This is my last of three planned posts on my Spring Release 2021 I Brand wines, with this post focusing on the I Brand & Family label. This label is for their “California inspired” wines, as compared to the country French and Spanish inspired wines of P’tit Paysan and La Marea, respectively.
The 4 wines in today’s post are the I Brand & Family 2017 and 2018 Chardonnay, 2019 Pinot Noir (a first!), and a special 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, three of which I tasted in early March at their tasting room in Carmel Valley Village.
One of the things Ian Brand is known for is creative grape sourcing for his vineyards. In the case of these wines, he is using rather well-known (at least well-known to us locals) vineyards – ones known for producing quality fruit for higher-end wines.
Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands: “Honore’ Escoole purchased his summer property, for his family in 1878. He established one of the most desireable benches in Monterey County. Now, managed under the local Caraccioli Family. This site, continues to deliver a distinct expression of the northern Santa Lucia Highlands. Dominate soil Chualar Sandy Loam, which allows great root distribution and development.” (from I Brand’s tech sheet)
Enz Vineyard, Lime Kiln Valley, San Benito County: “Enz Vineyard is located in San Benito County in the little-known Lime Kiln Valley AVA. Enz currently owns about 1,400 acres and is planted with 40 acres of vines. Mourvedre and Zinfandel are the prime varietals however, they also yield small quantities of Pinot St George, Pinot Noir, and Orange Muscat. Although Enz is fairly close to Monterey Bay, the vineyard elevation site above the fog line and the steep valley walls create a warm microclimate ideal for Mourvedre.” California Wine Navigator
Massa Vineyard, Cachagua, Carmel Valley: “Overlooking the Cachagua region of Carmel Valley, (“Cachagua” is believed to be an Indian derivative of the French “cacher” and the Spanish “agua” – “hidden waters”), and framed by the dramatic surrounding hills, lie the beautiful vineyards of Massa Estate, formerly Heller Estate and Durney Vineyards.” Heller Estate
“The Massa Vineyard is the new name for the underground classic Durney Vineyard right here in Carmel Valley…We are pleased to be working with the Massa family on excellent organic farming practices…This release comes from its 1971 planting, which we consider far and away the most exceptional blocks on the vineyard.” I Brand Spring Release newswletter
2017 I Brand & Family Chardonnay, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, 13.2% ABV, $30 (#281*)
Winemaker’s Tasting Notes: “Amazing balance and roundness. Rich nuttiness, and fruit showcased upon the nose. Partial malolactic fermentation, allows bright acidity to shine, while the creamy characteristic follows upon the palate. Layers of fruit and baking spices envelop the mouth, providing a silky finish that lasts. Baked apples, and pineapple lead, with a slight clove finish. Enjoy now, or cellar for an optimal tasting experience.” 10 months on lees, 50% new French oak. 4 months stainless steel, partial malolactic fermentation.
My Review: Beautiful golden yellow in the glass like sunshine. Fresh citrus squirt on the nose and more of same on the palate. A lovely wine. March 2021
2018 I Brand & Family Chardonnay, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, 13.4% ABV, $30 (#282*)
Winemaker’s Tasting Notes: ““bright citrus, macadamia nut, subtle spice, silky smooth” 10 months in 50% new oak, last 4 months in stainess steel.” “Like a sunny day.”
My Review: Brighter yellow than the Albarino. Mild, buttery and creamy nose. Toasted marshmallow and butter on the palate with lemon curd on toast on the finish. Delicious. March 2021
2019 I Brand & Family Pinot Noir, Enz Vineyard, Lime Kiln Valley, San Benito County, 13.2% ABV, $42 (#283*)
Winery Tasting Notes: “cherry, black tea, rhubarb, damp earth, dry acidity, will grow in expression over the next few years” “A cooler climate Pinot.”
My Review: Strawberry and raspberry on the nose. Raspberry and rhubarb on the palate. Slight tannin on the finish. March 2021
2018 I Brand & Family Cabernet Sauvignon, ‘Block 10’, Massa Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 13% ABV, $75 (#284*)
Winery Tasting Notes: “black current, violet, bergamot, strong & graceful, will age well over 10-12 years” “On par with the Monte Bello Road” (I Brand’s Cabernet Sauvignon from the Santa Cruz Mountains)
My Review: Deep ruby – bordering on inky. Intense dark berry (great Cachagua fruit) on the nose. Inkiness continues on the palate – rich deep flavors. The challenge will be to lay it down and not touch it – we are not that disciplined! March 2021
I Brand’s tasting room in Carmel Valley Village is open for tastings – reservations recommended. https://www.ibrandwinery.com/visit. And BIG NEWS: You can now purchase I Brand wines directly from their website at https://www.ibrandwinery.com/!
Recent Comments