Tagged: Arroyo Seco AVA

Manzoni Vineyards: In the “Heart of the Highlands”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parsonage: Big Reds Break Coastal Chill!

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

2017 Parsonage Grenache-Syrah, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $36 (#386*) 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah

Grenache-Syrah photo courtesy of Parsonage.

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

2018 Parsonage Hawk Reserve Pinot Noir, Carmel Valley, 15% ABV, $80 (#390*)

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 here for 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.    

Seabold: BOLD-ly Creating Coastal Wines

Now that things are opening up, it is time to go exploring – discover some newer wineries I haven’t tried before.  On a chilly Memorial Day Sunday on the coast, I went for warmth and wine, finding both in Carmel Valley Village.  

Back when I first started Decanting Monterey, I had driven out to the valley to take pictures and noted a new tasting room.  I had never heard of Seabold and put it on my list to come back and try.  One pandemic later, it was time!  Seabold’s location makes it a visible stop for wine connoisseurs and tourists alike. I received first class treatment from Katianna. She brought me the wines individually so I could learn about each one. The quotes below come from the Seabold web page or from their tasting sheet.  

About Seabold:  “Seabold Cellars was established in the Monterey Bay region because we believe that cool-climate organic and sustainable vineyards produce balanced wines that showcase their origin more than their winemaking. During the year, more time is spent in vineyards than the winery. Our winemaking is as hands-off as possible, respecting traditional techniques and practices without being beholden to them. We produce non-interventionist, site-specific Burgundy and Rhône varieties, as seen through a California lens.” They source their grapes from throughout the Central Coast – from Prunedale to Paso Robles and make their wines in nearby Marina!

“Seabold Cellars focuses on vineyards in the Monterey Bay area. This region has immense potential owing to geographic, geological, and climatic factors. Less than 100 yards offshore, the Blue Grand Canyon – at 60 miles long and 2 miles deep – is one of the world’s largest and deepest marine trenches. Its 300 cubic miles of frigid waters fuel the cold Salinas wind that moderates temperatures throughout all of Monterey County. As the wind funnels through the Gabilan and Santa Lucia Ranges, it creates a Thermal Rainbow – a large scale temperature gradation drawn through the length of the Salinas Valley.” 

I will be presenting Seabold’s wines in 2 separate posts: Seabold Cellars and BOLD Wine Co. Seabold Cellars wines are single vineyard and BOLD are wines Chris Miller, the proprietor and winemaker, gets to experiment and have fun with. Today’s post is about Seabold Cellars’ wines!

2018 Seabold Cellars Pinot Blanc, Rodnick Farm, Chalone AVA, 13.1% ABV, $45 (#372*) 

Winery notes: “Established in the 1970s, this was the personal home and vineyard for legendary pioneer Dick Graff during his winemaking tenure at Chalone…Blanched almond, dried lemon peel, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano. A broad, rich, glycerol mouthfeel with surprisingly fresh acidity.”

WINE ENTHUSIAST – 93 points, Editor’s Choice: “It’s always a joy to taste the old vines of Chalone, and this bottling captures their unique qualities, starting with aromas of apple syrup, hazelnut and toasted pecan. The palate offers almond, Meyer lemon and a creamy oak flavor that lingers on the tongue for a long time—all very unique elements.” MATT KETTMANN https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/seabold-cellars-2018-rodnick-farm-old-vines-pinot-blanc-chalone/ 

My Review: Golden in the glass. A little musty parmesan and bitter citrus rind on the nose.  Round, bold flavors on the palate with lemon/citrus peel.  Very flavorful, powerful on the palate, with a lingering finish.  I would have guessed a higher % ABV for the flavor.  This was my favorite, most notable, of the wines I tasted today. May 2021

2019 Seabold Cellars Grenache Blanc, Mission Ranch, Arroyo Seco AVA, 13.7% ABV, $40 (#373*)

Vineyard notes: “Steve McIntyre – one of the most knowledgeable and experienced winegrowers in California – farms this plot of land. Increasingly we find ourselves impressed with the quality of aromatic white varieties from Arroyo Seco, and this site has shown immense promise very early on for us…”

Tasting Sheet notes: “Juicy guava, agave nectar, papaya, persimmon, white pepper”

My Review: Straw in the glass with a faint nose of tropical fruits.  Delicious tropical fruits carrying through the palate.  Smooth, refreshing and light – perfect for a hot, sunny day in Carmel Valley! May 2021

Seabold’s tasting room proudly displays the rocks that distinguish our Central Coast vineyards.

2018 Seabold Cellars Chardonnay, Olson Vineyard, Prunedale, Monterey AVA, 13.1% ABV, $40 (#374*)

Vineyard Notes: “The Olsons have been the owners and caretakers since 1882, and have always farmed the entire property organically. The vineyard, dramatically towering above Highway 101, is composed of weathered sandstone with some clay atop iron pan subsoils. One of the coldest vineyards in all of California, it is only 5 unobstructed miles from the Monterey Bay’s icy waters.”

Tasting Sheet Notes: “Cured lemon peels, sea spray, clover honey, tart nectarines, fresh apricot, “crunchy” acid profile, fresh heavy cream.”  Fermented in stainless steel and aged in neutral oak.

My Review: Bouquet of earth and grass.  Bright acidity on the palate – brimming with citrus flavors of lemon lime.  I learned they like to make their wines on the acidic side – this one is a bit too acidic for me! May 2021

2017 Seabold Cellars Pinot Noir, Pelio Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, 13.3% ABV, $45  (#375*)

Vineyard Notes: “Pelio is located in a wind-beaten, high-elevation, undulating series of hills 8 miles from the coast. The vineyard sits mid-slope, facing the Pacific Ocean, with an average elevation of 1000’. The temperature rarely rises above the 70s, with very cold diurnal shifts…” Located off the Laureles grade, they only grow Chardonnay & Pinot Noir. 

Winery Tasting Notes: “Fresh pomegranate, cranberry, pluot, green tea, grey salt, black raspberry, rose, lavender, white mushroom, roasted thyme, nutmeg.”

My Review: Beautiful ruby in the glass.  Lovely bouquet of berry jam and black tea. Round, jammy fruit with notes of cranberry layered with blackberry and tea.  I liked this wine. May 2021

The Seabold tasting room is prominently located at the beginning of Pilot Road in Carmel Valley Village

You can buy Seabold wines online or at their tasting room, 3 Pilot Road in Carmel Valley Village.  They are open Thursday-Sunday, 12-5 p.m. and by appointment (831-288-2730).

*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.    

Chesebro Round Two: The Reds!

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!

Chesebro 2018 Pinot Noir, Cedar Lane/Mission Ranch Vineyards, Arroyo Seco AVA, 13.2% ABV, $22 (#365*)

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.    

Chesebro Is Open for Wine Tasting – Round One: the Whites!

We were so happy to learn that the Chesebro tasting room in Carmel Valley Village had reopened and stopped by on a quiet Friday before a 3-day weekend.  I admire the wineries that put their own staff’s safety and winemaking first and discouraged gatherings during the height of the pandemic to help stop the spread of the virus.  But I sure am glad they are open now! It was great to see tasting room manager Alex Lallos after well over a year.  He has been helpful to me over the years with my wine classes and is one of several winery subscribers to Decanting Monterey!

We tasted a lot of wines that day across three tasting rooms – and there was a lot of catching up to do – so not all of my own notes are very detailed.  Fortunately, I do have the winery’s tasting sheet to help me along!  Most wine descriptions come from the tasting sheet – except the Grenache Rose!  I will be splitting our tasting into 2 posts – the whites today and the reds, next week!

Current Tasting Sheet at Chesebro, May 2021

I’ve written about Chesebro several times – just search “Chesebro” and you will find them all!

Chesebro 2019 Grenache Rosé, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, 13.2% ABV, $19 (#360*)

Winery Notes: “This Provençal style 100% Grenache Rosé is beautifully light pink in color. Aromas of fresh picked strawberry, grapefruit skin and raspberry essence. Perfect for a warm afternoon. Classic!”

My Review: Very pale pink/salmon in the glass.  Light and refreshing in a similar style to the 2018, which our French Rosé wine pod members loved. By the way, this wine is getting in short supply according to their webpage.  May 2021

Chesebro 2019 Vermentino, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $23 (#361*)

Winery Notes: “Vermentino is a variety most often associated with Sardinia. Corsica and Liguria.  It has appealing aromas of pines and citrus and a smooth palate balanced by mouthwatering acidity.  It is late ripening in this cool site allowing the development of complex and elegant flavors.  Refreshing and vibrant.” 98 cases produced.

My Review: Perfume on the nose, a touch of lime on the palate and a smooth finish.  Classic.  Chesebro was the first California Vermentino we had ever tasted and probably my favorite Chesebro white. May 2021

Chesebro 2017 Grenache Blanc, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, $25 (#362*)

Winery Notes: “Brilliant light almost translucent gold in color with a kaleidoscope of aromas including white peach, grapefruit, citrus blossom and tangerine. A subtle hint of vanilla and butterscotch really round out the nose. On the palate, citrus and stone fruits.  Round yet refreshing through the finish.” 100 cases produced.

My Review: Sweet aromatics, white peach and citrus on the palate, slightly metallic, and a lingering finish. May 2021

Chesebro 2016 Chardonnay, Soledad Mission Ranch, Arroyo Seco AVA, $25 (#363*)

Winery Notes: “Pale yellow gold in color.  Fabulous aromatics with white flowers, lemon verbena and ever so subtle vanilla bean.  The palate is fresh and vibrant, almost Chablis-like in its cut and precision.  Each sip has amazing energy and tension balanced by the inherent richness of the clean Chardonnay fruit.” 80 cases produced.

My Review: I said pork rib BBQ on the nose.  Alex suggested “gun flint.”  Well, ok, fine.  Intense flavors on the palate. 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. 

Chesebro price list as of May 2021

*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.    

Bernardus: A Perfect Solo Tasting of the 2021 Spring Release

In normal times, the Bernardus tasting room is filled with members and visitors.  During the pandemic, Bernardus has taken a very conservative approach to focus on winemaking while limiting even outdoor tastings – I respect that!  When asked by Heather, the tasting room manager, if I would like to do a tasting when I picked up my wine shipment in early March, I jumped at the opportunity!  Little did I know how solo it would be – I was the only person on their lovely patio!  I felt very safe, as well as catered to! I am presenting six Bernardus wines for today’s blog.

The expansive Bernardus patio is perfect for outdoor tastings!

2019 Bernardus Signature Griva Sauvignon Blanc, Arroyo Seco AVA, $25 (#285*)

Winery Notes: “Our 2019 Signature Griva bottling has aromas of grapefruit accented by mineral nuances. The beautifully rich palate exhibits bright tropical fruit flavors with notes of lime and grapefruit zest. The 2019 version is beautifully rich, yet perfectly balanced with a gently crisp, refreshing acidity.”

My Review: Pale straw in the glass.  Pineapple on the nose, nice crisp acidity on the palate with pineapple notes. I’m a fan of Griva Sauvignon Blanc, so this was a real treat. March 2021

2018 Bernardus Chardonnay Soberanes Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, $50 (#286*)

Winery Notes – 93 Points by Wine Enthusiast and Vinous: “Our 2018 Soberanes Chard exhibits aromas of ripe tropical fruits and baking spice. The palate exhibits its hallmark richness and intensity along with ripe peach flavors and toasty oak notes, which linger on its long, well textured finish.”

My Review: Golden yellow in color, grassy/buttery on the nose with caramel, gardenia, butter and alcohol on the palate. March 2021

2016 Bernardus Pinot Noir Soberanes Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, $70 (#287*)

Winery Notes:  “The 2016 Soberanes displays a beautiful ruby robe and vibrant red fruit aromas. The palate exhibits crisp flavors of ripe red cherry and raspberry with a long finish, promising an excellent future ahead.”

My Review: Ruby in the glass,  Red currant and light cherry on the nose.  Earth and cherry notes on the palate – cellar this wine! March 2021

2017 Bernardus Pinot Noir Rosella Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, $80 (#288*)

Winery Notes – GOLD – San Francisco Wine Competition:  “The aromas beautifully express the intense red fruits so typical of the finest Pinot vineyards of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Flavors are very intense with succulent ripe red cherries and cranberries, along with subtle notes of French oak. Our 2017 iteration is a superb expression of this unique vineyard.”

My Review: Ruby in color with a nice, cherry nose.  Bigger palate of cherry/berry flavors with delicious dark and red fruit on the finish. March 2021

First class service at my solo tasting!

2017 Bernardus Cabernet Sauvignon, Marinus Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, $50 (#289*) 

Winery Notes: “Our 2017 Cabernet exudes spicy aromas of red berry and cranberry. The palate beautifully reflects the aromas showing juicy red fruit flavors with a subtle, refreshing acidity. Our Cabernet has been aged for six months in 28-year-old neutral French oak tanks in order to allow the fruit flavors of these grapes to shine through without any oak barrel influence.”

My Review: Dense, dark ruby like the 2014 Marinus.  Cherry notes on the nose.  Smooth on the palate – slightly vegetal on the finish.  Very drinkable now, but recommend cellaring. March 2021

2014 Bernardus Marinus, Carmel Valley AVA, 14.3% ABV, $75 (#290)

I will be presenting this wine in a future, live WWCS class!!

Winery Notes – 93 Points by Vinous: “The robe of our 2014 Marinus is very deeply-colored. The aromas exude beautifully ripened red fruits accented by subtle spice notes. The mouthfeel is very soft and full expressing delicious flavors of ripe cherry and plum. The finish is well structured with soft tannins promising a long life for this superb bottle, similar to a fine Bordeaux.”

My Review: Beautiful dense, dark ruby in the glass.  Intense fruit on the nose.  Smooth palate full of dark berry fruits, a bit chalky yet fresh. Drinking so well with lots of future for cellaring.  I could just keep drinking this wine. March 2021

The Bernardus Tasting Room will undergo a remodeling – This last reminder that this building was originally a bank is set to go.

The tasting room is closed until May 1, while the staff focuses on winemaking.  You can order wines on line and pick them up at the tasting room. Check here for more information. 

*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.    

Le P’tit Paysan: New Releases Continue to Impress!

This is my second of three planned posts on my Spring Release 2021 I Brand wines, with this post focusing on the Le P’tit Paysan label. 

But, before we get to them, let’s start with a 2017 P’tit Paysan Viognier (as they say, “vee-oh-NYAY”) which I presented in a recent wine class.  Having lived near the Virginia wine region, where Viognier is plentiful, I have been impressed over the years with Le P’tit Paysan Viogniers.  In my wine class, we were each asked to present a Viognier from anywhere.  In our class we learned about wines from Argentina, France, California, Maryland, Virginia and Washington State! 

In addition to the 2017 Viognier, I am highlighting 3 Le P’tit Paysan wines from the I Brand Spring 2021 Club Release, which I sampled at their tasting room in Carmel Valley Village. 

Colorfully-labeled Le P’tit Paysan wines sampled in early March at the I Brand Tasting Room in Carmel Valley Village

About Le P’tit Paysan (I Brand’s French country-imspired brand from the label: “Le P’tit Paysan – a country man or woman; peasant; clown; in country fashion. We select grapes from vineyards off the beaten path to produce wines that express the soil, climate and character of their source.”

2017 Le P’tit Paysan Viognier “L’Apiculteur”, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Montery County, 13.4% ABV, $22 (#276*)

“L’Apitculteur” from the P’tit Paysan 2017 Viognier Tech Sheet

Winemaker’s Tasting Notes: ““L’Apitculteur” translates, “keeper of the bees”.  Vibrant aromatics fill the nose with white floral qualities.  Honeyed stone-fruits fill the mouth, apricots, peaches and pears.  Cooler growing climate produces white floral components, and soft minerality.  Med-full bodied weight on the palate, supports a perception of sweetness, due to clean fruit and honeyed characteristics.”

My Review: Straw yellow in color.  Yummy boquet of sweet peach, grapefruit and gardenia.  Crisp on the palate, delicious, not sweet, with a slight citrus bitterness and perhaps some lavender on the palate.  Complex. March 2021

2020 Le P’tit Paysan Rosé Pierre’s Pirouette, Central Coast, 12.8% ABV, $19 (#277*) 75% Mourvèdre, 18% Grenache, 7% Cinsault

Le P’tit Paysan Pierre’s Pirouette is always one of my favorite rosés from the Central Coast!

From their webpage: “Our Rosé is a choice blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault. These vineyards are intentionally picked for their rocky & sandy soils which drive up the minerality and keep a balanced bright acidity. A perfect summer sipper with hints of strawberry, orange peel and a subtle spice. Undertone of crushed rock, sea spray and jasmine complete this complex but easy to drink wine. Pairs well with good friends and bonfires on the beach.”

Winery Tasting Notes: “ripe peach, rose petal, watermelon, lemon curd, fresh, bright & inviting”

My Review: Dusty rose in color.  Peachy watermelon on the nose.  Round flavors on the palate – Mourvèdre dominating.  A touch of sweetness and gentle tobacco on the lingering finish.  Agree with rose petal in the winery’s description! March 2021

2018 Le P’tit Paysan P’tit Pape Red Rhone Blend, Central Coast, 13.4% ABV, $22 (#278*)  52% Grenache, 36% Syrah, 12% Mourvèdre

The 2018 P’tit Pape might be my favorite vintage of this blend yet!

Winery Tasting Notes: “dark cherry, cocoa, stewed plums, white pepper”

My Review: Beautiful ruby in the glass. Chocolate raspberry truffle on the nose.  A richer palate of dark cherry and black currant, with rose petal and cherry on the finish.  This could be my favorite P’tit Pape yet! I am hoping to showcase this wine in an upcoming Washington Wine & Cheese Seminar class.   March 2021

2018 Le P’tit Paysan Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon, San Benito County, 12.9% ABV, $25 (#279*)

The grapes for this Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon were sourced from nearby San Benito County.

Winery Tasting Notes: “currant, blueberry, cracked black pepper, medium-bodied”

My Review: Ruby in the glass.  A light, smooth bouquet and palate to match.  Very drinkable – not a big wine, but a great value and drinkable now! 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/!

P’tit Paysan Delights Guests with its 2019 Sauvignon Blanc!

Warm Labor Day weekend called for opening a white wine none of us had yet tried.  One of the things I admire about I. Brand wines is his reach in sourcing his grapes.  In the case of this wine, he chose a vineyard that is one of my very favorites from the Arroyo Seco AVA. 

I have presented Ian Brand’s wines to you in a couple of posts:  P’tit Paysan and La Marea lines here:  https://decantingmonterey.com/ian-brand-discovering-great-vineyards-at-the-edge-of-sensible-farming/  and I. Brand & Family here:  https://decantingmonterey.com/i-brand-family-what-we-do-is-simple-without-artifice-and-we-enjoy-it/.

Today I am bringing you one of their wines from the Arroyo Seco AVA, an AVA I previously introduced you to here: https://decantingmonterey.com/pierce-ranch-eclectic-varietals-from-the-san-antonio-ava/.

2019 P’tit Paysan Sauvignon Blanc Zabala Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 12.9% ABV, $22 (#165*) 

The 2019 Le P’tit Paysan Sauvignon Blanc

About the 2019 Sauvignon Blanc: “Certified Organic. 100% Sauvignon Blanc. Zabala Vineyards is located on a large holding on the Arroyo Seco floodplains that was part of land granted to the Zabala family before California’s statehood. It was first planted in the 1970s and has grown to encompass over 1000 acres. Zabala Vineyards is one of the rockiest vineyards Ian Brand works with, full of what is locally known as ‘Greenfield Potatoes’, which are the rather inedible round river stones that dominate the soil and have been collected into piles and walls at every property in the basin. This vineyard is located directly in the path of the daily Salinas Valley winds, which control sugar development and retain natural acidity. Picked around 22.5 brix with bright acidity. Fermented in stainless steel, aged in 1/3 stainless, 2/3 neutral barrel for 7 months. Arrested malic. 120 cases produced.”

My Review: Bright yellow – pretty golden color.  Grassy and citrus on the nose.  All that plus a touch of pineapple on the palate.  Delicious. September 2020

I Brand is open for outside porch tastings by reservation only – email them at HELLO@IBRANDWINERY.COM to order wines or reserve a tasting. 

The I. Brand Tasting Room is open by appointment!

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

© Decanting Monterey 2020

Chesebro Coferments Syrah and Viognier to Create La Mariposa!

I introduced you to Chesebro wines here:  https://decantingmonterey.com/chesebro-artisan-wines-lovingly-farmed-and-made-by-hand/.  When I saw they had a Syrah and other wines on sale last month, I snapped  up a few to try.  I was not familiar with the La Mariposa Syrah and knew nothing about Côte-Rôtie wines.  Time for a little research!

About Côte-Rôtie Wines (from Wikipedia*):

“Côte-Rôtie is a French wine Appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC) in the northern Rhône wine region of France. The vineyards are located just south of Vienne in the communes of Saint-Cyr-sur-le-Rhône, Ampuis, and Tupin-et-Semons.[1] The vineyards are unique because of the steep slopes facing the river and their stone walls. Côte-Rôtie can be rendered in English as “the roasted slope” and refers to the long hours of sunlight that these steep slopes receive.[2]

“The wines are red, made with Syrah grapes and up to 20% Viognier, a white grape used for its aroma. According to appellation rules, Syrah and Viognier must be fermented at the same time, a process known as cofermentation. Because of this combination, Côte-Rôtie wine typically exhibits an almost paradoxical pairing of meat aromas (including bacon) and floral aromas. [2]”

Chesebro 2014 La Mariposa, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, 12.4% ABV, $30 ($22.50 sale price) (#163**)

Chesebro La Mariposa: A Côte-Rôtie- inspired wine.

Winemaker’s Notes: “This cofermented blend of Syrah (95%) and Viognier (5%) is inspired by the dense but vibrant wines of Cote Rotie in the northern Rhone Valley. The tannic structure of the cool climate Syrah is focused by the Viognier which also elevates the aromatics. Profound aromatics, deep color and a long finish. Not for the faint at heart but still elegant. Only 79 cases produced.”  grapelive rated this wine 91 points.

My Review: Beautiful dense ruby red in color.  Robust dark fruit on the nose.  Big palate, more like an Old World Côtes du Rhône, meaty and tobacco. Surprisingly low alcohol, yet slightly port-like.  The cofermenttion with the Viogner differentiates it from most Monterey County Syrahs.  September 2020

Chesebro’s Tasting room in Carmel Valley Village is now open by appointment!

Buying Chesebro Wines: This wine, normally $30,  is currently on sale for $22.50 at the Winemaker’s Notes link above in very limited quantities.  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. 

*Primary sources used by Wikipedia for this excerpt:  1. Inter Rhône: Côte-Rôtie Retrieved 19 January 2010 2. E. McCarthy & M. Ewing-Mulligan “French Wine for Dummies” pg 127-128 Wiley Publishing 2001 ISBN 0-7645-5354-2

**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.

Mercy: A “Front Porch-worthy” Chardonnay

It’s rarely warm enough to sit out on our front porch, yet we have experienced many enjoyable afternoons in 2020 to do so.  I was pleased to come home one September day to the sight of my husband and our dogs, enjoying one of those warm, sunny afternoons.  He was drinking a golden glass of wine.  I fetched one immediately.  Ahhh! I love to come home to Mercy Chardonnay on the front porch, followed by Mercy Syrah after dinner. A perfect day. 

We last brought you Mercy Wines in August in this blog post:  https://decantingmonterey.com/have-mercy-amazing-wines-from-the-arroyo-seco-ancient-river-channel/.  You already know how sad I am that this winery closed its doors.

We truly miss being able to stop at Mercy’s tasting room in Carmel Valley Village.

One of the last purchases we made was this 2015 Mercy Chardonnay Riverbed from the Arroyo Seco AVA.  We wish we had purchased more!  It is also sad that their webpage has been taken down – it was loaded with a wealth of historical wine tech sheets.  I will need to rely on information on the label!

2017 Mercy Chardonnay Riverbed, Arroyo Seco AVA, 14.1 ABV, $28 (161*)

A full-bodied Chardonnay on a warm September afternoon.

From the Label: “In the cool, maritime-influenced Arroyo Seco AVA lies a small portion of terrain encompassing an ancient, dry riverbed.  The Mercy “Riverbed” Chardonnay is the composition of contiguous vineyards in this area, all of which share shallow, rocky topsoils over hardpan subsoil.  Aged in French oak, orchard and tropical fruit aromas, as well as vanilla, spice and mineral notes exude from the glass.”

My Review: Golden in color, with a floral nose, like gardenia.  A little buttery, creamy, this is a rich Chardonnay. Honey, floral and a little sweet. We really enjoyed this wine and, as I indicated above, wished we had purchased more of it.  September 2020

*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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