Last August, I had the chance to meet Miguel Lepe of Lepe Cellars and his assistant Thyra Roth at the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association Trade and Media Tasting in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There, I asked him if he would be interested in hosting the Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society for one of their First Friday events – and he said yes! We finally held that event in early December and it became our chapter’s holiday party at his tasting room inside the Winfield Art Gallery. He was a gracious host, educating our group on his wines and sharing about his winemaking journey.
“Miguel Lepe studied enology and viticulture at California Polytechnic State University – SLO. He began his career working for various well respected wineries across California’s Central Coast and South America. Passionate about his craft, Miguel’s hard work and dedication has led him on a new journey – creating Lepe Cellars to showcase the best of Monterey County wines.”
Our Mission
“We take great pride in blending the best of Old World and New World techniques, enabling the wine to develop naturally over time and allowing the journey to be kept as pure as possible, highlighting the regions true terroir.”
THE WINES
I have 7 Lepe Cellars wines to present to you today representing 5 distinct AVAs within Monterey County!You can read more about Monterey’s AVAs here. Winery notes come from their website unless otherwise noted. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
2021 Lepe Cellars Chardonnay, River Ranch Vineyards, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.3% ABV, $38 (#1234)
Winery Notes: “Citrus and white flower aromas lead into a bright profile with green apples, lemon, and honeysuckle with a touch of minerality on the palate.”
My Review: Pineapple and butter notes on the nose. Crisp and flavorful on the palate with a slightly acidic finish. I took one home. December 2023
2022 Lepe Cellars Sangiovese Rose, Merit Vineyards, San Antonio Valley AVA, Monterey County, 12.5% ABV, $30 (#1109)
Winery Notes: “This bright, stone fruit focused dry Rosé starts out with a burst of peach and apricot leading into hints of tangerine. Pairs well with seared salmon, lobster and tuna tartare.”
My Review: A light, pretty pink hue in the glass. Caramel and fruit notes on the nose. Really delicious palate of peach – great balance of sweet and dry. I’d enjoy this in the microclimate. December 2023
2022 Lepe Cellars Pinot Noir, San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 13.7% ABV , $40 (#1236)
Winery Notes: (Description of the 2021 vintage) “Fresh and soft in style, unleashing notes of cherries and raspberries on the palate with hints of hibiscus and rose petals on the nose.”
My Review Powered by Terravenos: Cherry on the nose. Smooth, young. In a year, it will be glorious. Perfumed with cherry, berry and savory notes – very good with the white cheddar. December 2023
2021 Lepe Cellars Pinot Noir, McIntyre Vineyards, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.5% ABV, $55 (#1237)
Winery Notes: “Bright and lush in style, unleashing fresh juicy cherries and raspberries with hints of hibiscus on the finish. Light to medium body spectrum achieving a fresh fruit forward profile.”
My Review: This Pinot Noir comes from one of my favorite vineyards for Pinot in the Santa Lucia Highlands. This was a much richer, darker wine with more tobacco and tannin on the palate and finish – a very different wine from the first Pinot Noir. December 2023.
2021 Lepe Cellars Zinfandel, Wellong Vineyards, San Antonio Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13% ABV, $42 (#1238)
Winery Notes: “This single-vineyard expression from southern Monterey County begins with a floral hit on the nose before diving into cherry-compote and crushed rock aromas. There is red-plum on the palate with hibiscus and cinnamon tones, finishing with a spicy kick of white pepper.”
My Review: Smokey caramel on the nose. Rich dark berries, a little sweet on the palate. This is one of the best examples of Zinfandel in Monterey County. December 2023
2021 Lepe Cellars Syrah, Zabala Vineyards, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $55 (#1239)
Winery Notes: “Intriguing aromas of fresh blueberry and violets with hints of dark plum, black pepper and milk chocolate on the palate tied together with soft lush tannins.”
My Review: Very dark in the glass. A warm nose with black berries. Rich palate of dark fruit. Tastes more high alcohol than it is. I’d like to put this up against a Halter Ranch. I’m always on the hunt for a Syrah made from Zabala Vineyards fruit. I like this wine and took one home. December 2023
2020 Lepe Cellars Petit Verdot, Merit Vineyards, San Antonio Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.4% ABV, $49 (#1110)
Winery Notes: “Elegant aromas of wild strawberry, savory soy and light licorice show on the nose of this pure varietal. Dark plum and cherries show on the first sip, with a bit of earthy forest floor woven with pepper, oak and tannin creating a velvety, rich texture.”
My Review: I’ve had this wine before and described it like this: “Plummy and jammy on the nose. Tobacco and dark fruits on the palate. Very nice.” But today, my palate said it was smokey, baby. This is a 2020 wine, after all. I’ll need to try it again. December 2023
THE TASTING ROOM
The Lepe Cellars tasting room is open daily from 12-7 p.m. inside the Winfield Art Gallery on Doloresbetween Ocean & 7th, Carmel-By-The-Sea.
We’ve been waiting patiently for Parsonage to release the powerful 2019s we tasted in the barrel back in 2021. They are here and they do not disappoint! Great fruit, great winemaking, good weather. This was a terrific vintage – big, jammy, delicious wines the way Frank Melicia makes them best. You can read about that barrel tasting experience here:Parsonage: A Glimpse of the 2019 Vintage.
In addition, there are some 2020 and 2021 red blends in the current release. 2020, as you may recall, was that terrible wildfire year in several parts of California’s winemaking regions. But with creativity and clever sourcing, Parsonage has updated some of their popular red blends to make even 2020 a solid vintage.
THE WINES
Today, I am presenting 7 Parsonage wines, 6 from our winery tasting and 1 from our cellar. Winery notes come from their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
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.
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…
“Owner Bill Parsons’ tasting notes: Lovely spicy/floral nose of plum and red currant. The palate is rich and firm, loaded with perfectly ripe red plum, red currant, pomegranate, mulberry, and cranberry with a mystifying hint of orange zest peeking through the bracing tannins on the dynamic finish.”
My Review: Ruby in color. Fresh crushed berries on the nose. So delicious. A must buy. November 2023
2020 Parsonage The BDL, Central Coast, 15% ABV, $44 (#1230)
Winery Notes: “Our Bordeaux-esque beauty with all five Bordeaux red varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec) presents an unprecedented sultry and sensual bouquet that exhibits black plum and currant highlighted by mulberry. The medium palate amplifies these lush fruit notes with racy tannins punctuating the finish!”
My Review: Garnet in color. Warm, dark berries on the rich nose. Dark fruit on the palate. Plum, dark cherry and berry. Drinking well. May, November 2023
2020 Parsonage Wildcard, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $38 (#1231)
Winery Notes: “This iteration of the beloved Wildcard, our preposterous melange of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Grenache, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot and Pinot Noir, will rock your world. The nose is a fragrant and seductive melange of exotic spices, wild flowers, boysenberry, and cranberry. The palate is marked by cedar notes and blueberry with a vibrant backdrop of red and black fruit in this medium-plus mouthfeel beauty.”
My Review: Bright garnet. Subtle nose of crushed red and black fruit. The bright fruit on the palate mellows out on a soft finish. This is a really good vintage of the Wildcard, with the 8 varietals nicely melded together from the jump. May and November 2023
2019 Parsonage Estate Reserve Dario Merlot, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $95 (#528)
Winery Notes: “A plush vibrant nose of star anise, ripe red fruit, toasty vanilla, and a hint of flint. Rich round elegantly balanced palate of red currant, red plum, baked strawberry/cranberry compote, and a subtle hint of black olive. Freaking delicious!!”
My Review: Cassis and dark berries on the nose. Intense, concentrated dark fruit on the palate. So delicious. My favorite. November 2023
2014 Parsonage Estate Reserve Dario Merlot, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV (#1232)
My Review: From our cellar.Intense blackberry and blueberry fruit on the nose. “Oh my gosh!” Mouthflling palate bursting with bright, tart berries with a tobacco, oaky finish. This one might need to open up. December 2023
2019 Parsonage Estate Reserve Bixby Petit Verdot, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $95 (#529)
Winery Notes: “A MASTERPIECE!! A nose of wildflower perfume and spice infused with dark berries leads to a dazzlingly rich palate of blackberry, black currant, black cherry, and blueberry cobbler with exquisitely vibrant and supple tannins from beginning to end. STUNNINGLY DELICIOUS!!”
My Review: Almost purple in the glass. Cassis and tobacco (alcohol) on the nose. Intense palate of dark berries. Wow. November 2023.
2019 Parsonage Estate Reserve Rocco Syrah, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $95 (#532)
Winery Notes: “Our magnificient flagship wine, the Rocco is what we’re known for! The nose sings out with stunning opulence in the form of blueberry, blackberry, black currant, mocha, and hickory smoked bacon. The voluptuous palate doubles down on the bouquet with flourishes of cassis and savory umami. The mouthfeel is full and rich with beautifully integrated ripe tannins creating a lengthy and rewarding finish.”
My Review: Very purple and dark in the glass. Dark berries, oak and cinnamon on the nose. So rich and smooth yet complex. Oak on the finish. Could be my favorite Rocco vintage yet. May and November 2023
THE TASTING ROOM
Parsonage is open for tastings every day – clickherefor the details and to make a reservation. Hours: Monday – Friday: noon to 5pm; Saturday & Sunday: 11am to 5pm. Last seating for wine tasting: 4:15pm. You can obtain their wines directly from the wineryhere or at their tasting roomlocated at19 E Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village.
Happy New Year! Why not start off the New Year with a bang of a wine?
When we picked up our last allocation, Parsonage offered us a choice of library wines. We chose the oldest Rocco Syrah – the 2003 Cuvee Rocco. We learned that, when you receive a library wine, it is probably wise to drink it soon. A rainy card-game Sunday with the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod seemed just the right occasion. It did not disappoint. My bottom-line up front: If you’ve got one if these in your cellar, why wait any longer for pure enjoyment? Admire, open, pour, and enjoy!
I have a post about the Parsonage fall release coming out later this week, but did not want to bury this spectacular wine in that longer post. (p.s. Some of you may have received that post earlier in December thanks to operator/WordPress error – you will see it again this week!)
THE WINE
Today, I am presenting just this one 20-year old Parsonage library wine. Winery notes come from their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
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.
2003 Parsonage Cuvee Rocco Syrah, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $135 (#1233)
Many thanks to Parsonage’s Summer Emmons for conjuring up this review by Kerry Winslow:
Review from grapelive.com: “A three barrel selection held back from the reserve Syrah, the “Cuvee Rocco“ is just a touch boulder and creamier than the reserve bottling and may be a little more oak driven at this stage, but it will just get better and better with a little time. Super limited and this is the first vintage it has been offered! This cuvee has sweeter fruit and is more shiraz-like with a hint of cassis and coffee with liqueur notes that are lingering. Rocco is a big wine that needs some time to settle down in your seller. 94-96 Points”
My Review: Dark garnet in the glass. Nose is very rich with notes of leather, cedar, dark fruit and wet leaves. Dark intense flavors on the palate – some cassis notes, This 20-year old “Rocco” has stood the test of time and is drinking beautifully. If you’ve got one, why wait any longer for pure enjoyment? December 2023
THE TASTING ROOM
Parsonage is open for tastings every day – clickhere for the details and to make a reservation. Hours: Monday – Friday: noon to 5pm; Saturday & Sunday: 11am to 5pm. Last seating for wine tasting: 4:15pm. 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.
Today I am bringing you the 2018 Georis Merlot which made our Corkscrew Café lunch perfect!
THE STORY
With our daughter in town for a long Thanksgiving visit, we needed one last special event before we put her on a plane back home. We debated going to a winery when we really wanted lunch with a good glass of wine. We chose to dine at Corkscrew Café and enjoy a nice bottle of 2018 Georis Merlot! I have to say our daughter was dubious about having a Merlot, as it is not a household regular. But I assured her that, if this 2018 were nearly as good as the 2017, she would enjoy it – and she did.
I also want to give a shout ouot to the wait staff at Corkscrew who modified our meals to our every wish. Many thanks! It was much appreciated!
“Walter Georis was born of a Belgian father and a German mother who immigrated to the US from Belgium in 1956 when Walter was eleven years old.
“After having spent his teen years in Southern California, Walter decided to move north to Carmel where he pursued a career in fine arts.
“Soon after arriving in Carmel, Walter designed a family restaurant, Casanova that would become internationally renowned for its cuisine and style, and its wine cellar.
“Remembering his childhood and the pleasures of country life on the family farms in Europe, Walter decided to combine his love of fine wines with the challenges and rewards of growing grapes and producing first class wines. In 1981, after consulting with French experts on soil and wine making, he bought a ranch in Carmel Valley and soon planted the grapes that would produce the first crop of Georis wines…”
I have just one wine to present to you today from Georis. I couldn’t readily find any winery notes on this new vintage. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
2018Georis Merlot, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.8% ABV, $42 (#1216)
Winery Notes: N/A
My Review: Garnet in color. Dark berries and forest floor on the nose. Rich on the palate with dark berries, finishing with tannin and acidic notes on the finish. November 2023
THE TASTING ROOM
“Our tasting room is located at 1 Pilot Rd. Carmel Valley California. The adobe style tasting room is reminiscent of early California Mission architecture. With its tall ceilings, large fireplace, hand hewed oversized beams supporting an impressive roof finished with antique handmade Spanish tiles. Our gardens are lush with mature landscaping and a small symbolic decorative vineyard planted to Petrus Clone. While tasting our fine wines you will be enjoying the stylish interior or you can walk through our gardens and find your favorite table. Our staff is well versed in providing you information regarding our wine making philosophy as well providing you with more in-depth details regarding our world class wines.
“We welcome you and your friends to join us at our tasting room Wednesday – Monday from 12:00 – 6:00 pm with the exception of the weather and holidays. You can reach us by phone at (831) 659-1080. We greatly appreciate a call if will be joining us with a large group, we want your experience to be delightful while drinking some of California’s best…”
I also love that you can order “to go” from Corkscrew Café while tasting at Georis!
In November, we attended our third over-the-top Marinus dinner at the Bernardus Winery Tasting Room. I have to say, this is our favorite local event of the year and, I don’t know how, but it just keeps getting more impressive. The 2023 Marinus dinner was an elegant affair. The tables were decorated so beautifully and the service was impeccable. The wines and the food were exquisite, all the way down to the imported flavored French butters! The Marinus blends are aging nicely and the multi-course food pairings created by Carmel Valley’s Chef Jerome Viel were sumptuous. You can read more about Jerome here: https://jeromescarmelvalleymarket.com/chef-jerome-viel/.
I will confess that I bugged Heather relentlessly about the date for this event, as I knew it was coming and we had been traveling. I for sure didn’t want to miss this event and last year, we got the last 4 seats! Thanks for putting up with me, Heather! When is it next year? 😊
With the recent retirement of winemaker Dean DeKorth, we were hosted by his replacement, Jim McCabe. We had met him at the previous Marinus dinner and he hosted the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod at the winery this past summer. Jim was fully in his element on this night, informing us about the wines and happenings at the winery. His presence and conversations with the many attendees were so valuable and appreciated.
As if we didn’t already feel special enough, our meal began with the final 3 bottles of the 1993 Marinus – the year of their first bottling of this red blend on its 30th Anniversary. Making a fine Bordeaux wine in Carmel Valley was the vision and dream of founder Ben Pon, who passed away in 2019. And I must say that the 1993 was drinking fine, giving credence and confidence in the longevity of later vintages. Ben Pon’s vision has indeed been realized!
THE WINEMAKER’S STORY
Jim McCabe did not start out wanting to be a winemaker. Originally from Massachusetts, he got into graduate school in Sonoma to pursue a Masters in Comparative Literature. He took a job at Bernardus while finishing his thesis.
He was impressed by the 2006 Bernardus Ingrid’s Vineyard Pinot Noir. He found it bigger, fuller, and more enjoyable than the jug wines which were so popular back then. 😊 As a result, he started to take winemaking more seriously. Dean DeKorth, his boss and mentor, taught him much about wine appreciation and winemaking.
THE WINERY
To kick off our event, winemaker Jim McCabe addressed the group with a brief history of the Bernardus Winery and the Marinus vineyard. Motor sport enthusiast and golfer Ben Pon moved here in 1989-1990. He noticed Durney was making intense Cabernets in Carmel Valley/Cachagua and he wanted to see what the area could be for wines. He had a vision to create a small pocket of Bordeaux in Carmel Valley. He wanted to explore what varieties would do well there. He planted Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to see what they could do, then added Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. You can read more about the founding and history of Bernardus Winery here.
Over the course of the evening, Jim shared a few tidbits about the winery and winemaking:
Bernardus hand harvests its grapes. Jim shared that there is a big difference in quality between machine and hand picking. Machines enter into the mix “Matters Other than Grapes” – MOG.
Making Marinus wine is like “squidding.” Seriously, Jim did say that…
One of their challenges is how to get grape growing and harvesting right in Cachagua, with its big diurnal shift. Cabernet Sauvignon needs sustained heat. So, they have to pick late.
As of the dinner on November 9th, they had still not harvested their Cabernet Sauvignon! Due to the rains, followed by a cool spring/summer without wildfires, the region enjoyed one of its best and longest growing seasons.
The Marinus Vineyard is also a great place for Merlot. They have put a higher percentage of Merlot in the blend over the years. They reevaluate the percentages of the various grape varieties every year to develop their strategy for each vintage’s blend.
Marinus is a limited production red blend. They try to get the balance of varietals to show the best bottle – “the best we can” – vs having it taste the same every year. The blend, with Cabernet Sauvignon as the dominant varietal, changes from year to year. The Signature Marinus is the best of the best. It can be a different blend than the Marinus in a given year.
They prefer French barrels and are able to buy 500 new barrels per year. Some old ones get purchased by a local brewery!
THE WINES
Winery tasting notes come from their website, the tasting sheet, or conversations with the winemaker or tasting room staff unless otherwise indicated. I quickly jotted down the blends at a subsequent visit to the tasting room, so I may not have them exactly right. You can read more about most of these wines on their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
2015 Bernardus Marinus Signature Red Wine, Carmel Valley, Monterey County, $125 (#889) 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Petit Verdot, 12% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc
Winery Notes: “This 2015 vintage of our highly regarded Signature Marinus exhibits a beautiful, deep robe. The aromas are redolent with dark red fruits and dried spices. On the palate we find bright ripe-red fruit flavors and notes of cedar on a long, rich finish, promising a long life to come! A wonderful example from our estate vineyard!” Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Uncorked! Awarded TOP RED WINE!
My Review: This was the wine we enjoyed as we walked in the door. I don’t have new notes, so am providing mine from July, which was a blind tasting: Dark berry, cherry and caramel notes with at first hints of barnyard and hay on the nose. Earthy palate of dark fruits with a touch of smoke on the finish. Much more of a big cab style wine. We like it. July 2023
1993 Bernardus Marinus Red Table Wine, Carmel Valley, Monterey County, $30 (#887)
Winery Notes: This was the first year they produced Marinus. The grapes were planted in 1989. It was made by winemaker Don Blackburn. From K&L Wine Merchants: “According to Wine Spectator: “A new Bordeaux-style blend that’s firm and intense, if a bit on the tannic side. Currant, cherry and anise flavors are well focused and well proportioned, and finish with dry tannins. Try after 1997.” (08/1996)
My Review: This wine was perfectly paired with the black cod. Dark ruby in color. Spicy, black pepper on the nose. So smooth and rich, elegant. If we were tasting bling, no one would guess it was 30 years old. It’s similar to one of those fine, aged Bordeaux wines we open at home sometimes. November 2023
2010 Bernardus Marinus Red Wine, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $65 (#39) 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc
Winery Notes: “Our 2010 Marinus exhibits its typical deeply colored robe. The aromas express beautiful red fruits accented by classic notes of cedar. The delicious flavors are soft and full, with spicy dark cherry and plus flavors and a smooth texture of well integrated tannins. Although drinking beautifully now, this Marinus will age gracefully for many years to come.”
My Review: Served with the duck confit and smoked lentils. Inky/dark garnet in the glass. Extraction is great says Jim. Slightly earthy nose. Palate is still rich but leaner. Still smooth. We’ve had this vintage many times over the years and it has been interesting to watch its progression. Several years ago, we thought it might be past its prime, but it might have been the bottle in the tasting room. Since that time, as on this night, it has been drinking well. Hang in there, 2010! November 2023
2013 Bernardus Marinus Red Wine, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey, 14.1% ABV, $75 (#157) 35% Caberbet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 25% Petit Verdot, 8% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc
Winery Notes: “The robe of our 2013 Marinus is a very deep crimson. On the nose we find dried cranberry aromas accented by subtle spice notes. The palate is intensely flavored with impressions of bright red cherry and plum. The finish shows excellent tannic structure promising a long life for this vintage of Marinus, much like that of a fine Bordeaux.”
My Review: Served with the pork tenderloin. This is the vintage that caused me to fall in love with Marinus and become a club member. Inky in the glass. Smooth nose of cedar and velvety fruit. Dark berries on the palate. Blackberry and cherry on the finish. Still a favorite. November 2023.
2017 Bernardus Signature Marinus Red Wine, Carmel Valley, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $125 (#891)
Winery Notes: This was the first tasting of this vintage – opened for us on this special night. No notes are available yet on their website.
My Review: Dark in the glass. Umami bouquet – go figure. Fresh on the palate. Bright black and red berries on the palate with a licorice finish. A lovely finish. I think it is still young, but the winery thinks it is ready to drink. Showing well and perfectly paired with the venison medallion – a good choice. November 2023.
2014 Bernardus Marinus, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.3% ABV, $75 (#290)52% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot, 3% Malbec
Winery Notes: “The robe of our 2014 Marinus is very deeply-colored. The aromas exude beautifully ripened red fruits accented by subtle spice notes. The mouthfeel is very soft and full expressing delicious flavors of ripe cherry and plum. The finish is well structured with soft tannins promising a long life for this superb bottle, similar to a fine Bordeaux.”
My Review: Inky in the glass. Tobacco on the nose. Deep intense berries on the palate with a minty finish. -goes with the earthiness of the raclette. Lovely. November 2023
2019 Bernardus Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc, Griva Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 9.0% ABV, valued at $50, not for sale (#1215)
Winery Notes: Inspired by Sauternes. Can only make this when the conditions are right. Has to be a humid, wet year. Bernardus has only made this 3 times: 2011, 2012, 2019. Can open it and keep it open.
My Review: Honey on the nose. Viscous, with a nice balance between the sweet and orange blossom and a touch of tartness. I enjoyed this wine – a perfect pairing with our orange almond cake. November 2023
THE TASTING ROOM
The Bernardus Tasting room, located at 5 West Carmel Valley Road, is open every afternoon except Monday, with slightly different hours each day. Reservations are recommended but not required. You can see more information and book a tasting here, via email tastingroom@bernardus.com, or by calling them at 831-298-8021
Today I am bringing you another “Catchup Monday” – Joullian: Boldly Pioneering in Zinfandel! “Catchup Monday” is my effort to get caught up on some of the many wines we have tried this year – outside of a larger wine tasting event. It was a busy spring and summer!
THE STORY
We’ve been tasting Joullian Vineyards & Winery wines for decades. I was at first intrigued by some of its white blends, as well as its Zinfandels. A wine I really loved – for its complexity, flavor and value – was its Retro Rouge, which I could usually get at a club discount to fit into my East Coast wine class budgets. I previously wrote up the 2014 Retro Rouge here: Winemaker’s Secret Stash Becomes Joullian’s Retro Rouge!
We received today’s wine as a gift from a good friend who has shared both our DC and our coastal lives. While the tasting room is temporarily closed (see below), we do see a few of our local wineries making wine from their grapes, so that is a good thing. And you can buy some of their wines online as well as at A Taste of Monterey. I’m personally interested in checking out their 2015 Hammler Cabernet Sauvignon and their 2018 Retro Rouge, if I ever get the chance.
We just opened this wine one night because we could. And it id not disappoint! In general =, we just don’t produce very big or good Zinfandel around here – in either Monterey or San Benito counties. I don’t want one to taste like a berry pie – I always want more depth. This one stood up to the challenge.
“Carmel Valley is an American Viticultural Area (AVA) located 12 miles inland from the California coastline, and within Monterey County. Due to its elevation among the steep hills of the Santa Lucia Range, Carmel Valley is sheltered from Monterey’s cool maritime fog, allowing for the production of rich, flavorful Bordeaux-style wines. Carmel Valley and the surrounding region are also home to several world class golf courses, a plethora of five-star restaurants and resorts, and countless outdoor actives making it the ideal vacation destination for any wine enthusiast!”
“At Joullian, we focus on estate-crafted, world class wines of complexity, finesse and ageability.” Ridge Watson, Founding Winemaker
“Bordeaux grapes, the inspiration for Joullian Vineyards, led our founders to choose Carmel Valley for its warm, temperate climate and reputation of producing rich and flavorful wines. In order to add further complexity and elegance to the lush flavors of these hillside vineyard wines, we grow multiple clones of each grape variety at different elevations, exposures and soil types. With multiple varietal blocks, each in a slightly different set of growing circumstances, we have the ability to add extra dimension to our wines both in the field as well as in the winery. All Joullian wines receive extended bottle aging, ensuring that upon release the wines have begun to mature and develop their special Carmel Valley character, as well as extra smoothness, complexity and bouquet.”
THE WINE
I have just one wine to present to you today from Joullian. Winery notes come from their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
2015 Joullian Zinfandel, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15.5% ABV, $35 (#1177) 90% Zinfandel, 5% Primitivo, 3% Petit Sirah, 2% (0.5% each) Aleatico, Alicante Bouschet, Carignane, Grenache
Winery Notes: “In 1984 Joullian planted some of Carmel Valley’s first Zinfandel vines. We began with a non-heat-treated Amador County clone selected by Dr. Bioletti in 1917, and have since added pre-prohibition vineyard selections from Lytton Springs, Brandlin (Mt.Veeder), St. Peter’s Church (Cloverdale) and Primitivo-3 (Puglia, Italy). For complexity, we also have small amounts of Petite Sirah (Lytton Springs), plus our Italian field crush varieties: Aleatico, Alicante Bouschet, Carignane and Black Grenache. Joullian’s multi-clonal approach in the vineyard continues to reap multidimensional benefits in the winery.
“2015 featured several weeks of 90-95°F heat in late September, early October, so we carefully culled sunburned and raisined fruit in the field, resulting in 40% less tonnage but the final Zin blend is full of perfumed rich black fruit, silky tannins and thanks to a dollop of Cabernet, refreshing acidity.”
Wine Enthusiast – 87 points: “Blackberry-sauce and cocoa-dust aromas meet with slightly sour herbs and fennel on the nose of this bottling. Ripe blackberry-sorbet flavors are dusted in more dank herbs on the palate.” Matt Kettmann, July 2020
My Review: Dark intense garnet in the glass. Almost purple. Rich mocha, raspberry, blackberry and black pepper spice on the nose, laced with alcohol. Palate bursting with dark fruit and lingering finish. Best Zin in Monterey and San Benito counties. No offense to anyone else. August 2023
This past July, half of the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod ventured out to Massa Estate for a tasting. We were impressed how many wines on their tasting menu came from the historic Durney Vineyards! I had not been there for a tasting since they first opened as Massa. This day’s “work” was long overdue! This is the first time I have presented their wines in Decanting Monterey!
As you come into Carmel Valley Village from Highway One, Massa is the first wine tasting room on your left. It has a beautiful blue peacock sign out front and a lovely outdoor garden on the side, perfect for an event or weekend brunch. Its winery out in Cachagua sits on some of the most celebrated and legendary grapes in Monterey County’s history – the Durney Vineyards. When I teach a class about Monterey wines, I tell the story of Durney becoming Heller Estate becoming Massa Estate. Durney’s Cabernet Sauvignon was among the best produced in the region – and many of today’s Massa Estate wines are made from those very same legendary vineyards! I like to talk about the Durney legacy in my wine classes. Participants ask me if this is important – and I say “Yes!”
“Overlooking the Cachagua region of Carmel Valley, (“Cachagua” is believed to be an Indian derivative of the French “cacher” and the Spanish “agua” – “hidden waters”), and framed by the dramatic surrounding hills, lie the beautiful vineyards of Massa Estate, formerly Heller Estate and Durney Vineyards. The vineyards are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir, Petite Sirah, Malbec and Petit Verdot at an altitude of 1200 – 1500 feet.
“The vineyards are essentially dry-farmed. The roots of the vines descend deep in the loamy, sandy soil in search of the underground “Cachagua” springs. These stressed vines produce outstanding luscious fruit, which are then skillfully crafted into the extraordinary wines. The Cabernets have been described by wine reviewers as “super-rich, with lots of tannin and explosively long finishes”. In addition, the great variation in daily temperatures at the vineyard (which are sometimes 40 degrees in a twenty four hour period) helps to produce these exceptional age-worthy and full-bodied wines.
“The vineyards have been certified 100% organic since 1980s. Neither herbicides nor pesticides are used in the production of the grapes. This certification was granted after three vintages of clean farming although organic practices have been in place since the original plantings by the Durney’s in 1968. The winery itself was certified organic in 2012.
“In 1982 the Carmel Valley Appellation was approved by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol and Tobacco. Heller Estate was a pioneer in developing the viticulture in the area.
“Sculpture gardens have been added to the vineyard property and at the tasting room in Carmel Valley Village. The sculptures were created by Toby Heller; an internationally known sculptor of large works. Her piece “The Dancers”, a fifteen-foot high, bronze sculpture overlooking the vineyards, inspired the Heller Estate motto “Dances on Your Palate” as well as the design for the labels.”
THE WINES
I have 10 wines to present to you today from Massa Estate. Winery notes come from their website, unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone. In general, I found their wines a tad tart for my preferences. Some, I believe, could be held, to show more down the road.
2019 Massa Estate Private Reserve Riesling, Durney Vineyards, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County $29 (#1146)
Winery Notes: “The 2019 Massa Estate Riesling offers jasmine blossom, ripe pineapple, and warm golden delicious apples. The palate gives quince flavors, ample acidity with light lemon curd underneath. It finishes with long lasting acidity and warm spices into lemon cream.”
My Review: Pretty, light golden in color. Apple and honeysuckle on the nose. Lemon curd, grapefruit and pineapple on the palate. A little acidic – I would like it creamier. Overall, pretty good! July 2023
2018 Massa Estate Private Reserve Chardonnay, Durney Vineyards, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, $39 (#1147)
Winery Notes: “The 2018 Chardonnay Reserve suggests bosc pears, nectarine blossom, lightly toasted oak, a hint of creme brulee, a kiss of salty sea air, and beeswax. The palate shows golden delicious apples and light caramelized sugar. It has medium high acidity, a long lingering finish; savory with sweet French oak and candied lemon peel.”
My Review: Pale golden in color. Butter, vanilla and caramel on the nose. Strong flavors on the palate with a finish of sea salt and lemon peel. July 2023
2019 Massa Estate Rose Estate Grown Pinot Noir, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, $25 (#1148)
Winery Notes: “Blueberry cobbler, California dry hill coastal shrubs, sun on a granitic slide. Juniper berries, fresh cranberry, and sandalwood on the palate. Lignified stems, dried fruit and lavender finish.”
My Review: Very pale pink in the glass. Slight whiff of barnyard on the nose, followed by the bitterness of Pinot Noir and musty notes on the finish. July 2023
2018 Massa Estate Private Reserve Merlot, Durney Vineyards, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, $55 (#1149)
Winery Notes: “The 2018 Massa Estate Merlot suggests red plums, bing cherries, allspice, white pepper, and cigar box. The palate is fresh red fleshed apples with a touch of quince. This is really fresh for a merlot. The finish is with white pepper and Chinese five spice. It is light in its feet but structured in a way to support long term aging.”
My Review: Ruby in the glass. Dusty leather, cherry and white pepper on the nose. Dry on the palate with a tart cherry finish. July 2023
2018 Massa Estate Cachagua Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, $39 (#1150)
Winery Notes: “The 2018 Cachagua Cabernet Sauvignon offers cassis and blackberry to greet the palate while some slightly earthy and juicy characteristics mingle beautifully with the dry, dusty tannin structure. Pair this wine with a juicy hamburger topped with sauteed mushrooms and some nice aged cheddar cheese.”
MyReview: “Deep ruby in color. Dark berry jam and tarragon on the nose. Cotton candy, burnt sugar, slightly tart berries and a lot of new oak on the palate. Still too young – hold this wine! July 2023.”
2018 Massa Estate Private Reserve Petit Verdot, Durney Vineyards, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, $55 (#1151)
Winery Notes: “The 2018 Massa Estate Petit Verdot offers delicate flavors of spiced plums, rich earth, beautiful dark chocolate, and dried persimmon with a finish of dried cherries and chocolate or cocoa.”
MyReview: Rich dark ruby, red plum on the glass. Warm brown sugar and hints of cherry on the nice nose. Spearmint and bay leaf overlay the dark berry palate. We were intrigued by this wine – one of my favorites of the day. July 2023
2018 Massa Estate Dancer’s Red Wine, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, $40 (#1152)
Winery Notes: “The 2018 Massa Estate Dancer’s Bordeaux offers delicate flavors of black plums, cherry compote, cigar wrapper, sweet tobacco leaves, bay laurel, black cherry and toasted coconut. It has medium acidity and finishes with quiet, robust tannins with hints of licorice and sasparilla.”
My Review: Deep ruby in color with a classic fruity nose. Rounder flavors up front, followed by a mouthwatering burst of fruit and a licorice finish. I liked this wine and took some home! July 2023
2018 Massa Estate Old Vine Cabernet Sauvignon, Durney Vineyards, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, $65 (#1153)
Winery Notes: “Made from 50 year old vines planted by Bill Durney, the Old Vine Cabernet Sauvignon offers delicate flavors of plums, salt water, toasted seaweed, sandalwood, and chaparral flowers! The palate is pure fruit, red cherries and French plums, with hints of baking spices and a touch of cinnamon stick underneath. It finishes with the classic mountain cabernet tannins, our lightest, freshest cabernet sauvignon.”
My Review: Garnet in color, with an interesting nose. My notes say floral, soapy, and fruit compote. a cherry bomb on the palate – like a cherry Jolly Rancher. Fruity and not very Cabernet Sauvignon-like. I wanted more from this wine made from some of the most legendary grapes in all of Monterey County. Still too young? July 2023
2017 Massa Estate Syrah, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, $55 (#1154)
Winery Notes: “The 2017 Syrah offers hints of blackberry, French plums, white pepper, and floral violet notes. This is a darker, more full-bodied wine that is greeted with a punch of flavor that tapers off and then has a spicy peppery note in the aftertaste.”
My Review: Pretty garnet in the glass. Raisiny on the nose – almost port-like. The nose follows to the palate, yet very jammy. Reminiscent of a Syrah we recently tasted in Paso Robles, which we liked very much. I’d like to try this one again! July 2023
2019 Massa Estate Cabernet Franc, Durney Vineyards, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, $68 (#1155)
Winery Notes: “The 2018 Massa Estate Cabernet Franc offers cypress fronds, plum skin, water over rocks, sandalwood, and forest floor. Robust tannins on finish, mouthcoating really wants rich foods.”
My Review: Light ruby in color. Barnyard on the nose, followed by a light palate of bright fruits. This is another one I would like to try again. July 2023
“The Tasting Room, located in Carmel Valley Village, is a 20 minute drive from Carmel, California and offers the public the opportunity to taste the entire range of impressive award winning Massa Estate & Heller Estate wines. There is a selection of wine accessories and wine related gifts as well as an art gallery.”
69 W. Carmel Valley Rd., Carmel Valley, CA 93924 Phone: 831.659.6220
Tasting Room Hours: Saturday – Sunday, 11:00am – 5:00pm “Enjoy our pet-friendly Sculpture Garden!” Current tasting menus are $15 (Classic) and $20 (Premium).
In addition to wine tasting, there are food options at the Massa Tasting Room! Local chef Michael Jones is on site preparing food! Food Hours are Saturdays: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm (appetizers) and Sundays: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (brunch). His phone number for reservations is 831-659-5100. Please be sure to call to check his schedule and make a reservation!
I never knew we could fit a crowd in Sal Rombi’s small tasting room in Carmel Valley Village, but when he offered to host the Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society for one of their first Friday WinedUP events, I jumped on the opportunity. We had about 18 members and the intimate setting lent itself to us all getting to know Sal, his wines, and each other a bit better. Thank you, Sal, for opening up just for us – we are grateful!
I’ve dotted this post with pictures of our group having a great time at the Rombi Tasting Room. We are always looking for new places to try, so if you are a local winery and interested in hosting our group, just let us know! The Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society enjoys learning about new places and our members BUY WINE! And *BONUS* – there is usually a writeup in Decanting Monterey about our experience!
I have to say that his 2018 Petit Verdot from Napa Valley continues to be stunner – it was a crowd pleaser that evening and continues to be a house favorite. I recently texted Sal that we have a huge problem at our house: Lots of Rombi Wine but zero (zero!!) Petit Verdot. The Decanting Monterey Wine Pod headed to his tasting room on Saturday to rectify the situation. While we were there, Sal gave us a couple of not-yet-released wines to try at home. We tasted his 2018 Petite Sirah that night, which I have just added to this post.
“Sal, we have a problem! We are out of your 2018 Petit Verdot!!”
As I have said before, the fruit from Sal Rombi’s Carmel Valley Vineyard is so flavorful, creating wines with up-front intense flavors. Rombi’s wines are very big and complex – highly recommend decanting to get the full fruit flavors. Actually, we have been double-decanting and double-aerating them for best results…unless you really want to wait a day after opening. Who can wait? I mean, it is not like we decide at noon that we will have one of his big Cabernet Sauvignons after dinner. It is usually an in-the-moment decision. Like Friday night, when we opened his 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, which is drinking beautifully, by the way.
THE WINES
In today’s post I will present 9 Rombi wines. The 2015 Merlot, 2018 Petite Sirah and 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon wines are presented here for the first time. The Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon came from our home stock, along with the 2012 Merlot, which was gifted to me. The 2018 Petite Sirah was just gifted to me this weekend to try in advance of its release. The rest are the current releases we re-tasted with the Monterey AWS in early August, with slightly updated tasting notes, as applicable.
2012 Rombi Merlot, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $65 (#836)
*This bottle was given to us – I will always tell you when I am presenting a wine any winery has gifted to me.*
My Review: We blind-tasted this wine at home. Almost purple in color. Nose of lean dark fruits – plum, blackberry, cassis and a touch earthy. Palate is intense, concentrated jamminess, fruity. I guessed it was an older, fine Bordeaux. Not too far off, eh? Dark berries, oak, cassis and a dry finish. Showing well. Lean yet big yet intense. Good to the last drop. March 2023
2015 Rombi Merlot, Carmel Valley AVA , Monterey County, 14.1% ABV $65 (#1126)
My Review: This is the first time I have presented this wine. Inky in the glass. Rich dark, warm berries on the nose, perhaps a touch of licorice, herbs, and alcohol. Brown sugar on the front end, followed by a delicious, mouth-filling palate. A little spice – cinnamon, clove and nutmeg, followed by a slight tang on the finish. We double-decanted this wine, as we do with every Rombi wine. June 2023
2019 Rombi Merlot, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $65 (#974)
My Review: Garnet, almost purple in the glass. Dusty raspberry notes on the nose. Tart smooth raspberry on the palate. I’m lacking words to describe how delicious this fruit is. For such a young Rombi wine, it is very drinkable now and has the structure to last. April 2023
2014 Rombi Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $85 (#1127)
My Review: We blind tasted this wine at home – this is the first time I have presented this wine. Purple in the glass. Dark nose of cedar, dark plum, and blackberry. The palate was just “wow.” It was palate-coating rich from beginning to end, loaded with big and brooding dark fruit. I had guessed it was a Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine was nothing short of amazing. It was decanted and double aerated about an hour before serving. July 2023
2016 Rombi Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $85 (#837)
My Review: Affected by the Soberanes Fire, Sal fondly refers to this wine as “Smokey.” Dark ruby in the glass, tastes a bit like BBQ ribs with some ash on the finish. I like BBQ ribs…just sayin’. Yeah, it is smokey! August 2023
2018 Rombi Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $85 (#328)
My Review: Garnet in color. A warm nose with plum, cherry and mocha notes. Complex with lots of cherry on the palate and chewy tannins. Can’t wait to see what this becomes. Cellar for the future. Updated August 2023
2017 Rombi Petite Sirah, Carmel Valley AVA, 14.6% ABV, $75 (#331)
This fruit comes from the Galante vineyards, supplemented with some of Sal’s own grapes.
My Review: A rich, bright garnet in the glass. Cherry and berry notes on the nose. Thick on the palate with cherry and berry flavors. This is a “wow” wine. This wine has improved over the years and is very drinkable right now. April 2023
2018 Rombi Petite Sirah, Napa Valley AVA, 14.6% ABV, $75 (#1128) (pre-release)
Sal gifted me a bottle of this wine to try it pre-release.
My Review: Very dark purple in color. Dried fig and cigarettes on the nose. Super rich palate of blackberry and blueberry, very different from the redder fruit flavors of the Carmel Valley fruit. Our enjoyment was enhanced by not having to guess what wine this was. Very nice, Sal. September 2023
2018 Rombi Petit Verdot, Napa Valley, 14.4% ABV, $75 (#330)
This is Rombi’s first Petit Verdot, which I reviewed back in 2021 and liked very much. As I wrote before, Sal shared with us the small fact that Petit Verdot is the last fruit to ripen. I likely had commented that I used to think Petit Verdot was a touch vegetal. Perhaps others aren’t patient enough for the fruit to ripen fully!
My Review: Purple in the glass. A very jammy nose, enhanced by some warm, brown sugar and mocha notes. The palate: super rich, smooth, with dark berry flavors. It’s delicious, dark fruit with a slightly bitter finish. This is one of my favorite Petit Verdots. Blows my socks off. I’m sad we are out of this wine at our house! Updated August 2023
“Taste winemaker Salvatore Rombi’s award-winning limited-production vintages of Rombi Estate-grown Carmel Valley Vineyard Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Also, taste our outstanding Carmel Valley Petite Sirah and Napa Valley fruit Petit Verdot.
“Since the winemaker and owner Salvatore Rombi will be pouring in the tasting room, you will enjoy firsthand knowledge and education, from growing the fruit to producing the wine. Sal does it all! Truly a very unique tasting room experience.
“Rombi Wines are only available directly from our tasting room, and each previous vintage released has sold out.”
Located in the Carmel Valley Village at 1 Center Street, 11 3/4 miles from Highway One, Right Off Carmel Valley Road (831) 659-7200. Hours of Operation: Only Saturday – Sunday, 12 pm to 5 pm.
As I mentioned in my previous post, I really feel like Decanting Monterey is getting some recognition when I start getting invited to events that are “wine trade only.” The Monterey Wines Trade and Media Tasting, was held in Carmel in early August, offering an opportunity to talk to vintners and their representatives one-on-one! This is part 3 of my experience there. Please read Part 1here and Part 2here for more details. And many thanks again to the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association for the tickets!
Today’s post will cover these local wineries and some of the wines they presented that day: Lepe Cellars, Windy Oaks Estate, Wrath, McIntyre Vineyards, and Galante Vineyards. Because these are the last wineries we visited that day, our tasting notes are skimpy – we focused more on conversations with the winemakers and staff. Winery notes come from their website or conversation with the winemaker, unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone.
It was so nice to finally meet Miguel Lepe! He is one of our bright, creative NextGen winemakers – and one to watch! I’ve tasted his wines several times and was so happy to finally meet him. I admire the fact he is willing to make the kinds of big reds I like – in our land of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. I previously wrote about Lepe Cellars here: Lepe Cellars: A New Face on the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Circuit! I’m also working on a Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society event at his tasting room in Carmel-By-The-Sea in the next few months!
2022 Lepe Cellars Sangiovese Rosé, Merit Vineyards, San Antonio Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.5% ABV, $30 (#1109)
Winery Notes: “This bright, stone fruit focused dry Rosé starts out with a burst of peach and apricot leading into hints of tangerine. Pairs well with seared salmon, lobster and tuna tartare.”
My Review: By now, our tasting notes have been reduced to a few words. This rosé exhibited a mellow nose. The Sangiovese grapes made this a very tasty version. August 2023
2020 Lepe Cellars Petit Verdot, Merit Vineyards, San Antonio Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14.5% ABV, $49 (#1110)
Winery Notes: “Elegant aromas of wild strawberry, savory soy and light licorice show on the nose of this pure varietal. Dark plum and cherries show on the first sip, with a bit of earthy forest floor woven with pepper, oak and tannin creating a velvety, rich texture.”
My Review: Plummy and jammy on the nose. Tobacco and dark fruits on the palate. Very nice. August 2023
I met Kerry Winslow in the Windy Oaks Tasting Room a few years back. Extremely knowledgeable and friendly, Kerry is a class act – and he is everywhere. After years of reading and quoting the wine blog grapelive.com, I finally put two and two together. And he has a great presence on Instagram and LinkedIn – follow him! He had us try a few wines on this day. We were just about at the end of this event, so note taking was practically non-existent. My apologies, Kerry. I can do better. I previously wrote up Windy Oaks here: Windy Oaks: Les Deux Grands Crus and More Pinot Noir!
2018 Windy Oaks Chardonnay, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, $32(#1111)
Winery Notes: Kerry indicated that this is a particular parcel of the Escolle Vineyard farmed especially for them.
Winemaker notes from wine.com: “Brilliant crisp golden delicious apple, bosc pear, lemon and pineapple fruits unfold on the rich palate along with hints of nutmeg, clove spice, butter rum and golden figs.
“This Chardonnay is sourced exclusively from the Escolle Vineyard near the famous Garys’ Vineyard, which is set on the classic sandy loams with touches of quartz and granite. All barrel fermented and aged in French oak with bâtonnage (stirred lees), it sees malolactic secondary fermentation which adds depth and texture to this lively wine.”
My Review: This is a very delicious, oaky, buttery, and creamy Chardonnay and currently available on their website. August 2023
2021 Windy Oaks Estate Cuvée Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, Santa Cruz County (#1112)
Winery Notes: N/A
My Review: You all know I am not the biggest Pinot Noir fan, but I liked this one. It had a very nice, lean palate with enough complexity to hold my interest. August 2023
2016 Windy Oaks Diane’s Block Estate Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, Santa Cruz County (#1113)
Winery Notes from wine.com: “Grown on 5-acre block, all estate, slightly warmer site, at a lower elevation, resulting in a bit more fruit forward notes. Exciting density and ultra-smooth ripe/creamy tannins with a stylish nose of wild strawberry/rhubarb and lavender. More subtle in the nose it saves its forward nature for a medium full attack on the lush palate showing fine detail and an array of red fruit flavors, mineral tones and sweet and sour notes, finishing long and spicy. The mouth feel makes an impact with layers of raspberry, black cherry and fresh picked plum along with a hint of French oak and savory spices that add excellent contrast in this serious and structured Pinot.”
My Review: It was a real treat to be able to taste this vintage of the Diane’s Block. However, I apologize for lack of good tasting notes.Garnet in the glass with a touch of acidity on the finish. 2023
We became quick fans of Wrath thanks to their broad portfolio of wines, especially, for me, their Syrahs. It was through their wines that we began to get to know some of the great vineyards of Monterey County, such as their own San Saba Vineyard, the Tondré Grapefield in the Santa Lucia Highlands, and, more recently, KW Ranch, also in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Because of their different lines of wines – and if I happen upon a good sale, I can even squeeze their EX (formerly Ex Animus) wines from time to time into one of my East Coast wine classes. And when I needed a Falanghina for my part of a virtual wine class, Wrath had one. You can read about it here: Ancient Roman Winemaking Meets Modern Viticulture!
Winery Notes: “Dark cherry, raspberries and a touch of earthiness highlight the characteristics of our growing area… This clonal blend uses all estate grown grapes. It combines dark cherry, raspberries and a touch of earthiness on the nose. The palate offers a balance of structure and acidity that compliments elegant, focused red berry and cherry cola with a hint of forest floor. Nimble and pure, it terminates with a long clean finish that is enhanced with a touch of mineral.”
My Review: This wine was interesting to me, as the smokey, earthy nose contrasted with the rich palate of fruit which followed. August 2023
2020 Wrath Pinot Noir, McIntyre Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.2% ABV, $49 (#1115)
Winery Notes: “Wines made from master-grower Steve McIntyre’s vineyard often exhibit the telltale characteristics of Santa Lucia Highlands terroir. Our 2020 McIntyre Vineyard Pinot Noir is no exception. Comprised of 100 percent 115 clone and made with 20 percent whole-cluster fermentation, it is dense and complex, with pomegranate, a touch of smoke and a mineral element. Berry flavors of cranberry and pomegranate remain persistent, blending with red currant, more mineral and bright acidity in a structured finish.” 94pts- Wine Enthusiast
“The 2020 Wrath McIntyre Pinot follows instep with previous vintages and displays classic red and black cherry flavors with a distinctive underlying minerality.”
My Review: I tend to like the Pinot Noir wines that come from the McIntyre Vineyard and this one is no exception. This one was quite rich in the palate and delicious. August 2023
About two years ago, we happened to be in the Crossroads Shopping Center in Carmel and popped into McIntyre. It was a very quiet afternoon, so we got to taste a wide variety of Pinot Noirs. That is when McIntyre Vineyards Pinot Noirs got my attention – I tasted some I actually liked! You can read about that experience here: Impressive Pinot Noirs from Steve McIntyre Bring SLH to Life! Now I seek them out at events like these to validate my first impression! At the trade event this past August, we got to meet Kristen McIntyre and talk a bit about the wines. Again, apologies. As our penultimate stop, our notes are skimpy.
2019 McIntyre Family Wines Winemaker Series Don Van Staaveren Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA Monterey County, 14.6% ABV, $50 (#1116)
Winery Notes: “The idea for the Winemaker Series was born out of impatience and age-related urgency! If I’m lucky I’ll get to participate in another 20 to 30 vintages as our vineyards and wines evolve. Collaborating with a diverse set of winemakers and viticulturists provides exciting opportunities to experiment and accelerate our pace of discovery. Each Winemaker brings their own style and experience, just as a great chef or a musician, to the process of producing a life enhancing experience best shared with others” – Steve McIntyre
“Smells of bright, candied cherry fruit. The remarkably pure and crystalline cherry flavours have an aromatic sweetness to them that charms, while excellent acidity keeps the saliva flowing. Boisterous and bright with barely perceptible tannins. This expression of cherry will bring a smile to most drinkers.” (Alder Yarrow) Wine Enthusiast: 94 points
My Review: I tend to like the Pinot Noir fruit and winemaking style from McIntyre. This one was quite delicious. Classic and elegant. I now have a better appreciation for the Winemaker Series of their wines and will stop by to taste some more. August 2023
Winery Notes: “Our 2018 Kimberly Vineyard is the epitome of Goldilocks-climate Merlot. It marries the lavish, ripe fruit of a warm site with the elegance and structure of a cool locale. As in previous years, the dominant character traits include blackberry, anise, cassis and dried currants. Below that is a bed of juicy black fruit and supple, silky tannins. While it drinks well now, this Merlot will continue to evolve and improve over the next decade.” (Steve McIntyre)
My Review: Sadly, I have zero tasting notes for this wine and will have to revisit it in their Crossroads Tasting Room in Carmel!
While I have presented Galante wines on my website before (check out Galante: Now This Cowboy Makes Big Reds!, this was my first occasion to meet Jack Galante. The Galante family has a long legacy in the region, with his grandfather James Frank Devendorf founding Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Highlands Inn! You can read more about the Galante history on their website.
A few years back, Galante sold its vineyards and winery to Tira Nanza (see above) and today it sources grapes from a variety of vineyards “from Paso Robles to Napa,” with most of their grapes coming from the Carmel Valley AVA, according to their website. According to Jack, they are still managing some vineyards.
Galante was the very last table we stopped at during this event – and my lack of tasting notes reflect that. I haven’t been to their tasting room in a couple of years, so I will try to get back out there soon!
2021 Galante Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Blackjack Pasture, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $80 (#1118)
Winery Notes: N/A – pre-release
My Review: My only note was that this was one heck of a serious cab. I definitely need to retaste this wine when it is released! August 2023
2021 Galante Vineyards Legacy Red Wine, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $85 (#1119) 54% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon
Winery Notes: “This ongoing series celebrates Jack’s great-grandfather’s – James Frank Devendorf – vision, who founded the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Aged in new French Oak for 15 months, this Bordeaux-style wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, featuring blackberries, violets and cocoa on the nose. Dried cherry and strawberry middle notes lead to a long, lingering finish of spice and tobacco. Cellar-worthy for many decades, but enjoyable right now as well.”
My Review: The only notes I took said that this wine exhibited some rather intense fruit – also worthy of a retaste soon! August 2023
As I mentioned in my previous post, I really feel like Decanting Monterey is getting some recognition when I start getting invited to events that are “wine trade only.” This is part 2 of my experience at the Monterey Wines Trade and Media Tasting organized by the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association in Carmel in early August. Check my blog for Part 1 from earlier this week and I will have one more next week!
It’s been a while since I have tasted Silvestri wines. I have long been a fan of their Barbera and Syrah, so it was a real treat to try these at this event.
2019 Silvestri Vineyards Estate Syrah, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $48 (#1098)
Winery Notes: “Syrah fans everywhere! Our Syrah continues to please year after year. Savor the aromas of blackberry and dried plum while enjoying the mouth-watering flavors, velvety texture along with medium tannins. Complement with sausage pizza, grilled veggies or grilled meat.”
My Review: Beautiful dark ruby in glass. Dark fruits enrobed with eucalyptus. Mouthfilling. Delicious. I had forgotten how delicious their Estate Syrah could be! August 2023
2019 Silvestri Vineyards Estate Barbera, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $75 (#1099)
Winery Notes: “Barbera is a red grape varietal originating from the Piedmont region of Northwestern Italy. Our small block of Barbera, which is the first planting of this varietal in Carmel Valley, was added to the vineyard to honor the Silvestri family heritage. It’s position on a warm southern facing slope allows this varietal to mature and ripen to its fullest potential before harvest. With the influence of French oak barrel fermentation and maturation our Barbera exudes a deep richness and complexity that helps balance the grape’s high acidity.
“Black cherry, dried strawberry and plum aromas blend through to like flavors and move on to full, soft tannins with sufficient acidity. A more refined yet full-flavored Barbera.”
My Review: Hammy bacon on the nose, like BBQ ribs. Dark fruit on the palate. Yummy. August 2023
2019 Silvestri Vineyards Red Ranger Estate Syrah, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $75 (#1100)
Winery Notes: “The 2019 Red Ranger is the 7th release of our signature Syrah that represents a part of the vineyard featuring the Bien Nacido clone, which is known for its richness and complexity. We use 75% new French oak and age it in the cellar for 16 months…
“Red Ranger rocks! That consistent depth of flavor, roundness and long finish are all here. Blackberry, black currant and a trace of fig lead to the full mouthfeel, just the right acidity and long, luscious finish. Try with a sausage stew and roasted meats, or aged hard cheeses.” 93 points, 2023 Wine Enthusiast buying guide!
My Review: Inky in glass. Rich palate of dark fruits highlighted by some woody notes. My favorite red wine of the day. August 2023
I do miss Rexford’s tasting room in Carmel Valley. It sat quietly next to Parsonage, where COraal Wine Co. is today. We’d stop in to talk to the vintner from time to time. He makes one heck of a delicious Chardonnay and Merlot. But today I decided to try their Zinfandel. We just don’t seem to have the right climate for Zinfandel, yet I continue to seek one out.
2019 Rexford Zinfandel, Gillian Enz Vineyards, Lime Kiln Valley AVA, San Benito County, 15.5% ABV, $37 (#1101)
Winery Notes: “Lime Kiln Valley is a small viticultural area located in the San Benito County south of Hollister. The area features soils of decomposed granite and limestone, with warm days and cool nights that lead to a long growing season producing balanced wines with great depth. We think that Sam’s great grandparents produced wine from grapes grown here more than a century ago so we are pleased to offer this Zinfandel. Aged in American oak and bottled without fining or filtration, the wine is full-bodied with rich berry flavors and a smooth finish. Enjoy it with barbecue, grilled meats or pasta.”
My Review: Garnet in color. While our region is not known for its Zinfandel, this Rexford wine is not bad for a lighter Zinfandel. August 2023
2019 Opaque Darkness Red Blend, El Pomar District, Paso Robles AVA, San Luis Obispo County, 14.9% ABV, $30 (#1102)
Winery Notes: “The word “opaque” means “impenetrable to light” and refers to the dark, inky, impenetrable color of the Riboli family’s proprietary blend. Opaque Darkness brings together the impressive quality of our estate grown Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah grapes. After aging in French and American barrels for 15 months, our hand-crafted artisan blend reveals ripe flavors of raspberry and blackberry with notes of spice and vanilla. Enjoy the darkness!”
My Review: Inky in color. Dark fruit berries not overdone. Very balanced. Really quite delicious. A superb value. August 2023
At the Scheid table, we were introduced to a couple of family wine lines I had not heard of before. These two wines were lots of fun and perhaps the polar opposites, showing the range of what Monterey County can produce.
Sunny with a Chance of Flowers: “Sunny is made for mindful wine lovers – who, like us, believe less can be more. Zero sugar, fewer calories and less alcohol, yet still positively delicious! It’s everything you want in a wine and more –certified sustainable, vegan and gluten-free.”
VDR – Very Dark Red: “Very Dark Red—the name speaks for itself. Effortlessly bold, it captivates the senses with an inherent confidence that draws you in. Slightly mysterious, yet unexpectedly approachable, this robust red blend reveals new layers of depth and personality with each lingering sip.”
Sunny Positively Bubby Rosé, Monterey County, 9% ABV, $20 (#1103)
Winery Notes: “Everything is better with bubbles! Our Sunny Bubbly delights with flavors of fresh strawberry and watermelon wrapped in a package of lovely, fine bubbles and a crisp, refreshing finish. We are all born to sparkle…Aromas of fresh strawberry and watermelon. Lovely, fine bubbles. A crisp, refreshing finish.” 91 points – Wine Enthusiast and Best Buy
My Review: Pale pink. Cantaloupe flavors. Very bubbly and light. Zero sugar. Made from Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. August 2023
2020 VDR (Very Dark Red) Proprietary Red Blend, Hames Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $25 (#1104)
Winery Notes: “Very Dark Red—the name speaks for itself. VDR is a non-traditional proprietary red blend headlined by a rare combination of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot – two grape varietals known for their extraordinarily deep violet hues, concentrated flavors and full-bodied profiles. Big and bold, VDR not only turns heads, it turns the curious into evangelists with its layered complexity, lush mouthfeel, supple tannins and smooth, lingering finish.” https://www.cheersandco.com/
My Review: Inky in the glass. Dark fruit and caramel on the nose. A rich, jammy palate of dark fruit. Very tasty – a great value. August 2023
I think anyone who has met Sabrine Rodems would agree that she is a formidable talent in the Monterey winemaking world. She makes wine for Kori, Scratch, and Wrath, all in the same building at Wrath Wines. Her talent, creativity and stamina are equally impressive. I fell in love with Wrath’s San Saba Syrah many years ago and knew, when I tried the Wrath Ex Dolio Falanghina, that she was one to think outside the box and dare to be different.
I’ve had Scratch wines a few times and finally visited her cute, trendy and spacious tasting room in Carmel Valley Village. I was delighted to chat with Sabrine a bit on this day and taste some more of her wines.
2022 Scratch Rosé of Pinot Noir, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 12.8% ABV (#1105)
Winery Notes: N/A
My Review: Bright pink in the glass. Fuji apple and great flavors on the palate – bright and delicious. August 2023
2021 Scratch C47 Marsanne/Roussanne White Blend, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV, $59 (#1106)
Winery Notes: “These two Northern Rhone varietals grown in Carmel Valley from the Paloma Creek Vineyard are traditionally blended together. The slightly crisp nature of Marsanne with white nectarine, quince & lemon balance out the creamy Roussanne with fig, peach, pear and a little nuttiness.”
My Review: Melon on the nose. Creamy from the fruit with an attractive sweetness at the finish. August 2023
2019 Scratch C47 Red Blend, Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, Santa Cruz County, 14.5% ABV, $95 (#1107) Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot
Winery Notes: “Classic Bordeaux blend from the Santa Cruz Mountains. Cab Sauvignon and Cab Franc from the steep slopes of Janaca Vineyard. Merlot harvested from the high elevation of the Zayante Vineyard. Black berries, blueberries with hints of juniper & spices all come together in this blend, creating a sophisticated and age worthy bottle to enjoy now or in the future.”
My Review: An attractive dark garnet in color. Lots of berry flavors, yet retains a lean nature. August 2023
We had met Greg Hill at the Monterey Winemakers’ Celebration back in June, so it was great to see him here and try another of his wines. We are big fans of our newest and youngest wineries and believe Tira Nanza shows great promise. I previously reviewed his Cabernet Sauvignon here.
Winery Notes: “Back by popular demand, our 2022 Malbec Rosé may differ from its predecessor in color but it shares the same vibrant fruit and complexity that made the ‘21 so special. Lighter in color and more tropical in flavor, with notes of strawberry, cantaloupe and mango, this Rosé can be enjoyed in any setting. Fermented and aged in Stainless Steel”
My Review: We detected floral notes on the nose and palate, with anise on the finish. It was served very cold. August 2023
THE TASTING ROOMS
Most of these wineries have tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea or in Carmel Valley – please check their websites for more information.
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