Tagged: Red Blend

Parsonage: A Glimpse of the 2019 Vintage

It has been a good, long while since I have presented Parsonage here.  I’ll be making up for that with the next couple of posts! I had the opportunity to take our COVID Wine Pod plus some visiting friends to the Parsonage Village Vineyard for a barrel tasting, at the invitation of Bill Parsons himself.  Who was I to say no?  Little did we know when the date was set that they would be harvesting that day!  We did our best to stay out of the way of the action. 

It is always exciting to get a glimpse of the future of your favorite wines.  It is also an opportunity to get inside the head of the vintners a bit, gain insights about techniques they used to make up for the lost vintage of 2020, the detrimental impact of drought conditions on fruit production, and pandemic influences.  Bill and I have an agreement that I can write about anything he tells me – and so I will! Hope I got it all right!

Bill talked a bit about the changes implemented in reaction to the pandemic that had a positive impact, such as having outdoor space and a reservation system for wine tasting. They have a beautiful parklet with plenty of sun for us coastal dwellers to enjoy, as well as ample shade for those warmer days. On the negative side, he highlighted supply chain issues for critical supplies including bottles, foils, and corks. About the drought conditions impacting his fruit, he said, “I am a farmer.  I am at the mercy of the elements.”  The Syrah was still hanging at the time of our visit.  Shortly after our visit, we had that torrential rain – I was very worried how my beloved Syrah survived the storm.  Bill just told me this week: “Not only did the Syrah survive the inch and half drenching in five hours, but it thrived as a result. We just harvested this morning in fact!”

Today, I am presenting 10 Parsonage wines – 5 barrel tastings at the winery and 5 wines currently available in the tasting room.  I tasted a few of these wines the following week with another group of experts. I’ve melded my notes here – the rest of those wines will appear next week!

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

2019 Parsonage Dario Reserve Merlot, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $90 (#528*)

My Review: 100% Estate fruit. He will produce 100-120 cases.  Aged in 100% new French oak, it will be bottled in Spring 2022.  Dark ruby, purple in color. Jammy raspberry and blackberry with a touch of vanilla on the nose.  Intense berry fruit on the palate with some anise on the finish.  Delicious! I can’t wait to purchase this when it is released! Barrel Tasting – October 2021

2019 Parsonage Bixby Reserve, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $90 (#529*) ~65% Petit Verdot, ~35% Cabernet Sauvignon

My Review: “An outlier wine” loved by a select group of wine club members. Deep ruby in the glass.  Plum and cherry on the nose. Plum, herbs. leather, tobacco yet violets on the palate – not fruit forward.  Caramel notes on the finish.  Certainly more tannic than the Merlot. Barrel Tasting – October 2021

2021 Parsonage Petit Verdot, San Antonio Valley AVA, 15% ABV (#530*)

My Review: This wine is sourced from the Argyle Vineyard down in the very southern part of Monterey County. Tucked between the Salinas Valley and the Santa Lucia Mountains, the San Antonio Valley has a long, warm growing season, enefiting from the lake effect from Lake San Antonio.  We tasted this wine when it was only 3 weeks old – a first for me, for sure!  Vegetal on the nose.  Intense plum on the palate with green bell pepper notes.  Has a great foundation and is structurally balanced – can stand on its own and will be good blended with a little Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Barrel Tasting – October 2021

2019 Parsonage Tanner Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $90 (#531*)

My Review: Super dark ruby.  Deep berry and plum on the nose.  Rich dark fruits including black currant on the palate with lots of structure.  28-29 months n the barrel.  Barrel Tasting – October 2021

2019 Parsonage Rocco Reserve Syrah, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $90 (#532*)

My Review: Bill calls the 2019 vintage as “the greatest in winemaking history.” Inky ruby in the glass.  Smokey essense on the nose.  Super smooth on the palate with rich raspberry, blackberry, cherry, red currant and vanilla bean.  Dry on the finish.  Terrific, wonderful. Barrel Tasting – October 2021

2018 Parsonage Wild Card, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $38 (#533*)

My Review: Ruby in the glass, alcohol on the nose.  Chewy.  My experience with this wine is it needs a bit of time to settle and meld.  After all the barrel tastings, though, we probably needed a reset! Will taste again sometime with a well rested palate! October 2021

2018 Parsonage BDL, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $44 (#534*)

My Review: Transluscent ruby in the glass.  Raspberry on the nose, rich raspberry on the palate.  Tasty and drinkable now.  Would be good with garlic roasted chicken or salmon with root vegetables. October 2021

2018 Parsonage Estate Syrah, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $48 (#535*)

My Review: Dark ruby in the glass.  Dark berries with some caramel and spicy smokiness on the nose – like a cinnamon hard candy. Good fruit on the palate with spice melding with meat – “cinnamon and bacon,” with lingering finish of anise and pepper.  “Like a Cote-Roti.” Our friends bought a bottle of this wine and we enjoyed it at dinner the following evening. October 2021

2018 Parsonage Rocco Reserve Syrah, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $90 (#536*)

My Review: 30% slope hang, chalk rock. This is their flagship wine and my personal favorite.  Purple ruby in the glass.  Allspice, caramel and earth on the nose, a bit like old leather.  Intense dark berries and plum on the palate with vanilla notes. Done in a traditional, earthy Rhone style. This vintage is pretty impressive – I took a bottle home of this new release. October 2021

2017 Parsonage Xandro, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $90 (#537*) 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Syrah

My Review: Bill calls the 2019 vintage as “the greatest in winemaking history.” Inky ruby in the glass.  Smokey essence on the nose.  Super smooth on the palate with rich raspberry, blackberry, cherry, red currant and vanilla bean.  Dry on the finish.  Terrific, wonderful. October 2021

Tasting Room Photo Courtesy Parsonage

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

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

© Decanting Monterey 2023

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Bunter Spring: How Many Former Senate Staffers Does It Take to Find Great Wines?

Another DC friend came to town – one who also happens to be an old colleague of Margaret Spring, the Spring of Bunter Spring Winery.  With three former Senate staffers in the mix, wouldn’t it be fun to taste there? With their grapes sourced from multiple counties and winery and vineyards in the Coombsville section of Napa, we were delighted to learn they are open again for tasting on the weekends (Friday-Monday). I’d say our tasting far exceeded my expectations, which were already high!  By that I mean high quality wines for reasonable prices. Winery notes come from their website. Check them out here. 

2019 Spring Sauvignon Blanc “Oyster Wine” Santa Cruz County, 12.16% ABV, $20 (#518*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Our 2019 continues the series of standout wines from this vineyard, which we began using in 2014.  Barrel fermented and aged six months in older “neutral” French barrels.  Totally dry, light-bodied, tart, with subtle aromas of citrus, nectarine, and dried grass.  This wine was literally made for oysters on the half-shell.  It’s also great with goat cheese, or alone as an aperitif or refreshing thirst-quencher.  Ingredients: grapes, water, yeast, sulfite.  Filtered, not fined. At bottling: total sulfite 39 ppm, residual sugar <0.1 g/l (totally dry).” 48 cases produced.

My Review:  Made to go well with oysters!  VIneyard is near Corralitos and Watsonville.  Pale in color, a very light yellow.  Honeysuckle on the nose.  Lean on the palate with bright acidity. October 2021

2018 Spring Reserve Chardonnay, Monterey AVA, 14.43% ABV, $35 (#519*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “This wine is fuller bodied and has a more powerful flavor and mouthfeel than our “regular” Chard, but since that’s sold out, you have to take our word for it.  Pear, yellow apple, edamami, with an unctuous texture.  Ingredients: grapes, yeast, sulfur dioxide.  Not fined, not filtered.  At bottling: total SO2 90 ppm, residual sugar 0.5 g/l (not totally dry).” 25 cases produced.

My Review:  From Chula Lina VIneyard outside of Chualar.  Very yellow with a lovely bouquet and delicious on the palate with butter, caramel, plenty of fruit and a touch of lemon zest on the finish. We thought this was an exceptional Chardonnay! October 2021

2019 Spring “Orange Wine” Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Cruz County, 12.08% ABV, $20 (#520*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Orange wine is a potentially misleading name for wine made from white grapes fermented on their skins in the manner of red wine.  Depending on the variety, and how long the maceration, the color can range from pale straw to deep pink, almost red.  This one’s relatively light as it was only on the skins for five days.  It has interesting aroma and flavors reminiscent of stone fruit and herbs, dried grass, savory spice.  Slightly tannic, with more texture than white wine.  Good with many foods, especially Asian, and shrimp. Ingredients: grapes, yeast, 40 ppm total sulfite. Dry.” 48 cases produced.

My Review:  I tasted this wine later for a special virtual wine class on “orange” wines. Pale orange, bold gold in color.  At first, scents of yeast, with emerging floral notes on the nose.  Strong flavors on the palate, including ripe peach – like a very bold rose – the oak comes through.  After opening up, very round and flavorful on the finish.  This would be a great food wine. October 2021

2019 Spring Rosé “Snow Globe”, Monterey AVA, 12.34% ABV, $20 (#521*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Made from Grenache and Syrah, grown on a rocky sunbaked hillside in far southern Monterey county, picked expressly for rosé.  Beautiful pale color, high-toned aroma.  It has an excess of totally harmless cream of tartar that precipitates in white flakes when refrigerated.  For fun, chill it, turn it upside down, and watch it snow!  Ingredients: grapes, yeast, tartaric acid.  Fined with milk and silica dioxide, then filtered.  At bottling: 58 ppm total sulfite, 0.4 g/L residual sugar (dry).” 50 cases produced.

My Review:  “A real rosé'” Pale salmon in the glass.  Caramel on the nose with real red fruit flavors on the palate. Light bodied.  Balanced acidity with a nice finish.  October 2021

2018 Spring Pinot Noir, Hilltop Ranch, Carmel Valley, 13.68% ABV, $30 (#522*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “In one of the many examples of AVA nonsense, this vineyard, a mile outside Carmel Valley Village, isn’t in the Carmel Valley AVA, although vineyards ten miles away, in neighboring Cachagua valley, are.  So legally it’s not Carmel Valley wine, it’s Monterey wine. Whatever.  It is VERY easy-drinking, medium bodied, perfectly balanced, with lots of varietal fruit and a distinctive spicy character from custom-coopered French oak barrels. Ingredients: grapes, water, yeast , 60 ppm total sulfite.  Not fined, reverse osmosis filtered.  At bottling: total SO2 60 ppm, residual sugar 0.5g/L (dry).” 107 cases produced.

My Review:  Ruby in color.  Some cherry notes on the nose.  Very nice on the palate – even this non-Pinot lover liked this wine. October 2021

2017 Spring Cowboy Surfer Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Carmel Valley, 13.74% ABV, $30 (#523*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Our second iteration of this outrageous blend of normally antithetical varieties.  The first Cowboy Surfer, 2014, was a resigned wishful last resort use for a barrel of weird Pinot.  People loved it!  When it was gone they asked for more.  Not so easy, it turned out- there’s a reason why no one blends these two.  The result almost always tastes like either a pathetically weak Cab or a nasty hot puckery Pinot.  It took three years, but we finally made two wines that worked.  FYI the Pinot, from close to the beach, is the surfer.  The Cab, from cow country high up in the hills, is the cowboy.  Black cherry, raspberry, spice, and tannin, just slightly on the aggro side right now, will mellow into a very laid-back ride.  Ingredients: grapes, water, yeast, sulfite.  Not fined or fitered.  At bottling: total sulfite 65 ppm, residual sugar 0.1 g/l (very dry).” 49 cases.

My Review:  Dark in the glass yet a bit transluscent.  Perfume on the nose with a deliciousd palate showing the best of the Carmel Valley fruits – a great Cab Sauv-Pinot Noir combo – we really liked ths wine.  October 2021

2016 Spring Cabernet Sauvignon “Burger Wine,” Contra Costa County, 13.27%, $18 (#524*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Contra Costa is a great place for Zin, Petite Sirah, and Carignane.  It’s not well known for Cab, so we got a sweet deal on this fruit, and so do you. We treated it with the same respect as all our wines, including nice once-used French oak barrels.  Medium bodied, soft tannins, juicy blackberry taste, perfect with burgers.  It’s vegan, so veggie burgers work too. Ingredients: organic grapes, water, yeast, tartaric acid, sulfite.  Filtered, not fined.  Made using reverse osmosis.  At bottling: total sulfites 88 ppm, residual sugar 0.3 g/l (dry).” 73 cases.

My Review:  We tasted this wine last – it was quite good, very drinkable, especially for an $18 bottle of wine.  I’d like to taste it again, as being last did it a great disservice!

2014 Bünter “Natur” Syrah, Coombsville, Napa Valley, 13.27% ABV, $30 (#525*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Earthy, nutty, meaty, slightly spicy, slightly floral, with medium full body, good natural acidity, and rich tannins. Goes great with very spicy (hot) food, as usual for this wine.  It actually cools and soothes your mouth after a bite of anything painfully spicy.  The texture and mouthfeel are superb. The aroma and flavor are typical of no-sulfite reds: less fruity, more earthy. Definitely different.  Ingredients: Organic grapes. Not fined, not filtered.  At bottling: total SO2 2 ppm, residual sugar <0.1 g/l (bone dry).” 100 cases produced.

My Review:  Beautful dark ruby.  Dark fruit notes of cassis and currant on the nose.  Palate consisted largely of cherry flavors and was a little lighter than I was expecting, based on the nose. October 2021

2018 Spring Red Wine “Garagitage,” Highlands Vineyard, Monterey County, 14.64% ABV, $24  (#526*) 76% Cabernet Franc, 16% Petit Verdot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker’s Notes:

Winemaker’s Notes: “These grapes come from a small vineyard in the hills above Arroyo Seco just north of Carmel Valley Road. They were harvested, very ripe, on Sep 30, 2018. Upon release, in spring 2021, as I write, this wine is a rough and tumble California fruit bomb, with tons of grapey flavor, plenty of alcohol, and no manners.  Maybe, someday, it will grow up.  Meantime, have fun! Aged 15 months in once used French oak barrels.” 76 cases.

My Review:  OK, this was my favorite wine:  Very dark ruby in the glass. Perfume on the nose, followed by a yummy palate of dark fruit.  We keep drinking it – what an incredible wine for a bargain price! October 2021

“Schniki”
With a vast array of wines to choose from, Mark helps customers narrow it down with his daily tasting menu. Herr Doktor Schnickerdoodle was the visiting winery dog that day!

Want to taste their wines?  From their website:  Great news! Bunter Spring has resumed tasting room operations.   Our Carmel Valley tasting room is open Friday through Sunday 11-5 PM.  We are open the rest of the week by appointment.  Since we work often in Napa, at the winery and vineyard, we are not always available, so please call in advance if possible.  Your hosts are fully vaccinated.  The tasting fee is $20 per person for six wines, with crackers and cheese.  The tasting fee is waived with a two bottle purchase.  Tasting is free to wine club members as per our Wine Club policy.  Call Mark at (202) 744-1343 for an appointment.  We would love to see you!

You can see the current releases here and contact Mark by phone or email to order.  Directions are here.  They ship within California and to Washington DC and Florida. 

*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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Shale Canyon: Daring to Grow & Blend Varietals Not Typically Associated with Monterey!

My dog grooming-wine tasting afternoon in Carmel continues…but with a surprise: my little dog is ready early – yikes!  We walked over to Shale Canyon to suggest rescheduling and they invited my dog and me to come on in!  They closed the bottom half of their door and let him run around freely.  I was a heck of a lot more worried about what he might do than they were.  While he had a hard time settling down, he did fine, but was also a big distraction for my notetaking – I know I will need to go back.

My little dog’s first wine outing!

I admitted to them that I was a bit confused about the source of their wines.  It had been a LONG TIME since I had been there. I had it in my head they were from the Sant Cruz Mountains because one of them lived there.  Instead, I learned that their vineyards and wines are from Arroyo Seco, which continues to be a favorite AVA of mine. And they focus on the bigger reds I love including some tasty red blends, using intriguing names like “Consortium” and “Amalgamation.”  Definitely for me, this a winning set-up. I’m impressed with their ability to grow well Zinfandel and other varietals not usually associated with Monterey County. They must have a uniquely placed vineyard to be able to pull that off! Hosted by Keith Prader himself, I had a fabulous experience in their tasting room.

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

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

Today I am presenting 8 Shale Canyon wines.  The winery notes and prices come from their tasting sheet and website.

2019 Shale Canyon Chardonnay, Vigna Monte Nero, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, $25 (#498*) 

Winery Notes: “Aromas of toasted marshmallow, subtle green apple, pear, peach and a hint of lemon peel.  A long finish of vanilla bean and butterscotch.  This wine was not cold stabilized or filtered and has noticeable tartrates in the bottle.  We recommend pouring this wine through a cheesecloth or a screen to remove them. Aged in 100% French oak.” 165 cases produced.

My Review: Pretty yellow in the glass. Great balance of butter/oak and acidity. This was extremely delicious – an amazing SLH Chardonnay for a fabulous price!  September 2021

2015 Shale Canyon Mourvèdre, Shale Canyon Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $30 (#499*)

Winery Notes: “A bouquet of dark berry, violet ad earthy aromas of black pepper, thyme and a hint of citrus.  Bright fruit characteristics, with fresh strawberry, raspberry and subtle cherry.  Smooth tannins with hints of cedar and a drawn out finish with late fruit.  100% Mourvèdre.

My Review: Dark ruby in glass. Very dark fruit but lean on the palate. September 2021               

2017 Shale Canyon Striation Reserve, Shale Canyon Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $40 (#500*) 75% Zinfandel, 25% Mourvèdre

Winery Tasting Notes: “Rose petals and cinnamon on the bouquet with cranberry, pomegranate and raspberry gracing the middle.  A very long finish with vanilla bean and hint of licorice.  Medium plus tannins to make this an excellent wine for food pairings.” There is some story to this wine that the UPS delivery person actually helped formulate this wine!

My Review: Dark berry and some oak in the nose. Very smooth dark fruits and some leather on the finish. Lovely. A great wine for #500! September 2021                     

2016 Shale Canyon Cabernet Franc, Shale Canyon Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $30 (#501*)

Winery Tasting Notes: “Our 2016 Estate Cabernet Franc starts with a big bouquet of cherries, slight strawberry and a hint of cedar. I noticed strong fruit flavors with dark cherry, blueberry, plum and chocolate on the palate. It finished with some spice and structured tannins.” Scored at the California Cabernet Franc Wine Competition.

My Review: Dark ruby in the glass. Concentrated fruit and a touch of smoke on the nose. Smooth very dark fruit on the palate. September 2021                      

2017 Shale Canyon Partner’s Consortium Reserve, Shale Canyon Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $50 (#502*) 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Cabernet Franc, 33% Merlot

Winery Tasting Notes: “A classic blend of Bordeaux varietals.  Very aromatic with a distinctive cherry note on the nose.  It is an elegant, yet complex wine with black berry, dark cherry, plum and blueberry on the palate.  It has a long finish with wisps of cedar, smoke and medium plus tannins.”

My Review: Smooth, dark, and not as fruity. I was clearly distracted by my little dog for these notes! September 2021       

2017 Shale Canyon Tempranillo, Shale Canyon Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $30 (#503*)

Winery Tasting Notes: “Subtle berry & cherry bouquet. Flavors of black cherry, plum and cranberry grace the middle.  A touch of spice and leather with firm structures tannins on the finish.”

My Review: Spicy on the nose. Delicious fruit yet lean (tannic) on the finish. Pretty amazing. September 2021

2017 Shale Canyon Amalgamation Reserve, Shale Canyon Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $50 (#504*) 48% Zinfandel, 36% Tempranillo, 16% Petite Sirah – all estate grown!

Winery Tasting Notes: “This unique blend is like no other!…All Estate Grown! The color of this wine is beautiful.  Take a glass out in the sun and let the rays reflect through the wine onto a simple piece of white paper and you will see what I mean.  A lovely floral bouquet starts the experience.  Deep fruit with cherry, dark berry and a hint of color.  Long finish with tobacco and firm tannins.  This wine will also compliment rich foods so fire up the barbeque and pull out the rib eyes!”

My Review: Super dark ruby in the glass. Jam on the nose following through on the palate. September 2021

NV Shale Canyon Estate Petite Sirah, Shale Canyon Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $30 (#505*)

Winery Tasting Notes: “Violets and dark cherry and blueberry on the nose.  Plum, dried cranberry and raisin in the middle.  Notes of chocolate, licorice and toast on the long finish with firm tannins.”

My Review: Very smooth and rich with blue and black berry fruits. Nice! September 2021   

You can buy Shale Canyon wines on their website or at their tasting room on Paseo San Carlos Courtyard, Westside San Carlos between Ocean and 7th, Carmel-by-the-Sea.  They are open Sunday through Thursday 1–5, Friday and Saturday 12-7 and suggest reservations for parties of 4 or more.  You can contact them at reservations@shalecanyonwines.com.

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

© Decanting Monterey 2023

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De Tierra: “…the best representation ‘of the land’”

My new modus operandi is to go wine tasting in Carmel-by-the-Sea while my dog is getting groomed.  In part, he goes there because they are the only ones who will take him.  But my ulterior motive is to get in a couple of wine tastings while I am there – it is really a “two-fer” day! On this particular September afternoon, I had no idea how much dogs would dominate until I walked into De Tierra’s tasting room, where I was warmly greeted by their two dogs – Freya, a large, sweet Doberman and tiny, decked out Annin.  They were clearly in charge of customer relations, continually making the rounds of the tables to make sure we had everything we needed!

About De Tierra Vineyards from their website: “De Tierra Vineyards began in 1998 as an organic grape-growing operation in the Salinas Valley by Tom Russell, an agriculture professional from Phoenix, Arizona. Russell had transitioned the majority of his conventional row crop vegetable operation to organic in the early 1990’s, and had great success in the California market. Russell was passionate about wine and farming, and wanted to explore the benefits of organic farming with wine grapes. Russell teamed up with friend and winemaker of Vignalta Italy, Lucio Gomiero, and planned to develop an organic vineyard in the Corral de Tierra Valley. The site was selected, a south-west facing, 40-acre farm, just 15 miles from the Salinas Valley. Through this partnership, De Tierra Vineyards was born…

​“Today, De Tierra is owned by Dan McDonnal and Alix Lynn Bosch.  De Tierra creates delicious award winning and hand harvested wines to share from the unique terroir of Monterey County.  De Tierra, as the name suggests, focuses on providing the best representation “of the land”.  Great wines begin in the vineyard, and it is their goal to translate the defining flavors of the terroir into great wine.  Dan and Alix continue De Tierra’s commitment to producing superior quality boutique wines.

“De Tierra Produces 9 varietals; Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, Sangiovese, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc as well as 3 Red Blends. All of their wines are made with grapes from high quality vineyards in Monterey County and beyond.  De Tierra’s mission is to make hand crafted, premium wines with the best fruit California has to offer…”

Today I am presenting 6 De Tierra wines, including the cleverly named “Frannin” (Freya + Annin) white and red blends.  The winery notes and prices come from their tasting sheet and website.

2019 De Tierra Frannin White Blend, Monterey AVA, 13.7% ABV, $35 (#490*) 65% Chardonnay from the Russell Vineyard, 35% Sauvignon Blanc from the Zabala Vineyard.

Winery Notes: Aged in stainless steel for 7 months with partial malolactic fermentation.

Winery Tasting Notes: “Pale gold with a shimmer of bright green. Nose offers hints of refreshing, mello guava and bright orange citrus…Bright citrus start transferring to mango and lychee nuts with notes of tart green apple. This wine finishes with perfectly balanced viscosity and acidity.”

My Review: Floral and honey bouquet. Honey and like on the palate with lovely acidity. Good minerality. Citrus finish. September 2021

2019 De Tierra Russell Vineyard Rosé, Monterey AVA, 13.2?% ABV, $29 (#491*)

Winery Notes: 100% Merlot, 100% stainless steel

Winery Tasting Notes: “IN THE GLASS: Intense garnet in color with notes of midnight grapes and blackberry with subtle tones of soft leather, almond and dark chocolate.

ON THE PALATE:  Juicy dark berries and stone fruit with hints of molasses and warm black vanilla bean. This wine’s soft and mild dry finish produces a perfect balance.” 

My Review: Salmon in the glass. Freshness and vanilla on the nose. Smooth on the palate. Acidity on the finish with citrus notes. September 2021                               

2017 De Tierra Puzzler Red Blend, Monterey AVA, 14.2% ABV, $39 (#492*) 76% Merlot, 7.5% each Malbec, Petit Verdot, Syrah, 1.5% Cabernet Franc

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

My Review: Ruby in the glass. Plum, blackberry, and coffee on the nose. Cherry and plum on the palate with tobacco on the finish. I liked this wine. September 2021               

2016 De Tierra Frannin Red Blend, Central Coast AVA, 13.8?% ABV, $39 (#493*) 1/3 each: Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon

Winery Tasting Notes: “IN THE GLASS Deep plum in color. Nose offers notes of ripe fruit, plum, dark cherry and a hint of smokiness. ON THE PALATE: Soft tannins balance this very complex full bodied wine. This wine starts with notes of dark cherry and blackberry, then leads to black tea with a citrus zest finish.”

My Review: Dark ruby in the glass, rich dark berries and spices on the nose. Dark fruit with a peppery finish. September 2021              

2017 De Tierra Russell Estate Merlot, Monterey AVA, 13.9% ABV, $39 (#494*)

Winery Tasting Notes: “IN THE GLASS Intense garnet in color with notes of midnight grapes and blackberry with subtle tones of soft leather, almond and dark chocolate. ON THE PALATE  Juicy dark berries and stone fruit with hints of molasses and warm black vanilla bean. This wine’s soft and mild dry finish produces a perfect balance.”

My Review: Dark ruby in the glass. Cherry on the nose. Very smooth on the palate with plum, cherry, blueberry and blackberry flavors. A touch of leather on the finish. September 2021        

2016 De Tierra Syrah, Monterey AVA, 13.7% ABV, $49 (#495*) Best Red of Monterey County, 95 points, 2019 International Wine & Spirits Competition Platinum Award, Sommelier Challenge

Winery Tasting Notes: “IN THE GLASS Deep plum in color. Nose offers notes of ripe fruit, plum, dark cherry and a hint of smokiness. ON THE PALATE Soft tannins balance this very complex full bodied wine. This wine starts with notes of dark cherry and blackberry, then leads to black tea with a citrus zest finish.”

My Review: Dark berries and cherry with a touch of cedar on the nose. Palate reflects the nose with a touch of leather on the finish. September 2021      

You can buy De Tierra wines on their website or at their tasting room on Mission 3SE of 5th, Carmel-by-the-Sea, daily on a first come, first served basis.

*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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Manzoni Vineyards: In the “Heart of the Highlands”

Today’s post is about my second “dog gets groomed in Carmel-by-the-Sea” wine tasting. 

We visited Manzoni at their “tasting garage” back in 2019 – a simple, straight-forward, serious affair as you begin your journey down the River Road Wine Trail heading toward the Santa Lucia Highlands.  Their move into Holman Ranch’s former tasting room space in Carmel-by-the-Sea makes their wines much more accessible in a very lovely setting with space both indoors and out.  I had a wonderful tasting experience here.

We enjoyed this view of the vineyards and the Santa Lucia Highlands while waiting for mud to be cleared from the road in March 2020

About Manzoni Vineyards: “…For almost 100 years, our family has lived and farmed in this beautiful little part of California’s Monterey County – today known to wine lovers as the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation. The SLH – one of the New World’s prestige addresses for growing cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Syrah.

“Our home estate, in the heart of the Highlands, is only six, focused acres small. Here, hands-on wine growing and traditional winemaking combine to create limited production wines of elegance and balance. We hope you enjoy these wines as much as we enjoyed growing and making them – from our family to your table, many thanks for your support…”

About its Pinot Noir: “The Manzoni Family Estate Vineyard, in the “Heart of the Highlands,” is an ideal spot to grow world-class Pinot Noir. Here the cool Region I climate is heavily influenced by winds off nearby Monterey Bay. The porous, granitic, shaly loam soils recall this noble grape’s Northern Rhone Heritage, stressing the vines, thus providing low, concentrated yields. The Family Estate Vineyard is planted to three Dijon clones: 115, 777 and the proprietary “La Tache.”

Today I am presenting 6 Manzoni wines.  The winery notes come from their tasting sheet and website linked above.

2020 Manzoni Sauvignon Blanc, Arroyo Seco AVA, 13.5% ABV, $27 (#418*) 

Winery notes: “Aromas of grapefruit. The palate is rich with bright tropical fruit flavors with notes of lime and grapefruit zest. Perfectly balanced with a gentle crisp refreshing acidity.”

My Review: Pale in the glass. Tropical fruits on the nose.  Bright acidity on the palate with lemon rind and pineapple flavors. July 2021                                                                                                                             

2019 Manzoni Chardonnay North Highlands Cuvée, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 14.2% ABV, $30 (#419*) 

Winery notes: “The 2019 Manzoni Chardonnay is a vibrant example of the Santa Lucia Highlands in an exceptional vintage. Aromas of dense tropical fruits leap out of the glass wrapped in subtle brioche that hints towards uncommon richness and weight. In the palette, this wine is unusually nimble while maintaining the intensity and mouth-feel promised by its exotic aromatics. Flavors of mango, mandarin orange and guava are led by hard spices and vanilla into a long finish. Crisp acidity allows this wine to flow over the tongue with focus and clarity that completes the experience.”

My Review: Light golden in color.  A perfumy, bold, tropical bouquet.  The intense pineapple on the palate reminded me strongly of some candy I used to eat in my childhood. July 2021              

2020 Manzoni Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 13.9% ABV, $27 (#420*) 

Winery notes: “As this wine sits in the glass, you notice the rich hues and colors are pleasing to the eye and give hints to the aromas and flavors to come. This wine is a deep Garnet with a beautiful clarity. In the nose, rich strawberry and cream notes with hints of rose petal rise out of the glass with startling focus and intensity. On the palate, intense ripe red berry fruit is matched with and creamy, unctuous mouth-feel and balanced acidity to provide a seamless flavor profile. While certainly on the more opulent side of Rose styles, this wine is marvelously clean and nuanced in its rendering of a Rose of Pinot Noir and is a classic example of what this style has to offer the discerning wine drinker.”

My Review: Salmon in the glass.  Bouquet was sweet, with crisp apple and pear dominant and a touch of celery.  Very nice crisp apple and pear flavors on the palate. July 2021                   

2019 Manzoni Estate Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 14.2% ABV, $35 (#421*) 

Winery notes: “Aromas of dark cherries, blackberry and smoky, spicy oak rise out of the glass. Cassis and hard spices are supported by concentrated red and black berries. In the mouth, this wine has a velvety richness and fine, ripe tannins that support the dense, ripe and concentrated fruit. Red plums and berry compote are followed by firm acidity that keeps the wine fresh and balanced. The wine finishes with hard spices and fine vanilla flavors with hints of toasty oak. A great combination of New World ripeness and old word structure. Ripe tannins support a core of rich fruit in this opulent and larger framed wine. All the flavors hang together in great balance for this intensely flavored and well-heeled Pinot Noir.”

My Review: Translucent, light ruby in the glass.  Very much a traditional nose and palate, as one would expect from one of our premier Pinot Noir growing regions – the Santa Lucia Highlands.  July 2021                     

2018 Manzoni Estate Syrah, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 14.2% ABV, $32 (#422*) 

Winery notes: “Ripe black fruit and berry aromas mingled with hints of smoky oak and vanilla. The palate follows with intense flavors of ripe red fruits, hard spices and a core of silky tannin. The finish is exceptionally long with balanced acidity bringing the combinations of fruit, spice and vanilla to a clean and satisfying resolution.”

My Review: Beautiful ruby in color.  A bit smokey (sulfur?) on the nose – perhaps it was just opened?  Rich and full berry flavors on the palate with a touch of white pepper on the finish.  I am usually not a big fan of SLH Syrah, but this one was in my wheelhouse!  Grown on one of the lowest vineyards of the Manzoni Estate – that could explain it! July 2021                 

2018 Manzoni Cuvée Louie, Paicines AVA, 14.1% ABV, $47 (#423*) 

Winery notes: “Aromas of dark berry and fruit lift lazily out of the glass followed by hard spices and well-heeled vanilla and hints of oak. They are intense and rich with real visceral weight to the experience. Rarely are the Bordeaux varietals so giving in the nose. The palate is no less joy with flavors of blueberry, darkest cherry and bright plum combining with lively acidity to provide for an intensely focused mouth-full of flavor. The complexities brought on by the combining of all five Bordeaux varietals, the cinq cepage, has both a mesmerizing and invigorating effect. Enjoy with the richest of steaks, a fine roasted joint of lamb and all of your favorite soft cheeses and roasted nuts.”

My Review: Lovely rich berry nose following through on the palate.  My favorite from today’s tasting. I have a fondness for the Paicines AVA and this was the wine I chose to take home with me!  20% each Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot from the Pedregal de Paicines Vineyard. July 2021                 

You can buy Manzoni wines online or at one of their tasting rooms:  daily in Carmel-by-the-Sea on 7th Ave between San Carlos and Dolores or at the vineyard on the weekends. “We’re located on the beautiful River Road Wine Trail in the Salinas Valley with wonderful views of the Santa Lucia Highlands. We hope to see you here soon!”

*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.    

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