Tagged: Cabernet Sauvignon

Le P’tit Paysan: Let’s Go Back in Time a Little Bit…

We recently opened Ian Brand’s 2017 Le P’tit Paysan Cabernet Sauvignon and I wrote up this whole side-by-side review of the 2017 and the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon (2018 previously reviewed here: https://decantingmonterey.com/le-ptit-paysan-new-releases-continue-to-impress/). A few weeks later, we discovered a 2012 Le P’tit Paysan Petite Sirah in our wine room and decided to open it, as well. So, let me revise my planned post a bit!

About Le P’tit Paysan from wine.com: “The Le P’tit Paysan label is ‘Village’ wines reimagined for California. They take vineyards and lots that, for whatever reason, aren’t ready to stand on their own and we compose them into terroir specific, eminently drinkable wines that belong on your table. These wines are made with the same attention to detail that graces our single vineyard offerings, specific site selection, open top fermentation (reds) or whole cluster pressing (whites), a focus on endemic fermentations, no enzymes, no fining, gentle filtration only as needed.  Easy to drink but subtly serious, easy to pair but lovely on their own, demurring complexity, bright acidity, clean and fresh as the ocean air that blows in daily off the Monterey Bay.”

We liked the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon and feel the direction of moving to Old Vines fruit from San Benito County, as he did with the 2018, is a great move.  That one was incredibly young when I tasted it and it deserves a revisit soon.  AND, for my DC-area readers, you can find the 2018 at lots of little markets around town!

2017 Le P’tit Paysan Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast, 13.3% ABV, $25 (#475*)

91 Points by wine.com: “Wineries often grapple with this question: Do we produce a style of wine that most consumers will like our do we deliver the best vision of the grape variety? The 2017 Le P’tit Paysan Cabernet Sauvignon pulls no punches and is a true to the grape variety as can be. TASTING NOTES: This wine is pert, well-built and Old World in style. Its aromas and flavors of black currants, earth, and dried herbs and held together in a tight and elegant format. It should pair well with a pan-seared lamb chop. (Tasted: March 19, 2019, San Francisco, CA)”

My Review: Dark in the glass.  Black fruits on the nose with a touch of cedar.  Dark berry and cherry flavors on the palate.  Vanilla on the finish. A touch acidic. August 2021

2018 Le P’tit Paysan Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon, San Benito County, $25 (#279*) (previously published)

Winery Tasting Notes: “currant, blueberry, cracked black pepper, medium-bodied”

Wine Enthusiast – 91 points: “This is a great example of Cab done in a more classical style, utilizing old vines for their aromatic and flavor range while remaining light on its toes. Aromas of crunchy blackberry, pepper and crushed wet stone lead into an energetic palate of black plum, chaparral spice and cracked pepper.” Matt Kettmann, 09/2021

My Review: Ruby in the glass.  A light, smooth bouquet and palate to match.  Very drinkable – not a big wine, but a great value and drinkable now! March 2021

2012 Le P’tit Paysan Petite Sirah, Monterey County, 13.7% ABV, ~$21 (#476*)

Winery Notes: Black plums, blackberry, crushed rocks, black olive. Full and rich on the palate, but neither hot nor oaky. Structured without being overbearing, rich dark fruit, long finish with hints of stem tannins.

My Review: Inky ruby in the glass. Dark plum and blueberry on the nose. Soft blueberry and blackberry fruit is enveloped by a licorice finish. October 2021

I Brand’s tasting room in Carmel Valley Village is open for tastings – reservations recommended.  https://www.ibrandwinery.com/visit.  And BIG NEWS:  You can now purchase I Brand wines directly from their website at https://www.ibrandwinery.com/!

*Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

© Decanting Monterey 2023

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KORi Wines: It’s a “family affair”!

Time to celebrate a friend’s birthday while her husband was out of town.  Since she forms a core part of the Decanting Monterey COVID Wine Pod, why not go to lunch in Carmel-by-the-Sea and do some wine tasting afterwards?  After a lovely patio lunch at Grasings, we headed to our first stop – KORi!

I didn’t know much about KORi Wines except that they are relatively new and have earned critical acclaim. I was excited to know more about her wines and her at her tasting room!

From the Label: “Kori Wines are a family affair – a partnership between respected Santa Lucia Highlands grower Kirk Williams and his stepdaughter Kori Violini.”  Yes, we are talking Kirk Williams of KW Ranch fame!

Critical Acclaim from the 2019 San Francisco International Wine Competition:

  • Double Gold: 2017 San Saba Syrah (Monterey) 94 pts
  • Gold: 2017 KW Ranch Pinot Noir (SLH) 90 pts
  • Silver: 2018 Griva Sauvignon Blanc (Arroyo Seco), 2014 KW Ranch Pinot Noir (SLH)
  • Bronze: 2018 Highlands Ranch Rosé (SLH) 

Today I am presenting 7 of Kori’s wines.  The winery notes come from the labels and their website. The prices are from the tasting sheet.  We were excited to know that the winemaker is Sabrine Rodems from Wrath, as well as her own label, Scratch. The reds are all aged in French oak. 

2018 KORi Blanc de Blanc, Highlands Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, ??% ABV, $45 (#449*) 

Winery notes: “Our first sparkling wine from our estate grown Chardonnay.  Vibrant acidity and a fresh (dry) palate. Drink 2020-2028.”

Winery Tasting Notes: “Lemon. Lime Zest. White Blossom. White Nectarine. Fig. Lychee.”

My Review: Nose at first was yeasty, common in California sparklers, but it dissipated over time.  Clover and a touch of nuttiness on the nose. Stone fruit and citrus on the palate.  My Champagne loving partner liked this wine. August 2021                                                                                                                          

2020 KORi Sauvignon Blanc, Griva Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, 13.6% ABV, $27 (#450*) 

Winery notes: “A personal favorite varietal of Kori’s, grapes sourced from esteemed Griva Vineyard in Arroyo Seco.”

Winery Tasting Notes: Guava. Lychee. Melon. Lemon Cream.

My Review: Viscous yet clear like water in the glass. Green apple, crisp pear and honey on the nose.  Honey and grapefruit on the palate with some ripe cheese flavor mid-palate.  Very refreshing. August 2021                

2019 KORi Rosé, Highlands Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 13.2% ABV, $25 (#451*) 

Winery Notes: “Our 2nd vintage! Like the previous vintage, 2019 is made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes from our estate owned Highlands Ranch Vineyard.” 200 cases produced.

Winery Tasting Notes: “Rose Petal. Rainer Cherry. Wet Gravel. Crab Apple. Stone Fruit.”

Critical Acclaim: “Bronze Medal – SF International Wine Competition 2019”

My Review: With 24 hours on the skins, this wine is bold in color.  Slightly bitter on the nose.  Rich in flavor on the palate, we’d say this is not a patio-sipping rosé. Rather, this would make a great food wine. August 2021                

2018 KORi Pinot Noir, KW Ranch, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA (#452*) 

    Winery notes: Not available.

    My Review: Slightly perfumey on the nose.  Good, rich flavor with a slightly bitter finish. Would be good with a meal.  August 2021                 

    2017 KORi Pinot Noir, KW Ranch, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 14.3% ABV, $49 (#453*) 

    Winery notes: “From our family, estate owned first vineyard planted in 1997 at the corner of Fariview & River Roads in the heart of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Drink 2020-2027” 94 pts from Wine Enthusiast

    Winery Tasting Notes: “Pomegranate. Blackberry. Bay Leaf. Red Cherry.”

    Critical Acclaim: Gold – SF International Wine Competition

    My Review: Ruby in color. Intense cooked cherry on the nose.  The palate was raisin-like – intense fruit yet both bitter and sweet. This wine had been opened from the previous day; we declined an offer to open a fresh bottle. August 2021            

    2018 KORi Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, 14.5% ABV, $55 (#454*) 

    Winery notes: “The first Cab from KORi Wines!  Sabrine couldn’t have done a better job making our debut Cab with single vineyard Alexander Valley fruit. Drink 2020-2030.” 225cases produced.

    Winery Tasting Notes: “Pomegranate. Charred Pepper. Sour Cherry. Black Tea.”

    My Review: Ruby in color.  Green pepper on the nose.  Dark berries with solid tannins.  Explosive of flavor on the palate with a slightly tobacco finished. Delicious, yet a bit light for a Cabernet Sauvignon. I would recommend cellaring this wine. August 2021   

    2018 KORi Syrah, San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 14.5% ABV, $42 (#455*) 

    Winery notes: “Hot off the heels of the, now sold out, 2017 vintage comes the San Saba 2018 which a slightly drier year shows the same great black fruit, plum, baking spice & smoked meat put in a more concentrated package.” 195 cases produced.

    Winery Tasting Notes: “Juicy Bramble Fruit. Black Pepper. Cigar Box.”

    Critical Acclaim: Double Gold – SF International Wine Competition

    My Review: Dark ruby in the glass.  White pepper and jammy berries on the nose, with lots of pepper masking most of the fruit on the palate. August 2021                

    You can buy KORi wines online or at their tasting room in Carmel-by-the-Sea “Monday-Thursday 1-6 (TUES CLOSED), Friday Noon-6, Saturday Noon-7, Sunday Noon-6. Reservations not required. Mission St between Ocean & 7th Avenue, Court of the Fountains, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921” 

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

    © Decanting Monterey 2023

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    Galante: Now This Cowboy Makes Big Reds!

    I don’t spend nearly enough time wine tasting in Carmel-by-the-Sea.  Part of it is our search for warmth and sun. Part of it is not wanting to deal with crowds of people and parking. I did make it to a couple of the Carmel-by-the-Sea tasting rooms during COVID, mostly to pick up specific wines for my weekly class. Now that things are truly open, I want to get there more often.

    When I needed to find a new groomer for my dog (that is a long, pandemic story), I thought, “This could be a win-win!”  I dropped my dog at the groomer and walked to a couple of nearby tasting rooms. Perfect!  When can he get groomed again? 😊

    A year after my little guy was banned by one groomer, we struck gold!

    Today’s post is about Galante Vineyards.  Galante was the first winery to open a tasting room in Carmel-by-the-Sea.  We have visited them several times over the many years. I learned from Kaela that Jack’s great grandfather was actually the founder of Carmel-by-the-Sea! Their roots in the area run deep! According to their website, Jack’s parents bought a cattle ranch in Carmel Valley and began growing grapes (focused on Cabernet Sauvignon) in 1983.  Over a decade later, Jack decided to build a winery and make his own wine.  There is definitely a ranch/cowboy theme in his tasting room and in his wines!

    If you are a big red drinker, you will find something to please your palate at Galante!

    The ranch is located in the Cachagua region of Carmel Valley, home to several wineries large and small producing rich Bordeaux varietals. I contend that the climate and terroir of Cachagua result in some of the finest wines produced in Monterey County. I like my reds big – and the fruit in this region seems extra delicious.

    Today I am presenting 6 Galante red wines.  The winery notes come from their website linked above.

    2017 Galante Kick Ass Red, Carmel Valley AVA, 13.5% ABV, $35 (#405*) 

    Winery notes: “With a blend of 73% Malbec and 27% Petite Sirah, this untamed wine from our Carmel Valley Estate vineyards has the familiar smell of saddle leather and fresh picked huckleberries.  It cuts loose with rustic flavors of blueberry cobbler rounding out its hearty finish. It’ll make any trail meal taste fancy.”

    My Review: Super dark ruby in the glass. Intense deep berry on the nose (my Cachagua fruit!).  Bright acidity.  The Petite Sirah really tempers the Malbec in this blend. From one of the oldest vineyards in Carmel Valley. July 2021                                                                                                                               

    2014 Galante “Ace High” Malbec, Carmel Valley AVA, 14% ABV, $40 (#406*) 

    Winery notes: “If you haven’t had a bottle of this 2014 vintage lately, you’re in for a treat!  At almost 6 years old, this wine is absolutely delicious – full-bodied, soft, and fruit forward with notes of spicy plum and blackberry – there is no better pairing with a nice grilled steak or perhaps some slow-cooked short ribs.”

    My Review: Very inky in the glass.  Bright acidity on the palate (I learned Jack likes lower alcohol and a bit of acidity).  Cassis flavors on the palate with a touch of raisin and a very dry finish. July 2021                     

    2018 Galante Rancho Galante, Carmel Valley AVA, 14% ABV, $45 (#407*) 

    Winery notes: “This lovely blend of Malbec, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon is direct and lively with excellent red fruit and bright acidity.  It will compliment most any meal or perhaps just a wonderful cheese selection.”

    My Review: Smokey rich berry nose.  Smooth, intense berry fruit on the palate and a dry finish.  My notes say “Wow!” This was one of my preferred wines of those tasted today.  I took a bottle home! July 2021                     

    2017 Galante Red Rose Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, 13.3% ABV, $50 (#408*) 

    Winery notes: “A blend of 8% each of Malbec, Petite Sirah & Melot with 76% Cabernet Sauvignon.  Enjoy this explosive mouth full…of beautiful cherry and sweet tangy cassis.” (from the tasting sheet)

    My Review: Intense on the palate with acidity and a bit of sweet cherry on the finish. July 2021                   

    2018 Galante Legacy Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, 14% ABV, $85 (#409*) 

    Winery notes: “We are especially excited to present our inaugural 2018 Legacy Cabernet Sauvignon (75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot). This series celebrates Jack Galante’s great grandfather’s vision which created the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The photo on this first label depicts James Frank Devendorf in his buggy overlooking what is to become the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Aged in new French Oak for a full 20 months, this wine is opulent and rich with bold, lingering flavors of ripe blackberry, cassis and vanilla. With ample, chewy yet soft tannins, this wine will be extremely cellar worthy for many decades so put a bottle or two away but enjoy some now as well. Only 100 cases were produced!”

    My Review: Almost purple in the glass. Slight caramel on the nose.  Intense berries on the palate with a lingering finish.  This was indeed my favorite of the day. July 2021               

    2001 Galante Rancho Galante Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, 14.1% ABV, $135 (#410*) 

    Winery notes: “The color is very bright and youthful. Initially the nose may have a slight lactic scent that blows off with some air leading to expressive black fruit. The flavors are big and rich with a concentrated black currant. Very bright on the front of the palate and long on the finish. This wine will benefit from some open time but will go on for many years in the bottle. Outstanding!”

    My Review: Inky dark in the glass – very different in appearance from the other wines tasted today.  BBQ ribs and some cooked fruit on the nose, reflecting the age of this library selection.  Some raisin and cassis on the palate. July 2021             

    You can buy Galante wines online or at their Tasting Room on Dolores between 7th and Ocean Ave., Carmel-by-the-Sea.  They are open daily!

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

    “On the west side of the Salinas Valley, directly in the path of Monterey’s relentless afternoon winds, sits Ranch 32”

    Cassandra recently visited her friend’s godparents in East Bay.  The godfather was from Monterey and served them a delicious Ranch 32 Cabernet Sauvignon.  When I needed an American “Claret” – a blend of Bordeaux varietals made in the U.S., I found out that Ranch 32 makes a Meritage! I did some digging and discovered that “Meritage” is one way of referring to such a blend.  I don’t see the “Meritage” nomenclature very often any more – it was quite the thing for a while. 

    This map from Ranch 32’s website shows the location of their estate vineyards.

    About Ranch 32: “This is the place where we first planted vines in 1972 when winegrowing was in its infancy in Monterey County. The specialness of the region was understood, but it would take a few decades for the vineyards to reach their full potential. Ranch 32 is about highlighting the natural characteristics of the terroir and conveying the taste of place. Each vintage, we produce small lots of wines from our sustainably farmed estate vineyards that represent the best of the appellation. From the renowned Arroyo Seco AVA, we craft our Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Further south from the San Lucas and Hames Valley AVAs, we bring you our Cabernet Sauvignon.” “100% Powered by Wind”

    From the Monterey County Vintners & Growers website

    About San Lucas AVA from their website: “Originally land that served as an open range for cattle grazing in the 1800s, the San Lucas appellation is located on the southwestern edge of the Salinas Valley and is comprised of sweeping alluvial fans and terraces.” You can read more here: https://www.ranch32wines.com/place/san-lucas

    From the Monterey County Vintners & Growers website

    About Hames Valley AVA from their website: “Located at the southernmost tip of Monterey County, the Hames Valley appellation has its own unique climate. It sits at the foot of the Santa Lucia Mountains, with rolling hills dotted by ancient oak trees.” More here:  https://www.ranch32wines.com/place/hames-valley

    Ranch 32 2018 Vineyard Reserve Meritage, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV, $30 40% Petit Verdot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 7% Malbec (#385*)

    BevMo Review – 85 points: “Aromas of blackberries and dark plums with overtones of mocha and dark chocolate; well-integrated tannins lead to a long, layered finish.”

    My Review: Ruby in the glass with a lovely, rich bouquet of dark fruits: plum, berry, oak and a touch of cherry.  The palate was balanced, quite drinkable and fresh, with a touch of tangerine on the finish.  This wine is young.  It opened up into nice, round flavors over time.  I bought this at BevMo for $29.95 and got a second bottle for 5 cents – will hold onto that one and see what happens!   June 2021                                                    

    Buying Ranch 32 Wines: You can buy Ranch 32 wines at BevMo.

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

    Parsonage: Big Reds Break Coastal Chill!

    Friday before Memorial Day…let’s head out to the valley in search of warmth and wine! Parsonage is always one of our favorite places to taste wines – with plenty of the big reds, just the way we like them.  Summer gave us a sunny seat, giving us a little break from our coastal chill.   

    Want sun? Want shade? It can all be arranged! Photo courtesy Parsonage.

    I’ve presented Parsonage to you in several prior posts and won’t repeat about them here (just type “Parsonage” in the search bar to see them all). You can check out their website here:  https://www.parsonagewine.com/. Winery notes below are from their website, unless otherwise indicated.

    Our latest haul from Parsonage – So happy to have these in my collection!

    2019 Parsonage Grenache Rosé, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $29 (#385*)

    Winery Notes: A perennial warm weather favorite. And a surprise to everyone who thinks they don’t like Rosé! Made with Grenache grapes. Refreshing and dry.

    Owner Bill Parsons’ tasting notes: “What a nose!! If you spend some time with the nose of this lovely and sensual wine, you could discover notes of red roses, lavender, strawberry, pomegranate, raspberry, watermelon, peach and citrus zest. The bouquet comes alive on the palate with strawberry and watermelon. The finish is rich, full and lively.” 

    My Review: Apple cider on the nose.  Rich and flavorful on the palate.  I’d love to drink this wine on a “hot” day at our neighbors’ micro-climate patio! May 2021

    2017 Parsonage Grenache-Syrah, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $36 (#386*) 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah

    Grenache-Syrah photo courtesy of Parsonage.

    Winery Notes: “This easy drinker pairs nicely with cheese & crackers. We joke that we should re-name it the “universal donor” even though that isn’t the perfect analogy. But you get the gist of it – this wine seems to be universally loved, no matter what your favorite varietal is…Fully dry. Medium-bodied but rich.”

    Owner Bill Parsons’ tasting notes: “A bright mixed bouquet of floral notes accented by raspberry, pomegranate, blueberry, and black cherry mark the nose of this traditional blend. The palate is full, but not as massive as previous vintages. All of the fruit of the nose resonates in the mouth with a hint of umami. This iteration of our Grenache Syrah is marvelously complex and elegant.”  

    My Review: Bright ruby in the glass.  Very round on the palate and delicious.  May 2021

    2017 Parsonage Cyrano Red Wine, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $26 (#387*) 70% Merlot, 30% Syrah

    Winery Notes: “Our versatile red table wine easily pairs with a variety of different foods. We think it goes especially well with pizza and spaghetti with red sauce. This vintage is full bodied. A blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Syrah. Rich, ripe and voluptous. The Cyrano is one of our best sellers.”

    My Review: This is an exciting blend – bright and energetic.  Summer says:  Good vintage, aged in neutral oak barrels, best seller year over year. May 2021

    2015 Parsonage Cyrano Red Wine, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $26 (#388*) 70% Merlot, 30% Syrah 

    Winery Notes: (We had this wine in our collection and opened it to compare to the 2017 we had tasted at the winery.  The two vintages seemed shockingly similar.  In fact, the winery’s tasting notes are identical to the 2017!)

    My Review: Dark ruby in the glass. Nose of dark berries and cherry. Rich palate of dark fruits overplayed with cherry – excited, dancing on the tongue. May 2021

    2017 Parsonage Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast, 15% ABV, $48 (#389*) 

    2017 Cabernet Sauvignon photo courtesy Parsonage.

    Winery Notes: “This Cabernet Sauvignon field blend is joined with a mix of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. It’s a full-throttle bombastic beauty, typical of younger vines. The nose is all about very dark fruit marked by brambleberry compote. Plum and cassis join with the brambleberry on a muscular palate that finishes with some major league tannins.” The Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a private vineyard in Cachagua (Carmel Valley) and the Cabernet Franc comes from Paicines AVA!

    My Review: Beautiful ruby in the glass. Cherry on the nose.  Rich cherry and berry on the palate.  Quite good! May 2021

    2018 Parsonage Hawk Reserve Pinot Noir, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $80 (#390*)

    Photo of the 2017 Parsonage Hawk Reserve Pinot Noir

    Winery Notes from the tasting sheet: Full bodied with full fruit expression and sensuous texture.

    My Review: Translucent ruby in color. Raspberry on the nose.  Super juicy bright berry flavors and luscious. Supple tannins. Very nice Pinot Noir – even I like this one! The Hawk can stand up to a Burgundian red! May 2021

    Parsonage is open for tastings by reservation only every day – click here for the details.  You can obtain their wines directly from the winery here or at their tasting room located at 19 E Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village.  

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

    Parsonage’s Tanner: The Power of Carmel Valley Cabernet Sauvignons!

    We reassembled the fully vaccinated (yay!) COVID Wine Pod for a patio tasting last week and, for the first time, we were able to move inside when the weather turned chilly and windy. Mr. H pulled out this 2011 Tanner Cabernet Sauvignon to see how it would stand up to the 2011 Napa Cab we had just tasted. Watch out, Napa – let’s hear it for Carmel Valley Cabernet Sauvignons!

    I’ve presented Parsonage to you in several prior posts and won’t repeat about them here (just type “Parsonage” in the search bar to see them all). You can check out their website here:  https://www.parsonagewine.com/.

    2011 Parsonage Tanner Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, 15% ABV, $80 (#355*)

    The 2011 Tanner stood up well to a Napa 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon!

    We had this wine in our collection and opened it to compare a high-end Carmel Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with a high-end Napa Cabernet Sauvignon.  We decanted it immediately prior to consumption.  2011 is not known for being a great growing season in California, so we really lucked out with both of these wines. 

    My Review: Very dense and dark in the glass with a super intense bouquet.  The quintessential Cabernet Sauvignon flavors on the palate and a slight bitterness on the finish.  We all thought this was super impressive.  Well done! May 2021

    • Photo Courtesy of Parsonage!
    Open daily for outdoor tastings – plus indoor tastings on the weekends!

    Parsonage is open for tastings by reservation only every day – click here for the details.  You can obtain their wines directly from the winery here or at their tasting room located at19 E Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village. 

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

    Parsonage: “unabashed, rollicking wine ready for a good time**”

    Special occasions call for special wines – and we’ve had a few relatives visiting – time to open some Parsonage reserves! Why not drink the good stuff?

    I’ve presented Parsonage to you in several prior posts and won’t repeat about them here (just type “Parsonage” in the search bar to see them all). You can check out their website here:  https://www.parsonagewine.com/.

    2005 Parsonage Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, 15% ABV, $125 (#345*)

    We received this as a library wine in a recent allocation.  This vintage pre-dates the “Tanner” designation. Our experience has taught us that these library wines are ready to drink. 

    grapelive  – 93 points:  “Cabernet did really well here in 2005 and I think it is showing much more character as well, I think the grape is star here and it seems to be so correct that I have a hard time finding any flaws! Pure classic fruits and depth make this vintage remarkable and especially noteworthy. Mixed black and red berry, plum, currants, cassis and chewy tannins scream Cabernet and don’t let up. The complex underbrush, herb and tobacco notes are very subtle and the hints of licorice, vanilla and cranberry are lovely.”

    We shared the 2005 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon with our visiting niece and nephew-in-law one chilly April night.

    My Review: Dark in the glass with rich, smooth flavors of cassis and plum.  This wine is drinking well, with the dark flavors reflecting its age.  Two thumbs up! April 2021

    2015 Parsonage Rocco Reserve Syrah, Carmel Valley AVA, 15% ABV, $80 (#346*)

    **Monterey County Weekly:  “Hedonistic – that’s how winemaker Bill Parsons describes his 2015 Parsonage “Rocco” Syrah. Not that the wine is self-indulgent, although it does seem hell-bent in pursuit of a good time, spilling bushels of ripe blackberries and blueberries from the glass. The revelry begins with a swirl. Fresh aromas spring from the glass, tromping over the grumbles of pepper and licorice. The party continues unabated on the palate, as dense dark berries mingle with a flirtatious impression of fresh plum. What develops on the fringes – raspy pepper, dry clove, bittersweet chocolate and toasted tobacco – are too faint at first to slow things down. It’s only on the finish that the wine’s demeanor changes, developing a more stolid, earthy character and a richer berry compote aspect that stills some of its liveliness.”

    My Review: Almost opaque in color. Big dark fruit – blackberry and currant on the nose. Super rich, smooth dark fruit blackberry, plum and a touch of cassis and cedar on the palate. Sweet-tart on the finish.  It looks like it smells like it tastes. Love this wine, as did our visiting family. April 2021

    Parsonage is open for tastings by reservation only every day – click here for the details.  You can obtain their wines directly from the winery here or at their tasting room located at 19 E Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village. 

    Parsonage Tasting Room Image (photo courtesy Parsonage)

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

    Twisted Roots: Deep Roots on the Central Coast!

    For the last couple of months, this blog has been on a roll.  With the pandemic winding down and wineries opening up, it only took a handful of wine outings to feed the blog with some hefty articles.  I hope you’ve enjoyed them.  If you missed them, take a look on back!  With our daughter in town, we’ll be slowing this back down to its usual old pace for a bit – until we get out again and create new stories to tell.  Meanwhile, I’ve had some wines in the wings waiting to be presented, so let’s go!

    Twisted Roots Tasting Room at 12 Del Fino Place, Carmel Valley Village is OPEN!

    Back in January, I introduced you to Twisted Roots as one of several out-of-area wineries which have opened tasting rooms in Carmel Valley Village. You can review that post here:   https://decantingmonterey.com/twisted-roots-showcasing-lodi-right-here-in-carmel-valley/. I include them in this blog, as they are part of our local wine tasting fabric. You can read more about the history and current team at Twisted Roots on their website. While mostly known for their big reds, they are also now making a couple of whites and sparkling wines – I look forward to trying those!

    2013 Twisted Roots Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi AVA, 14.3% ABV, (#342*)

    From the label: “Aromas of warm brambleberry, black tea and clove grace the palate with dark, luscious fruit-firm tannins.  With a finish featuring bright cherry notes, this is a fine wine to pair with most foods and it’s even enjoyable with cheesecake.  A portion of the profits from every bottle sold will be donated to the ALS Association to fight Lou Gehrig’s disease.” The 2015 vintage sells for $33, a very nice price.

    My Review: Translucent ruby with a garnet ring in the glass.  Dark fruits of cherry and cedar notes on the nose.  Dark fruit flavors of cherry and plum with a bit of mushroom and earth mid-palate.  Almost slightly sweet on the finish. Yep, this is a Lodi wine alright!  March 2021

    You can buy Twisted Roots wines on their website and at the tasting room.  Check out their webpage to hear more about their wine tasting options – inside and outside on their patios.  Nice!

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

    Boëté – A Personal Milestone Celebration Inside the Winery!

    I had a milestone birthday over the weekend and chose to celebrate with a private Boëté wine experience at Saunders Vineyard.  We have been members at Boëté since long before we moved back to California – they make big reds in the style I like and, IMHO, deliver the best single-varietal Cabernet Franc and one of the best Cabernet Sauvignons in the region.  Our tasting was very special – we were greeted by Jana Saunders, along with Oreo and Cabi, their dogs.  The winery was in full operation. Not only did we get to taste their current releases, but also sampled the not-yet-released 2018 Reserve Cabernet Franc and the 2017 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon! We were privileged to get an education by John Saunders on some of the Library wines we have in our wine room, influencing our decision to open the 2009 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon for my birthday dinner!

    • A beautiful start to our afternoon!
    • This delicious food platter accompanied our private tasting!

    Over the past few months at home, we have opened several Boëté wines, including an older vintage of the Cheval Rouge red blend, and both the 2015 and 2017 Estate Cabernet Sauvignons (vs. the reserves).

    A rare photo of the 3 of us celebrating my birthday at Boëté! This is our half of the COVID Wine Pod!

    I last published about Boëté wines in February here https://decantingmonterey.com/boete-valentines-event-marries-new-release-with-abstract-art/ and first introduced you to them in August here: https://decantingmonterey.com/boete-exceptional-cabernet-franc-from-carmel-valley/.  

    Boëté 2015 Cheval Rouge, Estate Grown, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 14.5% ABV, $32 (#334*)

    The Cheval Rouge is a red blend comprised of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

    My Review: Ruby/purple in the glass.  Blackberry and plum on the nose.  Medium-to-full bodied, with flavorful dark berries on the palate, with a slightly chalky finish. Very nice. March 2021

    Boëté 2014 Cabernet Franc, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 14.5% ABV, $50 (#335*)

    This was the first vintage of the Cabernet Franc that took me to the moon – I have been a huge fan ever since!

    My Review: Super dark ruby in the glass. Black plum and blackberry on the nose and palate. Still tastes young and not quite resolved. Super smooth. Went very well with our lamb dinner. April 2021

    Boëté 2018 Reserve Cabernet Franc, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA (#336*)

    Oreo made sure we were tasting wine properly: Pet the dog, sip the wine, pet the dog…!

    My Review: Cherry on the nose.  Very smooth on the palate and quite young.  Will be glad to retaste this upon release! April 2021

    Boëté 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Grown, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 14% ABV, $50 (#337*)

    My Review: Garnet in color.  Fresh crushed berries and chocolate on the nose.  Vibrant dark fruit on the palate on the palate with lingering cherry and vanilla flavors. February 2021

    Boëté 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Grown, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 14% ABV, $50 (#338*)

    Wine Enthusiast rated the 2017 vintage 91 points: Quite dark in the glass, this bottling from a vineyard near Carmel Valley Village offers blackberry jam and leather on the nose. The palate is thick with firm tannins, delivering dark berry, dark cocoa and violet flavors. MATT KETTMANN, August 2020

    My Review: Dark ruby/purple in the glass – nice legs.  Delicious blackberry jam with a hint of vanilla on the nose.  Mouthfilling dark berry jamminess on the palate – very smooth and drinkable at this young age.  Highly recommended.  Might have to buy more of this! March 2021

    Boëté 2009 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Grown, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 14% ABV, $?? (#339*)

    An extremely special birthday wine!

    My Review: Now this was a delicious wine – perhaps one of the best Monterey County Cabernet Sauvignon wines we have ever tasted! Dark ruby in the glass with notes of menthol and nicotiana, maybe a little anise, on the nose.  Dark raspberry and plum on the smooth palate.  A little chewy and savory in a good way.  Would not guess this was a Carmel Valley Cabernet Sauvignon!   May 2021

    Boëté 2017 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Grown, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, not released (#340*)

    Winery was busy while we were there!

    My Review: Deep, rich nose.  Dark fruit and complex tannins, a bit tart.  This wine is so very young. April 2021

    You can read more about the winery and purchase their wines here https://www.boetewinery.com/. You can also taste their wines by reservation.  For more information, please call 831-625-5040 or email boetewinery@comcast.net.

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

    Rombi: A Preview of Wines to Come!

    When Sal Rombi gave me the opportunity to preview some future releases, I jumped in my car and drove to his tasting room in Carmel Valley Village.  Sal had a box of wine for me to take home – I am a lucky girl!  I fund this blog out of my own pocket, so I deeply appreciate the occasional donation of wine for the purpose of the blog – and I will always tell you when that happens.  We tasted most of these with the COVID Wine Pod and tasted/retasted some with the Bailey-Houy clan! I’ve presented Rombi Wines to you several times before – just type “Rombi” in the search bar!

    Rombi’s Generous Support to Decanting Monterey!

    Rombi’s fruit from his Carmel Valley Vineyard is so flavorful, creating wines with up-front intense flavors. His wines are very big and complex – resist the temptation to open them too soon! And we highly recommend decanting to get the full fruit flavors.  (I’ve said this before…)  In today’s post I will review five wines –most not yet released!

    2018 Rombi Merlot, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $65 (327*)

    The 2018 Merlot is not yet released – but highly recommended!!

    This was his 12th year of production. 

    My Review: Beautiful dark ruby, raspberry swirling in color. Intense berry on the nose. Very good. Well balanced. I’ll put this away for years to come! March 2021

    2018 Rombi Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $85 (328*)

    Sal Rombi considers his 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon on par with his 2015, my favorite vintage!

    My Review: We decanted this wine just before drinking. It needed much more time to breathe. It is a very young wine – almost a crime to even open it for this tasting! Dark ruby in the glass. Dark berry and pencil lead on the nose. Rich dark berries on the palate – black cherry, blackberry, chocolate and a very dry finish – the tannins are still very present in this wine – a big finish. I get hints of that berry fruit so distinctive from Carmel Valley Vineyard, woven into this big, structured wine. Needs more time. Resist the temptation to open early! We all agreed this might be his best Cabernet Sauvignon yet. April 2021

    2017 Rombi Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $85 (329*)

    This 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon has been released and is currently available from Rombi Wines!

    My Review: Garnet in color. Intense berry, cassis and caramel and vanilla on the nose. A classic Cabernet nose. Intense flavors on the palate. Graphite, lean “St. Estèphe-like.” “Like biting into a poached pear.” That’s pretty good. Tongue-coating. Highly recommend picking some of this up now! March 2021

    2018 Rombi Petit Verdot, Napa Valley, 14.4% ABV, $75 (330*)

    This exceptional 2018 Petit Verdot can be purchased in Rombi’s tasting room now!

     My Review: Inky purple. Great blackberry nose. So smooth. Blackberry blueberry with a touch of menthol tobacco mid- palate. Licorice dry long finish. It did taste a bit like we were drinking it “while sitting in a freshly mowed field.” Best Petit Verdot I’ve ever had! March 2021

    2017 Rombi Petite Sirah, Carmel Valley AVA, 14.6% ABV, $75 (331*)

    The 2017 Petite Sirah won’t be released for a couple of years!

    The fruit for this wine comes from Galante Vineyards in Cachagua, thusly relocating Rombi’s sourcing from Napa to Carmel Valley! 

    My Review: We decanted and tried this wine twice.  On the first try, the COVID Wine Pod declared it not ready for consumption and we didn’t drink it.  On the second try, with a different audience, we got the following: Berry and alcohol on the nose. A bit sour on the palate at first, later smoothing out into big berry fruit flavors as it opened up further in the glass. Went well with our celebratory meal. Even Sal says it is way too soon to sample this wine – it won’t even be released for a couple of years! March & April 2021

    You can learn more about and purchase his wines online at Rombi Wines.  You can also contact Kathy and Sal at kathy@rombiwines.com  or sal@rombiwines.com for more information about buying wine.  The tasting room is open Saturday and Sunday afternoons.  Come on out and spend some time with Sal. 

    Sal Rombi, outside his tasting room in Carmel Valley Village, March 2021

    *Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.    

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