Monthly Archive: September 2026

2006 Kathryn Kennedy Cabernet Sauvignon

THE STORY

Another surprise find at K&L Wine Merchants was this 2026 Kathryn Kennedy Cabernet Sauvignon. I blind tasted it back in July – dark berry, and leather and something mysterious, warm, familiar from the kitchen; something earthy, mushroom-y.  I was delighted to see it was a Kathryn Kennedy wine when it was revealed. I had heard of the prowess of her Cabernet Sauvignon wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains. But we had a strong disagreement in our household. My husband, the real wine connoisseur in our household, said there was no earth, mushroom, or mysterious scents or flavors. I had the fortune to taste this wine again last week and none of those unusual flavors were there.  But I just read the professional reviews and I feel validated in my original taste.  OK, maybe not the mysterious part – that might have been due to a cold.

You can read more about this wine on the K&L Website here. They still have some left at this bargain price as of this writing (09/18/2026).

I’ve written about Santa Cruz Mountains wines many times (just do a search on Decanting Monterey), but this is my first post about Kathryn Kennedy.

THE WINERY

From their website:

“Kathryn established her vineyard during “The Wine Boom of the early 1970s”. New fashions and lifestyles were being introduced by the likes of Sunset Magazine and Julia Child. Bright colors, fresh California produce, outdoor dining and a taste for the finest foods in the European tradition were all the rage. This included a taste for the classic French Wines and the high art they represented. Kathryn was a pioneering female in the CA wine industry. Her brand was one of the first to bear a woman’s name. Her location was unusual too. Although Saratoga had a stellar wine history in the 1880s, by the 1970s it was far from Napa and off the map to all but the most astute. In preparation for planting her 7 acres, she attended two full semesters of the viticulture program at UC Davis. Wise old professors such a Dept. Chair Kasamatis and Prof. Cook advised Kathryn to plant Cabernet Sauvignon. Own rooted Clone #8 cuttings sourced from David Bruce Vineyards were developed for one year in an on-site nursery before planting in 1973. Kathryn enlisted the help of her extended family and many volunteer friends to do the backbreaking work of planting 3300 new vines using shovels and garden hoses. After selling fruit for two vintages to Mount Eden Vineyards in Saratoga, Kathryn established her brand and winery in 1979. Her advisor and first winemaker was Bill Anderson, who went on to be the long-standing winemaker at Chateau Julien in Carmel Valley. From 1979 until 1988 Kathryn’s tiny winery produced only Estate Cabernet…”

“After 35 years, working alongside Kathryn Kennedy, her son Marty Mathis continues their commitment to growing and making world class sustainable wines.”

THE WINE

Today I am presenting 1 Kathryn Kennedy wine.Winery notes come from the winery’s website or internet search. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the websites of others. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2006 Kathryn Kennedy Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains, 14.8% ABV, $220/$60 (K&L) (#1804)

Silver Label of the 2006 Kathryn Kennedy Cabernet Sauvignon

94 points Wine Enthusiast: “This is a fascinating showcase of how graceful Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon can age. Now 15 years old, this bottling still shows complex aromas of roasted strawberry, ashy wood, mashed olive, espresso bean and damp mushroom. The palate remains as fresh as many new Cabs, with polished tannins offering dark fruit, dried porcini and bittersweet cocoa flavors. *Editors’ Choice* (MK).”

My Review: Dark garnet in the glass. Blackberry and leather mingle with warm mushroom and earth notes, wrapped in a brandy-esque undertone on the nose. Intense, aged fruit on the well-structured palate, reminiscent of a fine, aged Bordeaux. I might have guessed Old World if we were playing the Mystery Wine game.  July/September 2026

THE TASTING ROOM

Kathryn Kennedy is not open to visitors and has no tasting room. They recommend contacting the Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association for visitor information.

© Decanting Monterey 2026

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Tobin James Super Toscano – from a Super Toscano!

THE STORY

At the American Wine Society Monterey Chapter’s summer party, a long-standing member brought today’s Tobin James Cellars wine.  It was the wine I kept going back to.  But I didn’t really “get it” until after the party, that my friend, whose last name is Toscano, had brought this Super Toscano!

Back the late 1990’s, we visited Tobin James on the regular – such a fun atmosphere, delicious wines, and a little play area for kids right inside.  We were amazed you could also find his wines in the California grocery stores!

This is my first post about Tobin James wines.

THE WINERY

From their website:

“It all started with six tons of extra grapes…When a local grape harvester showed up at with six tons of Zinfandel grapes that he was willing to give away, Tobin “Toby” James, a young assistant winemaker at the time, asked if he could have the grapes to make his own wine. “Sure kid, knock yourself out,” the owner replied. A year and a half later, Toby’s first wine—the now-famous 1985 Blue Moon Zinfandel—won double gold medals, and a spot on The Wine Spectator’s coveted “Top 100 Wines of the Year.” Tobin James Cellars was born.

“For the next few years, Toby quietly produced his own popular small-batch wines, tasting and selling them out of a local wine shop in Paso Robles. Then in 1993, Toby finally took the plunge and built Tobin James Cellars. In 1996, Toby was joined by partners and winemakers, Lance and Claire Silver, who updated and expanded the winery. They also launched the “James Gang” Wine Club, California’s most popular wine club.”

THE WINES

Today I am presenting 1 Tobin James wine.Winery notes come from the winery’s website. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the websites of others. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2023 Tobin James Blue Moon Reserve Super Toscano, Paso Robles, 14.2% ABV, $95 (#1803) 46% Cabernet Sauvignon 46% Sangiovese 8% Merlot

image of label of the Tobin James wine bottle

Winery Notes: “Our perfect expression of a Paso Robles Super Tuscan blend. We are pleased to welcome 2023 Blue Moon Super Toscano to the Blue Moon family of reserves. Super Tuscans call Italy home, but our exciting Super Toscano reminds us that there is no place like our home, Tobin James Cellars, Paso Robles.

“Sourced from top vineyards in Paso’s Willow Creek and Adelaida, the Cabernet Sauvignon and the Sangiovese highlight each other’s enticing red fruits and elegant acidity. It is medium bodied and the touch of Merlot refines the tannin structure.

“Savory herbs, Bing cherry, white pepper, and delicate dried rose petal aromas draw you in to take the first exciting taste. Pops of red pomegranate, red currant, cherry and cassis bring layers of rich flavors. The finish is luxuriously long and satisfying. Aged for 20 months in 30% new French Oak barrels enhances the aromas, mouthfeel, and adds subtle vanilla toast.

“Food pairings: Grilled lamb, rich braised meat dishes, pasta with truffle cream sauce, meaty pizzas. Pair with Fontina, Taleggio, aged Parmesan, Pecorino Toscano and Ricotta cheeses.”

My Review: Garnet in the glass. A pretty nose of raspberry blackberry, cedar, and Kalamata olive. A deliciously blended palate, medium richness, with cherry notes and light tannins on the finish. Juicy. This was drinking pretty well on Day 2 – and could have been decanted at our party. July 2026

THE TASTING ROOM

“Located eight miles east of Paso Robles on Highway 46, Tobin James Cellars sits among 71 acres of vineyards and oak dotted hills. Built from the ground up on the site of the old “10-mile Stagecoach Stop,” our old-fashioned western-style tasting room saloon embraces the rough and rugged frontier history of Paso Robles, California.”

The Tobin James Tasting Room is located at 8950 Union Road, Paso Robles, California 93446 Reservations are recommended. You can get a reservation by calling (805) 239-2204 or filling out an online form. Get more info on their tasting room here: https://www.tobinjames.com/contact

© Decanting Monterey 2026

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

La Casa Del Sazón + Odonata Wines = One Scrumptious Evening in Old Town Salinas

Restaurant and winery hosts addressing the room

THE STORY

A few weeks ago, I received an email from a fellow member of the American Wine Society Monterey Chapter asking if I was going to a wine dinner at La Casa Del Sazón showcasing Odonata Wines.  Both the food and wine menus appealed to me, as well as the incredible price for the whole event, less than half the price of a typical wine dinner on the Monterey Peninsula.  Drive to Salinas during a Friday rush hour?  Not as appealing, but we lucked out.  We left early and planned a quick stop at Star Market to introduce my friends to their fabulous selection of local wines – and we still got there perfectly on time.

image of Panetta Estate Reserve 2023 Pinot Noir!
A Surprise Find Among the Many Local Wines at Star Market!

We were warmly welcomed by our table mates, and we all became fast friends.  The whole room had a warm and excited vibe.  Moreover, Odonata Winemaker Denis Hoey was there to tell us about his winery and each of the wines. The restaurant founders and their sons were in attendance for a heartwarming presentation about their journey.  Each of the dishes – simple or complex – was a perfect complement to the wines. They indeed did prove that you can pair Mexican food with fine wines! 

image of a woman with winemaker Denis Hoey
My Table Mate Yolanda with Winemaker Denis Hoey

THE WINERY

From their website:

“Small lot wines with a focus on local grapes that are organic and grown sustainably.

“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.” — Winemaker Denis Hoey

THE WINES

Today I will try to give you some food commentary along with the 7 wines, because it was the pairing of the two that sent this evening over the top. (Plus the people!) Winery notes come from their website unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a matter of practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2023 Odonata Sparkling Brut Cuvee, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County (#1796) 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay

image of a glass of sparkling wine on a table of glasses.
My Pour of the Sparkling Cuvee

My Wine Review: This was a delightful sparkling wine from start to finish. Tiny bubbles with a pleasant, dry palate with a hint of citrus and a slightly yeasty finish. Loved it. August 2026                                                                                                                       

2025 Cote du Denis Sauvignon Blanc, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV (#1797)

My Wine Review: Crisp and light, light with lemon and pineapple notes. To me, this Sauvignon Blanc tasted different from the others I have consumed from the Arroyo Seco AVA. The slightly sweet finish was offset by the crispy tortilla with guacamole. August 2026

Food Review: Home-smashed Guacamole with Flour Chips: I believe this was changed to a corn tortilla, crispy, salty and lime-y with the most delicious guacamole on top.  This was one of my top dishes of the evening. 

2024 Odonata Chardonnay, Boekenoogen Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $36 (#1798)

Winery Notes:   “Bright aromatics of sweet cream butter, with a balanced amount of toasty oak, melding with baked yellow apple. Weighty on the palate, but lightened by crisp light fruit on the entry, and ending with a long and textured finish. Think salmon or grilled chicken.”                                                                                                      

My Wine Review: A delicious Chardonnay, with hints of oak. Very smooth and quaffable. Even my “ABC” dining partner liked this wine. August 2026

Food Review: Grilled Cajun Shrimp Taco Gobernador: This dish was jam-packed with nicely spiced shrimp inside a crispy tortilla. It was a hefty and delicious mouthful which brought out the very best of the already-delicious chardonnay.

2022 Cote du Denis “Drink Me Chilled”  Cinsault, Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo County, 14.75% ABV (#1799)      

My Wine Review: I’ll be honest that this wine was not at all what I was expecting from a single varietal bottling of Cinsault.  It was kind of weird. Starts off raisin-y, almost port-like on the palate, with its high alcohol content. But hang on – it grew on me as it stood up perfectly to the taco. Denis described it as a “strawberry dipped in chocolate.” That’s about right. August 2026

Food Review: Charred Poblano Carnitas Taco: Another hefty dish with a poblano chili opened across the tortilla, filled with delicious carnitas.  There was a smear of a dark brown sauce – rather mole-esque – which brought the whole dish and the wine together.

2023 Odonata Pinot Noir, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 14.2% ABV (#1800)

My Review: Cherry and spice on the nose. The richness of this wine on the palate complemented the spiciness of the salsa verde. I’m not the biggest SLH Pinot Noir fan (sorry, I am trying), but I liked this Pinot Noir. August 2026                                                                                                                  

Food Review: Chicken Enchilada Suiza with Salsa Verde: Another hefty portion jammed with tender, shredded chicken breast and covered in a very spicy salsa verde. Unfortunately, this was the one dish that was undercooked and came out a bit cold.  Let’s face it, this kitchen and staff were performing a Herculean task with this dinner.  Everything was perfectly timed and service was impeccable.  I’ll go to the restaurant and order this again sometime. 

2021 Odonata Cabernet Sauvignon, Joullian Vineyard, Carmel Valley, Monterey County, 13.9% ABV, $49 (#1800)

Winery Note: “Bright cherries, chocolate, and herbs all play into a luscious texture. This wine will age and drink well for 10-15 years off the vintage, but it is soft enough to be enjoyed now. Hearty fare with a little fat is always a good pairing, but this wine can stand on its own as a nice glass to sip and savor.”

My Wine Review: Oh, so smooth already for a 2021. Rich dark fruit highlighted by blackberry and cherry on the palate. This shows the power of the Joullian fruit matched with the right winemaker. Paired exquisitely with the carne asada. I was the driver and had been very circumspect in my consumption all night – I was clearly holding out for this wine. August 2026

Food Review: Top-Sirloin Carne Asada with Grilled Onions: Wow – the onions were perfectly grilled – so tender – on top of the simply presented, flavorful slice of top sirloin. I didn’t think I could eat any more, but I ate the whole thing.

Papa Hoey VSOP Brandy, Central Coast, 40% ABV, $55 (#1800) 100% Petite Sirah

Winery Notes: “Expect notes of cinnamon and cardamom, along with warming spices. It presents a broad and rich mouthfeel, concluding with a long-lasting finish. Savor this spirit in a cocktail, or enjoy it neat after dinner as a digestive. It pairs wonderfully with a touch of dark chocolate!

My Review: I am not a brandy person, yet I found this one much more approachable and, based on my limited exposure, quite fine. I would not hesitate to share with a brandy fan. My table mates seemed to enjoy it. August 2026

Food Review: Dubai Chocolate Cake: What a delightful small triangle of dark chocolate with a delicious dark chocolate ganache on top.  With a green dash and hint of crushed pistachio on top and the center filling, it was a perfect ending to our meal and went well with the brandy. 

THE TASTING ROOM

Visit the Odonata Tasting Room: “Nestled at the northern edge of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA and at the beginning of the River Road wine trail lies the Odonata winery and tasting room. We hope you will stop by our tasting room and sample a selection of our current releases. We are open 7 days a week and no appointments are necessary.” Open Daily 11 am – 5 pm.  Located at 645 River Road, Salinas CA, 93908.             

And check out the La Casa Del Sazón near you – Salinas is not that far (#2 in Old Town has such great atmosphere and exudes Mexican culture) and there is also one conveniently located in Monterey. 


© Decanting Monterey 2026

**FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

Caelesta: Altitude + Limestone = Deliciousnesss!

front label for Caelestra wines

THE STORY

If you are an avid reader of Decanting Monterey, you know my better half scours K&L Wine Merchants for highly rated/bargain priced wines. And he knows I like those big reds from Paso Robles. So what could be more perfect than the 2 red blends from Caelesta I am presenting today. 

This is my first post about Caelesta wines.

THE WINERY

From their website: “Caelesta is the culmination of family, passion, and a dedication to expressing the unique terroir of the Templeton Gap AVA in Paso Robles. Situated at 1,400 feet with 360-degree vineyard aspects and Linne Calodo limestone soils, the Caelesta estate yields wines with velvety tannin structure, vibrant acidity, and unmistakable sense of place — all with a focus on sustainability for this generational ranch.” You can read more about them here: The Land.

THE WINES

Today I am presenting 2 Caelesta wines.Winery notes come from the K&L website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the websites of others.

2021 Caelesta Appollo Red Blend, Templeton Gap District, Paso Robles, 14.8% ABV, $20 (#1794) 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Petite Sirah (still available as of 8/25)

2021 Apollo bottle label

K&L Notes: “Apollo is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend with a smaller portion of Petite Sirah. Brian consulted with legendary Napa Valley winemaker Tony Biagi of Hourglass, PlumpJack, CADE, To Kalon Wine Co., Amici, Odette, and others to help hone his Cabernet Sauvignon skills after focusing primarily on Rhône varieties. It seems to have done the trick, as this Cabernet-based blend is stunning. Very lifted, with lavender, crushed cassis, blackberry, hints of green tobacco leaf, crushed-rock minerality, and sexy oak spice around the edges. A bold but beautifully polished wine. STUNNING value at this ludicrous price.” Ryan Woodhouse.  92-points Wine Enthusiast

My Review: Beautiful dense, dark color with a purple ring. Coats the glass when I swirl. Berry jam and black cherry on the nose. Tongue coating on the palate with juicy flavors finishing with cedar notes. A little earthy on the rich finish. We ordered some more. June 2026

2021 Caelesta Ara Red Blend, Templeton Gap District, Paso Robles, 14.8% ABV, $25 (#1795) 76% Tempranillo 24% Mourvèdre (sold out)

K&L Notes: “This is a gorgeous proprietary red blend grown at Caelesta Estate. The 2021 Ara combines Tempranillo with Mourvèdre, or Mataro as it would be known in Spain. The varieties work in perfect union with one another, delivering stunningly pure, rich fruit: macerated dark cherry, blackberry, woodsy spices, hints of leather, and dusty earth. Full-bodied and saturating on the palate, but with lots of dynamic energy and vibrancy, too. The rocky mineral core beams through the ripe fruit and lingers long on the palate. Drinking great now, but also a wine with clear potential to develop further complexity in the cellar, so don’t be afraid to buy a few to lay down for 5–8 years.” Ryan Woodhouse. 94 points – Wine Enthusiast.

My Review: Dark in the glass. Licorice and earth on the nose. Intense dark fruit with overtones of licorice and tannins, making this a chewy wine. Alcohol dominates the finish, making it slightly bitter. I’d like to retaste this wine in a few years, for sure! June 2026

THE TASTING ROOM

The Caelesta Vineyards Tasting Room is located at 2855 El Pomar Dr, Templeton, CA. You can reserve a wine – or truffle (!) – tasting here.

© Decanting Monterey 2026

*FOLLOW ME ON Instagram, Facebook, and CELLAR TRACKER: Central Coast Sharon

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