, retry some favorites, and hand select our final allocation.  But the deeper story reflects what I am tasting and hearing at our local wineries: the impact of the missing vintage.

The 2020 wildfires ravaged much of Monterey County’s vineyards – both the Salinas Valley and Carmel Valleys were hit hard, meaning most vintners had to completely scrap their red wines. And, since many of our wineries are quite small, this means the 2021 and 2022 red wines are being released sooner than expected. It’s something to consider when you taste these wines that probably need more time in the bottle.  I’m not referring to any of the wines in today’s post.  But it is something to keep in mind.

My last post about Parsonage was here: Parsonage: From the 2008 “Snosrap” to the Latest Rocco! Let’s just jump into these wines!

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you just 2 new releases from Parsonage’s 2021 vintage.  Winery notes come from their website, newsletters or tasting room. Some of these are so new that tasting notes aren’t even yet available! Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2021 Parsonage Cyrano Red Wine, Central Coast AVA, 15% ABV, $32 (#1522)

Winery Notes: “The Cyrano, a blend of Merlot and Syrah, is one of our best sellers. Quite the dazzling bouquet of black, blue, and red fruit (in that order) wrapped in allspice and vanilla. Remarkably complex and delicious palate of blackberry, blueberry, black cherry, currant, and exotic spices. The mouthfeel is elegantly structured with perfect acid-tannin balance.  What a beautiful finish!” 

My Review: Pretty garnet in the glass. Orange, violet, dark red plums, cranberry, red cherry, with a hint of bubblegum on the nose. Medium palate of bright cherries balanced with dried cherries, with the Syrah giving it a spicy finish. February 2025

2021 Parsonage Hawk Reserve Pinot Noir, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $90 (#1523)

Winery Notes: “SCRUMPTIOUS!! What a crazy word to describe Pinot Noir. I also could have said yummy or delicious.  But those descriptors are so inadequate. This Hawk is a true outlier, reminiscent of the epic 2012 version, for those who remember that vintage. The 2021 is barely recognizable as Pinot Noir. The bouquet hints at Pinot with its cherry and floral essences. But there’s a mysterious opulence to this Hawk that is mystifying and compellingly addictive. In a word, scrumptious!”

My Review: Mint and cherry on the nose. Light cherry and spice on the palate. An improvement over most Central Coast Pinot Noir wines – no metallic taste! A tasty wine. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Hooray! We are open for both indoor and outdoor wine tasting daily.”

19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley Village

Hours: Monday – Friday: noon to 5pm, Saturday & Sunday: 11am to 5pm, Last seating for wine tasting: 4:15pm.

Tasting Room Photo Provided Courtesy of Parsonage!

“Reservations can be made here or by phone. Please call us at 831-659-7322 for same day reservations.”

© Decanting Monterey 2025

**FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

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