Tagged: Central Coast

Let’s Take Lunch to a New Level with L’Aventure

Today I am bringing you another summer “Catchup Monday” – Let’s Take Lunch to a New Level with L’Aventure.

THE STORY

After our wonderful vineyard tour at Parsonage in late July, we stopped for a much-needed lunch at Café Rustica in Carmel Valley Village. After declaring I don’t drink wine at lunch (I’m usually designated driver anyway), my husband decided to “take lunch to a new level” by ordering a very special wine – the 2020 L’Aventure Optimus.  It was the perfect accompaniment to our group’s lunch. I previously wrote about L’Aventure in March here.

ABOUT L’AVENTURE – an excerpt from their website:

HOW IT STARTED

“Following his education at L’Ecole Oenologique de Macon, Burgundy, France, Stephan established Domaine de Courteillac in Bordeaux in 1982. Over the next 15 years, Stephan developed into an artisan winemaker of fastidious craftsmanship and gained a reputation as a maverick vigneron. However, his true desire was to be more innovative than AOC law would allow.

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS

“Stephan wanted to expand his expertise while gaining more freedom in viticulture and vinification. In 1998, the Asseo family left Bordeaux and searched for over a year within the world’s great wine regions, ranging from South Africa to Lebanon, Argentina to Napa, but they “fell in love” with the unique terroir of west side Paso Robles. L’Aventure was born.

THE SPIRIT OF L’AVENTURE

“Stephan’s philosophy of winemaking stems from a production driven mentality. Our wines reflect the vintage and terroir of Paso Robles. Optimus and Estate Cuvée are both wines that are Syrah/ Cabernet Sauvignon/ Petit Verdot blends. In these wines, as well as in our Rhône blend Côte à Côte (among others), the blending of premium varietals increases the authenticity, complexity, and balance of the wines…”

You can read more about L’Aventure here.

THE WINE

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

2020 L’Aventure OPTIMUS Red Blend, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles AVA, 14.8% ABV, $58 (#1199) 58% Syrah, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot

From wine.com: “The Optimus blend is made up of predominately Syrah, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot and entirely estate-grown fruit from L’Aventure Vineyard. The hilly soils are intriguingly complex- due to their proximity to the ocean as the vineyard site is in West Paso Robles. The soils have a top layer of calcareous shale, filled with old marine bones, shells, diatoms, and plankton, with clay, metals, and quartz below. These vines Low yielding vines at 2.5 tons per acre. After a long growing season, thanks to the region’s heavy diurnal shift, the grapes, and harvested and undergo alcoholic fermentation in 60% new French oak, followed by full malolactic fermentation. The wine is aged for 14 months in barrel, no fining or filtration.” 95 points – Rober Parker’s The Wine Advocate

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.”

My Review: OK, you caught me.  We simply enjoyed this wine with our meal and didn’t take any notes. My notes from the 2016 are here: “Inky in color. Dusty jam and leather on the nose – like a really big red wine. Dark berry jam of ripe fruit, rich and sweet (in a good way).  Cedar, mint and tarragon notes on the finish.”

THE TASTING ROOM

Visit L’Aventure: “Take in views of our vineyard from our fully covered patio as you taste through the flagship wines of our latest release from Winemaker, Stephan Asseo. Tastings are conducted by appointment only, allowing us to create personal relationships with our guests as your Estate Educator guides you through a flight of four wines.”  Other options available.

© Decanting Monterey 2023

Support Decanting Monterey’s Wine Education Efforts!

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TURLEY: A RARE IN-PERSON TASTING FOR DECANTING MONTEREY!

THE STORY

For the first time since 2018, we made it down to Templeton for Turley: a rare in-person tasting. I’m a long-time Turley Wine Cellars girl, ever since we first started seeing their Old Vines Zinfandel on our restaurant menus in DC. Back then, there was a long wait to join their mailing list – it was seemingly exclusive. Today, it is easier to join and the members-only access to their broad portfolio makes it a club we haven’t wanted to leave!

Decades ago, during a wine tasting day in the Paso Robles wine region, we stumbled upon a winery called “Pesenti.” It was a great find, making big reds the way we liked them at an affordable price. The next thing we knew, they were acquired by – wait for it – Turley!  While Zinfandel and Petite Sirah are the cornerstones of Turley’s Pesenti production, that have ventured out into other whites and reds from the region. It is also the location of 1 of 2 Turley tasting rooms.

We were welcomed at Turley by wine educator Steve O’Brien, who, before coming to their Paso Robles location, was their distributor in Colorado. He was extremely knowledgeable about Turley, its history and its wines.  It was a lovely morning and we sat outside on the garden patio. We were presented with the tasting menu of the day, which covered a sampling of the breadth of the Zinfandels.  Since I had corresponded with Steve before our arrival, he had some additional wines ready for us to try.

Steve updated us on the 2023 harvest.  Historically, harvest used to go well into October, but in recent years, due to warmer weather, the Zinfandel was usually picked by the end of September.  Due to our cool Central Coast spring and summer, he anticipated harvest would go well into November.

This is the fourth in a series of five posts about our wine escapades down south! I have written about Turley several times (just search for “Turley” on any page of my website), with the most recent one here: Turley Pesenti Vineyard: A Big, Tasty Petite Syrah with Brambly Juice and a Chalky Finish.

ABOUT TURLEY (from their website)

“Turley Wine Cellars was founded in Napa Valley by former emergency room physician Larry Turley in 1993. Under the direction of winemaker Tegan Passalacqua, Turley now makes 50 different wines from over 50 vineyards across California, primarily Zinfandel and Petite Syrah, with many vines dating back to the late 1800s. By farming organically and focusing on old vine vineyards of these varieties, Turley aims to both create and preserve California’s unique winemaking culture.” You can read more about Turley and proprietor Larry Turley here.

ABOUT PESENTI VINEYARD

 “This certified organic estate-owned vineyard was planted in the 1920s on primarily limestone soil. Though the vines are head-trained and dry-farmed, the soil plays the most important role in distinguishing this vineyard on the west side of Paso Robles. The wines have a brightness, with chalk and floral characteristic aromas unique to the site, and to Zinfandel in general.” The Zinfandel vines reached 100 years old in 2022!

THE WINES

I have 10 wines to present to you today from Turley. 7 are from our September tasting and 3, from our home cellar. Winery notes come from their website or conversations during our tasting, unless otherwise indicated.  Prices are a mix of tasting sheet and, for the wines we had at home, our member purchase receipts. As a member, we are offered a slightly discounted price from what you might find retail.  Any errors are mine and mine alone.

About Juvenile: “Though the vast majority of our wines are single vineyard designates, Juvenile is actually composed of a variety of young vines that have been replanted in several of our old vine sites. We tag the younger vines then pick them separately and make a distinct wine. Juvenile vines range in age from about 6-25 years, and we pull from a selection of our best vineyards across California.”

2020 Turley Juvenile Zinfandel, California, $20 (#1189)

Winery Notes: “Plenty of satiating spiced plum, blood orange, and stone fruits, with grippy tannins and well-balanced acidity. Eminently drinkable now owing to the classic Juvenile texture. Plus, with this vintage of Juvenile we introduced new corks that essentially eliminate TCA! What an absolutely gorgeous knockout of a wine for $20.” A best value.

My Review: Purple in color. Concord grape and blackberry on the nose. Vegetal notes combine with red and black berries in a jammy, full-bodied palate with a slightly tannic finish. September 2023

2021 Turley Juvenile Zinfandel, California, 15.2% ABV, $24 (#1190)

Winery Notes: “Fragrant, lifted aromas of ripe dark fruits like black raspberry and blood orange on the nose. Superb balance between acidity, tannin, and spice, with a succulent, profoundly satisfying texture.”

My Review:  Purple in color. Intense berry and warm cinnamon on the nose. Palate finishes with Mandarin orange. We liked this wine. September 2023

2021 Turley Zinfandel, Pesenti Vineyard, Paso Robles AVA, San Luis Obispo County, 15.9% ABV, $44 (#1191)

Winery Notes: “Deeply perfumed and enthralling nose of ripe red fruits, high-toned spices, orange zest, and an almost minty crushed chalk. Palate is smooth, lush, energetic, and pure, with a smack of well-toned acidity, satiating structure, and a long, precise finish.”

My Review: Ruby in the glass. Fresh berry pie on the nose. Bursts in the mouth with bright berry flavors overlaying a sour, fairly acidic palate. September 2023

2018 Turley Zinfandel, Pesenti Vineyard, Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo County, 15.8% ABV, $38 (#1192)

Winery Notes: “Vibrant and always distinctive, the Pesenti Zinfandel makes its spring lineup debut! Fragrant red fruits, black raspberry, chalk dust, piquant spices and wildflowers all flourish on the nose. Lush yet linear on the palate, with fresh, lively acidity and profound depth. Intensely pleasurable now, and will age well.”

My Review: Garnet in color. Red raspberry jam on the nose. Rich raspberry and blackberry on the palate. This is raspberry, cassis and vanilla all the way. July 2023

2021 Turley Whitney Tennessee Zinfandel, Alexander Valley AVA, Sonoma County, 15.8% ABV, $46 (#1193)

Winery Notes: “This small, estate-owned, pre-Prohibition vineyard in Sonoma County was purchased by the winery in 2009, and we’ve since converted all to organic farming. Planted on loam and various gravel soils, the Whitney Tennessee vineyard—named for one of Larry’s four daughters—is a mixed planting as well, with small amounts of Petite Syrah and Carignane vines sprinkled throughout.

“Organically farmed pre-Prohibition vines planted head-trained and dry-farmed in the loam & gravel of Sonoma County. Profuse blue fruits, savory game, and crushed gravel. Lively synergy between acid and tannin on the palate, with a wholly satisfying texture. Best enjoyed with a quick decant.”

Steve added that the 1915 plantings are field blends, which is the case with most pre-Prohibition plantings.

My Review: A pretty ruby color. Looks full and rich. Faint dark berry on the nose. The palate is quite sophisticated, leaner than the nose. An elegant Zinfandel. September 2023

2019 Turley Duarte Zinfandel, Contra Costa AVA, Contra Costa County, 15.7% ABV, $33 (#1194)

Winery Notes: “This wine is an homage to Joe Duarte, a prominent grape grower in Contra Costa who first introduced Turley to the incredible vineyards of the area.  The wine is comprised of fruit from the turn-of-the-century Evangehlo, Mori, and Salvador vineyards, planted between 1890 and 1930.Thanks to the sandy soils and impressive age of the vines, the wine has some of the softest, silkiest tannins we’ve ever seen in a Zinfandel.

“One whiff of the Duarte tells you everything you need to know about where this wine comes from. Notes of dark-skinned stone fruits, driftwood, and a bracing shoreline breeze convey the windswept sands of Contra Costa as clearly as if you were standing in the beach-like soils yourself. The palate is only further proof: suave tannins, smooth yet textured, velvety with a hint of grip, almost like peach fuzz. The type of dynamic fruit, acid, and tannin balance that can only come from ancient vines deeply rooted in the sandy soils of Northern California. Perfectly stellar from the first pour. If you’ve ever dreamed of renting a remote beach cottage in winter where you can walk your dog along the shore during the day and write your novel by a crackling fire at night, this wine is for you.”

My Review: Garnet, almost purple in the glass. Tart berry jam with baking spices on the nose. Rich palate of bright berries offset by a tartness like crushed freeze-dried berries. Sticks to the palate with lingering flavors. September 2023

2021 Turley Grenache, Pesenti Vineyard, Paso Robles AVA, San Luis Obispo County, 15.9% ABV       (#1195)

Winery Notes: “Previously only available in our tasting room, the Pesenti Grenache makes an impressive debut on the mailing list. Made famous in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Priorat, Grenache is also one of the traditional Rhône grapes that helped put modern-day Paso Robles on the map. Aromatics include alpine strawberry, blackberry, fennel, and lavender, mingled with a spice reminiscent of garrigue. A medium-to full-bodied wine, the palate shows tangy bright red brambly fruits, spice, and a balanced acidity offset by fine-grained tannin. With a long finish, the purity and depth of this wine are sure to please even our most dedicated Zin drinkers. Drink now at 55˚- 60 ˚F.”

My Review: Translucent ruby in the glass. Berries and spice on the nose. Leather, raspberry and cranberry cloaked with a touch of sweetness on the palate. Classic Rhône. September 2023

2020 Turley Zinfandel, Ueberroth Vineyard, Paso Robles AVA, San Luis Obispo County, 15.7% ABV, $58 (#1196)

Winery Notes: “Planted in 1885, Ueberroth is the oldest of our Zinfandel vineyards. Located closer to the sea than any other site we work with, you can smell the salt air from the top of the vineyard hill. These ungrafted, head-trained vines are planted on very steep limestone slopes. The high pH of the soil makes for a very high-acid wine, elevating the ripe fruit flavors from this historic certified organic vineyard.

“Certified organic, ungrafted vines over 130 years old; the “grand cru” site of Paso Robles. Exuberant, intense dark red plum, wild strawberry, dried orange peel, white pepper and chalk on the nose. Brooding, dense, pedigreed, powerfully fresh and balanced on the palate with mouth-watering acidity. Ready to drink now at 55°-60°F or could age several years..”

My Review: Super dark garnet. Spice and sea on the nose. Palate is very spicy and delicious. It’s a big wine. We hadn’t had an Ueberroth in quite some time and took a couple home! September 2023

2021 Turley Estate Petite Sirah, Napa Valley AVA, Napa County, 14.5% ABV, $48 (#1197)

Winery Notes: “Planted adjacent to the Estate Zinfandel, this Petite is also certified organic. The Wappo Indians used to roam throughout the region, and obsidian arrowheads are commonplace in the rocky volcanic soils. The wine is a classic Napa Valley Petite Syrah: dark and brooding on the nose, bright and vibrant on the palate.

“Certified organic mixed planting that includes trellised and head-trained, dry-farmed heritage vines. Dark blue and purple fruits, savory spiced game, and earth, like a walk through a rain-wet northern forest. Strikingly silky on the palate, with a fresh, vivacious texture that offsets the brooding depth of this exceptional wine.”

My Review: Inky in the glass. Caramel, eucalyptus and dark berries on the nose. Lean, austere palate with light cherry flavors and vegetal notes. September 2023

2021 Turley Grenache Blanc, Pesenti Vineyard, Paso Robles AVA, San Luis Obispo County, 13.4% ABV (#1198)

Winery Notes: Grenache Blanc is one of the grapes in Turley’s white blend named White Coat.  This is the 4th vintage in which they have had excedd grapes and bottled Grenache Blanc separately.

My Review: Pale, dusty white in the glass. Refreshing nose with pineapple notes. Perfume and pear on the light, crisp palate. Mineral and tar on the finish. A nice white to finish our red tasting. September 2023      

THE TASTING ROOMS

“Here at Turley, we consider ourselves and our wines Californian above all else.

We take great pride in traversing old trails in search of ancient vineyards across the state, and encourage you to explore some new territories with us.”

Their two locations are open for tastings by appointment: Thursday – Sunday 10 am – 4 pm. If you make it there, tell them Decanting Monterey sent you!

Amador County Tasting Room: “Nestled in the foothills of California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range, our Amador county tasting room in Plymouth is the home of the Gold Rush and the nation’s oldest vineyards.”

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.”

© Decanting Monterey 2023

Support Decanting Monterey’s Wine Education Efforts!

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Odonata: The Truth About Durif

Today I am bringing you another “Catchup Monday” – Odonata: The Truth About Durif. Still getting caught up from my busy summer – but this is an interesting wine and worth your time to read this post!

THE STORY

We last visited Odonata in March 2022 and captured our experience here: Odonata Plays “Mystery Wine” with Decanting Monterey! During that tasting, we became intrigued by a varietal that we did not know or even taste – the Durif.  I recalled being told at the time that it was like a South African Petite Sirah. But the facts say more.  I was delighted that we finally opened this wine in August, giving us the chance today to dive deep into the Durif grape. Read on!

ABOUT ODONATA from their website:

“Winemaker Denis Hoey released his first commercial vintage when he was 21. He now blends old world methods with new world technique to make nouveau-style wines. He strives to produce wines that are rich, textured, and balanced, and that respect terroir and varietal character. His success is based on careful attention to detail and the purposeful use of each step in winemaking: grape sources, fermentation technique, pressing regiment, barrel selection, and aging program. The result is clean, focused wines.

“Hoey, a native of Sacramento, grew up in a family that appreciated wines and exposed him to a wide range of quality wines that helped develop his palate. In 2004, he graduated from the University of California, Santa Cruz with a degree in Business Management. Soon after that, he met Jeff Emery, owner and winemaker at Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard. Their relationship quickly turned into an Old World apprenticeship for Denis, and he became the production manager for SCMV before starting Odonata Wines in Santa Cruz in 2005.

“Hoey learned many of his cellar practices at Bison Organic Brewery in Berkeley working with a much more perishable product. This taught him the importance of giving careful attention to spoilage organisms. His continuing education involves following current trends in winemaking research from the major universities. He has traveled to Italy and France on several occasions to gain a broader perspective about European winemaking techniques and varietal fidelity. He maintains a sharp palate for quality and the nuances of wines by tasting, tasting, and more tasting. He continues to challenge himself to make better wine by learning from what others are doing well–or not so well! 

“In 2014, Hoey and his wife, Claire, moved to the Santa Lucia Highlands where they are raising their family and running Odonata Winery. Their property includes a 2-acre vineyard, production facility, tasting room, and a welcoming patio where visitors can enjoy their unique wine.”

ABOUT DURIF:

From the bottle:

“What is Durif? This French varietal is a cross between Peloursin and Syrah. When brought to America, it was renamed Petite Sirah, but DNA testing has confirmed that it is, in fact, the original French Durif.”

The Wine Spectator “Ask Dr. Vinny” column has a good answer here: What’s the difference between Petite Sirah and Durif—or is there one?:

“”Petite Sirah” is the name Americans call the Durif grape. There are actually two different spellings of the variety—Petite Sirah, which is mostly widely used, and Petite Syrah, which is a bit of a throwback version, and unfortunately complicates the perception of Petite Sirah and Syrah being the same grape.

“Durif has a strange history. In the 1880s, French botanist François Durif crossed the Syrah and Peloursin grapes—some suspect by accident—to create Durif. But despite its origins being in France, it never really took off there—it’s practically nonexistent in the country today. But it thrived in California, where it has a strong following, and later it spread modestly to other parts of the world.” —Dr. Vinny

To add more details to what we have heard so far, JJ Buckley Fine Wines wrote this article, A Guide to Petite Sirah – Everything You Need to Know:

“The Petite Sirah grape is the offspring of two French grapes – Syrah and Peloursin. Both of the parent varietals come from the Rhone-Alpes region, while Petite Sirah originated further south near Tullins in southeastern France.

“In France and elsewhere outside of the United States, Petite Sirah is known as Durif. This name comes from Francois Durif, the French botanist in whose nursery the varietal originated in the 1860s.

“This varietal has been in California since 1884, when Charles McIver introduced it to his vineyards in the San Jose/Alameda County area. It waxed and waned over the years, falling out of favor in certain areas but holding true in places like Napa Valley and Livermore AVA.

“Other than California, there are a few wineries in Israel and Australia with Petite Sirah vineyards. But while it may have originated in France, modern Petite Sirah production in France is almost nonexistent.”

So, bottom line: Durif is what we in the US call Petite Sirah, a cross of Syrah and Peloursin grapes. The rest of the world calls it Durif. 

THE WINE

I have just one wine to present to you today from Odonata. Winery notes come from the bottle. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2016 Odonata Durif, Machado Creek Vineyard, Santa Clara Valley, Santa Clara County, 14.2%, $42 ABV (#1188)

Winery Notes: “The heavy soil structure of the vineyard backs the vibrant fruit with chewy tannins. Rose petals and smoky, candied fruit are dominant fixtures in the aromatics. In your mouth, blackberries, spices, and a luscious texture blend to create a powerful punch of flavor. This wine can be enjoyed with rich or spicy pastas, pork and all red meats.”

Wine Enthusiast – 91 points: “Sour black plum, purple flowers and licorice spice show on the nose of this bottling. More purple-flower flavors emerge on the sip, where the black-plum component rides a relatively lighter frame.” Matt Kettmann, October 2020

My Review: We bought this on a whim without tasting it. Purple in color. Plum, orange rind m, chalk, bubblegum and hot cocoa on the nose. Orange rind and chocolate on the dense jam of the chalky palate. Licorice and smoke on the finish. After it opened up, cinnamon was predominant on the finish. One of the most interesting wines I have enjoyed this year. August 2023

THE TASTING ROOM

VISIT ODONATA WINERY

“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 to sample a selection of our current releases!

Located at 645 River Road, Salinas, CA 93908 (tel: 831-566-5147)

Open 7 days a week (except major holidays) from 11 am to 5 pm. Open for Happy Hour on Fridays & Saturdays from 5-7 pm. No appointments are necessary for groups of 8 or fewer.

© Decanting Monterey 2023

Support Decanting Monterey’s Wine Education Efforts!

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Santa Maria AVA: Home to the Legendary Bien Nacido Vineyard!

Today I am bringing you another “Catchup Monday” – Santa Maria AVA: Home to the Legendary Bien Nacido Vineyard! These ‘catch-up” posts are what I would also call “traditional” Decanting Monterey posts – one wine at a time.

THE STORY

I’m a huge fan of Central Coast Syrah and first had one made from Bien Nacido grapes during a visit to the The Ojai Vineyard back in 2018 which I wrote about here: 2021 Wrap Up #1: from Contra Costa to Santa Maria! It blew my socks off.  Now, whenever I see a Syrah made from Bien Nacido grapes, I must try it. A year ago, I had the chance to try Bien Nacido Estate’s own production of a Syrah from their legendary Bien Nacido Vineyard, which I wrote about here: Bien Nacido Estate: First Stop on Our “Sideways” Tour! I brought many Syrahs home from that road trip and they are all gone. 

My first exposure to Bien Nacido grapes!

When had the chance to stop at K&L Wine Merchants after dropping our daughter at the airport, I was all in. We really miss our old shop Addy Bassin’s MacArthur Beverages in Washington DC – K&L is the next best thing – so grateful they are here, but I just wish they were a little closer to home. OK, I digress.

At K&L, we were like kids in a candy store. I hunted through their Syrah section (always my first stop – right inside their door) and found this 2018 Bien Nacido Estate Syrah.  We opened it in August. As I was doing my research, I noted that the critics have scored the 2019 and 2020 vintages even higher than this one – I will have to look for them!

ABOUT THE SANTA MARIA VALLEY AVA:

“The Santa Maria Valley occupies the northern perimeter of Santa Barbara County on California’s Central Coast, which is today recognized as one of the world’s most dynamic wine-growing regions. With an encompassed 7,500 vineyard acres, the Santa Maria Valley is also the Central Coast’s first officially approved American Viticultural Area (AVA).

“The Santa Maria Valley boasts a rare “transverse” geography, an east-west orientation that channels cool ocean air directly into the valley. The result is a Mediterranean climate that produces one of California’s longest growing seasons. The unique growing environment ensures the development of complex, flavorful and exquisitely balanced grapes. Grapes in the region are either grown on the Santa Maria Bench or off the Bench, both wine grapes with completely different and unique flavor profiles. Grape growing in the Santa Maria Valley can be traced back to the early Mexican Colonial period in the 1800s. In 2011, there were 18,790 acres and nine vineyards added to the Santa Maria Valley AVA.

“With its geological oddity and natural funnel-shape, the Santa Maria Valley AVA is bounded by the San Rafael Mountains and Los Padres National Forest to the east and by the Solomon Hills and the city of Santa Maria to the West. The Santa Maria Valley AVA can be explored easily, with 34 tasting rooms within a 30-minute drive. The Santa Maria Valley Wine Trolley is one of the most popular ways to taste the region’s wines. The Trolley makes a loop to some of the area’s tasting rooms every weekend from May to October. Winos can also cruise through the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, which is home to 14 tasting rooms.”

You can explore more about the Santa Maria AVA here.

ABOUT BIEN NACIDO ESTATE from their website:

“As the heart and soul of Santa Maria Valley wine country, the iconic Bien Nacido Vineyard is a coveted source of exceptional Burgundian and Rhone grape varieties and elegant estate wine. With the influence of the Pacific, the reliable California sun and incredible viticultural and winemaking teams, our vineyard consistently yields world-class fruit, resulting in a portfolio of highly acclaimed estate and client wines alike.”

“One of the oldest cool-climate vineyards in California and home of the world’s most single vineyard designations, Bien Nacido Vineyard has been an acclaimed source of world-glass grapes and estate wine since its founding in 1973 by brothers Stephen and Bob Miller.

“Meaning “Well Born” in Spanish, Bien Nacido was planted on the historic site of the Rancho Tepusquet land grant, a plot of land that was granted to Tomás Olivera in 1837, when California was still a part of Mexico. The Olivera Family’s adobe, built in 1857, still graces the estate today – a majestic sentinel looking after the vines.”

THE WINE

I have just one wine to present to you today from Bien Nacido Estate. Because this is not a current release, winery notes come from wine.com. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2018 Bien Nacido Estate Syrah, Santa Maria Valley AVA, Santa Barbara County, 13.1% ABV, $40 (#1184)

Winery Notes from wine.com: “The co-fermentation of Viognier lends a softer and more floral tone, which makes the Estate Syrah a perfect wine to open early in its life. Fresh violets cracked white pepper and blueberry pie dominate with a fresh herbs-de-Provence note found in the background.”

Wine Enthusiast – 93 points: “Dark fruit aromas are wrapped up in crushed stone, charred wood and dry soil elements on the nose of this bottling. The palate is very floral, offering flavors of crumpled lavender and violet, with hints of tar and inky fruit as a taut structure packs it all together.” Matt Kettmann, December 2020

My Review: Dark ruby in color. Bouquet of dark fruit and musty earth (akin to Central Coast Funk). Palate of tobacco, spice, blackberry and a touch of earth. Pleasant. August 2023

THE TASTING ROOM

Experience Bien Nacido

“Join us at our tasting room, The Gatehouse at Bien Nacido, to taste the current releases of both Bien Nacido Estate, and our sister winery on the westernmost reaches of the Santa Maria Valley, Solomon Hills Estate.”

Flights, Pairings, & New Selections

“Our tasting room offers the perfect opportunity to experience the best of Bien Nacido Estate, with a variety of ways to explore our portfolio. Enjoy a tasting flight featuring both Bien Nacido Estate wines and the wines of our sister winery, Solomon Hills Estate. Consider upgrading your tasting experience by pairing your flight with some charcuterie and cheese. Stop in for a glass of our current selections or join some friends for a bottle to share.”

Experience Estate Wine at the Vineyards

“Plan a visit to our on-site tasting room, The Gatehouse at Bien Nacido, to experience our world class wine right where it’s sourced and made. Choose from a variety of ways to explore our portfolio, and that of our sister winery, Solomon Hills Estate. Consider upgrading your tasting experience by pairing your flight with small bites or adding on a tour or catered lunch. We look forward to welcoming you to Bien Nacido.”

© Decanting Monterey 2023

Support Decanting Monterey’s Wine Education Efforts!

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Joullian: Boldly Pioneering in Zinfandel!

Today I am bringing you another “Catchup Monday” – Joullian: Boldly Pioneering in Zinfandel! “Catchup Monday” is my effort to get caught up on some of the many wines we have tried this year – outside of a larger wine tasting event.  It was a busy spring and summer!

THE STORY

We’ve been tasting Joullian Vineyards & Winery wines for decades. I was at first intrigued by some of its white blends, as well as its Zinfandels.  A wine I really loved – for its complexity, flavor and value – was its Retro Rouge, which I could usually get at a club discount to fit into my East Coast wine class budgets. I previously wrote up the 2014 Retro Rouge here: Winemaker’s Secret Stash Becomes Joullian’s Retro Rouge!

We received today’s wine as a gift from a good friend who has shared both our DC and our coastal lives. While the tasting room is temporarily closed (see below), we do see a few of our local wineries making wine from their grapes, so that is a good thing. And you can buy some of their wines online as well as at A Taste of Monterey.  I’m personally interested in checking out their 2015 Hammler Cabernet Sauvignon and their 2018 Retro Rouge, if I ever get the chance.

We just opened this wine one night because we could. And it id not disappoint! In general =, we just don’t produce very big or good Zinfandel around here – in either Monterey or San Benito counties. I don’t want one to taste like a berry pie – I always want more depth. This one stood up to the challenge.

ABOUT THE CARMEL VALLEY AVA from the Joullian Vineyards & Winery website:

“Carmel Valley is an American Viticultural Area (AVA) located 12 miles inland from the California coastline, and within Monterey County.  Due to its elevation among the steep hills of the Santa Lucia Range, Carmel Valley is sheltered from Monterey’s cool maritime fog, allowing for the production of rich, flavorful Bordeaux-style wines.  Carmel Valley and the surrounding region are also home to several world class golf courses, a plethora of five-star restaurants and resorts, and countless outdoor actives making it the ideal vacation destination for any wine enthusiast!”

Map provided by the Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association

You can read more about the Carmel Valley AVA and all our AVAs here: Monterey County AVAs.

ABOUT JOULLIAN VINEYARDS & WINERY

“At Joullian, we focus on estate-crafted, world class wines of complexity, finesse and ageability.” Ridge Watson, Founding Winemaker

“Bordeaux grapes, the inspiration for Joullian Vineyards, led our founders to choose Carmel Valley for its warm, temperate climate and reputation of producing rich and flavorful wines.  In order to add further complexity and elegance to the lush flavors of these hillside vineyard wines, we grow multiple clones of each grape variety at different elevations, exposures and soil types.  With multiple varietal blocks, each in a slightly different set of growing circumstances, we have the ability to add extra dimension to our wines both in the field as well as in the winery.  All Joullian wines receive extended bottle aging, ensuring that upon release the wines have begun to mature and develop their special Carmel Valley character, as well as extra smoothness, complexity and bouquet.”

THE WINE

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

2015 Joullian Zinfandel, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15.5% ABV, $35 (#1177) 90% Zinfandel, 5% Primitivo, 3% Petit Sirah, 2% (0.5% each) Aleatico, Alicante Bouschet, Carignane, Grenache

Winery Notes: “In 1984 Joullian planted some of Carmel Valley’s first Zinfandel vines. We began with a non-heat-treated Amador County clone selected by Dr. Bioletti in 1917, and have since added pre-prohibition vineyard selections from Lytton Springs, Brandlin (Mt.Veeder), St. Peter’s Church (Cloverdale) and Primitivo-3 (Puglia, Italy). For complexity, we also have small amounts of Petite Sirah (Lytton Springs), plus our Italian field crush varieties: Aleatico, Alicante Bouschet, Carignane and Black Grenache. Joullian’s multi-clonal approach in the vineyard continues to reap multidimensional benefits in the winery.

“2015 featured several weeks of 90-95°F heat in late September, early October, so we carefully culled sunburned and raisined fruit in the field, resulting in 40% less tonnage but the final Zin blend is full of perfumed rich black fruit, silky tannins and thanks to a dollop of Cabernet, refreshing acidity.”

Wine Enthusiast – 87 points: “Blackberry-sauce and cocoa-dust aromas meet with slightly sour herbs and fennel on the nose of this bottling. Ripe blackberry-sorbet flavors are dusted in more dank herbs on the palate.” Matt Kettmann, July 2020

My Review: Dark intense garnet in the glass. Almost purple. Rich mocha, raspberry, blackberry and black pepper spice on the nose, laced with alcohol. Palate bursting with dark fruit and lingering finish. Best Zin in Monterey and San Benito counties. No offense to anyone else. August 2023

THE TASTING ROOM

The Joullian tasting room is temporarily closed, but it appears to be available for private bookings.  Check out this link for more information: https://joullian.com/visit/tours-tastings/. Email: info@joullian.com.

You can order their wines on line here: Joullian Vineyards – Our Wines.

© Decanting Monterey 2023

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I Brand & Family Release Party: Great People, Diverse Wines, Tasty Food, & Eclectic Music – a Fun Time for All!

I was tipped off by our Wine Pod partners that I Brand was having a release party in late June – the first one since COVID made its unwelcome arrival in Monterey County.  We made a quick plan to carpool there.

We have been to several past release parties where members and fans get to sample newly-released good wine, paired appetizers, and great music.  In short, really fun.  There were a lot of wines to try on this Sunday – some on the release menu – plus a number of library wines hidden in between.  It was kind of overwhelming – in a good way!  I felt rushed at first – and then just slowed down and got in the groove. We enjoyed the sliders, the pizzas, and the gourmet popsicles!  And more wine.  I truly appreciated the library wines, as a great counterbalance to the new releases.  These wines demonstrated the staying power of Ian’s wines – and made the case for holding onto more of his wines – which are so tempting to consume right away. Thank you so much, Ian, Heather, and the rest of the I Brand Family, for making this event possible once again.

I have 14 wines to present to you today from across all 3 labels of I Brand & Family, La Marea and Le P’tit Paysan – most tasted at the release party. I have presented the 2 Grenache wines before. And I added in a Syrah from our private collection. There was a lot going on at this event and we were moving a bit quickly, so I didn’t get the detailed tasting notes I might usually capture. I did go back to the tasting room in July to polish up a few of my notes – where I also got to taste the 2016 52-month Chardonnay – a bonus review for us at the very bottom of this post! Unless otherwise specified, winemaker’s notes come from the winery tech sheets or notes online.

2021 Piquette Nat, Arroyo Seco AVA, 7.4% AVA, $18 (#780)

Winemaker’s Notes: “A perfect summer sipper. Our Piquette Nat from California is Col Fondo process, an easy drinking blend of organic Zabala Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc and hibiscus flowers.”

My Review: Made from Sauvignon Blanc and hibiscus flower, this looks like a Brut rose, smells like licorice, and, to me, tastes yeasty like a fruity beer. Very popular and different. June 2022

2021 I Brand & Family Pinot Gris, San Benito County, $30 (#781)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Ranier cherries and lemon-thyme on the nose. Pink grapefruit and cara-cara orange lead the attack on the palate. Lingering tannin structure balanced with medium acidity and distinctive minerality contribute to a bright and festive Summer glass, perfectly suited for a wide array of food pairings.”

My Review:  An orange wine – the wax on the bottle is a huge hint!  Year over year, this is an excellent wine, light on the palate, crisp and tasty. We like this wine. June 2022

2021 La Marea Alternate Cut Albariño, Kristy Vineyard, Monterey County, $30 (#782)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Green pears, lanolin, almond blossom and brioche on the nose. Tart mango and honeysuckle lead the attack on the palate. Mild tannins balanced with mellow acidity contribute to a well-rounded white with a complex bouquet.”

My Review: Honeysuckle and citrus rind on the nose. Slightly funky palate of buttermilk and citrus rind, with a lingering creamy finish. The alternate cut makes for a heavier mouthfeel to this ever so slightly sweet Albariño.  June 2022

2014 Le P’tit Paysan L’Apiculteur Cedar Lane Vineyard Viognier, Arroyo Seco AVA, $42 (#783)

Winemaker’s Notes from wine.com: “Late ripening Viognier from the alluvial benches above the Arroyo Seco River fermented in a combination of stainless steel, neutral barrels and twice used barrels. Soaring honeysuckle aromas, flavors of pear and crushed stones, partial malolactic fermentation for focus and composition.”

My Review: This “library” Viognier was a bonus wine – this is an excellent representation of Central Coast Viognier – honeysuckle yet lean. The age on this bottle made it more complex and interesting. June 2022

2021 I Brand & Family Arneis, Vista Verde Vineyard, Paicines, San Benito County, $30 (#784)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Jasmine flower and lilac on the nose. Dried apricot and quince lead the attack on the palate. Medium to full body finishes with notes of bergamot.” 133 cases produced

My Review:  Another atypical varietal that Ian likes to work with.  This is the second vintage of this wine that I have tried. This one is really special – a funky, earthy nose, followed by a light and tasty palate, especially after tasting the library Viognier. June 2022

2021 Le P’tit Paysan Sauvignon Blanc, Zabala Vineyard, Arroyo Seco, 13.7% ABV, $24 (#785)

About LPP Sauvignon Blanc : “Paysan Sauvignon Blanc comes from Zabala Vineyard – 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 Vineyard is one of the rockiest vineyard I 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. Certified organic grapes.”

Winemaker’s Notes: “The bouquet is an explosion of white peaches, gooseberries and perfumy passionfruit. This translates over to the palate with more gorgeous and concentrated white peach bursting to the front and evolving into hints of trailside strawberry. Bright acidity. Crisp, tart and refreshing. Lingering finish that has a subtle creaminess returning to tropical passionfruit.” 145 cases produced

My Review: The LPP Sauvignon Blanc comes from one of my favorite vineyards in Arroyo Seco. Very pale in the glass. Yummy butterscotch and tropical notes on the nose. A flavorful palate dominated by lime cloaked in honeysuckle, with a citrusy, buttery finish. Very balanced and tasty. June 2022

2019 Le P’tit Paysan Jacks Hill Chardonnay, Monterey County, 13.2% ABV, $20 (#786)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Bright, with orchard fruit giving way to an intense minerality. The wine is produced predominantly from a few vineyards at the base of Jack’s Hill, planted on the distinct iron oxide granite that dominates the east side of the Salinas Valley, directly east of Sleepy Hollow North.”

My Review: From our home collection. Pale golden in color. Tropical bouquet of pineapple and honeydew. Palate brimming with soft pineapple, with citrus notes. This is one of my favorite central coast everyday Chardonnays – def not buttery, oaky. June 2022

2020 I Brand & Family Pinot Noir, Enz Vineyard, Lime Kiln Valley, San Benito County, 13.67% ABV, $36 (#787)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Smoked chestnuts leading into dark cherry-cola on the nose. Ripe red fruits abound in the form of Bing cherries and Santa Rosa plum. Light body with very mellow tannin structure and soft glycerin finish which lingers and fades into petrichor.” 62 cases produced

My Review: Translucent, dark ruby in the glass.  Dark cherry on the nose and very smooth and tasty dark cherry on the palate. I prefer this to the previous vintage! June 2022

2014 Le P’tit Paysan Petite Sirah, San Antonio Valley, 13.8% ABV, $42 (#788)

89 points – Wine Enthusiast : “Dried herbs, elderberries, peppercorns and a strong streak of gamy meat show on the nose of this bottling, which is less dense and more nuanced in style than many other Petite Sirahs. The gamy element extends to the palate, giving complexity to the black fruits and sticky tannins.” Matt Kettmann 6/2018

My Review: The grapes for this library wine come from Pierce Ranch – and this is a delicious wine.  Another reason to hold your I Brand wines. I would rate this higher than Wine Enthusiast did back in 2018. One of the wines I took home with me from this tasting! June 2022

2020 I Brand & Family Mourvèdre, Graff Family Vineyard, Chalone AVA, 12.4% ABV, $45 (#789)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Saddle leather, and ripe huckleberries on the nose. Wild blueberries lead the attack on the palate transitioning into gorgeous and concentrated red ddelicious apple notes contributing to a bright and lingering finish. Medium to light body with pronounced yet balanced tannins finishes with redwood duff.” 34 cases produced

My Review: OK, this was another favorite from the release party.  Light cherry and pepper notes on the nose, following through on the palate. Grapey, smooth and delicious.  One of the finest Mourvèdres I have ever had.  Took one home. June 2022

2019 La Marea Grenache, Central Coast, 14% ABV, $30 (#635)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Aromas of red fruit about in this ripe and silky grenache with flinty undertones. Bright acidity leads the way on the palate allowing the lovely, light red fruit shine in the form of overripe strawberries and loganberries. California anise, white pepper, and mild tannins finish neatly.” 440 cases produced

My Review:  With grapes from Monterey and Santa Clara, this one gets the Central Coast label.  A pretty, translucent ruby in the glass.  Cherry, cranberry on the nose.  Dances on the palate with smooth cherry and red currant, with a lingering intensity on the finish. December 2021, June 2022

2014 La Marea Brosseau Vineyard Grenache, Chalone AVA, $68 (#636)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Bing cherry, roasting lamb, clay. smoldering dry leaves, sea shells. Soaring aromatics. Palate opens with savory elements: garrigue, cigar tobacco, spearmint, overlaying the unmistakable elegant texture of vineyards planted on calcium-rich soils. Chaparral, menthol, red cherry and cranberry on the finish.” 124 cases produced

My Review:  Ruby in the glass.  Fresh cherry and raspberry on the nose.  This was quite yummy with fresh red fruits on the palate and darker flavors of currant and leather on the finish. These library wines show the staying power of Ian Brand’s wines – we loved them all. A hint to hold them a bit longer. December 2021, June 2022

2021 I Brand & Family Escolle Vineyard Gamay Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, 12.2% ABV, $42 (#790)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Telicherry peppercorn and carraway seed lead the bouquet, evolving into spiced black plum notes. The peppery and spice plum carries over to the palate attack and the finish is short, but exquisitely spicy for a light to medium bodied and chillable red. Pronounced yet balanced tannins. Finishes with notes of California garrigue; think sagebrush, manzanita and mugwort.” 95 cases produced

My Review:  Oh, the Gamay Noir!  What a way to top off the afternoon! Ruby, almost purple in the glass. Very grapey nose. Grapey, smooth, jammy, good!  I took one of these wines home, too! The challenge will be to hold it and not just open it and drink it. June 2022

2018 I Brand & Family Syrah, Graff Family Vineyard, Chalone AVA, $42 (#791)

Winemaker’s Notes: The Graff Family Vineyard “…is a small 3 acre vineyard planted in 1989 to Syrah, Mourvedre and Melon de Bourgogne. The site has depleted, granitic soils and, combined with the elevation and exposure, it’s a perfect situation for producing deep, funky, expressive American Syrah.” 39 cases produced

My Review:  From our private collection. Dark ruby in the glass. Light cherry on the nose. Red fruits on the palate. This isn’t a huge Syrah – a bit lighter and more elegant, refreshing and tasty. Very nice on day 2.  May 2022

2016 I Brand & Family 52-month Chardonnay, Monterey, 15% ABV (#792)

Winemaker’s Notes: 52-months in a steel tank. Aged in the bottle one year before release. “Delicate & oxidative aromas similar to a beautiful Fino sherry. Palate confirms aromatics.  Nutty entry, candied pineapple & ripe tangerines on initial & mid-palate. Finishes with warm marzipan, toasted cinnamon, anie & cloves. Searing acidity throughout.” 41 cases produced

My Review:  I am not sure I would have guessed this was a Chardonnay. Toasted pineapple notes on the nose and palate, but an almost fortified or Sauternes-like quality on the finish – butterscotch and pineapple.  July 2022

The I Brand & Family Tasting Room is located at 19 Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village. It is open Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 6 pm.  Reservations are recommended – more information here.

© Decanting Monterey 2023

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A New Face in the I Brand Tasting Room!

Stop the presses!

I was on the road this spring quite a bit and did not make the tasting room rounds – until late in June, when we went on a tasting streak in a single long weekend!  While I was busy traveling, I sometimes sought the easy post to fulfill the weekly blog. And I have neglected some of the bigger tastings I did in the winter.  As I look back, I recall I did not post my February 2022 I Brand tasting because I had another catchup post in the works. I recently attended their first release party in a couple of years – and realized there were quite a few other wines I needed to write about first. So, I am halting the presses on my more recent flurry of tastings for this catch-up post!

I distinctly remember this tasting – when we met Will for the first time in the tasting room.  It was so nice to put a face with the new name and he warmly welcomed us. We tried to move quickly through the wines, as we were just in the neighborhood and had not planned a full tasting – we got one anyway!

I have 12 wines (zounds!) to present to you today from across all 3 labels of I Brand & Family, La Marea and Le P’tit Paysan and spanning 2016-2020. Most of these come from my February tasting, but others were from our private collection. Unless otherwise specified, winemaker’s notes come from the winery tech sheets or notes online.

While the wines speak for themselves, I’d like to include this quote from Ian’s Spring 2022 Winemaker Letter, which hit home why I remain a fan of Ian and his wines.  He talks about his “…fascination with old vineyards and more obscure varieties.” He goes on to say, “To appropriately shepherd the local winemaking industry into its best iteration, there needs to be a semi-cohesive idea of what a region is – there should be an expected balance and flavor profile shared in the wines from the region…As we are able to realize and share our ideas of our terroir, wines from the region will become more valuable, which leads to more value in our community.” You can red more about Ian and Heather Brand and their wines here: https://www.ibrandwinery.com/.

2020 I Brand & Family Pinot Gris, Eden Rift Vineyard, Cienega Valley, San Benito County, 12.2% ABV, $30 (#741)

Winemaker’s Notes: “A fresh and delicious ‘orange wine’ from mature, terraced Pinot Gris grapes on the oldest, continually producing commercial vineyard in California.”

My Review: Pale pink in the glass – balanced acidity on the palate. February 2022

2020 I Brand & Family Old Vines White, Enz Vineyard, Lime Kiln Valley, San Benito County, 13% ABV, $36 (#742)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Old Vine White field blend is a blend of 3 unusual varietals. Orange Muscat, Mission and Palamino.”

My Review:  Straw in the glass and sweet muscat and honeysuckle on the nose.  The palate was not as sweet as the nose predicted, with decent tartness with a light, slightly sweet finish.  Quite refreshing – I kind of liked it! February 2022

2017 Le P’tit Paysan Jacks Hill Chardonnay, Monterey, 12.5% ABV, $22 (#743)

Winemaker’s Notes: “A pure, fresh, minerality driven, Chablis like Chardonnay blend from Jacks Hill on the Central Coast…Blended from a collection of five small vineyards at the base of “Jack’s Hill”, in Chualar, CA…planted on the distinct iron oxide granite that dominates the east side of Salinas Valley, directly east of Sleepy Hollow North. Bright, crisp and clean with orchard fruit giving way to an intense minerality.”

92 points – Wine Enthusiast: “This bottling by Ian Brand always packs bang for the buck, but he really nailed it in the 2017 vintage. Clean and delicate aromas of Asian pear, lemon rind and edgy chalk lead into a racy, crisp and tightly wound palate. Flavors of grapefruit, nectarine, blanched almond and sea salt are delicious.” *Editors’ Choice* Matt Kettmann (2/2019)

My Review: Pale yellow in color.  Honeydew melon on the nose.  Honey and gardenia on the palate, with lime notes on the finish.  April 2022.

2018 Le P’tit Paysan Jacks Hill Chardonnay, Monterey, 13% ABV, $22 (#744)

90 points – Wine Enthusiast: “Tight and brisk aromas of lemon peel and sandstone come through on the nose of this always fairly priced bottling. It’s soft on the palate in texture, but a wet stone minerality and lemon juice acidity provide tension, with dried pear and orange peel flavors showing as well.” Matt Kettmann

My Review: A touch leaner than previous vintages with a little acidity on the finish. February 2022

2019 La Marea and 2017 Besson Old Vines Grenache – Side by Side!

2019 La Marea Grenache, Central Coast, 14% ABV, $30 (#745)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Fresh, medium bodied Grenache from three rocky vineyards averaging over 50 years of age.”

My Review:  A muddy ruby, richer in color than othis other Grenaches – almost purple.  Good cherry fruits on the palate. February 2022

2017 I Brand & Family Besson Vineyard Old Vines Grenache, Santa Clara County, $42 (#746)

94 points – Wine Enthusiast: “Sage-oil, tea-leaf and geranium notes meet with dried strawberry and rose petal on the spicy, earthy nose of this bottling. The palate is a mix of dried flowers and rocky minerality, with flavors of gravel, dried currant and more tea leaf making for a fascinating sip of century- old vines.” Matt Kettmann

My Review: Light, translucent ruby in color, but richer, more tannic flavors.February 2022

2016 I Brand & Family Besson Vineyard Old Vines Grenache, Santa Clara County, 14% ABV, $42 (#747)

Winemaker’s Notes: “A delightful and balanced expression of the Piedmontese white from the calcium laced gravels of the Vista Verde Vineyard in San Benito County.”

My Review: Dark, translucent ruby in color. Dark berries and smooth tannins on the palate.  IMHO, one of his best Grenache wines. March 2022

2018 I Brand & Family Grenache/Syrah, Chalone AVA, 13.8% ABV, $42 (#748) 72% Grenache, 28% Syrah

My Review: Ruby in the glass.  Mandarin orange and cherry notes on the nose.  Palate had more heft, complexity than usual.  Hands down one of our favorite of his Grenache-Syrah blends.  May 2022

2019 I Brand & Family Bates Ranch Cabernet Franc, Santa Cruz Mountains, 12.2% ABV, $42 (#749)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Bates Ranch Vineyard is a secret gem of the trinity of Bordeaux varietal sites nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Our Cabernet Franc fruit is from a small block planted atop rich red Franciscan volcanic influenced rocks in 1978. A classic example of Cabernet Franc…Medium to Full-bodied. Lush, dark red berries, with purple lavender and hidden dried herb components, envelope the nose. On the palate, bright acidity, plays against tannic structure. Followed by a burst of dark red fruits, balsamic reduction, and the expected herbal, bay leaf, oregano, dried basil, with touches of a peppery edge on the finish.” 109 cases produced.

My Review: Lean, a bit austere with musty flavors. February 2022 February 2022

2019 I Brand & Family Bayly Ranch Cabernet Franc, Paicines, San Benito County, 12.4% ABV, $30 (#750)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Reminiscent of old world wine making Bayly Ranch is an etherial expression of Cabernet Franc. Notes of bright berries and mild spices…”

My Review:  Richer, rounder, chewier that the Bates, with cherry and dark berry flavors. Black pepper on the finish. I prefer this wine; my partner prefers the Bates. February 2022

2019 I Brand & Family Fellom Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains, 14.6% ABV, $75 (#751)

Winemaker’s Notes: “First planted in the 40s and abutting the classic Ridge Santa Cruz Mountain property, Fellom Ranch produces among the most sought after grapes in California…Deep dark purple. Aromas of black current, cherries, clove spice, toasted oak, and cocoa. On the palate, lush & ripe, bramble fruit, enters med-full bodied, supple tannin and acid tension structure. Lovely wine, with pleasure to fill the palate, today, and years to come.”

My Review:  Ruby, purple in the glass. Some chocolate notes on the nose with smooth, rich berries on the palate.  I will do my best to hold this for an appropriate drinking time frame. February 2022

2018 Le P’tit Paysan P’tit Pape Red Rhone Blend, $22 (752)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Our classic Grenache based blend. Old world balance with a California patina. A favorite.”

93 points – Wine Enthusiast: “This blend of 52% Grenache, 36% Syrah and 12% Mourvèdre speaks so strongly to the terroir of the Central Coast as it is loaded from nose to finish with dewy sagebrush, crisp freshness and peppery spice. It begins with aromas of raspberry, pomegranate and herb, then settles comfortably into a firmly textured palate of oregano, pepper, sandalwood and more red fruit.” Matt Kettmann

My Review:  We tasted this wine out of order. Lovely, light, lean yet good. Always a favorite. February 2022

The I Brand & Family Tasting Room is located at 19 Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village. It is open Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 6 pm.  Reservations are recommended – more information here.

© Decanting Monterey 2023

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“Shopping” at Home Yields Interesting I Brand Varietals and Vintages!

I’ve been saving up these reviews for a single I Brand post. One of the things I really like about Ian’s wines is his boldness to expose us to varietals which we might not even have heard of – and to do them very well. The Arneis in this post is one of those – the Melon de Bourgogne was another we really enjoyed. And we tend to enjoy the Grenache wines – a varietal lighter than our normal fare, but one I Brand also does very well. His Cabernet Francs fascinate me – different in style from each other and always just a tad leaner than some of the big Cab Francs we tend to get around here. We’ve also been digging deep into our wine room and found some hidden treasures, like the 2012 Le P’tit Paysan Petite Sirah. 

I have 6 wines to present to you today from across all 3 labels of I Brand & Family, La Marea and Le P’tit Paysan and spanning 2012-2020 and covering Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Benito counties. Unless otherwise specified, winemaker’s notes come from the winery tech sheets or notes online.

2020 I Brand & Family Arneis, Vista Verde Vineyard, San Benito County, 12.7% ABV, $30 (#633*)

We invited our neighbor over to our sunny patio on this January day and decided to try this Arneis, a varietal I did not know! 

Winemaker’s Notes: “A delightful and balanced expression of the Piedmontese white from the calcium laced gravels of the Vista Verde Vineyard in San Benito County.”

My Review: Pale golden yellow in the glass. Bosch pear with orange blossom and lime notes on the nose. Fresh and flinty, it opened up to be a lovely wine with round, flavors of grilled pineapple with a touch of olive juice and lime on the finish. An excellent summer patio wine. January 2022

2019 I. Brand & Family Pinot Gris, Eden Rift Vineyard, Cienega Valley, San Benito County, 11.5% ABV, $30 (#634*)

I needed an orange wine for a Halloween wine class and chose this one from my wine room!  Ian Brand’s orange wax was a great tip that this would be the right wine for our purpose!  I reviewed the 2018 vintage in this blog in December 2020 here: https://decantingmonterey.com/i-brand-family-inching-our-way-to-central-coast-wines/. 

K&L Wine Merchants has a good writeup of this wine, including a Wine Enthusiast review of 92 points here: https://www.klwines.com/p/i?i=1488589

My Review: Light orange like a lollipop in the glass.  Very smooth on the palate with a pleasant tartness on the finish.  We liked this wine. October 2021

2017 La Marea Grenache, Central Coast, 13% ABV, $30 (#635*)

Winemaker’s Notes from the Wine Crush: “This Grenache is mostly sourced from Monterey; it is de-stemmed and stainless steel fermented. The color is extremely pale ruby with, clean ripe aromas of both black and red cherry. Notes of sarsaparilla and a delicate restrained earthy quality.”

Wine Enthusiast – 91 points: “Light in the glass and almost rusty in color, this bottling begins with aromas of dried cherry juice, chaparral spice and toasted sage. Lightly bodied on the palate, it’s an herbal display, showing thyme, sagebrush and toasted nuts, with touches of rosewater and red currant.” Matt Kettmann, 10/2020

My Review: A pretty, translucent ruby in the glass.  Cherry, cranberry on the nose.  Dances on the palate with light cherry and red currant, with a lingering intensity on the finish. December 2021

2014 La Marea Grenache, Brosseau Vineyard, Chalone AVA, 14.1% ABV, $38 (#636*)

Winemaker’s Notes: “Bing cherry, roasting lamb, clay. smoldering dry leaves, sea shells. Soaring aromatics. Palate opens with savory elements: garrigue, cigar tobacco, spearmint, overlaying the unmistakable elegant texture of vineyards planted on calcium-rich soils. Chaparral, menthol, red cherry and cranberry on the finish.”

My Review: Ruby in the glass.  Fresh cherry and raspberry on the nose.  This was quite yummy with fresh red fruits on the palate and darker flavors of currant and leather on the finish.  September 2021

2018 I Brand & Family Cabernet Franc, Bates Ranch, Santa Cruz Mountains, 12.3% ABV, $42 (#637*)

About Bates Ranch: “Bates Ranch, the least known of the holy trinity of Bordeaux varietal sites in the Santa Cruz Mountains…located in the extreme southeastern end of the appellation, on Redwood Retreat Road… We are honored to receive the fruit from half of a small block of Cabernet Franc planted in 1978 for this bottling. Soils in this section of the vineyard are the red Franciscan series of volcanic influenced sedimentary rocks that runs along the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains.”

Winemaker’s Tasting Notes: “Medium to Full-bodied. Lush, dark red berries, with purple lavender and hidden dried herb components on the nose. On palate, bright acidity, plays against tannic structure.  Followed by a burst of dark red fruits, balsamic reduction, and the expected herbal, bay leaf, oregano, dried basil, with touches of a peppery edge on the finish.”

K&L Wine Merchants has a good writeup of this wine, including a Wine Enthusiast review of 92 points here: https://www.klwines.com/p/i?i=1488589

My Review: Dark ruby in color.  Red fruits on the nose.  Smooth and fresh, with a medium palate of raspberry, cherry and plum. This is a lighter, more delicate Cab Franc – a great food wine.  January 2022

2012 Le P’tit Paysan Petite Sirah, Monterey County, 13.7% ABV, $22 (#638*)

Wine Enthusiast – 87 points: “Ian Brand’s stab at this grape shows a lot of black rock minerality and bloody meats on the nose, layered across blueberry syrup and sour cherry elements. The palate is much lighter than other takes on this varietal, showing menthol-laced flavors of blackberries and tobacco.” Matt Kettmann, June 2015

My Review: Inky ruby in the glass.  Dark plum and blueberry on the nose.  Soft blueberry and blackberry fruit on the palate, enveloped by a licorice finish.  October 2021

The I Brand & Family Tasting Room is located at 19 Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village. It is open Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 6 pm.  Reservations are recommended – more information here.

*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 2023

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Odonata Remembrance: “Buy a Bottle, Do a Little Big Thing”

It’s been almost a year since the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod toured the River Road Wine Trail down the Salinas Valley.  I remember after visiting them – our third winery of the day – stating that we really needed to come back to Odonata with a picnic lunch – and as the ONLY winery we visit in a single trip. Spring is almost here – se we need to get this idea into a plan soon!  Meanwhile, we recently opened the 2015 Odonata Remembrance.

About the Remembrance from the bottle: “All Proceeds from this wine are being donated equally to three important causes.1) Alzheimer’s Research 2) Cancer Research 3) Our local Women’s shelter.”

About Odonata: “Winemaker Denis Hoey released his first commercial vintage when he was 21. He now blends old world methods with new world technique to make nouveau-style wines. He strives to produce wines that are rich, textured, and balanced, and that respect terroir and varietal character. His success is based on careful attention to detail and the purposeful use of each step in winemaking: grape sources, fermentation technique, pressing regiment, barrel selection, and aging program. The result is clean, focused wines…In 2014 Hoey and his wife, Claire, bought the Marilyn Remark Winery in the Santa Lucia Highlands where they are raising their family, and running the Odonata Winery. Their property includes a 2-acre vineyard, production facility, tasting room, and a welcoming patio where visitors can enjoy their unique wine.”

I am occasionally asked if I am related to Dennis Hoey – ah, the difference one letter can make.  Alas, no…

2015 Odonata Remembrance Red Wine, Central Coast, 14.5% ABV, $28 (#621*)

From Red Wine Cats: “Odonata’s 2015 Remembrance ($28) is a luscious blend of 75% Petite Sirah and 25% Grenache. It’s one of those bottles you open, pour, and immediately enjoy. Full, round body, opaque in the glass, and an easy sipper on its own. If you like big reds without too much tannin astringency, similar to jammy Zinfandels, you’ll love this delicious bottle. You’ll also love that proceeds go to important causes.”

My Review: Almost purple in the glass. Black and blueberries on the nose. Spicy on the palate with a base of blueberry and mocha (the Petite Sirah) with a slightly touch of sweetness on the finish – it’s the Grenache talking here! We enjoyed this wine and it disappeared quickly. “A pleasant wine.”

Visiting Odonata (from their website): “Nestled at the northern edge of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA and at the beginning of the River Road wine trail lies the Odonata winery and tasting room. We hope you will stop by our tasting room and sample a selection of our current releases. We are open 7 days a week and no appointments are necessary.”

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

© Decanting Monterey 2023

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2021 Wrap Up #1: from Contra Costa to Santa Maria!

When I reduced my posts to once a week and started hitting the tasting rooms, I didn’t realize how far behind I might get! I’ve decided to present some of these single wines tasted from August to November over the next few weeks to close out 2021.  Today I am presenting 7 of them from outside Monterey County, in the order of tasting date.  Next week I’ll have a collection of Monterey County wines/wineries to close out 2021. Starting in January, I’ll be back to winery tastings with the occasional one-off wines.

PLease share this blog with your family and friends – the more the merrier! If you have not yet subscribed to my weekly blog, you can enter your email at the very bottom right of this page – then confirm it from your email. I promise no selling of your address, just my weekly post delivered straight to you. And I encourage your comments – maybe you know a winery I should check out. Also, feel free to share back what local wines you are enjoying!

2015 Donati The Immigrant, Paicines, San Benito County, 14.5% ABV, $35 (#555*)

From the Donati Family Vineyard Website: “Albino Donati immigrated to the United States from Italy in 1907.  Just like many others who came to America, he arrived with a commitment to create a better life for his family. His hard work, determination, and perserverance have created footsteps for our family to follow for generations.  The creation of “The Immigrant” is in honor of his legacy.”

Wine Enthusiast – 89 points: This bottling is very shy on the nose, offering tight boysenberry and wet gravel aromas with patience. The palate is a bit flat as well, but eventually delivers flavors of baked cherry and baking spice, held together by tense tannins. MATT KETTMANN 12/2018

My Review: Ruby in the glass. Mellow berries on the nose. Very smooth on the palate, nice berries, cedar and mint.  This is one of those super smooth reds I could just keep drinking. I would have given it a much higher score – in the 92-point range. August 2021

2019 Bonny Doon Le Cigare Volant, Central Coast, 13.5% ABV, $16 (#556*)

Wine class chose the varietal Cinsault, intending a foreign wine.  I found this Bonny Doon wine at Whole Foods in Washington DC.  My notes say I paid $23 for it, but it is generally available for less than that! 

Winemaker’s Notes from the bottle: “In 1954 the mayor of Châteauneuf-du-Pape was quite perturbed and apprehensive that UFOs are flying cigars might do damage to their vineyards. So right thinking man all, they passed a legal ordinance prohibiting such landings. The ordinance has worked well, as there have been no such landings since the adoption of this far sighted legislation. The stellar composition of our cigar Volant call flying cigar” contains 56% Grenache 30% since so 13% Sarah and 1% petite Sirah.”

Wine Enthusiast – 93 points & Best Buy:  A delicate color in the glass, this blend of 56% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, 13% Syrah and 1% Petite Sirah pops with bright raspberry, crushed rock, turned earth and lilac aromas on the nose. The palate is tense with rocky edges and yet zesty with pomegranate and strawberry flavors. MATT KETTMANN

My Review: Ruby, somewhat translucent in the glass. A little sulfur on the nose upon opening. Cherry and leather on the palate. Nice on a hot DC evening. August 2021

2017 DeRose Dry Farmed Zinfandel, Cedolini Vineyard, Cienega Valley, San Benito County, 15.1% ABV, $45 (#557*)

I picked up this wine back in 2019 and finally had the chance to try it at home.  You can read more about DeRose from a previous post here:  https://decantingmonterey.com/derose-dry-farmed-vineyards-in-the-cienega-valley/.

My Review: Beautiful ruby in the glass. Berry jam and crab (shellfish) on the nose. Berry pie on the palate – it’s a berry-o-rama in the mouth, chalky, slightly sweet, slightly ripe or cooked, with a peppery finish. September 2021

2016 Lone Madrone Dry Farmed Zinfandel, Bailey Ranch, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, 13.8% ABV, $43 (#558*)

A DC friend (Scott Gudes) brought this wine from his very first wine tasting in Paso Robles! We had it with our dinner at Poppy Hall – very nice. 

From the label: “David Bailey planted this vineyard on the old family property on Peachey Canyon Road.  This is a head pruned, dry farmed vineyard.  This wine is 100% Zinfandel – old time Paso baby! Yeahh! It is all you might expect and then just a wee bit more.”

My Review: Purple in the glass.  Jammy and spicy on the nose.  Juicy and smooth on the palate.  Opened up nicely to dark berries with an even darker, intense fruit finish.  October 2021

2015 Trinitas Old Vines Petite Sirah, Contra Costa County, 16.2% ABV, $36 (#559*)

I love a good Petite Sirah and found this for $18 at Costco!

From the Trinitas Website:  “This is by no means elegant, its rather a massive hulking bruiser of a wine! In fact, this might be the most decadently textured dry red wine we’ve ever made. Which doesn’t surprise us. 2015 was not only the third year of the drought, but also the vines we source from in Contra Costa County are mainly planted in sandy soils, so they are well drained and receive much more heat. Trust us, this all shows in the wine! This deep, dark-purple elixir has skyrocketing aromas of baked blueberries, blackberries, and toasted vanilla. With just one sip, its heavenly texture completely saturates the palate with baked berry cobbler and vanilla bean flavors that are lifted by dusty tannins as it trails off into a very persistent finish. This is so opulent, juicy, and scrumptious, that it’s nearly impossible to resist. Which is probably why Wine Enthusiast awarded it 93 points and Editor’s Choice!”

My Review: Inky in the glass with aromas of smooth dark berries.  Very dark blueberry and blackberry fruit on the palate with cassis and black currant on the finish.  Very smooth.  Great value for the flavor – I would buy this again!October 2021

2017 Turley Zinfandel, Duarte Vineyard, Contra Costa County, 15.3% ABV, $33 (#560*)

From the Turley website: “This wine is an homage to Joe Duarte, a prominent grape grower in Contra Costa who first introduced Turley to the incredible vineyards of the area. The wine is comprised of fruit from the turn-of-the-century Evangehlo, Mori, and Salvador vineyards, planted between 1890 and 1960.Thanks to the sandy soils and impressive age of the vines, the wine has some of the softest, silkiest tannins we’ve ever seen in a Zinfandel.”

My Review: Very dark ruby in color.  Smoke and plum on the nose.  Jammy brambleberry with spice on the palate.  A spicy finish with a touch of tobacco. If you stumble on a Turley Duarte, pick it up – I usually recommend decanting Turley wines. October 2021

2015 The Ojai Vineyard Syrah, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley,13.5% ABV, $45 (#561*)

The Ojai Vineyard Tasting Notes: “Aromas come on with many of the usual suspects from Bien Nacido—cured meat, purple flowers, rock dust—but also a concentrated fruity exuberance that tilts toward liqueur. It drinks with that same balance, coming on with an lavish blanket of dark fruits before gaining pitch and lengthening into a smoky savory beauty, closing out late with those cool-climate notes of herby tapenade, wood smoke and peppery meat crust. The forward feel will have many drink this sooner than later, but for peak rapture age this for several years, at least.” 97 points- Jeb Dunnuck!!

My Review: Berry blast on the nose, followed by some menthol and leather. Super delicious on the palate. Spice on the finish. We followed the Vineyard Aging Recommendations, opening this one before the 2012 Syrah, which is still not ready!  We served this with Thanksgiving leftovers. I loved this wine – probably one of the best Syrahs I have recently consumed. 

*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 2023

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