I wasn’t planning to post again so soon about another Parsonage wine, but I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to highlight this library wine as my 400th COVID wine (of all wines tasted during COVID per my broader Facebook blog – se reference below)! 400!!! We were so lucky to get this 2006 Parsonage Carmelstone Syrah in our recent allocation (thank you, Summer). I told my husband that we must open this with the COVID Wine Pod for a special occasion. Just before the 4th of July, a mutual friend of ours came to town – the man who let us know in the first place that the Dubee’s had moved to our little coastal town, much less to our street! Small world.
The Capitol Hill stories went on for hours, fueled by our visiting long-time friend, Scott.
We debated whether to decant this library wine. In the end, we decided to decant it right before drinking – that seemed to work! This wine compared equally in quality and taste to a 96-point rated Napa Cabernet Sauvignon we also tasted that night! Watch out, Napa! Here comes Carmel Valley! So I have switched up the lineup, making this extremely special wine my 400th wine!
The 2006 looks miniscule compared to this double magnum of the 2005 Carmelstone Reserve Syrah we picked up for a family reunion – still waiting to happen!
Today’s Parsonage Rocco Syrah is my favorite wine – but we used to get a wine labeled “Carmelstone.” When I asked Bill Parsons for more information about the wine over the weekend, he sent it back to me within hours! He shared the following:
“The Carmelstone Reserve is 100% Estate Syrah from the upper northeast corner block of our vineyard, maybe one and a quarter acre. The soil is clay-loam-silt with a generous lacing of fragmented chalk rock, what we call carmelstone. The slope, or as I like to say “angle of repose,” is 15-20 %.
“I think we last produced the Carmelstone in 2009. Sparse yields from 2010 to the present have forced us to eliminate its production. We thought of the Carmelstone as Rocco junior. It had a unique character that made Frank and me want to produce it instead of folding it into the Rocco and Estate Syrah bottlings. Now we get so little yield from that block that we put its fruit in the Estate.
“The low yield from that block has to do with drought, extreme heat cycles, pestilence, inadequate irrigation water, all of our personal horsemen of the apocalypse. Smoke taint, my least favorite horseman doesn’t enter into it.”
Winery Notes: “The 2006 vintage is considered one of our greatest of the first decade of the new millennium along with the ‘01, 03, and ‘08 vintages. It is/was exceptional in my view. You confirm my view by relating the Carmelstone to a six year younger Napa cult cabernet that sold for maybe three to four times the price of our $60 bottle.” (FYI from Sharon: )
My Review: Beautiful dark ruby in the glass. Smooth, rich dark berries. I jumped at the chance to get this Carmelstone – one of my favorites made by Parsonage and this library vintage was very good, exceptional. The 2006 compared very favorably to a younger, high-end, 96-point Napa Cab we tasted immediately following. I’ve seen the 2005 vintage rated 96 points! June 2021
Tasting Room Photo Courtesy Parsonage
Parsonage is open for tastings by reservation every day – clickherefor the details. You can obtain their wines directly from the winery here or at their tasting room located at 19 E Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village.
*Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.
Wines-You-Want-to-Share-with-Friends-Night continues – another one from my June DC wine class – was so nice to taste all these wines in person! The connection for us with this wine is the proprietor David Choi used to own Pearson’s Wine & Spirits in Washington DC – back when it was a real wine shop. Today’s wine was purchased years ago by a “classmate” at MacArthur Beverages in DC.
Outbreak Wine #395: 2014 Angel Falls Dark Angel Red Wine, Stolpman Vineyard, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara, 14.5% ABV, $23 (list $55) 55% Syrah, 35% Grenache, 10% Petite Sirah, 237 cases produced
About Ballard Canyon from www.ballardcanyonava.org: “The Ballard Canyon AVA has been considered the premier wine growing appellation in Santa Barbara County. The Ballard Canyon AVA also boasts as it is America’s only Syrah Focused Appellation. The Ballard Canyon AVA has also achieved this prestigious recognition and official status, as receiving its very own federally recognized American Viticulture Area.”
About Angel Falls from www.angelfallswines.com: “Angel Falls was founded in 2012, following a dream and a passion to provide you with the highest quality wines from the best regions and appellations around the world. We take pride in the art of crafting distinctive and expressive wines—putting our heart and soul into every ounce, from vineyard to bottle…” They work with 2 regions in France and 2 in Santa Barbara County. One of the key team members is Peter Stolpman!
“…Spending countless hours—in the vineyards, on the road, meeting and establishing relationships with the grape growers, winemakers, luminaries and personalities—has proven to be quite an adventure!”
“…Working with elite winemakers and using the best grapes available around the world has been a dream come true. Our team values the small production approach to making every bottle of wine we handcraft just for you. The wines we produce here at Angel Falls have character. I believe it shouldn’t cost you a fortune to enjoy a really good, high quality wine. That’s why our team will continue to break the mold, providing you with the very best wines at an affordable price, from the most elite winemakers and vineyards from around the world.”
About the 2014 Dark Angel: “Medium-bodied with fresh, bright, rich and juicy flavors. Expressive with excellent structure. Aromatic notes of plums, raspberries, and wild cherries with subtle hints of cola and mocha. Fine elegant tannins with a nice lingering finish.”
My Review: Inky. Smoke and black berries on the nose. Palate is brighter berry and a touch acidic. June 2021
I don’t see any recent vintages and wonder if Angel Falls Wines is still being produced. Looks like most of their wines are sold out, but I saw that Bell Wine & Spirits in Washington DC carries a non-vintage Dark Angel Syrah for $20. I might like to try that one, too!
*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.
Friday before Memorial Day…let’s head out to the valley in search of warmth and wine! Parsonage is always one of our favorite places to taste wines – with plenty of the big reds, just the way we like them. Summer gave us a sunny seat, giving us a little break from our coastal chill.
Want sun? Want shade? It can all be arranged! Photo courtesy Parsonage.
I’ve presented Parsonage to you in several prior posts and won’t repeat about them here (just type “Parsonage” in the search bar to see them all). You can check out their website here: https://www.parsonagewine.com/. Winery notes below are from their website, unless otherwise indicated.
Our latest haul from Parsonage – So happy to have these in my collection!
2019 Parsonage Grenache Rosé, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $29 (#385*)
Winery Notes: A perennial warm weather favorite. And a surprise to everyone who thinks they don’t like Rosé! Made with Grenache grapes. Refreshing and dry.
Owner Bill Parsons’ tasting notes: “What a nose!! If you spend some time with the nose of this lovely and sensual wine, you could discover notes of red roses, lavender, strawberry, pomegranate, raspberry, watermelon, peach and citrus zest. The bouquet comes alive on the palate with strawberry and watermelon. The finish is rich, full and lively.”
My Review: Apple cider on the nose. Rich and flavorful on the palate. I’d love to drink this wine on a “hot” day at our neighbors’ micro-climate patio! May 2021
Winery Notes: “This easy drinker pairs nicely with cheese & crackers. We joke that we should re-name it the “universal donor” even though that isn’t the perfect analogy. But you get the gist of it – this wine seems to be universally loved, no matter what your favorite varietal is…Fully dry. Medium-bodied but rich.”
Owner Bill Parsons’ tasting notes: “A bright mixed bouquet of floral notes accented by raspberry, pomegranate, blueberry, and black cherry mark the nose of this traditional blend. The palate is full, but not as massive as previous vintages. All of the fruit of the nose resonates in the mouth with a hint of umami. This iteration of our Grenache Syrah is marvelously complex and elegant.”
My Review: Bright ruby in the glass. Very round on the palate and delicious. May 2021
2017 Parsonage Cyrano Red Wine, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $26 (#387*) 70% Merlot, 30% Syrah
Winery Notes: “Our versatile red table wine easily pairs with a variety of different foods. We think it goes especially well with pizza and spaghetti with red sauce. This vintage is full bodied. A blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Syrah. Rich, ripe and voluptous. The Cyrano is one of our best sellers.”
My Review: This is an exciting blend – bright and energetic. Summer says: Good vintage, aged in neutral oak barrels, best seller year over year. May 2021
2015 Parsonage Cyrano Red Wine, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $26 (#388*) 70% Merlot, 30% Syrah
Winery Notes: (We had this wine in our collection and opened it to compare to the 2017 we had tasted at the winery. The two vintages seemed shockingly similar. In fact, the winery’s tasting notes are identical to the 2017!)
My Review: Dark ruby in the glass. Nose of dark berries and cherry. Rich palate of dark fruits overplayed with cherry – excited, dancing on the tongue. May 2021
2017 Parsonage Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast, 15% ABV, $48 (#389*)
2017 Cabernet Sauvignon photo courtesy Parsonage.
Winery Notes: “This Cabernet Sauvignon field blend is joined with a mix of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. It’s a full-throttle bombastic beauty, typical of younger vines. The nose is all about very dark fruit marked by brambleberry compote. Plum and cassis join with the brambleberry on a muscular palate that finishes with some major league tannins.” The Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a private vineyard in Cachagua (Carmel Valley) and the Cabernet Franc comes from Paicines AVA!
My Review: Beautiful ruby in the glass. Cherry on the nose. Rich cherry and berry on the palate. Quite good! May 2021
Photo of the 2017 Parsonage Hawk Reserve Pinot Noir
Winery Notes from the tasting sheet: Full bodied with full fruit expression and sensuous texture.
My Review: Translucent ruby in color. Raspberry on the nose. Super juicy bright berry flavors and luscious. Supple tannins. Very nice Pinot Noir – even I like this one! The Hawk can stand up to a Burgundian red! May 2021
Parsonage is open for tastings by reservation only every day – click herefor the details. You can obtain their wines directly from the wineryhere or at their tasting roomlocated 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.
As a wine consumer, I appreciate a vintner who delivers very good wine at a great price. Years ago, we found these qualities in Mark Chesebro’s wines, which he continues to this day. I especially enjoy the more unique whites like Albarino and Vermentino. Today’s post, however, is about his reds, following last week’s post about his whites!
While we stuck to the usual tasting menu on this day, we noticed a Merlot on their wine price list! It is the 2017 La Grava Merlot/Grenache blend. They have made this before, but I was very happy to see it there. We are seeing more and more Merlots being produced on the Central Coast – it is about time! I haven’t tasted it yet – and will save mine for a future blog post!
2017 Merlot/Grenache – “La Grava”
I’ve presented Chesebro reds at several of my wine classes back east, including the La Montagne Sauvage and the Las Arenas – they are a big hit! And I’ve written about Chesebro several times – just search “Chesebro” and you will find them all!
Winery Notes: “Brilliant ruby red. Medium bodied with aromas of rose petals, raspberry and dried orange peel, followed by subtle earthy notes. The silky mouthfeel features soft tannins and a smooth cleansing acidity, which reinforces the berry characteristic along with hints of minerality in the finish.” 100 cases produced.
My Review: Pale ruby in the glass. Light cherry notes on the nose. A very light Pinot Noir with a bubblegum finish. May 2021
Chesebro 2016 Las Arenas, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $27 (#366*)
Winery Notes: “Our Southern Rhone Style (Chateauneuf du Pape) style blend of 65% Grenache and 35% Syrah. Aromas of cranberries and blackberries over a background of coffee and a hint of white pepper. Smooth and velvety with a long finish. Enjoyable now with a long life ahead.” 233 cases produced.
My Review: Pretty ruby in the glass. Full berry flavors balanced by the acidity of cranberry notes. White pepper on the finish. I presented the 2015 vintage to the Northern Virginia AWS – it was a big hit! May 2021
Chesebro 2013 La Montagne Sauvage, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $25 (#367*)
Winery Notes: “Grown on Carmel Valley’s rocky mountain soils, this Rhone style blend of 80% Syrah, 15% Grenache and 5% Mourvedre is powerful and rich with aromas of dark forest berries, scorched earth and spice. Blockbuster!” 180 cases produced.
My favorite Chesebro red blend year after year!
My Review: Dark ruby in the glass, delicious dark fruit on the palate – perhaps my favorite Chesebro wine. I couldn’t leave without picking up a few! May 2021
Buying Chesebro Wines: You can buy Chesebro wines via their website (www.chesebrowines.com) or in their tasting room at Updated information on its tasting room hours and reservation link is here. They are open Thursday through Sunday from noon until 6:00 PM by reservation. Chesebro has curbside pickup and has always been great about shipping wines to the East Coast for me.
*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.
Bunter Spring is a small producer whose wines increasingly come from the Central Coast vice its Napa roots. From Carmel Valley Road Co: “At Bunter Spring, we strive to make wines that are delicious, and unique. Balance is important. That means a pleasant and harmonious combination of alcohol/sweetness, acidity, and astringency/tannin. Aroma and flavor are obviously important. We achieve interesting and balanced wines by using grapes grown carefully, in the right place, harvested at the right time. Bunter Spring Winery is a family operated winery.” We first discovered them via their tasting room in Carmel Valley Village and have written about them a couple of times previously.
Bunter Spring 2015 Hippy Red Syrah, Napa Valley AVA, 13.35% ABV, $25 (#347*), 45 cases produced.
Winemaker’s Notes for the 2016 vintage: “100% Syrah…Made with organic grapes. Here, the ‘wild’ yeast really went feral, turning our peaceful little anti-establishment organic fermentation into something like a rampaging acid-fueled riot. We had to add a little sulfite and then filter the wine to save it from becoming something only a totally stoned commune would consider drinking. In the end, it was all groovy, if slightly far out. To honor and illustrate its nature, it got a special name and label.” The 2016 is nearly sold out and the 2017 will be released this summer! Tasting available most weekends by appointment, outside, $20, free with $50 purchase.
My Review: We did not decant this wine (as recommended) and probably should have, as it took a day or two to reveal its full flavors. A bit of sulphur on the nose with a very smooth, juicy palate. Medium bodied, rich with cherry and berry flavors.
Tasting available most weekends by appointment, outside, $20, free with $50 purchase and can be arranged by calling Mar at (202) 744-1343. To buy their wines, check out their current releases 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.
Special occasions call for special wines – and we’ve had a few relatives visiting – time to open some Parsonage reserves! Why not drink the good stuff?
I’ve presented Parsonage to you in several prior posts and won’t repeat about them here (just type “Parsonage” in the search bar to see them all). You can check out their website here: https://www.parsonagewine.com/.
We received this as a library wine in a recent allocation. This vintage pre-dates the “Tanner” designation. Our experience has taught us that these library wines are ready to drink.
grapelive– 93 points: “Cabernet did really well here in 2005 and I think it is showing much more character as well, I think the grape is star here and it seems to be so correct that I have a hard time finding any flaws! Pure classic fruits and depth make this vintage remarkable and especially noteworthy. Mixed black and red berry, plum, currants, cassis and chewy tannins scream Cabernet and don’t let up. The complex underbrush, herb and tobacco notes are very subtle and the hints of licorice, vanilla and cranberry are lovely.”
We shared the 2005 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon with our visiting niece and nephew-in-law one chilly April night.
My Review: Dark in the glass with rich, smooth flavors of cassis and plum. This wine is drinking well, with the dark flavors reflecting its age. Two thumbs up! April 2021
**Monterey County Weekly: “Hedonistic – that’s how winemaker Bill Parsons describes his 2015 Parsonage “Rocco” Syrah. Not that the wine is self-indulgent, although it does seem hell-bent in pursuit of a good time, spilling bushels of ripe blackberries and blueberries from the glass. The revelry begins with a swirl. Fresh aromas spring from the glass, tromping over the grumbles of pepper and licorice. The party continues unabated on the palate, as dense dark berries mingle with a flirtatious impression of fresh plum. What develops on the fringes – raspy pepper, dry clove, bittersweet chocolate and toasted tobacco – are too faint at first to slow things down. It’s only on the finish that the wine’s demeanor changes, developing a more stolid, earthy character and a richer berry compote aspect that stills some of its liveliness.”
My Review: Almost opaque in color. Big dark fruit – blackberry and currant on the nose. Super rich, smooth dark fruit blackberry, plum and a touch of cassis and cedar on the palate. Sweet-tart on the finish. It looks like it smells like it tastes. Love this wine, as did our visiting family. April 2021
Parsonage is open for tastings by reservation only every day – click herefor the details. You can obtain their wines directly from the winery here or at their tasting room located at 19 E Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village.
*Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.
Warm weather and sunshine were predicted for the Monterey Peninsula – that called for another patio tasting with the COVID Wine Pod. While the sun didn’t really shine, some impressive wines were shared. Our friends brought a Law red wine from Paso Robles, known as “America’s Rhône!” I last brought you Law Estate Wines here: https://decantingmonterey.com/law-estate-rose-the-perfect-wine-for-an-unexpectedly-hot-coastal-afternoon/.
Always a treat to gather with our neighbors, now best friends, who have such similar tastes in exceptional wine!
While the sun did not come out as promised, the fire table took the edge off as the temperature dropped.
About Law Winemaking: “Being a gravity-fed winery allows us to stay true to our winemaking principle. We utilize concrete fermenters due to their pinpoint temperature regulating abilities as well as their small, yet signifcant, amount of gas exchange from the concrete’s natural porosity. Wines are drained and pressed before they go into a mixture of 100% French oak of which 30%-75% may be new depending on the blend. Once in barrel, the wine remains on its lees for an aging of 22-24 months before it is bottled unfined and unfiltered. Our wines then remain in bottle for an additional year and a half before they are released.”
Jeb Dunnuck – 95 Points from Law Estate Wines: “Entrancing with its ever-evolving layers of dark berry notes, cinnamon and black pepper, this perennial varietal expression of our site possesses significant balance of weight, tannin, and velvety texture from front to back. Upon each sip, new and exciting characteristics unveil the complexities of this noteworthy wine long after the glass is set down. It has undoubtedly earned its title as one of the longest-lasting and beautiful finishes of the vintage!”
My Review: Yummy black fruit, tobacco and graphite on the nose. Deep jammy cherry and berry fruit. Balanced with minerality. Super smooth and yummy. Clove on the finish. This is pretty fantastic now and will get better with time. April 2021
You can purchase Law wines from the winery on line or at their tasting room. Check it out here. Tastings are by reservation only.
*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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
2016OdonataPetite 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!
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.
A little over a year ago, we made a plan with our new neighbors to pack a picnic lunch and do some wine tasting down the River Road Wine Trail. We finally pulled this trip off in mid-March! We visited three wineries that day. It was a “huge big deal” for us to venture out. My husband has gone practically nowhere during the pandemic and the rest of us have remained quite isolated. I organized the wine tastings and they organized a lovely picnic lunch! Perfect!
Today’s post is about our visit to Wrath down in Soledad. I’ve posted before about Wrath, as we are huge fans of their Syrahs and I have presented their Sauvignon Blanc in one of my Washington DC wine classes. I’m presenting 7 of their wines here. I picked up a couple of their wines for future tasting, including their 2017 Ex Dolio Falanghina and their 2017 Destruction Level, Grenache-Syrah. Our wines were accompanied by some cute little steak sandwiches and wraps, olive and goat cheese spread from the Monterey Farmers Market, and yummy lemon pudding. Winery notes come from their website: https://www.wrathwines.com/ and my tasting notes were supported by Mr. H, Melvin Dubee and his lovely wife, Kristine (AKA our COVID Wine Pod).
2017 Wrath Chardonnay San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 13.2% ABV, $49 (#293*)
Winery Notes: “Wrath’s flagship 2017 San Saba Vineyard Chardonnay utilizes only specifically selected barrels of three clones from our estate vineyard. During production, we allow certain lots to ferment using native yeasts while other lots are inoculated with Montrachet yeast. This adds to the wine’s signature complexity. These lots go through a secondary fermentation, ML or malolactic, while aging in French oak barrels, 40% of which are new oak. Aromas of apple and apricot blend with a hint of cooking spices. Rich flavors of peach, ripe pineapple and shortbread find balance through bright acidity and a long, delicious finish.” 158 cases produced. 92 points – Vinous.
My Review: Golden in the glass. Honeysuckle with a touch of pineapple on the nose. Honeysuckle continues through the creamy palate – “a classic California Chardonnay.” March 2021
2020 Wrath Pinot Noir Saignée, San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, 13.1% ABV, $21 (#294*)
Having fun with our Saignée shadows!
Winery Notes: “Bright red fruit and moderate (13.1%) alcohol make this rosé the perfect summer wine. Aged for three months in neutral French oak barrels, this wine captures the essence of our award-winning San Saba Vineyard fruit in a refreshing and food-friendly saignée of 100 percent Pinot Noir. Pale strawberry and rhubarb define the nose while red berry and watermelon flavors meld with crisp acidity on the palate.” 232 cases produced.
My Review: Light rose in color. Strawberry and rhubarb on the nose. Rose petal and rhubarb on the palate. “I’m so glad Americans have learned to make rosé!” “I could drink this all day!”March 2021
Winery Notes: “Wrath’s blend of clones 777 and Pommard 4 has always showcased the dark, earthy side of our estate pinot fruit and the 2018 vintage is no exception. The nose shows off black cherry and forest floor. A rich, seamless intensity defines the palate with bing cherry, black raspberry and an allspice element; while the higher percentage (24%) of whole cluster fermentation leads to a long, structured finish.” 677 cases produced. 92 points – Vinous.
My Review: Transluscent ruby in color. The delightful cherry on the nose carries into the palate – a little bitter. Umami finish. March 2021
2017 Wrath Pinot Noir San Saba Vineyard, Monterey AVA, $49 (#296*)
Winery Notes: “KW Ranch Pinot Noir 2017 comes from the lower slopes along the eastern edge of the appellation. Red berries and cherry join undertones of menthol and wild herbs on an expressive nose. The palate highlights tight, focused fruit with bright acidity and mineral that merge into a long, structured finish. Although delicious now, this wine will peak after 2024.” 321 cases produced. 92 points – Vinous.
My Review: This wine was richer and deeper in color with dark cherry and plum flavors. March 2021
Winery Notes: “This Grenache comes from the biodynamically managed Alta Loma Vineyard, just south of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Deeply colored for the varietal, this Grenache is intense, high-toned and elegant. The aromatics offer notes of pine forest, juniper, spice, earth and wet stone. The palate is powerful, structured, rich and direct with a long finish that includes noticeable, well-integrated tannins.” 67 cases produced. 92 points – Vinous.
My Review: Beautiful ruby color. Nose smells like Southern Rhône – cherry, lavender and sage. Very smooth on the palate with an acidic sharpness on the finish. March 2021
Winery Notes: “In keeping with our focus on sustainability, grapes are hand harvested and brought to our winery (only six miles down the road) for hand sorting. All our single vineyard Syrahs use the small whole cluster fermentation and oak regimen. This helps highlight the individual personality of each vineyard. The 2017 KW Ranch Syrah is wildly aromatic with flashes of black pepper, smoked meat, blackberries, leather and cassis. The palate is thick, powerful and succulently juicy. Even though the tannins are bold, the wine is still nimble, elegant and approachable.” 109 cases produced. 93 points – Vinous.
My Review: Purple in color. Berry jam and a touch of leather on the nose. Softer than the 2016. Smokey and peppery with allspice on the palate. A hint of menthol on the back palate. Very nice, smooth palate. This would go well with some of those farmers market lamb chops! March 2021
You can buy these wines directly from Wrath via their website or tasting rooms.
Regarding Tastings: Both the winery tasting room in Soledad and the Carmel Plaza tasting room are open for outdoor and limited indoor tastings! Check out this link for more details: https://www.wrathwines.com/Visit.
*Refers to wines tasted while Sheltering in Place on Sharon’s personal Facebook group “Sharon’s Central Coast (Monterey) Wine Blog” – including non-Central Coast wines.
Parsonage Valley Vineyard (photo taken Spring 2019)
On this Ides of March, I wanted to present two completely different (opposite?) Parsonage wines. When we first met Frank Melicia, we knew he made serious wines. But he also is a bit of an innovator who tries new things, so he makes some fun blends, too. I’m bringing you one of each in today’s post!
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/.
Bill Parsons always has a story and here is the story he shared with me about our first wine, the 2008 Parsonage Estate Syrah:
“The (2008) vintage was our most celebrated and sought after in our then ten year existence. As great as the Estate version was, the Carmelstone and Rocco (Syrahs) were even greater.
“Back then Arvid Singh was the sommelier at the Sardine Factory. Ted Balesteri tasted my wines at a fundraiser at Holman Ranch and asked to set up a tasting with Arvid. I did. It was the craziest tasting I’ve ever done. I opened the Estate and the Carmelstone while he looked for his small spittoon. After he found it I poured one ounce of each. He swirled and sniffed for a long time, then took in a mouthful. He gurgled a bit, then swallowed. He asked me for another shot. I complied. He repeated the ritual two more times without spitting. I asked him what the spittoon was for. He said that all of his career he had always spit. Then he said, ‘but it would be sacrilege to expectorate the greatest Syrah he had ever tasted.’
“I laughed and said, ‘Yeah, very funny.’ It was obvious that I thought he was joking and he got quite angry at me. This was very serious stuff to him. I could probably write several hundred words describing our back and forth. The gist of it was that I challenged the idea that he had an olfactory version of eidetic memory. He said, for instance, 20 years ago he had tasted a Penfolds Grange and thought it to be the greatest he ever tasted until the Parsonage. I said, ‘The Grange isn’t here to defend its ranking.’ He said he had total olfactory recall of every great wine he had ever tasted. I called bullshit on him and he was really pissed at me.
“Finally I apologized and we kissed and made up.😎 When he tasted the Carmelstone it was more of the same, even greater than the Estate. He wanted to buy a lot more than I was willing to sell him.
“Later, I reflected on our tasting and what I had learned. I learned that Arvid and I have identical palates when it comes to Syrah because we both thought the 2008 was the best we ever tasted.
“As a footnote Arvid said, ‘The Grange is not even worthy of being on the same shelf with your Syrah.’ I thought he was a bit harsh on the famous Aussie Shiraz.”
The 2008 Parsonage Syrah is a staff favorite – perhaps one of the very best vintages.
Winemaker Notes:“The vintage was our most celebrated and sought after in our then ten year existence. As great as the Estate version was, the Carmelstone and Rocco were even greater…What a bomb! This is quite likely our biggest estate syrah ever. It’s more like a reserve Carmelstone or Rocco from other vintages. The nose comes with a blast of blueberry, blackberry, curry spices and cocoa. The color is pure garnet ink. The mouth feel is monumental with layers of very dark fruit, exotic spice and French oak barrel brulee. The expected signature notes of mineral and game along with hints of liquer and Amarone deliver on an exceedingly long and dramatic finish.”
My Review: Very dark in the glass with dark fruit on the nose to match. Rich dark flavors of black currant and cassis on the palate. Pretty yummy, but clearly should have been consumed some time back. Definitely need to decant and drink these older wines! March 2021
2016 Parsonage Wild Card, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $38 (#262*)
2016 was the year of the Soberanes Fire affecting Carmel Valley fruit; grapes for this wine were sourced from all over Monterey County.
Winemaker Notes: “Downright weird from Frank’s twilight zone. It really shouldn’t work but it does every time eight years running. Syrah, Cab Sauv, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Grenache, Pinot Noir, oh my. It’s yummy and if you want to make the effort you can pick out the character of each varietal.”
My Review: Deep beautiful red in color. Plum, berry and caramel on the nose. Maybe toast notes, but that could be my popcorn. Intense fruit up from on the palate – bursting with red and black berry. A little touch of smoke and tobacco on the finish. Pleasant surprise!! February 2021
Photo courtesy of Parsonage
Parsonage’s Beautiful Tasting Room and Outdoor Parklet!
Parsonage is open for tastings by reservation only every day – click herefor 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.
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