Category: Wine Blog/Reviews

You’ve come to the right tab to read my wine blog – my stories, experiences, research and reviews on Monterey County wines. I would love for you to share your comments and experiences with these wineries or wines! Let’s keep it positive, educational and fun!! Want to get my blog straight to your email? Simply enter your email in the box in the lower right of this page – then confirm it from your email! Your email will not be used for anything else – just my reviews.

Catching Up with Bernardus!

THE STORY

Anticipating a wine pickup, we took our large pup to his first wine tasting at the Bernardus Winery Tasting Room in Carmel Valley Village. He loved the faux grass on the edge of the tasting patio and was a pretty good boy while we tasted a few newer releases. However, my tasting notes were not up to my own standard. Some deserve a re-do on a future visit.

My last post about Bernardus is here: Happy Holidays with a Bernardus Post!

THE WINERY

I’ve written many times about founder Ben Pon’s vision to grow quality Bordeaux blends right here in Carmel Valley.  I am hopeful that Bernardus will not give up on that dream. Their Marinus Bordeaux-style blend has long been our favorite Bernardus wine. I understand the 2025 Marinus will be a field blend from the Marinus Vineyard.  After that?

THE WINES

Today I am presenting 2 Bernardus wines from this single tasting. Winery tasting notes come from their website or tasting sheets, unless otherwise indicated. You can read more about these wines on their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2024 Bernardus Sauvignon Blanc, Griva Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 12.7% ABV, $28 (#1681)

Winery Notes: “Our 2024 Signature Griva bottling has aromas of lime zest and lemon curd accented by notes of grassy minerality. The palate exhibits full flavors, hints of tropical fruit with meyer lemon, grapefruit, and a rich mouthfeel are supported by refreshing acidity. This year our Griva Sauvignon Blanc is 100% Sauvignon Blanc with no added Semillon. It was so expressive we decided to bottle it pure.”

My Review: Pale golden in the glass.  Sweet pineapple, grassy minerality and butter notes on the fragrant nose.  Full flavor on the palate of Meyer lemon, tart pineapple with grapefruit zest on the finish.  This is one of my favorite 2024 Monterey County sauvignon blancs. October 2025 and March 2026

2023 Bernardus Chardonnay, Soberanes Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 14.7% ABV, $55 (#1728)

Winery Notes: “Our 2023 Soberanes Chardonnay exhibits robust flavors and aromas, highlighted by rich toasted oak and caramel notes.  The palate is intense, with hints of lees and tropical fruits, kept in balance with a delicately crisp finish. Our Soberanes Chardonnay exemplifies the flavor and quality of this special grape growing region.”

My Review: Yellow in the glass. Buttery nose, followed by tasty flavors on the lively palate. Quintissential Monterey SLH chardonnay. March 2026

THE TASTING ROOM

“Experience the Luxury of Bernardus Winery”

“Established in 1994, Bernardus opened the doors to the first-ever tasting room in Carmel Valley. We are located about 15 miles east of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pebble Beach, and showcase some of the best wines in the region. Join us for a tasting on our patio, at our tasting bar, or in our newly renovated signature Pon room, perfect for private bookings.”

The Bernardus Tasting room, located at 5 West Carmel Valley Road, is open every day 11-5.

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

Yes, Folks, There’s a New Parsonage Rocco Syrah Out There!

THE STORY

Time for another Parsonage pickup and a tasting of a few new releases, including a brand new Rocco!

But a quick American Wine Society Monterey Chapter News Alert:  Parsonage has joined the AWS Welcome Here program! If you are an AWS member, simply show your membership card and you will get a discount! If you are not a member or a participating winery and would like to join, check out our home page for more information!

Image of logo stating AWS Members WELCOME americanwinesociety.org

My last post about Parsonage was here: Parsonage Loses Parklet and Redesigns Beautiful Interior! Let’s jump into these wines!

THE WINES:

Today I’m bringing you 3 of the new releases we tasted in March. Winery notes come from the tasting sheet or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2022 Parsonage Wild Card Red Wine, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $42 (#1725)

2022 Wild Card

Winery Notes: “Lots of lush red fruit with floral and herbal notes in the alluring nose of this six varietal blend. The medium-structured palate is loaded with red berries, cherries, and hints of mulberry and pomegranate.”  Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Grenache, Syrah

My Review: Pale purple in color with a clear rim. Deep jammy fruit in the nose with some rose petals and mocha notes. Jolly rancher on the palate. March 2026

2022 Parsonage The BDL Red Wine, Central Coast AVA, 15% ABV, $44 (#1726)

bottle label for the 2022 BDL
2022 The BDL

Winery Notes: “Our Bordeaux-style beauty. The bouquet leaps from the glass with dark fruit, anise and tobacco. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot harmonize in a satisfying melange of dark berries, cherries and plum with a medium-firm mouthfeel and finish.” 

My Review: Garnet in glass. Dark cherry and oak on the nose. Balanced palate with a tannic finish. Still young, but could age into a nice wine. I took one home. March 2026

2022 Parsonage Rocco Reserve Syrah, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $98 (#1727)

Image of 2022 Rocco label of a little blond boy and a dog looking at the vineyard.
2022 Rocco Reserve Syrah

Winery Notes: “The nose, the palate, they shout out I am a beautiful serious beast of a wine!! This vintage of Rocco is an unrestrained force of nature. Dark in berries, currants, cherries, and chocolate. Swirling in the background are savory spices and meaty umami wrapped in a muscular palate structure. The ’22 Rocco bellows from the mountaintops, “PAIR ME WITH A RIBEYE!!”

My Review: Beautiful garnet in the glass. Smooth, dark fruit on the nose. Mocha and a touch of funk on the nose and palate. This is year over year one of my favorite wines and I took one home. March 2026

THE TASTING ROOM

Visit Parsonage in their Carmel Valley Tasting Room located at19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley Village!

Their winter hours are: Wednesday – Friday: noon to 5pm, Saturday & Sunday: 11am to 5pm, Closed Monday & Tuesday Make a reservation on line or call 831-659-7322.

Check them out on Instagram here: @parsonagewinery.

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

2017 L’Aventure Optimus: Smooth, Rich, Delicious – a Quality Wine

THE STORY

At a recent Decanting Monterey Wine Pod tasting on our new front porch, we blind-tasted this lovely wine – the 2017 L’Aventure Optimus.

I’ve written about the Optimus several times, with the last one in 2023 here: Let’s Take Lunch to a New Level with L’Aventure.

THE WINERY

From the tech sheet:

“Stephan Asseo, owner and winemaker at L’Aventure Winery, began making wine in 1982. In that same year, Stephan established Domaine de Courteillac in Bordeaux. He and his family later purchased Chateau Fleur Cardinal and Chateau Robin in the Cotes de Castillion in Bordeaux. Over the next 15 years, Stephan developed into an artisan winemaker of fastidious craftsmanship and gained a “maverick” reputation. His true desire was to be more innovative than AOC law would allow. In 1996, this led him, his wife Beatrice and their 3 children, on a journey to pursue his ideal as a winemaker. In 1997, after one year of research, they fell in love with a unique terroir in the west side Paso Robles. And L’Aventure began in 1998!”

THE WINE

I have just one wine to present to you today from L’Aventure. Winery notes come from their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2017 L’Aventure OPTIMUS Red Blend, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles AVA, $ (#1724) 49% Syrah, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot

This is a picture of the bottle label acquired from the tech sheet.
Image from the Tech Sheet

Winery Notes: “Optimus is the perfect introduction to our lineup. Also known as our “crazy” Paso blend, Optimus is beautifully balanced with a lot of freshness. This wine is approachable young but can be enjoyed for up to a decade.” 94 points – Jeb Dunnuck

My Review: We blind tasted this wine.The rich dark red/purple color had me declare it was a new world wine. The nose was reminiscent of a Rhone wine. I thought it was from Napa based on the smooth, rich and tasty palate. I guessed it was a Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Absolutely delicious. February 2026

THE TASTING ROOM

Explore L’Aventure:

“Discover personalized tastings on the Westside of Paso Robles. Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. To ensure a dedicated experience for each party, reservations are required.”

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

New Brosseau Wine Studio Impresses AWS Monterey!

THE STORY

As soon as we heard about the Brosseau Wine Studio in Marina, our AWS Scouting Party went to check it out – and quickly arranged for the American Wine Society Monterey Chapter to visit. Bill Brosseau was happy to host our group to tell his family vineyard story – from spending his childhood weekends there to making it his own – and now his efforts to improve how others manage their vineyards and make wine.

Bill Brosseau stands behind the lineup of wines for the tasting
Bill Brosseau and his wines!

At this event, we tasted 7 of his wines plus appetizers provided by Pacific Coast Private Chefs! In addition, he offered us a special deal:  If we bought 5 bottles, we received a 6th one for free.  If we bought 9 bottles, we received 3 bottles for free! Over the top, man!

image of a beautiful veggie tray supplied by the caterer

This is my first post all about Brosseau wines. I previously reviewed in a few wines made from Brosseau grapes. These include I Brand’s La Marea Grenache and Folktale’s Le Mistral Syrah. You can find these by typing “Brosseau” in the Decanting Monterey search bar!

2 board members speaking before the group with 4 members in the picture
AWS hosts share event information with members and guests

THE WINERY

Bill gave us a little background on his wines.  They are made from organic grapes yet he still needs to make every process in his winery organic – down to the salt in the water softener – to get the USDA stamp of approval. His vineyard produced 46 tons of fruit this year. He considers his winemaking “more of an R&D lab.” He is currently playing with a sparking wine. He shared that wines are influenced by his mood. He considers his space at the wine studio as community. His wines are available in local restaurants and he only ships inside of California.

 You can read their whole story here: https://www.brosseauwines.com/About-Us/Our-Story.

tall cylinders filled with soils from the region, depicting the variances in soil by color, content and texture
Vineyard soil samples from the region

Moreover, we learned about the motivation for his wine studio “to unite iconic vineyard sites from our special wine region, with people who are passionate about attention to detail in farming and winemaking. The Studio offers an exploratory wine experience and more. A place to nurture and encourage personal connections and artistry in wine and beyond.”

THE WINES

Today I am presenting 7 Brosseau wines.Winery notes come from their website or the tasting sheet. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 Brosseau Chenin Blanc, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 13.8% ABV, $30 (#1717)

image of the Chenin Blanc bottle

My Review: Light golden in the glass with buttery aromatics. Delicious palate with just the tiniest bit of lime zest on the finish. My favorite wine of the tasting. March 2026

2018 Brosseau Old Vines Chardonnay, Chalone AVA Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $50 (#1718)

image of the Chardonnay bottle

My Review: Golden in color. Musty caramel on the nose. A full-bodied palate with a slightly acidic finish. March 2026

2023 Brosseau Grenache Rosé, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $20 (#1719)

image of the Grenache Rose bottle

My Review: Barely a hint of pink in the glass – I mean barely!  Honeysuckle on the nose and a balanced palate. March 2026

2018 Brosseau Old Vines Pinot Noir, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $40 (#1720)

image of the Pinot Noir bottle

Winery Notes: “Deep red hue. Aromas of cherry, sage, boysenberry, pomegranate, and wild thyme leap readily out of the glass. With some air, notes of roasted strawberry and jasmine complete the aromatic experience. The flavor profile segues nicely from aromas and is met with minerality. Fine tannins, modest acidity, and dense concentration make this a full sensory experience. This wine finishes with intricacy and a playful youthfulness. Enjoy now through 2032.”

My Review: Garnet in the glass. Rich nose of dark fruit and cherry. Some tobacco on the slightly tannic finish. This is a delicious Pinot Noir. March 2026

2023 Brosseau Grenache, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $40 (#1721)

image of the grenache bottle

My Review: After that delicious Pinot Noir, this wine came off a little sharp on the palate for me. Worthy of a retaste! March 2026

2019 Brosseau Cuvée Kilene Syrah, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $50 (#1722)

image of the syrah bottle

My Review: Beautiful deep garnet in color.  While I did not detect anything distinct on the nose, the palate was rich, balanced and tasty. I took one home! March 2026

2019 Brosseau Cabernet Sauvignon, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 14.4% ABV, $50 (#1723)

image of the cabernet sauvignon bottle

My Review: This wine did not follow that big Syrah very well.  As it was one of the most popular wines of the night, it deserves a retaste! That’s on me! March 2026

THE TASTING ROOM

Integrating Nature, Society, Science, and the Arts

“Brosseau Wine Studio was born out of Bill’s intrinsic motivation to unite iconic vineyard sites from our special wine region, with people who are passionate about attention to detail in farming and winemaking. The Studio offers an exploratory wine experience and more. A place to nurture and encourage personal connections and artistry in wine and beyond.

image of 8 of the barrels in the wine studio

“We are located less than 1 mile from the Pacific Ocean in the cool and foggy town of Marina, CA. To reserve a tasting experience with the Brosseaus, please click the link below. We look forward to visiting with you and sharing a personalized, immersive, and unforgettable experience.”

Read more and book your experience here: VISIT US AT BROSSEAU WINE STUDIO.

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

Carol Shelton’s Barbera d’Oakley Brings a Little Bit of Italy!

THE STORY

I don’t have many Carol Shelton wines left, but we enjoyed this one in December. The vineyard story alone makes it an interesting one – which I found on Carol Shelton’s website:

“The 130-year-old Planchon Vineyard in Oakley is the source of this interesting “Italian blend” of Barbera with its companion vines of Zinfandel and Merlot. The Barbera rows are a veritable jungle of vegetation on the perimeter of the ancient Zin vines; they thrive on their own roots in this sandy soil because the phylloxera bug that kills vines from the roots up is adverse to the grit of the sand under its shell. The blend is similar in many ways to a “SuperPiedmont,” where Bordeaux varieties (here we used Merlot) add structure and elegance to the straightforward black cherry and blackberry fruit of the Barbera grape, and the Zin and Carignane chime in with their own bright raspberry and spice notes.”

We met Carol Shelton, the Queen of Zin, many years ago at a Zinfandel Advocates and Producers event in Washington DC and have been fans ever since.

THE WINERY

From her website: “Carol Shelton has been Mastering the Zen of Zin since 1978. Focusing mostly on her favorite varietal, Carol is a guru of single vineyard Zinfandel. California has been the home world class Zin for over a century, making it the benchmark varietal of American wine culture. Carol & Mitch Mackenzie, her husband and business partner, have sought out exceptional vineyards throughout California including Dry Creek Valley, Rockpile, Russian River Valley, Mendocino, and the Cucamonga Valley of Southern California. Many of her vineyard sources are organically grown and decades old. She develops close partnerships with each grower to ensure her wines maintain and express the unique terroir of the vineyard.”

THE WINE

Today I’m presenting just this 1 wine from Carol Shelton. Winery notes come from their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2021 Carol Shelton Barbera d’Oakley, Planchon Vineyard, Contra Costa AVA, 13.8% ABV, $30 (#1716)

Winery Notes: “Vibrant nose of tart black cherry and blackberry, with a kiss of green herbs and earth, black peppery spice and vanilla oak. Mouth shows some nice tart cherry and pomegranate, and mouthfeel is silky smooth, almost dangerous in how easy it is to drink. This wine would be delicious with tomato-sauced pastas, harder cheeses, and grilled things, especially portabello mushroom caps! Buon appétito!”

My Review: Garnet in color. A warm, mellow nose of red raspberry, plum, bubblegum, spice and a hint of red cherry. The palate is bursting with red, tart cherry and cranberry juiciness.  This wine will wake you up! December 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Carol Shelton has a relatively new tasting room in Santa Rosa, open for tastings 7 days a week from 11 – 4.  Reserve tasting fee is $20 per person each tasting fee may be waived with purchase of one bottle. You can read more on their website!

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

2021 Stolpman Originals Syrah Delivers Quality at a Value Price!

THE STORY

I can’t say I was surprised to find another Stolpman Vineyards Originals Syrah in our wine room, but what I was surprised by was the flavor of this nicely rated, well-priced 2021 vintage!  K&L Wine Merchants steered us right once again with the value and quality of this wine.  My last writeup of a Stolpman wine was here: Santa Barbara County Syrah: Getting One Rhône Varietal Right!!  

THE VINEYARD

From the Stolpman Vineyards website:

“Oldest Syrah Vines in Ballard Canyon AVA

“The Originals Syrah vines are not only our “Original” planting, but they are the oldest vines in Ballard Canyon AVA.  The wine made from these vines in the mid 1990’s generated the Syrah-planting fervor which eventually led to the publication of Ballard Canyon AVA.  Because we withhold irrigation for months on end during our arid growing season, these vines have rooted deeply into our limestone in search of moisture.  They yield small crops of tiny, concentrated grapes.”

THE WINE

Today I’m bringing you just this one wine. Winery notes come from their website, unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2021 Stolpman Vineyards Originals Syrah, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, 14% ABV, $30 (#1715)

Winemaker’s Notes: “A spectrum of red, blue, and black fruit pack into an opaque, luxuriously sleek mid-palate before crunchy, youthful tannin. The big, rich, coating body beckons for the savory, dry finish.  One of the densest Originals vintage in the fourteen year history of the cuvee.  The hedonistic waves begin to envelope the pronounced tannin within minutes of breathing, giving a glimmer forward to maybe 2026 when this wine will hit its next level and fall into a beautiful 10 year stride thereafter.” 94 points – Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate and Wine Enthusiast

My Review: Translucent dark garnet in the glass. Menthol and earth on the nose. Earthy palate of dark fruits and cotton candy.  We tasted this wine a couple of times in the Fall of 2025. 

THE TASTING ROOM

Stolpman Vineyards Tasting Room is located at 2434 ALAMO PINTADO AVE, LOS OLIVOS. Reservations are recommended.

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

TURLEY PESENTI PETITE SYRAH: INTENSELY DELICIOUS!

THE STORY

Turley is widely known for its zinfandels, but have you ever had one of its petite sirahs? When I have to make purchasing decisions without the privilege of a tasting, we have a method: value (we always get an Old Vines and a Juvenile), history (some vineyards we just love year over year) and ratings (if a well-respected wine critic gives it a high score). But there is one thing: We always order their petite sirahs.

We recently opened this 2021 Turley Pesenti Vineyard Petite Syrah and found it absolutely scrumptious.

You can read my last post about Turley here: TURLEY ROLLS OUT THE 2023 FALL RELEASE WITH A PARTY!You can read more about the winery in that article or on their website.

THE WINE

I have just this one wine to present to you today from Turley. Winery notes come from their website, unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2021 Turley Petite Syrah, Pesenti Vineyard, Paso Robles AVA, 15.7% ABV, $44 (member price) (#1714)

Winery Notes: “This estate-owned and certified organic vineyard was planted by the Turley team using cuttings from the legendary Hayne vineyard. Head-trained, dry-farmed and planted in limestone, the wines are dark, smooth, dense and classic Petite Syrah.  As the vines age the wines are increasingly expressive of the Pesenti Vineyard with minerality, savory spices and high tone pepper.

“Certified organic, dry-farmed estate vines descended from Hayne budwood. Captivatingly expressive from start to finish with blackberry preserves, black cherry, plum, graphite, and luscious, effortlessly smooth tannin. Unlike most Petites, this wine is rewardingly ready to drink now.”

My Review: Dense, inky purple in the glass.  Plum, mocha, vanilla and eucalyptus on the nose. Rich palate of blackberry, blueberry and leather. December 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Want to try a Turley? Let’s head on down to Paso Robles!

Paso Robles Tasting Room: “A few miles inland of California’s storied Central Coast, Paso Robles is a pioneer’s paradise, where surfers, cowboys, vintners, farmers, and ranchers commingle amidst ancient vines, towering oak trees, and rolling hills.”

It is open daily 10 am – 4 pm. If you make it there, tell them Decanting Monterey sent you!

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

A Rare Opportunity to Experience Durney Cabernet Sauvignon!

THE STORY

Stopping in at Chesebro last fall, my server Nic had some wines for me to blind taste. I love to do a blind tasting, as you can approach a wine with no preconceived idea of the varietal, the region, the producer or the vintage. For some reason, I said it looked like a Cabernet Sauvignon and that it smelled quite old. I was detecting tire rubber (now, that’s a new one!) and dark berries on the nose, followed by a deeply delicious, smooth palate. I fell out of my chair when I saw it was a 1988 Durney Cabernet Sauvignon! And then he had an even older one to share with me. What an unexpected privilege! Thanks, Nic!

I’ve written about Durney before as, to me, it represents the legacy of early Carmel Valley winemaking at its finest.  My last post with major discussion of Durney was here:Massa Estate – the Legacy of the Durney Vineyards Continue!

According to the Historic Vineyard Society, Durney was the first vineyard planted in Carmel Valley ad their wines were served in the Reagan White House during the Reagan Administration! With some of the most precious Cabernet Sauvignon vines in all of Monterey County, they made some of the best local wine. 

We used to visit their tasting room in Carmel Valley Village, but I don’t think we grasped the significance of their vineyard – until after they were gone. We even had some half bottles of their precious Cabernet Sauvignon in our collection.  I think if we had known or understood then what we know now, we would have collected more of their wine.

I’m not the only one to have tasted this wine.  You can read another review including a rich history of Durney here: Grapelive: Wine of the Day November 26, 2025.

THE WINES

Today, I am presenting the 2 Durney wines I tasted that day.  Any errors are mine and mine alone.

1988 Durney Cabernet Sauvignon, Durney Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV (#1712)

Grapelive: “A brilliant bottle that has aged much better than expected from a less than perfect vintage, this dark garnet 1988 Durney Vineyards Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon shows off a deep and complex medium/full palate of earthy mulberry, dried currant, dark berry and baked cherry fruits, along with spicy cedar, loamy notes, sage, potpourri and pipe tobacco. Fresher and more elegant than I would have hoped, this was a lovely Bordeaux like experience.” 

My Review: I tasted this blind. In my opinion, it looked like a Cabernet Sauvignon in the glass. It smelled much older than it looked – I got tire rubber and dark berries on the nose, a strange mix. The palate was a sharp contrast to the off-putting nose. It was excellent in flavor, with a nice, smooth palate. This is a worthy wine – if you can find it anywhere. November 2025

1983 Durney Cabernet Sauvignon, Durney Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13% ABV (#1713)

My Review: Very port-ish fruit. Vanilla, whiskey, and smoked meat on the nose.  All following over to the palate. November 2025

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

AWS Monterey Celebrates an Early Valentines Day at Lepe Cellars’ New Location!

THE STORY

When we heard that  Lepe Cellars had moved to a great new spot in Carmel Valley, we leapt at the chance to take the American Wine Society Monterey Chapter there for one of our 2026 tastings. We recalled fondly how Miguel Lepe and his tasting room manager Thyra Roth hosted us for our holiday party a couple of years’ back.

In February, we held an early Valentine’s celebration at their new venue.  Members brought food (delicious) to pair with the wines.  Upon arrival, we heard that Lepe Cellars was raffling off a magnum of Petit Verdot for us – what an extra treat on top of their industry discount they afforded our group! With 32 members and guests in the room, Thyra kept things hopping while Miguel talked to us about making single varietal, single vineyard wines to showcase our Monterey vineyards.  It was a fabulous event.

A picture of appetizers amid valentine's day decor - big red hearts and napkins
This was an early photo – members brought so many delicious appetizers to share!

I last presented Lepe Cellars here: Lepe Cellars Hosts a Jingle-Mingle!

THE WINES

I have 7 Lepe Cellars wines to present to you today, from that evening’s event plus a scouting trip last November. Winery notes come from their website or tasting sheet unless otherwise noted. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

3 members sitting around a table with employ plates enjoying the event
Members enjoying our social event.

2023 Lepe Cellars Barrel Select Pinot Noir, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV, $75 (#1705)

Bottle label for the 2022 Barrel Select Pinot Noir with a banner across the middle indicating it is a 10 year celebration

Winery Notes: “Expressive and lush this wine opens with notes of red cherry and raspberry jam interwoven with notes of rose petals and clove. On the palate are notes of wild strawberry, dried herbs leading to a lingering vanilla finish.”

A member and 2 guests enjoying the event
We love it when new guests check us out!

My Review: Pale translucent ruby in the glass. Spicy nose of cinnamon and light cherry. Cherry and woody cinnamon stick on the palate. November 2025

2022 Lepe Cellars Grenache, Zabala Vineyards, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV, $45 (#1706)

bottle label of the 2022 Grenache

Winery Notes: “Opens with notes of plum and dried cherries and a trace of wet stones. The palate unfolds with notes of fresh strawberry, savory soy and a hint of dried thyme.”

93 Points – Editors’ Choice Wine Enthusiast: “The mineral side of Grenache is rarely explored, but this bottling from a very rocky appellation puts the earth on center stage. Aromas of crushed riverstone meet with cherry and light baking spice on the nose. The palate’s strawberry and caramel flavors ride that stony edge into the finish.” — Matt Kettmann

2 members in matching burgundy shirts smiling, enjoying the event
Enjoying good wines and a good time!

My Review:  A pretty, medium ruby in the glass. A mellow, darker cherry nose. Nice smooth palate with dark fruit flavors and a lingering finish. I think this is one of the best Grenache wines made on the Central Coast.  November 2025

2023 Lepe Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Merit Vineyard, San Antonio Valley, Monterey County, 13.8% ABV, $65 (#1707)

bottle label for the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon

Winery Notes: “Blackberry, black currant, vanilla.”

Picture of the couple who won the magnum of wine from the raffle with other guests in the background.
Lucky Winners of the Raffle!

My Review:  Medium, opaque garnet in the glass. A lot of smooth fruit with cherry notes. February 2026

2023 Lepe Cellars Cabernet Franc, Tre Gatti Vineyards, San Antonio Valley, Monterey County, 13.5% ABV, $55 (#1708)

bottle label for the 2023 Cabernet Franc

Winery Notes: “This wine opens with inviting aromas of dark fruit, including black cherry and ripe blackberry, accented by a hint of crushed stone. On the palate, it reveals layers of raspberry and red plum, leading into a lingering savory finish with notes of black pepper and dried herbs.”

A member and his guest enjoying the event
A warm welcome to a new guest!

My Review: Cloudy in the glass. Cherry, red currant on the very smooth palate, with a spicy finish. While a lighter style, it is quite tasty. I took one home. November 2025

2022 Lepe Cellars Anniversary Red Blend, Monterey County, 14.5% ABV, $75 (#1709)

2022 Anniversary blend label - has a banner indicating it is 10 year celebration

Winery Notes: “Deep and velvety this red blend is bursting with notes of black berry jam, black currant and a touch of violet. The palate is juicy with notes of cranberry and plum and finish with rich notes of brown sugar and baking spice. 42% Petit Verdot (Merit Vineyard) 34% Cabernet Sauvignon (Merit Vineyard) 20% Cabernet Franc (Tre Gatti Vineyard) 4% Syrah (Zabala Vineyard).”

Miguel Lepe is pouring wine for our members with Thyra standing in the background
Miguel and Tira enjoying our evening!

My Review:  Medium garnet in color. Pepper, vanilla, and port notes on the nose. Big palate with balanced acidity and tannin. I like this wine. November 2025

2022 Lepe Cellars Syrah, Zabala Vineyards, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 13.8% ABV, $55 (#1710)

Picture of bottle label for the 2022 Syrah

Winery Notes: “Blueberry, dark chocolate, dried herbs.”

My Review:  Garnet in color. A mellow blueberry on the nose. Nice palate with blueberry, blackberry and spice on the rich palate. This was tasted in November and not at this event. November 2025

2023 Lepe Cellars Petit Verdot, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $55 (#1711)

Picture of bottle label for the 2023 Petit Verdot

Winery Notes: “Plum, boysenberry, chocolate.”

My Review:  Garnet in the glass. Sweet plum and port on the nose with a bright cherry palate. November 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

The Lepe Cellars tasting room is located at 19 E Carmel Valley Rd. Carmel Valley, CA and is open during these hours: Friday – Saturday 12pm – 6pm, Sunday – Monday 12pm – 5pm, Tuesday – Thursday by appointment only.

2 men standing beside the AWS Monterey Chapter banner outside of Lepe Cellars
Our AWS Monterey Chapter Banner!

© Decanting Monterey 2026

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

Boëté Releases its Irresistible 2019 Cheval Rouge!

THE STORY

With an out-of-town friend in tow, we stopped into The Barrel Room in Carmel Valley Village to taste Boëté wines and pick up our allocation. The guys loved the setting – there was a tv screen to view the football game no matter where you sat! And we were served by both Dillon and Jana Saunders over the course of our tasting.  Always great to see them! According to my records, the only new wine was the 2019 Boëté Cheval Rouge.  I remember when the 2018 came out during the pandemic and I participated in their hearts painting activity over a Zoom call. How far we have come since those times.

The Boëté Cheval Rouge is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and, in this particular vintage, only a touch of Merlot.  This wine has an irresistible, dark yet sweet jamminess and as my favorite of the day. We served the 2018 vintage to friends in January and it has matured in the bottle to a point of extreme deliciousness.

I last wrote about Boëté Winery here: 2018 Boëté Cabernet Franc Revisit: Scrumptiousness in a Glass.

THE WINES

Today I am presenting the five wines we tasted in December, including the newly released 2019 Cheval Rouge. The rest of these have been presented before – over the lifetime of Decanting Monterey – but all have new, updated tasting notes. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2021 Boëté Reserve Merlot, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $50 (#1560)

My Review: Garnet in color.  Plum, black currant, and eucalyptus on the nose. Medium weight on the palate with a tart cranberry, red currant finish. December 2025

2019 Boëté Reserve Cabernet Franc, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $54 (#1489)

My Review: Dark garnet in color. Eucalyptus, dark fruit, alcohol and some spice on the nose. Very dark berries and eucalyptus notes on the palate. One of the very best Cabernet Francs from Monterey County. December 2025

2021 Boëté Cheval Rouge, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $50 (#1704)

My Review: Very dark in the glass. Black plum, BBQ sauce, and stems on the nose. Sweet jamminess like raspberry jam on toast on the smooth palate. This was my favorite wine of the day. December 2025

2018 Boëté Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $52 (#1490)

My Review: Prune, bacon and hints of smoke on the nose. Medium palate with tasty cherry flavors and mild acidity on the finish. December 2025 (2019 has been released since I wrote this)

2017 Boëté Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Saunders Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $80 (#339)

My Review: Dark plum, blueberry and cedar on the nose. Prune, blackberry, and blueberry with balanced acidity. Drinking well. December 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

You can taste and purchase Boëté wines at The Barrel Room every day (closed Wednesdays), 12-5 p.m. 5 Del Fino Place, Carmel Valley Village. 

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

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