Tagged: @decanting_monterey

Unexpected Find of 2014 I Brand Cabernet Sauvignon at Pacific’s Edge Leads to Discovery of Highly Rated 2021 Vintage!

THE STORY

The last time we took a scenic drive through the Carmel Highlands, my husband suggested we dine at Pacific’s Edge sometime. When he asked me where I wanted to go for my birthday, I asked we go there for a sunset dinner! He brought along one of my favorite wines to open with our meal. When we found this 2014 I Brand & Family Monte Bello Road Cabernet Sauvignon on the menu, we immediately pivoted and ordered that instead.  We remember these rare bottlings of Monte Bello Road and were excited to see how far it had come. While we didn’t get to see a sunset (alas, coastal weather), our fine dining experience was enhanced by this special I Brand & Family @ibrandwinery wine.

But hold the presses! When doing some research for this article, I stopped in the tasting room to ask some questions.  Tasting Room Manager Will found the original tech sheet for this wine and informed me the 2021 vintage received a 98 point rating from Jeb Dunnuck! Wow – impressive!

THE WINERY

I’ve written about I Brand & Family many times in Decanting Monterey. The most recent full post was here: I Brand & Family- The 2025 Spring Releases! The rest you can easily find by typing I Brand in the search bar.

THE VINEYARD

According to I Brand’s tech sheet, “Fellom Ranch is located atop of the Montebello Ridge outside of Saratoga, California between 2000-2400 fee The vineyard overlooks the San Francisco Peninsula and bay and the legendary Ridge Montebello Vineyard, with which it shares a border. The property was purchased by State Senator Roy Fellom in 1929. The modern vineyard was planted in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s by Roy (Bud) Fellom III. We get the east and northeast facing portion, which is mostly Beringer selection from 1980 and 1982. At the base of Montebello Ridge is the largest lime quarry in Northern California and the upthrusted seafloor that forms the Montebello and Black Mountain Ridges, unique to California.” You can read more about Fellom Ranch Vineyards here.

THE WINE

Today I am presenting two wines. Winery notes in general come from the tasting sheet, their website, or from tasting room staff unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone!

2014 I Brand & Family Cabernet Sauvignon, Monte Bello Road, Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, 14.8% ABV, $50 (#1568) (Fellom Ranch, Montebello Road)

Wine Enthusiast – 92 Points: “Elegant aromas of black raspberry, blueberry, violets and black pepper show on the nose of this bottling, which comes from grapes located adjacent to the historic Ridge winery. Sandalwood frames the palate, which offers the region’s typical herb and spice-rack flavors atop a rounded blackberry core. The tannins are firm now, and need some time to resolve.” Matt Kettmann, 06/2018

My Review: Rich nose of crushed berries and cherry, with blackberry and dark cherry dominant.  Nose carries over to the slightly chalky palate.  The leanness of Ian Brand’s style is balanced by the richness of the fruit in this solid Cabernet Sauvignon. Drinking well. May 2025

2021 I Brand & Family Cabernet Sauvignon, Fellom Ranch Montebello Road, Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, 14.8% ABV, $50 (#1569)

Winery Notes: “Deep dark purple. Aromas of black currant, cherries, clove spice, toasted oak, and cocoa. On the palate, lush & ripe, bramble fruit, enters medium-to-full bodied, supple tannin, and acid tension structure. A lovely wine with pleasure to fill the palate today and for years to come.” 98 points – Jeb Dunnuck

My Review: Rich nose of crushed berries and cherry, with blackberry and dark cherry dominant.  Nose carries over to the slightly chalky palate.  The leanness of Ian Brand’s style is balanced by the richness of the fruit in this solid Cabernet Sauvignon. Drinking well. May 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Carmel Valley Decanter!”

The I Brand & Family Tasting Room, located at 19 Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village. It is open Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 5 pm.  Reservations are recommended – more information here.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Eric Kent: “…making wine, discovering new art and sharing them both”

THE STORY

Always looking for a wine bargain, we discovered today’s wine – an easy-drinking Eric Kent Cabernet Sauvignon on sale for $15 at K&L Wine Merchants. You can find quite a few current and past Eric Kent wines on their website. This is the first Eric Kent wine I have posted on Decanting Monterey.

What I found equally interesting was the art on the label. The featured artist on this bottle was Hilary Williams. This particular print is from 2017 and called “Haight Street Dream.” You can find more of her work on her Instagram site @hilaryatthecircus, which is where I found the title of this print!

THE WINERY

Eric Kent Wines (@erickentwines) is a “boutique producer of hand-crafted Sonoma County wines featuring inspiring artists’ works on our labels.” The website bio for Paul Kent, partner and winemaker, shares their purpose: “…Of course this work is hard, sometimes stressful and often less glamorous than one might imagine… but it’s also fascinating, exhilarating, inspiring and rewarding like nothing else I’ve ever done. The way I see it, making wine, discovering new art and sharing them both with others is about as good as it gets. To our many customers who make this possible, I offer my most sincere thanks. I raise my glass to each and every one of you!”

THE WINE

Today I’m presenting a single wine from Eric Kent. Winery notes come from their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2021 Eric Kent Cabernet Sauvignon, Contra Costa AVA, 14.5% ABV, $32 (#1568)

Winery Notes: “Bigger and bolder than our previous Appellation Series Cabernet, this vintage will please most people at the table. You’ll find plenty of sweet, ripe black cherry, black currant, framboise and plum, accented with just a touch of barrel spice. Tannins are surprisingly mild and well integrated already, adding to an overall suppleness and lush mouthfeel. Eager to please and easy to drink, here’s another no-brainer selection for casual get-togethers and summer fare off the grill.?”

My Review: Dark plum and cherry aromas on the nose. Not musty, but not fruity. Chalky on the smooth palate. Mint on the finish. Very drinkable! April 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

You can taste their wines by appointment only in Santa Rosa by going to their website or Instagram account and contacting them directly.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

2021 Carol Shelton Grenache Noir: a Balance of the Sweet and the Savory

THE STORY

When we are looking for a wine to open, it is easy to gravitate toward a Carol Shelton. Her wines are reliably tasty and on the big side of red. This Grenache Noir brings us something a little different from her usual big Zins. 

My last post about Carol Shelton Wines is here: Zinfandel Expert Carol Shelton: the Road to Zen.I’ve written about Carol and her wines several times.  Just type Carol Shelton in the search bar. 

THE WINERY

Carol Shelton was one of the pioneer female winemakers in a man’s world.  She spent almost 2 decades as a winemaker for others until her husband urged her to start making her own wines.  You can read her full story here: THE ROAD TO ZEN.

THE WINE

Today I’m presenting 1 wine, the 2021 Carol Shelton Grenache Noir. Winery notes come from their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

THE GRAPE

“Grenache Noir is the darker-skinned member of the Grenache family, which also includes green-skinned Grenache Blanc and mauve-skinned Grenache Gris—it is often just referred to as “Grenache” (or Garnacha in Spain), although that is sort of like just saying “Pinot” instead of Pinot Noir or Pinot Blanc/Gris. In any case, the variety is clearly color challenged, but it produces such lovely delicate red fruit that we can forgive that! We selected this lot from wines destined for the Coquille Rouge blend because we fell in love with its easy-drinking vivacity—enjoy!”

2021 Carol Shelton Grenache Noir, Contra Costa AVA, Contra Costa County, 13% ABV, $28 (#1567)

Winery Notes: “Color is only a bit darker than our Rosé! Nose shows delightful ripe strawberry aromas and some peppery spice, along with a bit of black cherry fruit, and of savory leather notes in the background. Lighter bodied in mouth but super soft and creamy with a nice tangy finish. This would be fantastic with any lighter dishes with poultry or fish, or vegetarian meals, especially with lots of mushrooms! Try Chicken with Snow peas and Shiitake mushrooms, perhaps?”

My Review: Pale, tinged garnet in the glass. Sweet plum and raspberry jam on the nose. Tasty cranberry and raspberry jam on the finish. A clear exhibition of this winemaker’s touch. Not like our Monterey Grenache wines. April 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Taste the Magic

“The setting for Carol Shelton Wines may not be what wine tasters envision when planning a visit to wine country. But Zin and fine wine lovers stepping into our homey, unpretentious tasting room will find a dream come true…

“We are open for tastings 7 days a week from 11 – 4.  Reserve tasting fee is $20 per person each tasting fee may be waived with purchase of one bottle.

“Walk-ins are welcome or give us a call (707-575-3441) to make a reservation and come on by to taste our award-winning wines.”

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

De Tierra Vineyards: On a Mission to “…translate the defining flavors of place into great wine!”

THE STORY

I was hunting around for a place to hold the May Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society (AWS) First Friday meeting and contacted Jeff Meacham of De Tierra Vineyards. I received an immediate YES from him, making it one of the easiest places we have booked to date! 

Our growing AWS group enjoyed the wines, an in-depth educational presentation by Jeff, great service by the staff and their lovely space.  An extra bonus is you can order charcuterie or focaccia to accompany your tasting!  My “dinner” there was delicious!

If your Monterey area winery has the capacity and interest to host us (up to 35 people) for one of our educational events, please let me know!

My last post about De Tierra Vineyards was here: De Tierra: “…the best representation ‘of the land’”.

ABOUT DE TIERRA:

From their website: “De Tierra creates delicious, award-winning, and sustainably harvested wines to share from the unique terroir of Monterey County. De Tierra, as our name suggests, focuses on providing the best representation ‘of the land’. Great wines begin in the vineyard, and it is our goal to translate the defining flavors of place into great wine!”

De Tierra staff pouring our wines!

Jeff Meacham, who purchased the vineyard 2.5 years ago, educated us about the vineyard’s history – here are some of my notes:  25 years ago, Tom Russell was passionate about wine. He was seeking a property that had been organically farmed and would be Sustainable in Practice (SIP). He found it in Corral de Tierra, where there had been no overspray of pesticides. The first planting was their Merlot and it was the only commercial vineyard in Corral. (Jeff took a moment to inform us why it is important to make organic wines – that one of the reasons some wine isn’t good for you is the pesticides.)

Today they have 49 acres planted to 5 varietals. Last year, they acquired Hilltop Ranch Vineyards, as well (which used to be Cima Colina) which added Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris to their varietals. They are shifting their focus to estate wines and they wanted sole access.

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you 5 wines from De Tierra Vineyards.  Winery notes come from their website, newsletters or tasting room. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 De Tierra Chardonnay, Russell Estate, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 13.3% ABV, $49 (#1555)

Winery Notes: “Lively color of pale gold and glimmers of green. On the nose you’ll pickup honeydew melon, pear, apricot, yellow apple and honeysuckle…Notes of Asian pear, star fruit and pineapple. Strikes a delicious profile between minerality and robust fruit character. Beautifully well balanced acid and a smooth finish.”  100%. Lighter brighter. They also have a Monterey chard with 25% new oak.

My Review: Pale in the glass. Lime twist on the nose.  A lot of minerality on the palate. Tasty. May 2025

2024 De Tierra Rose, Hilltop Ranch, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 14.6% ABV, $44 (#1556)

Winery Notes: “Pale ruby in color with notes of cranberry, pomegranate and strawberry…Black cherry and plum with a hint of mushroom. Velvet in texture with notes of blueberry and dark chocolate.”

My Review: Pale red in the glass. Heavy Pinot Noir flavors on the palate – lots of skin contact it seems to me (later confirmed by the winery). A rather big palate for a rose. May 2025

2022 De Tierra Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $64 (#1557)

Winery Notes: “Pale ruby in color with notes of cranberry, pomegranate and strawberry…Black cherry and plum with a hint of mushroom. Velvet in texture with notes of blueberry and dark chocolate.”

My Review: Very tasty. Cherry and raspberry flavors dance on the palate, balancing out the tannins. There is something so enjoyable about this wine. May 2025

2020 De Tierra Puzzler Red Blend, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $54 (#1558)

Winery Notes: “Garnet in color. Nose offers notes of rich earth, plum, fresh fig, black licorice and a hint of spice…Plush tannins balance this very complex full bodied wine. This wine starts with notes of plum and blackberry, then leads to black tea with a long tobacco finish.”

My Review: Very dark in the glass. Notes of blackberry and plum on the nose. Merlot dominates on the palate – a very soft and drinkable red blend – always a favorite selection of mine from De Tierra. May 2025

2020 De Tierra Petite Sirah, Pedregal de Paicines, Central Coast AVA, 14% ABV, $69 (#1559)

Winery Notes: “Extraordinary deep purple color, with notes of fresh blackberry, black tea, black pepper, pomegranate…Full-bodied flavors of blackberry, blueberry, chocolate, plums and black pepper, mocha, dense tannins. Our limited release Petite Sirah recently won GOLD and earned a 96 points rating at the California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition 2023.”

My Review: Dark plum, cassis, blackberry, blueberry and anise. This is a very smooth, full-bodied wine. I took some home! May 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“De Tierra provides a one of a kind tasting room experience in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Just 1½ blocks off Ocean Ave., our tasting room is located in a cozy cottage that opens up to the sights and sounds of downtown. Come visit us and experience our extensive wine portfolio which features many single varietal wines, unique blends, sparkling and dessert wines. Make it a perfect match with our available locally sourced small bites.

“The Tasting Room at De Tierra Vineyards is open to the public Mon-Thr: 1pm-6pm and Fri-Sun: 1pm -7pm. Reservations are not needed, but are encouraged.” Click here for more information and to make a reservation.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

A Long Overdue Visit to Swirling Hawk Vineyards!

THE STORY

I first heard about Swirling Hawk from its winemaker Frank Melicia, the winemaker at Parsonage and Silvestri.  When one of our Monterey Chapter of the AWS members told me he was arranging a tour and tasting, I jumped on that tour.  In late April, about a dozen of us met with David, the owner, at the winery for the story, a tour and a wine tasting.  Swirling Hawk is not open to the public and only does small, private tastings with friends.

My bottom line: If you ever get an invitation to Swirling Hawk, say yes – you will be glad you did. The beautiful estate and vineyards are tucked away in Hidden Valley, off the Laureles Grade. The hospitality is first rate, as are the impressive wines.  Moreover, all of that was accompanied by a lovely charcuterie spread. I took several wines home and am already looking forward to what is next.

This is the first time I’ve written about Swirling Hawk in Decanting Monterey.

ABOUT SWIRLING HAWK

From their website:

David & Marieke Arizini, Proprietors

“David’s family has been involved in the wine industry his entire life which nurtured his life long dream–to produce a world class wine for all to enjoy.

“After graduating college, he moved to California as a wine salesman where he met Marieke.  Throughout their courtship, whether a casual gathering with loved ones, a dinner while traveling, or watching a sunset, they have always marveled at how a special bottle of wine dramatically enhances the experience.

“In 2017, they discovered Swirling Hawk Vineyards, a vineyard they knew would produce wines of exceptional quality and complexity.  Swirling Hawk is singularly focused on delivering Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that will embody the unique air, land and sea characteristics surrounding this extraordinary vineyard.”

David shared that his current production is 250 cases. He currently has 15 barrels and will expand to 22. His wine club is modest – like his production:  1 release of 6 bottles per year.  Nice.

2018 was their first vintage. The grapes experienced shorter hang time but even temperatures. The 115 clone of Pinot Noir was most dominant in that blend. In 2019, the grapes received a longer hang time and hotter weather, resulting in a much different flavor profile – more raspberry and cherry.

As best I could capture from David’s descriptions, Swirling Hawk has 13 acres of estate wine consisting of 777/116 and 667 Pinot Noir clones. The Pommard vines are only 6 years old, while the rest are 25. The Pinot Noir wine is aged in 50% new oak and 50% neutral oak. He has 10 unique barrels from which to determine the reserve blend, which is 2/3 Pommard clone.

All this talks about Pinot Noir clones can boggle one’s mind.  I found this helpful article in Wine Enthusiast: A Wine Geek’s Guide to Pinot Noir Clones Around the World.

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you 4 wines from Swirling Hawk.  Winery notes come from our visit to the winery. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 Swirling Hawk Chardonnay, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, $50 (#1551)

Winery Notes: During our visit, David indicated he only made 15 cases of this wine. It is sold out, yet we were able to taste it at this private event.  Stainless steel fermentation, but some oak sticks added just a touch of buttery richness.

My Review: Golden in color and viscous in the glass. Buttery nose balanced by citrus and white blossoms notes. Minerality on the palate with a citrus twist finish. May 2025

2022 Swirling Hawk Pinot Noir, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 14.7% ABV, $60 (#1552)

Winery Notes: This Pinot Noir is a blend of estate grapes: About 1/3 Pommard, 1/3 Swann and 1/3 of the rest of the hillside grapes.

My Review: Deep in color. Dark plum, Bing cherry and strawberry on the rich, fruity nose. This Pinot Noir is all fruit, like a dark cherry Jolly Rancher (in a good way). To me, this is a richer representation of the finest Monterey can produce. This was my favorite wine of the tasting. May 2025

2023 Swirling Hawk Pinot Noir, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 14.6% ABV, $60 (#1553)

My Review: Dark, dense garnet in color. Dark plum and black licorice on the nose. The palate was scrumptious – a rich, delicious wine. Drinking exquisitely. Wish I had some at home. If you’ve got one in your cellar, now is the time to drink it. April 2025

2023 Swirling Hawk Reserve Pinot Noir, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 14.6% ABV, $75 (#1554)

Winery Notes: The reserve blend is made from 2/3 Pommard and 1/3 Swan grapes, with 2/3 neutral and 1/3 new barrels.

My Review: Dark, dense garnet in color. Dark plum and black licorice on the nose. The palate was scrumptious – a rich, delicious wine. Drinking exquisitely. Wish I had some at home. If you’ve got one in your cellar, now is the time to drink it. April 2025

Our tour included a visit to “The Barn” where our friend Sarah enjoyed the fireplace.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

A NEW TURLEY FROM PASO ROBLES!

THE STORY

It was another evening warranting a Turley. In my hunt in our wine room, I found this 2020 Zinfandel from Amadeo’s Vineyard in Paso Robles. This would be the first time trying a wine from this vineyard and is the singular wine in today’s post. 

But perhaps the even bigger news is my discovery that Turley recently closed its Amador County tasting room and winery.  When I couldn’t find that tasting room on its website, I found the news in this Instagram post.

You can read my last post about Turley here: SOMETIMES YOU JUST WANT TO ENJOY A TURLEY!

THE WINERY

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.”

THE VINEYARD

ABOUT AMADEO’S VINEYARD (from the Turley website)

“This historic site was planted in the 1920s as the only vineyard supplying the family-owned Amadeo Martinelli winery, located adjacent to the dry-farmed vines. In true Italian tradition, the vineyard is interplanted with cherry trees, as well as a handful of Grenache vines. The slope faces north and as such Amadeo’s is the coolest climate site we work with in Paso Robles, making it the last one to come in at harvest. As a result, the wine has a sleek texture, phenomenal acidity, and impressive depth.”

THE WINE

I have just 1 wine to present to you today from Turley. Winery notes come from their website, unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2020 Turley Zinfandel, Amadeo’s Vineyard, Paso Robles AVA, San Luis Obispo County, 15.3% ABV, $42 (#1547)

Winery Notes: “A cooler climate 1920s dry-farmed estate vineyard in Paso. Black currant, black pepper, garrigue, meat marinade, crème de mûre, and lavender. Lush yet savory, would be excellent with lamb. Drink now at 55°-60°F.”

My Review: Garnet, almost purple, in the glass. Dark berry jam notes on the nose. Rich berry jam on the palate. Some yeasty notes throughout. April 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

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

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

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

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Showcasing the Exceptional Wines of Lucia by Pisoni!

THE STORY

Today’s post is about 2 exceptional Lucia by Pisoni wines we have enjoyed recently. One was given to us by a visiting friend and the other we ordered while dining at the The Fish Hopper on Monterey’s Cannery Row. 

I’ve written about Lucia by Pisoni a couple of times –the best way to find them would be to search “Pisoni” on the Decanting Monterey website.

THE WINERY

About Lucia by Pisoni:

“The terrain was rough.  There was no water.  ‘Gary is crazy’ everyone said.  Years later, he had developed one of “California’s great sites.” Read the whole story here!

Gary Pisoni is one of the pioneers in exceptional winegrowing and winemaking in the Santa Lucia Highlands. When he told his parents he wanted to plant vineyards on their farmland, his parents thought he was crazy.  He planted his first 5 acres in 1982 and, once he found a water source, he expanded the vineyard another 17 acres. Those grapes are now amongst the most respected and coveted in all of Monterey County.  He finally began producing his own wines in 2000.  His operation is a family affair, with his two sons, Mark and Jeff Pisoni, joining the team.

THE WINES

Today I am presenting 2 Lucia by Pisoni wines. As usual, the winery notes come from their tasting sheet, website, or conversations with the owner. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2022 Lucia by Pisoni Estate Cuvee Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $55 (#1545)

Winery Notes (2018 Vintage): “The Lucia Pinot Noir Estate Cuvée represents the synergy that develops when three estate-farmed vineyards are blended and bottled as a singular wine. The 2022 vintage is comprised of 70% Pisoni Vineyards, 14% Garys’ Vineyard, and 16% Soberanes Vineyard. As the wine’s medium-ruby hue fills the glass, aromas of crushed strawberry, spiced plum, and underlaying hints of dark berry develop. The Pinot Noir transitions to the palate and shows savory notes of Asian spice, black tea, then gains volume with notes of plush red berries and subtle vanilla—from eleven months of aging in 45% new French oak barrels. The heavy morning fog and bracing coastal winds of the mountainous Santa Lucia Highlands keep this wine fresh and provide acidity that reawakens the palate after each sip. The finish shows youthful and layered, yet distinctly approachable tannin.”

You can read more about this wine on its tech sheet here.

My Review: Translucent, dark ruby with a purple tinge in the glass. Faint cherry nose with a quaffable palate with cherry and brambly flavors. This is not your typical SLH Pinot Noir! April 2025

2021 Lucia by Pisoni Syrah, Soberanes Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, Monterey County, 14.2% ABV, $65 (#1546)

Winery Notes (2018 Vintage): “Staking its claim as an immaculate representation of the new world, yet harkening back to its ancestral old-world roots, the 2021 Lucia Soberanes Vineyard Syrah is a harmonizing display of this variety. The explosive profile bursts from the bottle immediately upon removing the cork and amplifies as this deep purple wine splashes into a glass. The aromatic intricacies are woven around notes of macerated blueberries and blackberry compote paired with a perfume of anise, violets, and fresh herbs. Coating the palate, this Syrah manages an unmistakable concentration and an undeniable elegance. Berry cobbler, new leather, toasted vanilla bean, and olive tapenade flavors gain momentum as the wine takes each breath. Vibrant acid and firm tannin from 100% whole cluster fermentation proclaim this wine’s youth. Drink now if you must, but patience will reward those who can resist the temptation of early enjoyment.”

You can read more about this wine on its tech sheet here.

My Review: I am disappointed to discover that I did not take tasting notes for this wine. I recall it being very smooth, sophisticated and delicious.  I am not usually a fan of SLH Syrah but this one proved me wrong. The San Francisco Chronicle calls their Syrah “California’s Syrah at its best.” April 2025

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

A Cellar-Worthy Massa Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon by Outward Wines!

THE STORY

My partner is always on the lookout for Central Coast bargains on the K&L Wine Merchants, where he found this 2023 Outward Massa Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon on sale for $30.  We picked up a couple to try now and later. It’s pretty young for trying now, but we did.  Today’s post is about Outward and this single wine. You can read my previous posts about the Durney legacy of the Massa Vineyard here.

THE WINERY

About Outward Wines: “Outward Wines is a partnership between Ryan Pace and Natalie Siddique. We produce small-lot, site-specific wines from California’s Central Coast. We currently farm about 6 acres of vines ourselves and also source grapes from vineyards along the coast. All of these vineyards are organically farmed at minimum.

“In the winery, we strive to minimize our impact in order to allow for a clear picture of what the site can provide naturally, and to give our wines a true sense of time and place.”

THE WINE

Today I am presenting 1 Outward wine. As usual, the winery notes come from their tasting sheet, website, or conversations with the owner. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2023 Outward Cabernet Sauvignon, Massa Vineyard, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 13.3% ABV, $42 (#1544)

Winery Notes (2018 Vintage): “With no new oak influence, our Massa Cabernet is our ode to the old-school Cabs of California. Our 2023 Cab from this site carries a robust bouquet of aromatics with well-integrated tannins to provide body and structure. Brambly red and black fruits, notes of leather, cedar, and herbaceousness bounce from the glass, while integrated acidity and soft tannins complete the palate. This is a ready-to-drink Cabernet for any occasion—with or without food.” You can read more about this wine and the Massa Vineyard’s legacy here which also has a link to its tech sheet.

My Review: Garnet in color. Fruity nose with scents of dark plum, crushed berries, and cherry. Raspberry jam with blackberry notes, chocolate and leather on the medium- weight palate, leaving you wanting more. The palate wraps with grippy tannins and lingering vanilla notes, wondering how this wine would taste if you could cellar it for a few more years. We’ll try. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Private tastings, by appointment

“We currently offer private, by-appointment tastings at our humble winery production space located in Grover Beach. Visits are approximately 75 minutes in duration and include a tasting of 5-7 wines. Tasting fees are $40 per person.” Please visit their website here for more information.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Shale Canyon’s New Release: 2019 Cabernet Franc

THE STORY

I popped into the Shale Canyon Tasting Room in Carmel-by-the-Sea in February and was informed their 2019 Cabernet Franc had just been released.  Their Cabernet Franc wines are their flagship, award winning wines. I presented an earlier vintage in one of my DC wine classes and was excited to try this one.

THE WINERY

About Shale Canyon from their website: “Shale Canyon Wines started vinting small lots of hand crafted varietals in 2008…Currently Shale Canyon Wines is comprised of Keith Prader, the winemaker, and Tim Prader tasting room and vineyard manager.

“Current production is about 1000+ cases per year with our main focus on producing wines that have outstanding nose, mouth feel and finish.  For the Estate wines we   are currently growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Zinfandel, Tempranillo, Petite Sirah and Mourvèdre.  We source fruit from larger, well established vineyards whose farming practices are exemplary in the industry and whose fruit is second to none.  The varietals include Syrah, Malbec, Chardonnay and Petite Sirah.  We enjoy making classic and unique blends as well .  Our Consortium is a classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.  The Striation is 75% Zinfandel and 25% Mourvèdre, a wonderful floral wine.  And Amalgamation, a very interesting blend of Zinfandel, Tempranillo and Petite Sirah. Quality is our main goal.  Quantity is always secondary. We hope you try and enjoy our wines!”

THE WINE

Today I am presenting 1 Shale Canyon wine. As usual, the winery notes come from their tasting sheet, website, or conversations with the owner. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2019 Shale Canyon Cabernet Franc, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 14.4% ABV, $40 (#1543) 

Winery Notes (2018 Vintage): “Our 2018 Estate Cabernet Franc starts with aromas of dark fruit, slight oak and a touch of floral.  A complex wine with flavors of dark cherry, dark berry and cassis.  A finish of vanilla with a hint of leather and medium firm tannins.

“Cabernet Franc is one of the world’s top 20 most popular grape varieties. Recent DNA testing has proven it to be an ancestor to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenère and Malbec. It is so popular that is has its own “wine” holiday, International Cabernet Day is celebrated August 30th.”

My Review: Rust in color. Cranberry leather, dark, plum eucalyptus and cassis on the nose. Juicy palate of blackberry, cherry, a touch of prune and anise on the finish. Medium to full bodied. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Visit Shale Canyon’s Tasting Room! You can try Shale Canyon wines ($20 and $25 tastings) at their tasting room on Paseo San Carlos Courtyard, Westside San Carlos between Ocean and 7th, Carmel-by-the-Sea.  Their Spring hours are Monday-Thursday 1–4pm; Friday 1-7; Saturday 12-7; Sunday 1 – 5 and suggest reservations for parties of 6 or more.  You can contact them at reservations@shalecanyonwines.com.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

I Brand & Family- The 2025 Spring Releases!

THE STORY

On a whim, we stopped by the I Brand & Family @ibrandwinery tasting room last month to discover their spring releases were available to try! Angie walked us through them all. I like to see what Ian Brand is making, as you never know what surprises might be revealed – a rare varietal or an unusual source.  It is wine education in a bottle! Today’s offerings were new vintages of mostly familiar (by now) sources, some still young in the bottle – ones to cellar a bit before opening.  Again, I refer to the lost vintage of 2020 reds.

ABOUT I BRAND & FAMILY

I’ve written about I Brand & Family many times in Decanting Monterey. The most recent full post was here: I Brand & Family Presents a Stunning Collection of Petite Sirah! The rest you can easily find by typing I Brand in the search bar on www.decantingmonterey.com.

THE WINES – The 2025 Spring Releases

Today I am presenting 6 wines we tasted in mid-February. Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, their website, or from tasting room staff. This was our last stop of the afternoon. Any errors are mine and mine alone!

2024 La Marea Albariño, Kristy Vineyard, Monterey AVA, Monterey County, 12.3% ABV, $25 (#1535)

Winery Notes: “Aromas of white nectarine and honeysuckle abound. Bright acidity leads on the palate framed by a redolence of underripe pineapple and stone fruit, which persist and blend with wet river rock on the finish.”

My Review:Light in the glass. Sweet floral and bubble gum (banana) nose, with a slightly sweet palate, missing some of the acidity and minerality we’ve come to expect. Worthy of a retaste, as this is usually one of our favorite wines year over year. February 2025

2024 Paysan Rosé, Central Coast AVA, 12.9% ABV, $19 (#1536) 72% Mourvèdre, 15% Cinsault, 14% Grenache

Winery Notes: “Initial aromas of watermelon and cantaloupe are inescapable, transitioning to trailside strawberry with a touch of air. Melons and strawberries persist on the palate, and bright red fruits continue into the finish transforming into a pleasing strawberry-basil herbaceous salinity.”

My Review: Pretty light pink in the glass.  Magnolia and wet hay on the nose. Good acidity on the bright palate. Young but good. February 2025

2021 La Marea Grenache, Central Coast AVA, 14.4% ABV, $30 (#1537)

Winery Notes: “Black Plum, currants and herbaceous notes like bay laurel abound on the nose framed by subtle hints of graphite.  Tree-ripened plum leads on the palate quickly revealing more subtle red fruit characteristics, including Bing cherry and strawberry with thyme.  The palate transitions into more river rock and broken stone characteristics and hint toward Tellicherry peppercorn.  Violets fill the mid palate and are wrapped neatly in dusty tannins.”

My Review: Bright, translucent ruby in the glass. Tobacco on the nose. Earth and light cherry on palate. Some sediment. February 2025

2023 I Brand & Family Mourvèdre, Graff Family Vineyard, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 12.5% ABV, $45 (#1538)

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

My Review: Almost purple in color. Bing cherry on the nose. Some violet and light cherry notes with a dark finish. A lighter palate than a typical Mourvèdre. February 2025

2022 I Brand & Family Pinot Noir, Flint Vineyard, Cienega Valley AVA, San Benito County, 13.2% ABV, $36 (#1539)

Winery Notes: “The Flint Vineyard is at the base of Mount Harlan, home to Calera, and because the cold air sinks off the mountain onto the property, it buds out late and picks about a month later than Enz and a couple of weeks later than the ‘cool climate’ Santa Lucia Highlands. The Flint Vineyard bears the signature of the special mixed granitic and calcareous soils of the Cienega combined with the darker red fruits and cherry compote character of a cool climate Pinot Noir…

“Berries were tiny in 2022 and the crop was light. Fermented uninocultated on 50% whole cluster with the balance whole berries for two and a half weeks. Aged in used French oak barrels on lees for 20 months. Our 2022 Flint Pinot Noir shows the tension of the vintage quelled by a long rest in barrique.”

 My Review:  Sweet fruit on the nose. Cherry and chocolate. Very smooth and drinkable. This wine makes me appreciate what Pinot Noir can be. We took some home. February 2025.

2022 I Brand & Family Syrah, Graff Family Vineyard, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 12.8% ABV, $48 (#1539)

Winery Notes: “Earthy, meaty notes of peppered beef jerky. Graphite and clay transition into a savory mix of fire-roasted tomato confit and guajillo chili, which evolve into dark fruit reminiscent of a spiced blueberry compote ending with cumin and cardamom on the finish.”

My Review:  This was our last wine of the day, so the notes are a little skimpy and don’t do service to the wine – will need to try this one again. Cherry flavors on a lean palate. A tad acidic. February 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

The I Brand & Family Tasting Room, located at 19 Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village. It is open Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 5 pm.  Reservations are recommended – more information here.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

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