Tagged: Monterey AVA

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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    Fine Monterey Wine in a Can? YES!

    I stopped at Wrath’s Carmel wine tasting room early last fall to pick up some Syrah and I noticed these cans on the shelf.  I learned they contained Wrath’s AL Sauvignon Blanc.  I have presented their delicious Sauvignon Blanc in a past class, so I knew this would be a quality wine.  I tried to convince my virtual wine class that we should do a tasting of canned wines, but the idea was never accepted.  So I had to back into a topic that would allow me to present this wine:  let’s do Sauvignon Blanc! For $5.99, you gotta try it, right?

    2018 Wrath AL Sauvignon Blanc, Monterey AVA, 12.9% ABV, $6 for 375 ml (#402*)

    (The current release is the 2019; all info on their website is linked to that vintage vs. the 2018.)

    About the AL Sauvignon Blanc from wrath.com: “AL Sauvignon Blanc is the newest addition to Wrath.  We’ve got nothing against corks or bottles but ​sometimes, a can just gets the job done.  Whether hiking, boating, or by the pool… whenever cans of beer ​go into a cooler, a can of wine should be there too.  Enjoying the convenience of canned wine shouldn’t ​have to mean sacrificing quality.  Grapes used for AL are sourced from our estate San Saba Vineyard and are ​treated with the same care and respect as our bottled wines.  So go play, relax, enjoy and recycle!”

    “Estate grown grapes are hand picked and hand sorted before fermenting in steel vats; then rested on the lees for 3 to 4 months while flavors knit together.  Filtering and canning takes place at the winery.  Only BPA-free cans are used. The new wine is allowed to rest for six months before release.  Our cans have an internal liner and the air pocket created by this design helps keep the wine chilled longer if being used outside and enjoyed directly from the can.”

    My Review: Pale yellow/straw in the glass.  Fragrant pineapple and lemongrass on the nose.  Palate burtsing with tropical fruits.  This is a delicious wine which I would love to drink at a picnic or on the beach at sunset (if permitted!).  The can did a nice job of keeping the wine chilled. June 2021

    You can buy Wrath wines directly from their website or tasting rooms. 

    Regarding Tastings: Both the winery tasting room in Soledad and the Carmel Plaza tasting room are open for tastings!  Check out this link for more details: https://www.wrathwines.com/Visit.

    *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.    

    BOLD Wine Co: “exciting, affordable, sustainably-grown”

    This is Post Two about Seabold wines, today’s post focused on BOLD Wine Co.  For more about Seabold, please see the 6/14 post. When I did my tasting at Seabold, I was told they came up with the name the night before the bottle labels needed to be printed.  They thought of the Monterey Bay and the ocean breezes and their desire to be bold in the creation of their wines. Literally Sea Bold. BOLD Wine Co is the label for wines Chris Miller, the proprietor and winemaker, gets to play and experiment with.  From their website:

    BOLD Wine Co is the label for wines the winemaker gets to play and experiment with.  From their website:

    “We believe that everyone should have access to delicious and balanced wines that speak to their place of origin. Every year we work with new vineyards and varieties for Seabold Cellars; those first few vintages, the new wines that we find promising are released under the BOLD Wine Co label. We produce exciting, affordable, sustainably-grown wines from the Monterey Peninsula.”

    The quotes below come from the Seabold web page https://www.seaboldcellars.com/ or from their tasting sheet.  

    2017 BOLD Wine Co Grenache Rosé, Paso Robles AVA, 13.4% ABV, $20 (#378*)

    Winery Notes: “Drs. Serena Friedman and Michael “Farmer Mickey” Drucker built up this 400-acre ranch from scratch with their bare hands. Incredibly hard workers and tireless proponents of the Paso Robles region, they grow mostly Bordeaux and Rhône varieties…Red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper, dried lavender, red currant.” 120 cases produced

    My Review: Vibrant salmon in the glass – a lot of time on the skins. Very sweet nose – almost bright cherry, followed by full-bodied strawberry cream on the palate. Like a strawberry shortcake! I would love this in a bubbly version! May 2021

    2018 BOLD Wine Co Pinot Noir, Monterey AVA, 13.7% ABV, $25 (#379*)

    Winery Notes: “Balestra is located just north of the Santa Lucia Highlands on a well-drained alluvial bed of coarse loam and clay, which combined with its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, delays ripening while retaining low pH levels. Olson is one of our favorite vineyards in Monterey County, 4 miles off the Pacific Ocean, with bracing acidity. Unfortunately, while the Pinot Noir quality is outstanding, yields are typically just about 1 ton per acre…Crushed raspberry, balsamic strawberry, rhubarb, white mushroom.”  Whole cluster pressed, native yeast fermentation. 412 cases produced

    My Review: Bright cherry in the glass.  Slightly sweet cherry on the nose – classic Pinot Noir.  Cherry Jolly Rancher on the palate.  Agree with the hibiscus tea! May 2021

    2019 BOLD Wine Co Carignan, Redwood Valley, 13.6% ABV, $25  (#380*) 82 cases produced

    Vineyard Notes: “REDWOOD VALLEY At a higher elevation and cooler temperature than much of surrounding Mendocino County, Redwood Valley has warm days and intensely cold nights, leading to a long ripening season that often lasts into November. The winemaking tradition here goes back to the mid-1800s, with small plots of original plantings from that era…VINCENZO VINEYARD First planted in 1918, Vincenzo is owned and cared for by the grandchildren of the original farmer. Organic and dry-farmed since its planting, the old-vine head-trained vines here are remarkably healthy and yield intensely flavored wines.”

    Winery Tasting Notes: “Campfire, blueberry skins, black raspberry, star anise, violets, and charred meat.”

    My Review: Beautiful ruby – a tad purple.  Berry/cherry on the nose – like a Pinot Noir! Smooth on the palate brimming with delicious berry flavors. Just when I was thinking I was done exploring Carignan, I found this Carignan, which I liked a lot! May 2021

    You can buy BOLD Wine online or at the Seabold Tasting Room, 3 Pilot Road in Carmel Valley Village.  They are open Thursday-Sunday, 12-5 p.m. and by appointment (831-288-2730).

    *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.    

    Seabold: BOLD-ly Creating Coastal Wines

    Now that things are opening up, it is time to go exploring – discover some newer wineries I haven’t tried before.  On a chilly Memorial Day Sunday on the coast, I went for warmth and wine, finding both in Carmel Valley Village.  

    Back when I first started Decanting Monterey, I had driven out to the valley to take pictures and noted a new tasting room.  I had never heard of Seabold and put it on my list to come back and try.  One pandemic later, it was time!  Seabold’s location makes it a visible stop for wine connoisseurs and tourists alike. I received first class treatment from Katianna. She brought me the wines individually so I could learn about each one. The quotes below come from the Seabold web page or from their tasting sheet.  

    About Seabold:  “Seabold Cellars was established in the Monterey Bay region because we believe that cool-climate organic and sustainable vineyards produce balanced wines that showcase their origin more than their winemaking. During the year, more time is spent in vineyards than the winery. Our winemaking is as hands-off as possible, respecting traditional techniques and practices without being beholden to them. We produce non-interventionist, site-specific Burgundy and Rhône varieties, as seen through a California lens.” They source their grapes from throughout the Central Coast – from Prunedale to Paso Robles and make their wines in nearby Marina!

    “Seabold Cellars focuses on vineyards in the Monterey Bay area. This region has immense potential owing to geographic, geological, and climatic factors. Less than 100 yards offshore, the Blue Grand Canyon – at 60 miles long and 2 miles deep – is one of the world’s largest and deepest marine trenches. Its 300 cubic miles of frigid waters fuel the cold Salinas wind that moderates temperatures throughout all of Monterey County. As the wind funnels through the Gabilan and Santa Lucia Ranges, it creates a Thermal Rainbow – a large scale temperature gradation drawn through the length of the Salinas Valley.” 

    I will be presenting Seabold’s wines in 2 separate posts: Seabold Cellars and BOLD Wine Co. Seabold Cellars wines are single vineyard and BOLD are wines Chris Miller, the proprietor and winemaker, gets to experiment and have fun with. Today’s post is about Seabold Cellars’ wines!

    2018 Seabold Cellars Pinot Blanc, Rodnick Farm, Chalone AVA, 13.1% ABV, $45 (#372*) 

    Winery notes: “Established in the 1970s, this was the personal home and vineyard for legendary pioneer Dick Graff during his winemaking tenure at Chalone…Blanched almond, dried lemon peel, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano. A broad, rich, glycerol mouthfeel with surprisingly fresh acidity.”

    WINE ENTHUSIAST – 93 points, Editor’s Choice: “It’s always a joy to taste the old vines of Chalone, and this bottling captures their unique qualities, starting with aromas of apple syrup, hazelnut and toasted pecan. The palate offers almond, Meyer lemon and a creamy oak flavor that lingers on the tongue for a long time—all very unique elements.” MATT KETTMANN https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/seabold-cellars-2018-rodnick-farm-old-vines-pinot-blanc-chalone/ 

    My Review: Golden in the glass. A little musty parmesan and bitter citrus rind on the nose.  Round, bold flavors on the palate with lemon/citrus peel.  Very flavorful, powerful on the palate, with a lingering finish.  I would have guessed a higher % ABV for the flavor.  This was my favorite, most notable, of the wines I tasted today. May 2021

    2019 Seabold Cellars Grenache Blanc, Mission Ranch, Arroyo Seco AVA, 13.7% ABV, $40 (#373*)

    Vineyard notes: “Steve McIntyre – one of the most knowledgeable and experienced winegrowers in California – farms this plot of land. Increasingly we find ourselves impressed with the quality of aromatic white varieties from Arroyo Seco, and this site has shown immense promise very early on for us…”

    Tasting Sheet notes: “Juicy guava, agave nectar, papaya, persimmon, white pepper”

    My Review: Straw in the glass with a faint nose of tropical fruits.  Delicious tropical fruits carrying through the palate.  Smooth, refreshing and light – perfect for a hot, sunny day in Carmel Valley! May 2021

    Seabold’s tasting room proudly displays the rocks that distinguish our Central Coast vineyards.

    2018 Seabold Cellars Chardonnay, Olson Vineyard, Prunedale, Monterey AVA, 13.1% ABV, $40 (#374*)

    Vineyard Notes: “The Olsons have been the owners and caretakers since 1882, and have always farmed the entire property organically. The vineyard, dramatically towering above Highway 101, is composed of weathered sandstone with some clay atop iron pan subsoils. One of the coldest vineyards in all of California, it is only 5 unobstructed miles from the Monterey Bay’s icy waters.”

    Tasting Sheet Notes: “Cured lemon peels, sea spray, clover honey, tart nectarines, fresh apricot, “crunchy” acid profile, fresh heavy cream.”  Fermented in stainless steel and aged in neutral oak.

    My Review: Bouquet of earth and grass.  Bright acidity on the palate – brimming with citrus flavors of lemon lime.  I learned they like to make their wines on the acidic side – this one is a bit too acidic for me! May 2021

    2017 Seabold Cellars Pinot Noir, Pelio Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 13.3% ABV, $45  (#375*)

    Vineyard Notes: “Pelio is located in a wind-beaten, high-elevation, undulating series of hills 8 miles from the coast. The vineyard sits mid-slope, facing the Pacific Ocean, with an average elevation of 1000’. The temperature rarely rises above the 70s, with very cold diurnal shifts…” Located off the Laureles grade, they only grow Chardonnay & Pinot Noir. 

    Winery Tasting Notes: “Fresh pomegranate, cranberry, pluot, green tea, grey salt, black raspberry, rose, lavender, white mushroom, roasted thyme, nutmeg.”

    My Review: Beautiful ruby in the glass.  Lovely bouquet of berry jam and black tea. Round, jammy fruit with notes of cranberry layered with blackberry and tea.  I liked this wine. May 2021

    The Seabold tasting room is prominently located at the beginning of Pilot Road in Carmel Valley Village

    You can buy Seabold wines online or at their tasting room, 3 Pilot Road in Carmel Valley Village.  They are open Thursday-Sunday, 12-5 p.m. and by appointment (831-288-2730).

    *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.    

    Ancient Roman Winemaking Meets Modern Viticulture!

    Wine class this week was Italian varietals produced in the US.  I decided to open the 2017 Wrath Ex Dolio Falanghina I picked up during a wine tasting in March.  I became obsessed with Wrath Falanghina when I read this article about Sabrine Rodems’ own label, Scratch, in Edible Monterey Sabrine Rodems On Exhibit Scratch Coming to Carmel. 

    “Owner Michael Thomas has kept Rodems plenty busy with his many often unconventional winemaking ideas, and has given her the latitude to chase different styles, like unoaked Pinot and fiercely oaked Sauvignon Blanc. When they ripped out a block of underperforming Muscat (I’m still crying over that), Michael, an archeologist, decided to plant Falanghina, an ancient Roman grape that was vinified in amphora. So, Rodems acquired a modern day replica of the ancient clay vessel from Italy (called a dolio) and tried her hand at Falanghina in clay. Truly an interesting, textural wine with just a hint of licking a clay pot.”

    You gotta try it, right?

    2017 Wrath Ex Dolio Falanghina, Monterey AVA, 13.2% ABV, $29 (#352*)

    Winery Notes from wrath.com: “The 2017 Ex Dolio Falanghina comes from the two rows of this ancient Campanian grape planted on our estate vineyard. It is fermented on the skins in the dolium (the modern version of an ancient clay fermenting vessel) until dry.  Then racked off and placed back into the dolium for 6 months of aging.  It is left naturally unfiltered and unfined before bottling.  The resulting wine possess very bright, racy acidity that is beautifully balanced with lush fruit flavors and a pronounced bouquet of ripe apricot…Our Ex Dolio Falanghina is a wine with one foot planted in ancient Roman winemaking traditions (fermented and aged in a dolio, not filtered or fined) and one foot in modern methods (modern viticulture and winemaking control measurements to ensure stability). For those who are unsure about drinking a naturally unfiltered wine, we suggest standing the bottle upright in a cooler or refrigerator for a day or two, just as one would handle a vintage Port. Most of the particulate matter will settle at the bottom of the bottle, although there is no issue with consuming it along with the wine.” 72 cases produced. 

    Wine Enthusiast – 90 points: “Winemaker Sabrine Rodems and proprietor/archaeologist Michael Thomas emulate Roman winemaking, with this skin-contact bottling that’s aged in a ceramic vessel. Golden yellow in the glass, the wine offers apple juice and butterscotch on the nose, with a hint of citrus. The palate shows dried citrus and bitter orange. It’s funky but enjoyable.”  Matt Kettmann, 8/2020 https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/wrath-2017-ex-dolio-falanghina-monterey/

    Is this a White? Rosé? Orange?

    My Review:  This is a golden, almost orange wine! There was a lot of sediment/crystallization in the bottle – I had to filter it into my glass.  Light, sweet apricot and gardenia on the nose.  Apricot/apple juice on the palate with some bold acidity and citrus notes. A very interesting and bit strange wine (maybe it is the touch of clay?)! May 2021

    You can buy Wrath wines directly from their website or tasting rooms. 

    Wrath Tasting Room in Soledad!

    Regarding Tastings: Both the winery tasting room in Soledad and the Carmel Plaza tasting room are open for outdoor and limited indoor tastings!  Check out this link for more details: https://www.wrathwines.com/Visit

    *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.    

    Odonata: Our Final Stop on the River Road Wine Trail!

    Our third and last River Road Wine Trail stop with our COVID Wine Pod in mid-March was at Odonata.  I had given Denis Hoey a heads up that we were coming, yet we had no idea what to expect.  And we were late.  Which his guy Eric pointed out to us.  Heh.  We also didn’t understand the format – we were used to seeing a tasting sheet and picking the few wines we would taste. When we were presented with the sparkling Grenache, followed by a tray of beakers, we were worried we wouldn’t get to taste the big reds we love.  We actually got to taste everything! We finally relaxed and Eric, as he had time, sat with us to give us more information on the wines and the winery.  I ask a lot of questions!

    Located at the former Marilyn Remark winery spot, the outdoor setting was lovely – we sat right in the middle with couches surrounding a round table.  The tasting menu was virtual, so bring your smart phone! It would be a fabulous picnic location, so we are definitely going back.  And we will go back as our first and only stop – would be so worth it. 

    We were a couple of wines in when one Wine Pod member asked another what he thought of the wine we were tasting.  The response was, “It’s our 19th wine.”  Enough said.  Wine tasting notetaking discipline went out the window.  Luckily, we had designated drivers to get us home safely. 

    COVID Wine Pod happily arrives at Odonata – the final stop for the day!

    About Odonata: “Odonata Wines is a small family winery owned and operated by winemaker Denis Hoey. Located on the California coast, farming vineyards around the Monterey Bay Area. Odonata produces small batches of each of their wines and focuses on local grapes that are organic and grown sustainably. Hoey works closely with local growers to ensure the highest quality wines from the vines to the glass.”  “The credo we subscribe to is blending of old world winemaking methods and attitudes with new learning and a continuous search for improvement. We always want it to be interesting and exciting when you come to the tasting room or winery.” While they own some vineyards, they also source grapes from others well known and maybe not so well known throughout the Central Coast AVA.  Odonata is the Greek word for dragonflies and damselflies. 

    2018 Odonata Sparkling Grenache, Hook Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, 12% ABV, $38 (#311*)

    A celebratory welcome with this sparkling Grenache!

    Odonata Tasting Notes (website): “Strawberry in color, fresh baked bread, guava, and peaches on the nose. The palate is filled with texture! It finishes with under ripe tropical fruit that brings fresh acidity to balance out this bubble.”

    2019 Odonata Viognier, Marin’s Vineyard, San Antonio Valley AVA, 14.3% ABV, $25 (#312*)

    Odonata Tasting Notes (website): “Notes of creamsicle, peaches and other stone fruit provide a tropical lift to the nose. The palate is lush and creamy, and is accentuated by moderate acidity through the mid-palate.”

    My Review: Pear, apricot and peach, with burnt honey, taffy and toasted marshmallow – not your typical Viognier!

    2019 Odonata Sauvignon Blanc, Joullian Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 14.3% ABV, $25 (#313*)

    Odonata Tasting Notes (website): “Our first time ever making a “sauvi-b” and we couldn’t be more excited about the outcome!  This wine has it all!  Vibrant and fresh, with notes of key lime, grapefruit and melon.  The palate is filled with fresh acidity, and is balanced out by passion fruit and kiwi!”

    2016 Odonata Remembrance, Circle B Vineyard, Paso Robles AVA, 12% ABV, $28 (#314*) 75% Petite Sirah & 25% Grenache. “All Proceeds from this wine are being donated equally to three important causes. 1) Alzheimer’s Research 2) Cancer Research 3) Our local Women’s shelter.”

    Winery Notes: “Ripe and luscious on the palate.  Pleasant texture, with a lengthy finish. This wine is an easy drinker that will pair perfect with any grilled meats, Italian fare, etc. Pretty versatile all round fun glass of wine.”

    2019 Odonata Cote-Du-Denis Carbonic Carignane, Circle B Vineyard, Paso Robles AVA, $28 (#315*)

    Wine Enthusiast – 93 points: “Winemaker Denis Hoey hops on the carbonic train with this elegantly labeled bottling, and it hits all the marks. Bright raspberry, hibiscus and rainy cement aromas lead into a zesty palate of plum, strawberry and more wet rock flavors.” Matt Kettmann, September 2020

    My Review: Beautiful translucent red in the glass, sweet on the nose, light cherry on the palate. 

    2018 Odonata Pinot Noir, Silacci Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 13.7% ABV, $32 (#316*)

    Tasting Notes: “Cherry fruit, cola, and subtle spices on the nose. Dense forest floor, and hints of wild strawberry on the palate.”

    My Review: Very berry on the nose and very nice on the palate.

    2017 Odonata Grenache, Hook Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 14.5% ABV, $28 (#317*)

    Winery Notes: “Vibrant and lively on the nose with alluring nuances of fresh flowers and berry fruits. On the palate you’re treated with pepper herbs, fresh minerality and delightful tannin. The richness and depth of this Grenache erupts with every sip, while conveying texture and balance.”

    My Review: A nice red color in the glass with a touch of bitterness on the finish. 

    2017 Odonata Sangiovese, Machado Creek Vineyard, Santa Clara Valley AVA, $32 (#318*)

    Winery Notes: “Cool nights and warm days make this marvelous complex wine. It starts with darker berries, met with sweet strawberry notes. finishes with a smooth rustic and smokey nose. On the palate, I make this wine to embody the true Italian varietal that Sangiovese is. Earth and spice driven, with subtle fruit drive this wine to pair wonderfully with any Italian dish!” We liked this wine!

    2018 Odonata Zinfandel, Enz Vineyard, Lime Kiln Valley AVA, San Benito County, 15% ABV, $32 (#319*)

    Winery Notes: “Aromas of sweet blackberry jam, strawberry puree, and loamy soil on the nose. The palate is held together by bright acid and tannins, offering flavors of violets, blueberry, and black licorice.”

    My Review: I have yet to find a Monterey/San Benito County Zin I love.  This one was OK!  Worthy of a re-taste soon!

    2018 Odonata Syrah, Soberanes Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 14.8% ABV, $42 (#320*)

    Winery Notes: “Elegant cherry fruit, red berry, cinnamon and spices on the nose. Bountiful fruit with opulent texture smooth out the palate. Enjoy this classic S.L.H. Pinot on its own or with a wide variety of food!”

    My Review: Purple in the glass, a bit smokey with cherry on the finish. 

    2016 Odonata Petite Sirah, Machado Creek Vineyard, Santa Clara Valley AVA, 14% ABV, $28 (#321*)

    Winery Notes: “Opulent fruit, herbs and spices on the nose. The palate is perfectly balanced with loads of dark fruit, tannin and graphite.”

    My Comment: This was our favorite so far of all the wines we tasted on this day!

    2018 Odonata Dessert Zinfandel, 19.12% ABV, $25 (#322*)

    Winery Notes: Sweet berry, mocha, and touch of sage. This is a very balanced expression of Dessert Wine, which allows it to be enjoyed on its own or added to any dessert you like!

    My Review: It was a very good dessert wine!  I would pick up one of these if we were still doing dinner club and I needed one!

    We picked up the Brunello and the Spiketail for a future review!

    Visiting Odonata (from their website): This winery is very easy to drive to from many points – not far off Hwy 68!! “Nestled at the northern edge of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA and at the beginning of the River Road wine trail lies the Odonata winery and tasting room. We hope you will stop by our tasting room and sample a selection of our current releases. We are open 7 days a week and no appointments are necessary.”

    *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.    

    Wrath: A Pandemic Exploration of the River Road Wine Trail

    A little over a year ago, we made a plan with our new neighbors to pack a picnic lunch and do some wine tasting down the River Road Wine Trail.  We finally pulled this trip off in mid-March!  We visited three wineries that day.  It was a “huge big deal” for us to venture out.  My husband has gone practically nowhere during the pandemic and the rest of us have remained quite isolated.  I organized the wine tastings and they organized a lovely picnic lunch! Perfect!

    Today’s post is about our visit to Wrath down in Soledad. I’ve posted before about Wrath, as we are huge fans of their Syrahs and I have presented their Sauvignon Blanc in one of my Washington DC wine classes.  I’m presenting 7 of their wines here. I picked up a couple of their wines for future tasting, including their 2017 Ex Dolio Falanghina and their 2017 Destruction Level, Grenache-Syrah. Our wines were accompanied by some cute little steak sandwiches and wraps, olive and goat cheese spread from the Monterey Farmers Market, and yummy lemon pudding.  Winery notes come from their website:  https://www.wrathwines.com/ and my tasting notes were supported by Mr. H, Melvin Dubee and his lovely wife, Kristine (AKA our COVID Wine Pod).

    2017 Wrath Chardonnay San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 13.2% ABV, $49 (#293*)

    Winery Notes: “Wrath’s flagship 2017 San Saba Vineyard Chardonnay utilizes only specifically selected barrels of three clones from our estate vineyard.  During production, we allow certain lots to ferment using native yeasts while other lots are inoculated with Montrachet yeast.  This adds to the wine’s signature complexity.  These lots go through a secondary fermentation, ML or malolactic, while aging in French oak barrels, 40% of which are new oak.  Aromas of apple and apricot blend with a hint of cooking spices.  Rich flavors of peach, ripe pineapple and shortbread find balance through bright acidity and a long, delicious finish.” 158 cases produced. 92 points – Vinous.

    My Review:   Golden in the glass.  Honeysuckle with a touch of pineapple on the nose.  Honeysuckle continues through the creamy palate – “a classic California Chardonnay.” March 2021

    2020 Wrath Pinot Noir Saignée, San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 13.1% ABV, $21 (#294*)

    Having fun with our Saignée shadows!

    Winery Notes: “Bright red fruit and moderate (13.1%) alcohol make this rosé the perfect summer wine. Aged for three months in neutral French oak barrels, this wine captures the essence of our award-winning San Saba Vineyard fruit in a refreshing and food-friendly saignée of 100 percent Pinot Noir. Pale strawberry and rhubarb define the nose while red berry and watermelon flavors meld with crisp acidity on the palate.” 232 cases produced.

    My Review:   Light rose in color.  Strawberry and rhubarb on the nose.  Rose petal and rhubarb on the palate. “I’m so glad Americans have learned to make rosé!” “I could drink this all day!”March 2021

    2017 Wrath Pommard 4/777 Pinot Noir, Monterey AVA, 14.5% ABV, $35 (#295*)

    Winery Notes: “Wrath’s blend of clones 777 and Pommard 4 has always showcased the dark, earthy side of our estate pinot fruit and the 2018 vintage is no exception.  The nose shows off black cherry and forest floor.  A rich, seamless intensity defines the palate with bing cherry, black raspberry and an allspice element; while the higher percentage (24%) of whole cluster fermentation leads to a long, structured finish.” 677 cases produced.  92 points – Vinous.

    My Review:   Transluscent ruby in color.  The delightful cherry on the nose carries into the palate – a little bitter.  Umami finish. March 2021

    2017 Wrath Pinot Noir San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, $49 (#296*)

    Wrath’s San Saba Estate Vineyard in Soledad

    Winery Tasting Sheet: “Earthy, rich fruit combines plum, wild berries, porcini mushrooms & spiced cola.”  91 points – Wine Spectator.

    My Review:  Bright ruby in color.  Smooth on the nose.  Cherry on the palate, tempered with red currant and lingenberry.  March 2021

    2017 Wrath Pinot Noir KW Ranch, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 14.2% ABV, $49 (#297*)

    Winery Notes: “KW Ranch Pinot Noir 2017 comes from the lower slopes along the eastern edge of the appellation.  Red berries and cherry join undertones of menthol and wild herbs on an expressive nose.  The palate highlights tight, focused fruit with bright acidity and mineral that merge into a long, structured finish.  Although delicious now, this wine will peak after 2024.” 321 cases produced. 92 points – Vinous.

    My Review:  This wine was richer and deeper in color with dark cherry and plum flavors. March 2021

    2016 Wrath Grenache Alta Loma, Monterey AVA, 13.7% ABV, $39 (298*)

    Winery Notes: “This Grenache comes from the biodynamically managed Alta Loma Vineyard, just south of the Santa Lucia Highlands.  Deeply colored for the varietal, this Grenache is intense, high-toned and elegant.  The aromatics offer notes of pine forest, juniper, spice, earth and wet stone.  The palate is powerful, structured, rich and direct with a long finish that includes noticeable, well-integrated tannins.” 67 cases produced. 92 points – Vinous.

    My Review:  Beautiful ruby color.  Nose smells like Southern Rhône – cherry, lavender and sage.  Very smooth on the palate with an acidic sharpness on the finish. March 2021

    2017 Wrath Syrah KW Ranch, Santa Lucia Highlands, 14.6% ABV, $39 (#299*)

    Winery Notes: “In keeping with our focus on sustainability, grapes are hand harvested and brought to our winery (only six miles down the road) for hand sorting.  All our single vineyard Syrahs use the small whole cluster fermentation and oak regimen.  This helps highlight the individual personality of each vineyard.  The 2017 KW Ranch Syrah is wildly aromatic with flashes of black pepper, smoked meat, blackberries, leather and cassis.  The palate is thick, powerful and succulently juicy.  Even though the tannins are bold, the wine is still nimble, elegant and approachable.” 109 cases produced. 93 points – Vinous.

    My Review:  Purple in color.  Berry jam and a touch of leather on the nose.  Softer than the 2016.  Smokey and peppery with allspice on the palate.  A hint of menthol on the back palate. Very nice, smooth palate.  This would go well with some of those farmers market lamb chops! March 2021

    You can buy these wines directly from Wrath via their website or tasting rooms. 

    Regarding Tastings: Both the winery tasting room in Soledad and the Carmel Plaza tasting room are open for outdoor and limited indoor tastings!  Check out this link for more details: https://www.wrathwines.com/Visit.

    *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.    

    La Marea: Spanish-Inspired Wines “rooted in the sea, the soil and the sea air”

    When my Spring Club Release became available for pickup, I contacted the I Brand tasting room to find a day I could stop by for a quiet, isolated outdoor tasting to taste their new releases. In addition to tasting those wines in early March, we have opened several other Ian Brand wines at home in 2021.  I’ll be presenting all of them in 3 separate posts by label:  La Marea, Le P’tit Paysan, and I. Brand & Family. Today’s post is about three La Marea wines, Ian Brand’s label for his Spanish-inspired wines.

    More About La Marea from the Winery:  “La Marea, (Spanish for “The Tide”), made by Ian Brand of Le P’tit Paysan, is a tiny winery focused on single vineyard Spanish varietals “rooted in the sea, the soil and the sea air”. Brand believes Monterey and San Benito to be some of the most ideally suited climates in California for Spanish varietals like Albariño, Grenache (Garnacha) and Mourvedre (Monastrell). The proximity to the cool ocean waters Monterey Bay provides an optimal climate for Albarino while the warmer San Antonio and San Benito Valleys closely resemble the Spanish regions where these grapes thrive. This region, once the site of a shallow ocean bed millions of years ago, is one of the few spots in California with a high percentage of limestone found in the soil which gives the wines a high naturally acidity. As with his P’tit Paysan wines, Brand works with fruit harvested at lower Brix, ferments using a combination of native and cultured yeast, and favors neutral oak.”

    2020 La Marea Albariño, Kristy Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 11.9% ABV, $24 (#269*)

    “The Kristy Vineyard grows on the western bench over the Salinas River on the broken sediment of ancient sea beds where it is exposed to the consistent cooling winds off the Monterey Bay. Kristy is a special because Albariño in the vineyard reaches full phenological ripeness at low potential alcohol and bright natural acidity later in the season. Usually picked between 20-22 Brix with a sub 3 PH and nearly 9 g/L TA. Whole cluster pressed and cold fermented to preserve aromatics and freshness. Secondary fermentation is arrested.” La Marea

    Winery Tasting Notes: “tropical fruit, lemon zest, subtle spice, lively acidity”

    My Review: Pale yellow in color, fragrant Gardenia, grapefruit and lemon curd on the nose.  Vibrant acidity on the flavorful palate of sweet grapefruit, with a lingering lemony finish. March 2021

    2016 La Marea Grenache Spur Ranch, San Benito County, 13% ABV, $20? (#270*)

    “Spur Ranch Vineyard is part of an 11,000 acre ranch located at a 1000 foot elevation with a fifteen degree south facing slope on the south side of Chalone peak. The soils are high-calcareous content clay over the same mica shist substrate that dominates the Chalone appellation. Fermented whole berry with a small percentage of whole cluster with both native and selected yeast strains. Aged in 100% neutral barrels for 11 months. 135 cs produced.” La Marea

    Winery Tasting Notes: “Beautiful and bright representation. Profile firmly representative of its unique micro-climate terroir. Cooler region, allows peak levels of ripeness, while also obtaining low alcohol levels. Freshness, purity of fruit and an elegant, silky style. Endless layers of red fruits fill the nose. On the palate, acid leads, allowing bright red fruits, strawberries, cherries and raspberries to pop with a beam of minerality. Green anise and fennel appear, while the red fruits maintain palate saturation.” 124 cases produced.

    My Review: Translucent light cherry in color. Light cherry on the nose, a slight bit of vinegar. Very light on the palate, refreshing, almost as light as a rosé! After opening up, flavors became a little more complex. January 2021

    2018 La Marea Grenache, Central Coast, 13.6% ABV, $30* (#271*)

    The grapes for this “Central Coast” wine were sourced from San Benito, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties.

    Winery Tasting Notes:  A traditional Spanish Grenache – “red plums, damp earth, baking spice, subtle complexity”

    My Review: Bright, transluscent cherry.  Sweet raspberry on the nose, very smooth red currant on the palate, lingering light licorice flavors. March 2021

    I Brand’s tasting room in Carmel Valley Village is open for tastings – reservations recommended.  https://www.ibrandwinery.com/visit

    *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.    

    Scheid: Finding the Yin Yang of Monterey Wines!

    I introduced Scheid Vineyards to you back in September here: https://decantingmonterey.com/scheid-vineyards-innovative-twist-on-an-austrian-classic/.   When I picked up that Grüner Veltliner, I looked for what else I wanted to try and picked up a couple of big reds. 

    Today’s post gets really fun, as we are venturing to the southern most tip of Monterey County’s 9 AVAs – through the Monterey AVA on down to San Lucas and Hames Valley AVAs! 

    When driving down Highway 101, you will see that Scheid’s vineyards stretch along almost the entire Salinas Valley down to the San Luis Obispo County line! (Map courtesy of Scheid Vineyards)

    On its website ( https://www.scheidvineyards.com/), Scheid describes the San Lucas appellation as having “sunny days tempered by cooling ocean breezes. Here, the days are warmer and longer, yet cool down quite dramatically when the sun goes down. Fruit-forward and softly-textured wines are the hallmark of this region, known for producing an outstanding array of varietals.”  And they describe the Hames Valley as having “long, warm days that make this an ideal area for sun-loving reds. This region produces balanced, full-bodied wines of intensity, such as Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot and Malbec.”

    2017 Scheid 50/50, Monterey AVA, 14.8% ABV, $30 (#247*) 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Syrah.

    The “yin yang” of the 50/50 melded into a delicious wine!

    About the 50/50: Scheid describes the 50/50 Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah as “yin yang” – “complementary opposites that interact within a greater whole as part of a dynamic system” – combining the “rich, polished and powerful” Cabernet Sauvignon with the “supple, fruit-forward and a little sassy” Syrah. They describe the 2017 50/50 as possessing “the structure and dark fruit flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon and the softness and jammy fruit of Syrah, combining to present a delicious example of elegance and power in one glass. Aromas of blackberry preserves and plum accented with notes of sage and smoky spices will convince you that soul mates really do exist.”  The 50/50 comes from their Mesa del Rio Vineyard in the Monterey AVA, plus their San Lucas and Hames Valley vineyards.  This unfiltered wine was aged 16 months in American, Hungarian and French small oak barrels for secondary fermentation and aging. 480 cases produced.

    My Review:  Blackberry and plum on the nose, smooth round palate of dark berries, lingering flavors. Euphoric. One of the best Central Coast wines we have tasted recently. Super yum. Highly recommend. December 2020                         

    2016 Scheid Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Kurt’s Vineyard, San Lucas AVA, 14.8% ABV (#248*)                                 

    The 2016 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Kurt’s Vineyard from Scheid’s webpage.

    About the 2016 Kurt’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from their website: “Kurt Gollnick our COO, chose a 10 acre plot to plant his favorite variety, a micro site that is capable of growing world class Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is dark and concentrated with aromas of blackberries, boysenberries and elderberries with notes of chocolate, hazelnuts, toasty oak and a hint of violet. The palate delivers rich, juicy black fruit flavors followed by soft, integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.” Aged 20 months in oak barrels. Unfiltered. 

    My Review:  Garnet in color with a jammy blackberry nose with caramel notes.  Juicy palate of yummy blackberry and cherry, with licorice and mint on the finish.  I really liked this wine. January 2021

    You can order Scheid wines directly from their webpage.  Their tasting rooms are open daily for outdoor tasting.  You can make a reservation and get more info here:  Visit Scheid.

    Scheid’s tasting room in Carmel-by-the-Sea!

    *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.    

    Holiday Shopping Leads to Discovery of Wrath New Releases!

    Wrath San Saba Vineyard, 2019

    Back in November, with the holidays rapidly approaching, I ventured out to Carmel Plaza.  Can’t go there without stopping at Wrath! As a huge fan of their San Saba Syrah, I was thrilled to learn the 2017 had just been released.  On a previous trip, I had done a side-by-side tasting of the 2016 San Saba and the 2016 Syrah KW Ranch.  With both the 2017 San Saba in hand and the 2016 KW Ranch in my cellar, time to drink some Wrath!

    I last brought you Wrath back in September, with reviews of the 2015 & 2016 Wrath Syrah San Saba Vineyard, along with the 2017 EX Sauvignon Blanc here:  https://decantingmonterey.com/wrath-harnessing-angry-fog-and-screaming-winds-to-create-great-wines/.

    2016 Wrath Syrah KW Ranch, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 14.7% ABV, $39 (#232*)

    From Wrath about the 2016 Syrah KW Ranch:

    “KW Ranch is located in the heart of the Santa Lucia Highlands, southeast of McIntyre Vineyard and just northwest of Gary’s Vineyard. Planted to both Pinot Noir and Syrah in 2000 by Kirk Williams, the site features a well-exposed, gently-rolling hillside with gravely loam soils. Wines from KW Ranch tend to be intense and highly aromatic.”

    “…Our 2016 KW Ranch Syrah is wildly aromatic with flashes of black pepper, smoked meat, blackberries, leather and cassis.  The palate is thick, powerful and succulently juicy.  Even though the tannnis are bold, the wine is still nimble, elegant and approachable.” 100% Syrah. 100% French oak, 30% new. 158 cases produced.

    Critical Acclaim: 93 points Jeb Dunnuck;91-94pts Connoisseur’s Guide

    My Review:  Deep ruby in color, white pepper, dark berry on the nose. Explosion of fruit blueberry, blackberry and cherry with a solid dose of pepper on the palate. A little licorice, medicinal, vegetal on the finish. Over time, a little tobacco on the finish. November 2020 

    2017 Wrath Syrah San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 14.6% ABV, $39 (#233*)

    From Wrath about the 2017 Syrah San Saba Vineyard:

    “Our Estate San Saba Vineyard is set in a sheltered nook just below the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. The estate consists of 72 acres of which 67.75 are planted to Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah and Falanghina. This is a cool site with little rainfall and one of the longest growing seasons in the world. Our soils, Arroyo Gravelly Loam and Hanford Gravely Sandy Loam, provide a low-vigor, well-draining, disease- and pest-free medium for our vines. They also impart a subtle mineral quality to our wines…”

    “Powerful and elegant, aromatics include blackberry, leather and peppercorns; the palate is rich and concentrated with graphite, cassis, and a hint of smoke.”  10 months in French oak, 20% new.  313 cases produced.

    Critical Acclaim:  91 Wine Spectator, 93 Vinous

    My Review: Dark purple in the glass, blueberry and a touch of barnyard/sulphur on the nose, intense blueberry and blacked berry on the palate – jammy and good. Vanilla on the finish. I do slightly prefer the 2016 vintage to this 2017. November 2020

    You can buy these wines at A Taste of Monterey or directly from Wrath. 

    Regarding Tastings: “As of Monday, Jan 25th, both Wrath tasting rooms are now allowed to open for limited outside seatings and tastings. New hours for Wrath’s winery tasting room are Fri-Sat-Sun-Mon from 11-5pm, closed Tues-Wed-Thur.  The winery patio is large so we can accommodate multiple visitor groups and still maintain 10′ plus spacings for safety.  Our Carmel tasting room is open every day from 11-5pm.” https://www.wrathwines.com/Visit

    *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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