Tagged: Odonata

Trade Tasting Reveals the Gems of Monterey Wines!

THE STORY

Thanks to a last-minute reminder from Kim Stemler, Decanting Monterey was able to attend this year’s Monterey County Vintners & Growers Wines Trade and Media Wine Tasting in Carmel. This was really a great opportunity without large crowds to taste enjoy the gems of Monterey wines. I am so grateful, Kim, for the reminder!

The event was held at the Carmel Mission Inn, an easy drive and access with just enough parking. The weather was sunny – and a tad windy.  While most of the wineries were inside, it was great to be outdoors with the rest, although a few wine glasses were lost to the wind!

The best part of the event is to be able to dig deep with local winemakers we have gotten to know over the years such as Ian Brand, David Baird and Keith Prader. Those frank conversations are the real way to learn what is happening in Monterey wine country.  In addition, the event allowed us to get to know more of them. We connected with some well-known vintners in our community such as Jack and Dawn Galante. We had the chance to properly introduce ourselves to Russell Joyce. And it was nice to see Sam and Joe Miller from Rexford Winery who no longer have a tasting room in Carmel Valley. And there were newer faces including Greg Hill from Tira Nanza, who has extended another visit to their vineyards – we will do it! And, regretfully, I did not get to all the tables to catch up with some of my favorite vintners: Sabrine Rodems and Miguel Lepe.  I’m sure I’ll see you soon.  

We had a strategy to each pick one wine from a table, but even that quickly became too much.  There are always too many wines to try, despite our efforts. So grateful for the conversations we had and, for those we couldn’t quite get to, we hope to see you at the next one!

ABOUT THE MONTEREY WINES TRADE AND MEDIA WINE TASTING

FROM THE INVITATION:

“This experience allows trade and media members exclusive opportunities to discover and explore the latest releases and other available wines. Indulge in a diverse selection of over 100 wines from over 25 local wineries. This trade tasting allows for more interactive conversations with winemakers, proprietors, and even a few growers.

“The event will showcase wines from various AVAs within Monterey County, including Carmel Valley, Santa Lucia Highlands, Chalone, Arroyo Seco, San Antonio Valley, Hames Valley, Monterey, and nearly approved Carmel Coast AVA.

WHY SERVE LOCAL?

“By serving local wines, you enhance the overall guest experience, offering authenticity, uniqueness, and a connection to the local community. This benefits your establishment’s reputation and appeal, strengthens customer relationships, and contributes to long-term success and increased sales.”

THE GEMS OF MONTEREY WINES

We tasted quite a few wines that day – so I am narrowing them down to 8 gems – from my palate’s perspective. Those standouts fit some “best” categories, so I will label them that way. I’ll admit up front that these larger events do not make for good note taking, so my descriptions are going to fall well short of my normal standard.  I hope I will have the chance to visit the wineries and do more detailed notes over the course of the summer. 

Winery notes come from the event tasting sheet or their website. You can read more about each winery on its respective website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

BEST WHITE: 2023 Tira Nanza Estate Grown Viognier, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV, $60 (#1313)

Winery Notes: “We dry farm our Viognier to produce wines that emphasize both the varietal and the place where it’s grown. Our 2023 Viognier is dry and full bodied with perfumed notes of white flowers and apricot that are so emblematic of the varietal. This is a wine that is sure to entice both seasoned Viognier fans as well as newcomers to the varietal.”

My Review: This is an incredibly aromatic wine with full bodied flavors on the palate, making it the number 1 wine of the event for me! April 2024

BEST SPARKLING: 2020 Odonata Sparkling Riesling, Tondre Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 12.5% ABV, $42 (#1314)

My Review: Very tasty with tiny bubbles.  Crisp and balanced. I enjoyed this wine greatly. April 2024

BEST CHARDONNAY: 2021 Talbott Chardonnay, Sleepy Hollow Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.6% ABV, $45 (#1315)

Winery Notes: “Our 2021 Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Chardonnay is an elegant expression of the fog-cloaked vines of our legendary Sleepy Hollow Vineyard. Wisps of lemon zest and Tahitian vanilla conjure hints of meringue clouds dotted with lemon curd. The mouthfeel is silky with touches of salinity. Bright layers of sliced apple and pear supported by toasted brioche lift the fruit, leading to a long, lingering finish with a touch of rich caramel.”

My Review: 30% new oak leads to a rather oaky nose with a sophisticated palate, standing heads and shoulders above the rest. April 2024

BEST ROSE: 2023 Tira Nanza Malbec Rosé, North Coast AVA, 13.5% ABV, $30 (#1316)

Winery Notes: “Back by popular demand, our 2023 Malbec Rosé shares the same vibrant fruit and complexity that made our previous vintages so special. This wine is crisp and dry with inviting aromas of strawberry and flavors of raspberry and ripe melon.”

My Review: Another aromatic wine from Tira Nanza – this rosé stood out to me as flavorful – much more like a Provencal rose – a perfect wine to sip in the microclimate! April 2024

BEST RED: 2018 Shale Canyon Cabernet Franc, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 14.4% ABV       , $35 (#1317)

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

My Review: I went “wow” when I tasted this wine.  I have presented his big Cab Francs before in my classes and this one did not disappoint – full-bodied deliciousness. April 2024

BEST SYRAH: 2019 Silvestri 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.”

My Review: I’ve presented this wine before.  Coming from Carmel Valley, this is a richer Syrah than most of our cool climate permits.  Blackberry and blueberry notes on the nose, followed by a smooth and rich palate. So easy to drink! April 2024

BEST LOCAL RED BLEND : 2018 De Tierra The Puzzler, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $49 (#1318)

Winery Notes: “IN THE GLASS: Garnet in color. Nose offer notes of rich earth, plum fresh fig, black licorice and a hint of spice. ON THE PALATE:  Plush tannins balance this very complex full bodied wine. The wine starts with notes of plum and blackberry, then leads to black tea with a long tobacco finish.”

My Review: Spice box on the nose, followed by a very smooth palate.  This is a well-integrated wine.  I’d like to explore presenting this in a class! April 2024

BEST “CALIFORNIA” RED BLEND: 2021 Galante Vineyards Big Little Wine Vintner’s Reserve, California, 14.5% ABV, $65 (#1319)

Winery Notes: “No lies! The lushest and most fruit forward wine to come out of the Galante stables, this homage to Monterey Peninsula’s lineage of film locales is the 50/50 blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot from Napa Valley. This wine greets the senses with its brilliantly violet tinged magenta hues, ripe raspberry, and dried orange peel notes on the nose. A fruit bowl of bramble berries fill the mouth, finishing with bold and lingering tannins, dark chocolate and chicory.  A “big” finish from all these “little” grapes.”

My Review: This was the last wine we tried at the event and it was a big one.  A nice blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot – what is not to like.  April 2024

THE TASTING ROOMS

You, too, can try the gems of Monterey wines by visiting one of our many tasting rooms! Please check each winery’s website for their specific locations and hours.

Several of today’s wineries have tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea: Talbott, Shale Canyon, Silvestri, De Tierra, and Galante.

Odonata’s tasting room is located down the Monterey Wine Trail – but not too far – very accessible!

Tira Nanza’s wines are only available at the winery in Cachagua, but you can reserve a tour on their website!

© Decanting Monterey 2023

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Monterey County Vintners & Growers Celebrate 50 Amazing Years!  

As a huge fan of Monterey County wines, I hold a special place for the resources and efforts of Kim Stemler and the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association. When I learned I could be there to join the Monterey County Vintners & Growers celebrate 50 amazing years, I could not wait for the date!

THE STORY – The Monterey County Vintners & Growers celebrate 50 amazing years

This annual meeting was held on January 31st at Rustiqué Winery out River Road. It was mostly attended by our local vintners and a handful of their supporters. After their board meeting, we mingled and sampled some of their newest wines, some not yet released.  It was a relaxed and friendly setting with a delicious lunch, followed by the meeting itself.

MINGLING

Before the meeting, I had the chance to speak with several winemakers I have gotten to know over the years.  We asked about the 2023 vintage and heard the following: gratitude for the lack of wildfires, plentiful in yield, yet some mixed results vineyard by vineyard. David Baird from Folktale indicated he is looking forward to the imminent release of his 2023 whites and rosé. I thanked Miguel Lepe of Lepe Cellars for recently hosting the Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society and he invited us back any time! Sabrine Rodems was very excited to show off the new Scratch C-47 Grenache-Syrah. Adrien Valenzuela from Corral Wine Co. brought their latest Petite Sirah just being released – wow. Kirstie Dyer invited us up to Holman Ranch for a tour and tasting. Dennis Hoey of Odonata did a double-take at our last name – just one letter separates us. People do ask me if we are related. Later, I joked that we should invite him to our upcoming family reunion as a long, lost cousin!

There were a number of Associate members of the group present, to whom I was introduced as a “Monterey County wine influencer.” I prefer the term “groupie.” I’m just a passionate fan and wine educator who helps get the word out about our fabulous wineries and wines.

THE MEETING

At the meeting itself, there was great recognition of how far the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association has come over these past 50 years – from their early meetings in a bar to having this larger meeting in a winery barn! Kudos were given to Kim Stemler, the face of Monterey wines, for her hard work increasing the profile of our vineyards and wineries, while working with regulatory bodies.

Kim has worked to support the members and to find solutions to challenges like COVID and wildfires (air support first makes a difference!). She provides a single point of information to streamline communication. One marketing success from 2023 was renaming the River Road Wine Trail to the Monterey Wine Trail and soon we will see new signs put up to help guide visitors. And she helped us get our local wines onto the shelves of Whole Foods! She also talked about getting wineries to visit each other to share techniques and expertise. 

BRAINSTORMING

The next part of the meeting was to brainstorm at our tables some of the biggest positives and negatives for the region. At our table, we talked about the positive of growing recognition of Monterey County wines and the negative of increased shipping costs throughout the production supply chain, including delivery to consumers. As an example, the sharp increase in shipping costs during and after the pandemic have made it increasingly difficult for me to put together a class for my DC-based group. 

With this much growth in the past 50 years, I can’t even imagine what it will be like the next time the Monterey County Vintners & Growers celebrate 50 amazing years!

THE WINES

Today I am sharing impressions of 9 of these latest wines; I didn’t take detailed notes.  Winery notes, where available, come from their websites or labels, or as otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2022 Moonlit Harvest Chardonnay, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV, $22 (#1246) produced and bottled by Cowboys, Livermore, California

From the Back Label: “Eighteen eighty-three is the year C.H. Wente founded his winery in Northern California. This wine pays homage to his pioneering spirit and passion for quality grape growing and winemaking. The grapes for this wine were grown and harvested under our serenely moonlit estate vineyards located in Monterey, regarded as one of the best places in California to grow Chardonnay. The cool, coastal influences are ideal for delivering flavors of ripe apple, guava and mango balanced by subtle oak, vanilla and spice. Enjoy!”

My Review: Quite tasty and balanced with distinct tropical notes balanced with a little buttery oak – quite representative of a Monterey County Chardonnay. I would present this in a class.  January 2024

2022 (?) Kori Sauvignon Blanc, Griva Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County (#1247)

My partner poured this, so I am assuming it is the 2022, for which I cannot yet find any notes. 

Winery Notes: N/A

My Review: The tasty fruit for this wine comes from one of a top Arroyo Seco vineyard – Griva.  A nice balance of citrus flavors with a predominance of that classic Sauvignon Blanc grassiness.  January 2024

2021 Scratch C-47 Grenache/Syrah, Monterey County, 14.4% ABV (#1248) 75% Grenache, 25% Syrah

Winery Notes: N/A

My Review: Big, bold flavors in this well-balanced wine. I don’t know the blend, but it clearly has enough Syrah to please my palate. Excellent. January 2024

2020 Corral Petite Syrah, Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo County, 14.5% ABV (#1249)

Winery Notes: N/A

My Review: Rich and dark blue and blackberry tongue-coating flavors. I know I am not supposed to have favorites but this was, for our palates, our favorite wine of the day!  January 2024

2019 Silvestri Eugenia Red Blend, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $65 (#1250)

Winery Notes: “The 2019 Eugenia is a unique blend of our estate reds (35% Malbec, 30% Cabernet Franc,15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot) at 25% New French Oak.  Aged 18 months in barrel… Our version of a Bordeaux blend using all five varietals with Malbec leading and Cabernet Sauvignon just behind offering bold flavors of plumb and black currant and structure.  Cabernet Frank and Merlot evenly support with balancing softness and a slight herbacousness and a minor contribution of Petit Vedot with color, tannin and spice.”

My Review: Very berry on the nose and palate, opening into a richer red. Tasty. January 2024

2021 Rustiqué Syrah, Tondré Grapefield, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.4% ABV (#1251)

Winery Notes: N/A

My Review: I was excited to try this Syrah from the esteemed Tondré Grapefield. My guess is that it is the first Syrah produced by Rustiqué.  It was quite berry on the nose, followed by a very nice palate.  I’d like to try this again.  Time for a visit to Rustiqué!  January 2024

2019 Odonata Sangiovese, Machado Creek Vineyard, Santa Clara Valley AVA, Santa Clara County, 14.2% ABV (#1252)

Winery Notes: “Strawberries, hints of cinnamon, leather and earth. The palate is round with balanced acidity and tannin. Great vintage for Machado Sangiovese, this wine is powerful and fruit forward, but will lean out into dried leaf and cool subtleties as time progresses. 10-20 year wine for sure.”

My Review: We got a lot of berry and cherry flavors with solid tannins on the finish – agree this would benefit from cellaring and I would like to taste it again!January 2024

2021 Bernardus Pinot Noir, Garys’ Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.7% ABV, $80 (#1074)

Winery Notes: “The renowned Garys’ Vineyard was planted with the celebrated “Pisoni clone” by the two iconic growers of the Santa Lucia Highlands: Gary Pisoni and Gary Franscioni. Together they have brought worldwide attention to this fabulous appellation for the exceptional quality of its Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. This year, Gary Franscioni and Gary Pisoni have graciously offered Bernardus a few extra tons of the superb Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir (expertly farmed by Mark Pisoni). This enabled us to ferment in 3 small fermenters, providing a new subtle complexity to the finished wine.

“Our 2021 Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir exudes a gorgeous perfume of ripe, dark red fruits along with notes of rose pedal. The fabulous palate is very intense – powerful yet elegant – with layers of boysenberry, ripe black cherry and a hint of spice. This is without a doubt, our finest Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir to date!”

My Review: We somehow ended up with a bottle of this wine at our table.  Pinot Noir is not my wheelhouse, but this big, complex Bernardus Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir is one of the finest I have tried.  A pretty, bright red ruby color. Cherry and raspberry nose, followed by continued red fruit flavors on the complex palate. It went exceptionally well with our meal. January 2024

2021 Lepe Cellars Petit Verdot, Merit Vineyards, San Antonio Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV (#1253)

Winery Notes: N/A.

My Review: Tobacco on the nose. Dark plum and berry flavors on the palate. Pretty delicious. This was a great wine with which to finish the program.

THE TASTING ROOMS

With the exception of Moonlit Harvest, these wines can be tasted in our local Monterey County tasting rooms, spanning the 3 regions of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley Village, and the Monterey Wine Trail.  You can find more information on their websites or at the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association website.

© Decanting Monterey 2023

Support Decanting Monterey’s Wine Education Efforts!


Odonata 2018 Spiketail: Ramping Up for the Holidays!

THE STORY

We opened a 2018 Odonata Spiketail in mid-December as we were ramping up for the holidays.  Today’s short and sweet post includes reviews from two vintages of the same wine!

We last visited Odonata in March 2022 and captured our experience here: Odonata Plays “Mystery Wine” with Decanting Monterey!

ABOUT ODONATA from their website:

You can read about winemaker Denis Hoey in my recent post Odonata: The Truth About Durif.

THE WINE

I have 2 wines to present to you today from Odonata. Winery notes come from their tasting sheet or website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2017 Odonata Spiketail, 14.25% ABV, (#875) 60% Syrah, 40% Grenache

I previously wrote up the 2017 vintage here: A Plentiful Supply of Central Coast Wines Right at Home.

Winery Notes: “Offering copious aromas and flavors of blackcurrants, raspberry, strawberries, licorice and roasted herbs. Bright acidity, beautiful density, and full-bodied opulence.” 120 cases produced.

My Review: Rich, dark ruby in the glass. Dark berry jam on the nose. Low key palate of jammy berry flavors – this is one delicious wine. June 202

2018 Odonata Spiketail, 14.2%, $65 (#1239) 60% Syrah, 40% Grenache

My Review: We bought this on a whim without tasting it. Purple in color. Plum, orange rind, chalk, bubblegum and hot cocoa on the nose. Orange rind and chocolate on the dense jam of the chalky palate. Licorice and smoke on the finish. After it opened up, cinnamon was predominant on the finish. One of the most interesting wines I have enjoyed this year. August 2023

THE TASTING ROOM

VISIT ODONATA WINERY

“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 to sample a selection of our current releases!

Located at 645 River Road, Salinas, CA 93908 (tel: 831-566-5147)

Open 7 days a week (except major holidays) from 11 am to 5 pm. Open for Happy Hour on Fridays & Saturdays from 5-7 pm. No appointments are necessary for groups of 8 or fewer.

© Decanting Monterey 2023

Support Decanting Monterey’s Wine Education Efforts!


Odonata: The Truth About Durif

Today I am bringing you another “Catchup Monday” – Odonata: The Truth About Durif. Still getting caught up from my busy summer – but this is an interesting wine and worth your time to read this post!

THE STORY

We last visited Odonata in March 2022 and captured our experience here: Odonata Plays “Mystery Wine” with Decanting Monterey! During that tasting, we became intrigued by a varietal that we did not know or even taste – the Durif.  I recalled being told at the time that it was like a South African Petite Sirah. But the facts say more.  I was delighted that we finally opened this wine in August, giving us the chance today to dive deep into the Durif grape. Read on!

ABOUT ODONATA from their website:

“Winemaker Denis Hoey released his first commercial vintage when he was 21. He now blends old world methods with new world technique to make nouveau-style wines. He strives to produce wines that are rich, textured, and balanced, and that respect terroir and varietal character. His success is based on careful attention to detail and the purposeful use of each step in winemaking: grape sources, fermentation technique, pressing regiment, barrel selection, and aging program. The result is clean, focused wines.

“Hoey, a native of Sacramento, grew up in a family that appreciated wines and exposed him to a wide range of quality wines that helped develop his palate. In 2004, he graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz with a degree in Business Management. Soon after that, he met Jeff Emery, owner and winemaker at Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard. Their relationship quickly turned into an Old World apprenticeship for Denis, and he became the production manager for SCMV before starting Odonata Wines in Santa Cruz in 2005.

“Hoey learned many of his cellar practices at Bison Organic Brewery in Berkeley working with a much more perishable product. This taught him the importance of giving careful attention to spoilage organisms. His continuing education involves following current trends in winemaking research from the major universities. He has traveled to Italy and France on several occasions to gain a broader perspective about European winemaking techniques and varietal fidelity. He maintains a sharp palate for quality and the nuances of wines by tasting, tasting, and more tasting. He continues to challenge himself to make better wine by learning from what others are doing well–or not so well! 

“In 2014, Hoey and his wife, Claire, moved to the Santa Lucia Highlands where they are raising their family and running Odonata Winery. Their property includes a 2-acre vineyard, production facility, tasting room, and a welcoming patio where visitors can enjoy their unique wine.”

ABOUT DURIF:

From the bottle:

“What is Durif? This French varietal is a cross between Peloursin and Syrah. When brought to America, it was renamed Petite Sirah, but DNA testing has confirmed that it is, in fact, the original French Durif.”

The Wine Spectator “Ask Dr. Vinny” column has a good answer here: What’s the difference between Petite Sirah and Durif—or is there one?:

“”Petite Sirah” is the name Americans call the Durif grape. There are actually two different spellings of the variety—Petite Sirah, which is mostly widely used, and Petite Syrah, which is a bit of a throwback version, and unfortunately complicates the perception of Petite Sirah and Syrah being the same grape.

“Durif has a strange history. In the 1880s, French botanist François Durif crossed the Syrah and Peloursin grapes—some suspect by accident—to create Durif. But despite its origins being in France, it never really took off there—it’s practically nonexistent in the country today. But it thrived in California, where it has a strong following, and later it spread modestly to other parts of the world.” —Dr. Vinny

To add more details to what we have heard so far, JJ Buckley Fine Wines wrote this article, A Guide to Petite Sirah – Everything You Need to Know:

“The Petite Sirah grape is the offspring of two French grapes – Syrah and Peloursin. Both of the parent varietals come from the Rhone-Alpes region, while Petite Sirah originated further south near Tullins in southeastern France.

“In France and elsewhere outside of the United States, Petite Sirah is known as Durif. This name comes from Francois Durif, the French botanist in whose nursery the varietal originated in the 1860s.

“This varietal has been in California since 1884, when Charles McIver introduced it to his vineyards in the San Jose/Alameda County area. It waxed and waned over the years, falling out of favor in certain areas but holding true in places like Napa Valley and Livermore AVA.

“Other than California, there are a few wineries in Israel and Australia with Petite Sirah vineyards. But while it may have originated in France, modern Petite Sirah production in France is almost nonexistent.”

So, bottom line: Durif is what we in the US call Petite Sirah, a cross of Syrah and Peloursin grapes. The rest of the world calls it Durif. 

THE WINE

I have just one wine to present to you today from Odonata. Winery notes come from the bottle. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2016 Odonata Durif, Machado Creek Vineyard, Santa Clara Valley, Santa Clara County, 14.2%, $42 ABV (#1188)

Winery Notes: “The heavy soil structure of the vineyard backs the vibrant fruit with chewy tannins. Rose petals and smoky, candied fruit are dominant fixtures in the aromatics. In your mouth, blackberries, spices, and a luscious texture blend to create a powerful punch of flavor. This wine can be enjoyed with rich or spicy pastas, pork and all red meats.”

Wine Enthusiast – 91 points: “Sour black plum, purple flowers and licorice spice show on the nose of this bottling. More purple-flower flavors emerge on the sip, where the black-plum component rides a relatively lighter frame.” Matt Kettmann, October 2020

My Review: We bought this on a whim without tasting it. Purple in color. Plum, orange rind m, chalk, bubblegum and hot cocoa on the nose. Orange rind and chocolate on the dense jam of the chalky palate. Licorice and smoke on the finish. After it opened up, cinnamon was predominant on the finish. One of the most interesting wines I have enjoyed this year. August 2023

THE TASTING ROOM

VISIT ODONATA WINERY

“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 to sample a selection of our current releases!

Located at 645 River Road, Salinas, CA 93908 (tel: 831-566-5147)

Open 7 days a week (except major holidays) from 11 am to 5 pm. Open for Happy Hour on Fridays & Saturdays from 5-7 pm. No appointments are necessary for groups of 8 or fewer.

© Decanting Monterey 2023

Support Decanting Monterey’s Wine Education Efforts!


Odonata Plays “Mystery Wine” with Decanting Monterey!

A year ago, we went to Odonata with the more senior part of the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod.  We have been saying ever since that we needed to go back when it was the only tasting of the day.  While we failed to get the senior partners together, we were able to go back with our daughter, a Decanting Monterey junior plank holder, in March. 

We started with a challenging game of corn hole; then we got down to business.  Eric hosted us once again and proceeded to march us through their wines.  Meanwhile, some lovely women, who just wanted a glass of rosé, sat at a nearby table.  Eric had no rosé to offer and instead gave them a proper wine education and tasting, while continuing to pour for us.  He shifted his approach with us to a game we like to call “mystery wine” – guess the varietal. Our tasting took 2 hours and we left with a case of wine, including some for my upcoming Northern Virginia AWS wine class! Thank you so much for the industry recognition – it is deeply appreciated!

These lovely women became an extension of our afternoon tasting at Odonata!

About Odonata: “Odonata offers an eclectic selection of wines from grapes sourced from our Estate and other local vineyards. The focus is quality and sustainability throughout the wine making process from the selection of the Vineyards, through production, to the finished product. The Vineyards are farmed organic, or SIP (sustainable in practice) Certified.

“While production is small by industry standards, the number of wines is extensive. This small lot principle enables Odonata to focus on consistent high-quality instead of high-volume.

“With our small lot production only a selection of our wines are available at any one time and these are frequently changing, so be sure to purchase them before they are gone.”

Today I am reviewing 15 wines, including 1 previously reviewed. Winery notes come from their webpage above, where you can also purchase their wines.

2018 Odonata Sparkling Riesling, Tondre Grapefield, Santa Lucia Highlands, 12% ABV, $38 (#661)

Winery Notes: “This fizz is floral with a subtle spiciness on the nose, pretty fruit in the mouth with tiny bubbles. This sparkler is fun as a pre-dinner delight or paired with exotic food like Thai, Sushi, etc… Bubbles are for every day, enjoy!”

My Review: Golden in the glass. Apple cider and grilled pineapple on the nose. A bit of yeastiness tamps down the sweetness of the apple. March 2022           

2020 Odonata Chardonnay, Gularte Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 14% ABV, $25 (#662)             

Winery Notes: “Farmed with the Silacci family right down the street from the winery.  This is fruit is crisp apple supported by a generous boost of new French oak.  California inspired Chardonnay, with a crisp mineral core.”

My Review: Straw in the glass. Nice tropical notes on the nose.  Up front oak mellowed out into a nice wine with a punch of lime flavors on the mid-palate.  March 2022

2019 Odonata Pinot Noir, Silacci Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 12.6% ABV, $32 (#663)

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

My Review: Bright cherry red in the glass. The palate reveals the fruit with berry flavors.  A bit metallic. Tannins balance the red fruit with peppery spices.   March 2022

2018 Odonata Pinot Noir, Falcon Hill, Santa Cruz County, 14.1 ABV, $42 (#664)                                   

Winery Notes: “This wine is elegant with viscous cherry, subtle spice and pleasurable texture.”

My Review: Darker cherry in the glass.  While light in body, richer in flavor across the board than the previous wine. Red cinnamon notes. We preferred this wine. March 2022   

2017 Odonata Black Darter, 13.5% ABV, $28 (#665)   86% Grenache, 14% Syrah      

 Winery Notes: “An exquisite nose of raspberries and spice that draw you into the glass. This wine was fermented with 14% whole cluster, to create complexity and better mouthfeel!”

My Review: Bright, rich ruby in the glass.  We are now heading toward medium bodied reds. Very balanced on the palate with cherry flavors.  We liked this wine. March 2022                

2019 Odonata Cote du Denis Malbec, et, Hollister, San Benito County, 13.5% ABV, $28 (#666)    94% Malbec, 4% Viognier     

Winery Notes: “Malbec co-fermented with 4% Viognier. Adds balanced tannin, and pushes floral notes!”

My Review: So pretty in the glass with vibrant red and purple colors (cranberry and plum). Plum and currant ( grape Bubblelicious) on the nose. Juicy and smooth on the palate. My favorite wine of the day. March 2022      

2017 Odonata Grenache, Hook Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, 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: Cherry and berry flavors wrapped in cinnamon, cardamom, and allspice flavors. March 2022                                                                                                                                                               

2018 Odonata Sangiovese, 14.2% ABV (#667)                 

Winery Notes: “Strawberries, hints of cinnamon, leather and earth. The palate is round with balanced acidity and tannin.”

My Review: Deeper red in the glass. Very berry with spice and coffee on the nose. Dry on the palate with cranberry, cherry, some tartness. Lean.  This was Cassandra’s favorite wine. Of course – she loves a good Chianti! March 2022

2019 Odonata Syrah, Hook Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, 13.4%, $32 (#668)           

Winery Notes: “Cool climate Syrah! Spicy, dense, chewy tannins with black fruit dominate the mouth feel, while the finish lingers with you softly and gently, urging further exploration.”

My Review: Rich, dark ruby in the glass. Warm dark berries on the nose. Rich berries, mocha, and spice on the finish with a touch of earth. Right up my alley. Selected for one of my classes. March 2022                                                                                                                                                         

2019 Odonata Syrah, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, 14.5% ABV (#669)                                                 

My Review: Rich, dark ruby in the glass.  Some sweetness on the nose with berry and spice notes. Smooth berries on the palate. I liked this one, too. March 2022                                                                                   

2019 Odonata Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, 14.4% ABV, $49 (#670)                       

Winery Notes: “Dark and inky in color! The nose is filled with perfumed fruit, spicy blackberry, cassis, and cedar. This wine is rich, fun and vibrant on the palate. Flavors of wild cranberry, licorice, black fruit and finishes with a fresh mouthfeel. With a little more aging the youthful fruit will drop out and bring forward a polished tannic structure.  Enjoy now with a 30 minute decant or age it for the next 10 years!”

My Review: Dark ruby in the glass. Lean Cabernet notes on the nose and some cinnamon on the palate. March 2022

2017 Odonata Petite Sirah, Machado Creek Vineyard, Santa Clara Valley, 14% ABV, $28 (#671)        

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

My Review: Dark ruby in the glass. Some mocha on the nose.  A big, rich, smooth palate with a dry finish. March 2022                                                                                                  

2018 Odonata Barrel Select, Hook Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, (#672)   Syrah, Grenache      

My Review: Rich red ruby in color. Berry on the nose. Very spicy with tangerine notes on the palate. March 2022                                                                                                                   

2016 Odonata Cabernet Sauvignon, Montebello Vineyard, Santa Cruz Mountains (#673)       Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot       

My Review: Rich red ruby with some purple in color. Fresh and some vegetal notes. March 2022                                                                                        

Odonata Late Harvest Zinfandel, Wellong Vineyard, San Antonio Valley, 19% ABV, $25 (#674)        

Winery Notes: “Punched down gently throughout the cold soak, fermentation, and maceration totaling 7 days. Pressed to a stainless tank where we added 20 gallons of high-proof alcohol to stop the fermentation and leave this wine with 8% sugar. Finished wine: 19.12% alc., aged in 33% New French Oak                                     

“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: Ruby in the glass. Sweet raspberry and blackberry flavors with some chocolate.  Not cloying, just a delicious dessert wine. Would go great with vanilla bean ice cream. March 2022                                                                                     

Visit the Odonata Tasting Room: “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.” Open Daily 11 am – 5 pm.  Located at 645 River Road, Salinas CA, 93908.

*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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Odonata Remembrance: “Buy a Bottle, Do a Little Big Thing”

It’s been almost a year since the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod toured the River Road Wine Trail down the Salinas Valley.  I remember after visiting them – our third winery of the day – stating that we really needed to come back to Odonata with a picnic lunch – and as the ONLY winery we visit in a single trip. Spring is almost here – se we need to get this idea into a plan soon!  Meanwhile, we recently opened the 2015 Odonata Remembrance.

About the Remembrance from the bottle: “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.”

About Odonata: “Winemaker Denis Hoey released his first commercial vintage when he was 21. He now blends old world methods with new world technique to make nouveau-style wines. He strives to produce wines that are rich, textured, and balanced, and that respect terroir and varietal character. His success is based on careful attention to detail and the purposeful use of each step in winemaking: grape sources, fermentation technique, pressing regiment, barrel selection, and aging program. The result is clean, focused wines…In 2014 Hoey and his wife, Claire, bought the Marilyn Remark Winery in the Santa Lucia Highlands where they are raising their family, and running the Odonata Winery. Their property includes a 2-acre vineyard, production facility, tasting room, and a welcoming patio where visitors can enjoy their unique wine.”

I am occasionally asked if I am related to Dennis Hoey – ah, the difference one letter can make.  Alas, no…

2015 Odonata Remembrance Red Wine, Central Coast, 14.5% ABV, $28 (#621*)

From Red Wine Cats: “Odonata’s 2015 Remembrance ($28) is a luscious blend of 75% Petite Sirah and 25% Grenache. It’s one of those bottles you open, pour, and immediately enjoy. Full, round body, opaque in the glass, and an easy sipper on its own. If you like big reds without too much tannin astringency, similar to jammy Zinfandels, you’ll love this delicious bottle. You’ll also love that proceeds go to important causes.”

My Review: Almost purple in the glass. Black and blueberries on the nose. Spicy on the palate with a base of blueberry and mocha (the Petite Sirah) with a slightly touch of sweetness on the finish – it’s the Grenache talking here! We enjoyed this wine and it disappeared quickly. “A pleasant wine.”

Visiting Odonata (from their website): “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.    

© Decanting Monterey 2023

Make a Donation!

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.    

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