Tagged: #decantingmonterey

Indigené Cellars: “Sip and Savor the Terroir”

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 3

THE STORY

Still on Day One of our weekend in Paso Robles, I was on a mission to taste Monterey wines at Indigené Cellars.  We had a hard time finding them, as they are located off the alley, unlike most of the downtown wineries facing the central plaza. They are tucked away right next to Jeffry’s Wine Country BBQ, where we had dinner. As a bonus, we got to meet briefly vintner Raymond Smith while we were at the winery. (For more about our Paso weekend, see all my posts here and subscribe for free to see all the upcoming installments!)

I heard about Indigené Cellars some time back and had corresponded with Raymond about finding a way to sample some of his Carmel Valley AVA wines.  I’ve tasted the Ambiente once before, but this was or chance to taste a broader portfolio of his wines.

THE WINERY

About Indigené Cellars from their website:

“Established in 2006, Indigené Cellars has astounded discerning wine lovers for more than a decade. Our small, family-run winery is dedicated to terroir-based winemaking to produce exceptional and noteworthy wines. We at Indigené invite you to experience our humble translation of art, nature, and tradition.”

About Raymond Smith:

“Raymond Smith, founder of Indigené Cellars celebrates the origin of the terroir in every bottle of wine he makes. After years of bottling and tasting both fruit off the vine and wine, Smith has found his niche making wines that, as the land, are in a constant state of evolution and known to wow visitors with every sip.

“Born and raised in Oakland, CA, Smith worked as a ship joiner and grocery clerk, relocating to Paso Robles, CA, a small town on the Central Coast in the late 1980’s. He quickly acclimated himself to the many aspects of the wine business. Shortly thereafter he helped build and eventually owned and operated a small fleet of mobile wine bottling lines, developing great relationships with growers and producers, who shared the intricacies of the wine business.  Smith chose to further challenge himself and work to create excellent growing conditions and ideal cellaring practices, focusing on distinguishing aromas, transcending earth-tone textures, a balanced, fruit-driven palate, and a well-structured tannin to create unique noteworthy varietals and elegant blends.”

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you the 5 Indigené wines we tasted. The notes are amplified by the “Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North.” Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, the bottle or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 Indigené Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 14.1% ABV, $30 (#1616)

Winery Notes: “Complex and Focused citrus notes brushed with light minerality. Layered tones of almond and quince frame vanilla and asian spice that fade as the medium toast expands.” 

My Review: Honeydew and white peach on the nose. Crisp palate with minerality shining through. Tasty. August 2025

2020 Indigené Ambiente (Tuscan Blend), Paso Robles AVA, 14.1% ABV, $40 (#1617)

Winery Notes: “Smooth aromas of blistered black cherry and cola show on the nose of this bottling. The palate proves to be a pleasantly down-the-middle expression of the grape, offering both cherry and an array of nutmeg and cola spices.”  Gold Medal Best in Class, Central Coast Wine Competition

Wine Enthusiast – 90 points: “Creamy aromas of caramel and black plum pudding make for a rich entry to the nose of this bottling. The palate is thick in mouthfeel, offering baked berry alongside allspice, pepper and more caramel flavors.” — Matt Kettmann, March 2024

My Review: Rose petal and oak on the nose. Thin dark fruit on the palate with tar and tannin. August 2025

2012 Indigené Venado Grande Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles AVA, 14% ABV, $40 (#1618)

Winery Notes: “Features an expressive mix of flavors built around dried currant, dusty, cedary oak, a gravel pit of newly crushed rock and melted black licorice.”

My Review: Fabulous nose. And a big finish. Holding up well – in its prime.  August 2025

2021 Indigené Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $50 (#1619)

Winery Notes: “Deep garnet hue with rich black cherries, cocoa and new leather nose. Cherry and ripe plum notes are wrapped beautifully in lavender, expresso powder and dark chocolate. Medium to full bodied…”

My Review: Smooth and yummy. A fine representation of wine from Cachagua, Carmel Valley. August 2025

2018 Indigené Parenthesis Syrah, Paso Robles AVA, 14.8% ABV, $50 (#1620)

Winery Notes: “Opaque purple and brilliant violet hue. Floral laced notes of black and blue fruits are medium to full Bodied. A wild herb and olive tapenade slant brings restraint to the earthy minerals and long polished tannins.”

My Review: Rather cassis like. I’m a huge Syrah fan and would like to try this wine again. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Come visit us at our downtown Paso Robles location.”

815 12th St Suite B. (off the alley behind the building), Paso Robles. Open Thursday – Saturday, 1 pm-9pm, Sunday 12pm-6pm.”

Check them out on Instagram here: @indigenecellarsofficial.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Herman Story: “The best wine you’ve ever been served outside a tire shop.”

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 2

THE STORY

We continue our wine tasting adventures in Paso Robles with a whopper.  I remembered tasting a Herman Story wine with our Decanting Monterey Wine Pod and put it on our list. (For more about our Paso weekend, see last week’s post here and subscribe for free to see all the upcoming installments!)

Herman Story is located in an unlikely place for a tasting room.  No, not right off the town square, but literally between a tire shop and a welding supply place. We were very happy with the experience and the wines. We tasted lots of wines, got a tour of the facility, and even got to taste a prized Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah. We bought more wine here than at any other winery. I would go back in a heartbeat.

My previous post about Herman Story is here: Herman Story Wines: “…made, schlepped, peddled, and drunk with friends.”

THE WINERY

About Herman Story from their website (which is hilarious, by the way and worthy of a look):

“Here’s a little secret:

“We’re cooks, not chemists. You might be saying, what about terroir? Science? The technical details I read on that one critic’s vintage report? Don’t worry, that’s all part of it. Get grapes from exceptional vineyards, make careful decisions in the cellar, be relentless about quality, you’ll be turning out showstoppers.

“At the end of the day, we make wines that’ll pair just as well with a triple-stacked bacon cheeseburger as they will with an extravagant eight-course tasting menu. Wines you can contemplate at a massive mahogany desk or chug while your friend falls from a keg-stand into an inflatable pool of Jello. Either way, they’re a damn good time.”

About Russell P. From:

“Before he was a winemaker, a self-proclaimed black belt, and an internationally renowned runway model, Russell always had a borderline-concerning obsession with great food and wine. After graduating from Cal Poly with a few winery internships (and a bunch of noise complaints) under his belt, he started Herman Story in 2001 with seven humble barrels of Syrah stashed in his employer’s cellar.” You can read more about Russell here.

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you the 8 Herman Story wines we tasted. The notes are amplified by the “Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North.” Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, the bottle or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2021 Herman Story Witness Protection Chardonnay, Paso Robles AVA, 14.4% ABV, $72 (#1608)

Winery Notes: “This is the Wednesday night book club that turns out to be a front for a sports gambling ring. Up front, refined lemon-meringue formalities and Anjou pear prose, but behind closed doors, reserved suburbanites slamming sidecars and placing bets that would give their accountants conniptions. Take the over on spiced pineapple, call stone fruit to cover the spread, and throw a parlay on vanilla, nutmeg, and that buzzing streak of minerality. Then gather your things, collect your winnings, and tell them you can’t wait for chapter two.” 

My Review: Nice bouquet with peach, a smidge of butter. A good Chardonnay. August 2025

2020 Herman Story On the Road Grenache, Paso Robles AVA, 15.7% ABV, $72 (#1609)

Winery Notes: “These hard-boiled bootleggers know how to make a scene. An hour before, you were at the local juice joint, downing black cherry and black tea elixirs with a couple of licorice-suited cool cats. Then you had to scram, and fast. Now, you’re hightailing a Model T across the frozen Detroit River with the coppers in hot pursuit and this wine in tow. Pop a bottle for good fortune. Candied-blackberry satin, mossy mineral mother of pearl, spiced pie crust pistols, maraschino liqueur, the wind in your face and Canada’s shrouded shores, just out of sight.” 

My Review: No notes. August 2025

2021 Herman Story Bolt Cutter, Paso Robles AVA, 15.8% ABV, $72 (#1610) 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Petit Verdot, 10% Syrah

Winery Notes: “All the brash ferocity of a Clubber Lang left hook, tempered by the gentle nuance of his post-boxing career as a pâtissier. Chef’s whites with the sleeves torn off and sideways toque blanc, hands capable of furious jab flurries, now nimbly crafting marzipan blueberry cannelés, honey-drizzled blackberry tarts, star anise garnishes, black leather vests, crumbled graham cracker, and heavy gold chains, all delicately arranged on tiny alabaster plates. And he pities the fool who sends any of it back.”

My Review: Dirt and dark plum on the nose. I didn’t capture notes for the palate.  August 2025

2022 Herman Story Nuts & Bolts Syrah, Paso Robles AVA, 15.9% ABV, $72 (#1611)

Winery Notes: “Grandma always told you: never get into an Old West-style duel with a flintlock-wielding grizzly bear. But now, you’ve gone and completely ignored that advice. First pace, charred raspberry tree bark. Second pace, leather quivers full of white flowers. Third pace, molasses marble mushroom stew. Fourth pace, roast brisket meat hooks. Fith, mulberry maple-hilted bowie knives. Then you turn to find razor-sharp claws, mineral-tinged fisticuffs, and the answer to the lingering question of how gram-gram got that scar.”

My Review: Cinnamon and dark plum on the nose. My only tasting note is that “I could drink that.” We opened one of these at home and it proved that to be true.  One of my favorites of the day. August 2025

2021 Herman Story White Hawk Vineyard Syrah, Santa Barbara AVA, 15.9% ABV, $82 (#1612)

Winery Notes: “You didn’t know this old, marble-pillared hotel had a basement bar until you hit the wrong elevator button. A little ten-seater, solid maple, shrouded in sweet tobacco haze, backed by toasted Scotch barrels, a clientele donning mulberry Stetsons and swing dresses – straight from the dark-fruit memories of decades past. The barkeep plates up a perfectly crusted Ribeye, tinged with thyme and spicy pepper, beside a Rob Roy in a crystal glass. Sophisticated and timeless. Except when you try to go back, the concierge says the owner passed in 1958, and it’s been closed ever since.”

My Review: This is an enormous wine – fruity, intense, with tobacco on the finish. August 2025

2021 Herman Story Milk & Honey, Paso Robles AVA, 15.9% ABV, $72 (#1613) 72% Tempranillo, 19% Syrah, 7% Mourvedre, 2% Petit Verdot

Winery Notes: “Like you always say, it’s not a private-school fundraiser until someone throws a punch. To the great dismay of the superintendent, the scrum is upending trays of red velvet macarons and auction ready gift baskets. Benefactors in chocolate-lapelled jackets grappling over pepper-plum tortes. Punch-soaked valedictorians wielding cognac lamb chops like hatchets. Dark-fruit haymakers full of menace and mille-feuille. And by the time the smoke has settled and they’re searching for the provocateur, you’re already in the parking lot, sipping bourbon with the custodians.”

My Review: Really dark and tannic. That’s all I wrote. August 2025

2023 Herman Story First Time Caller Petite Sirah, Paso Robles AVA, 15.7% ABV, $72 (#1614)

Winery Notes: “There we have it, folks: a new champ of Brain Busters. You’ve bested your opponents in a grueling gauntlet of trivia trials. Now, Johnny, tell them what they’ve won. Headed your way is a coveted package including a full truckload of blueberry coulis, Violet-lavender mead, and herb-charred tenderloin. But that’s not all. We’re throwing in an all-inclusive trip to black-licorice shores, Black Amber plum paradise, cacao molé trails, and bramble mountain. All you have to do is answer this final, ever-so-simple question: Can you handle it?”

My Review: Toast, caramel, and a little stinky on the nose. Earthy on the palate. This is a huge wine which will last. Needs to age. August 2025

2022 Herman Story Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah, Santa Maria Valley AVA, Santa Barbara County, 15.8% ABV, $82 (#1615)

Winery Notes: “There’s a man who lives in a 1961 Shasta Airflyte on the shore of Loch Ness, and word is he can talk to Nessy. So hike out into the berry-strewn, brambly hills, through herb-laden forests and along crumbling slate crags, until you smell the stewed plum and pepper-crusted venison backstrap. There, he’ll outfit you with a huckleberry-flint bowie knife, vanilla-clove paracords, and an old Polaroid 600, then take you paddling in a dinghy, trying to fathom the boundless depths below.”

My Review: Dark, dark fruit and bacon fat on the nose. I’m in love with the fresh dark fruit on the palate of this wine. Bien Nacido is one of my all-time favorite vineyards for Syrah. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Yes, odd location. Yes, a must-stop winery if you like your big reds like I do.  I’d go back in a heartbeat.

“Located between the tire shop & the welding supply place”: 1227 Paso Robles Street, Paso Robles Thursday – Monday, 11am-5pm, Tuesday & Wednesday 11am-4pm.”

Check them out on Instagram here: @hermanstorywines.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Calcareous Vineyard: “An Elevated Sense of Place”

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 1

Our friends and we are members of Turley Wine Cellars and decided to attend a rare preview of the upcoming releases at their tasting room in Templeton. Since our friends hadn’t been to the region before, I planned us a diverse and ambitious weekend in Paso Robles wine country! We launched our late August trip with lunch and a tasting at Calcareous Vineyard– it was a fabulous kickoff to a great weekend. 

At Calcareous Vineyard, we were seated at a large round table, where we met our server, Philly.  He knew everything about the wines, which we enjoyed alongside a delightful lunch. I found their lunch menu to be one of the most diverse in the region and would repeat this experience in a heartbeat. I highly recommend an in-person visit to Calcareous – make a reservation for lunch and have a memorable experience.

I’ll be presenting the wineries we visited and wines we tasted over 9 separate posts. We were welcomed so warmly and recognized as industry at almost every place we went, with tailored tasting menus and/or industry discounts. I am grateful for that, as this blog is a labor of love to promote Central Coast Wines.

THE WINERY

About Calcareous Vineyard from their website:

“At 1,800 feet above sea level, from atop the highest peak of our Estate, the breathtaking panoramas of Paso Robles were a favorite of our founders when Calcareous Vineyard was first established. It wasn’t just the romance of this view that was captivating. It was the certainty that this place—this singular mix of soil, water, sun, and air—would impose itself on anything that grew here. Today, rows of Rhône and Bordeaux varietals now cascade down the steep, chalky, sun-drenched slopes in small blocks, interplanted to capture the most highly-focused expression of place.”

You can read more about Calcareous’ history and winemaking here.

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you the 5 Calcareous wines we tasted. The notes are amplified by the “Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North. Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, the bottle or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 Calcareous Estate Chardonnay, Paso Robles AVA, 13.4% ABV, $42 (#1603)

Winery Notes: “Perhaps the greatest testament to our unique soils is our Estate grown Chardonnay. The warm, dry climate of Calcareous does not at first appear to be a suitable place to grow this Burgundian varietal. But the soil allows the grapes to maintain incredible acidity, the structural back bone of world class Chardonnay, and we can achieve perfectly ripened fruit that maintains clarity and purity.” 

My Review: Pale golden in the glass. Honeysuckle and lime zest on the nose. A creamy palate finishing with lemon notes and lots of minerality. August 2025

2022 Calcareous Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles AVA, 14.8% ABV, $60 (#1604)

Winery Notes: “Calcareous Vineyard was founded upon the idea, first and foremost, of growing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. The perfect combination of soil and climate allow our site to play to both the fruit and structural elements of the varietal, allowing us to produce one of our regions great examples of this most noble cultivar.” 

My Review: Dark garnet almost purple. Crushed berry and plum on the nose. Not fruit-forward, yet a yummy palate of plum, blackberry and blueberry, with a caramelized finish. A little sweet, yet has an edge to it. Very tasty. I like this wine. August 2025

2022 Calcareous Devil’s Canyon Syrah, Paso Robles AVA, 14.8% ABV, $75 (#1605)

Winery Notes: “The warmest, steepest, and driest part of our Estate Vineyard is “lovingly” called Devil’s Canyon by those that farm it. The Syrah grown there is a profound statement on the effects of our climate and soil upon the grapes we grow. This wine embodies why we feel our site is such an incredibly unique place to grow and make wine.”

My Review: Beautiful deep garnet in the glass. Deep fruits on the nose with a delicious dark fruit palate. A slightly tough finish for me. Very, very tasty. My partner liked it. August 2025

2022 Calcareous The Messer, Paso Robles AVA, 15.1% ABV, $75 (#1606) 70% Malbec, 30% Cabernet Franc

Winery Notes: “Forged by the Messer family, Calcareous Vineyard and its unique terroir excel with a surprising range of varietals, including our blending favorites Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Named after a 14th-century sword and meaning “knife” in German, this wine honors the Messer legacy, embodying all the balance, strength, and elegance of a perfectly wrought blade.”

My Review: Inky in the glass. Dark chocolate, smoke and dark fruit on the nose. Very dark intense palate like a cherry chocolate cordial. August 2025

2023 Calcareous Très Violet, Paso Robles AVA, 14.7% ABV, $75 (#1607) 46% Mourvèdre, 39% Grenache, 15% Syrah

Winery Notes: “Très Violet is our Estate’s take on a traditional Rhône-style red wine. By combining the depth and richness of Syrah, spice, and leather from Mourvèdre with the bright fruit elegance of Grenache, we can produce a multifaceted yet cohesive wine. In this way, the Très Violet is perhaps the fullest expression of our Estate.

“Shows a slight mocha cast up front, mixing in wild thyme and kirsch notes. Gives way to a gravel-accented core of blackberry and damson plum that deftly balances vibrancy and tannic structure, lending a certain engaging energy to the finish that makes this accessible now but built for cellaring. The finish is long, plush and filled with berry flavors. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2040. 1,190 cases made.” Aaron Romano, Senior Editor | 95pts Wine Spectator. 

My Review: Almost purple in the glass. Earth, dark plum and cherry with a touch of celery on the nose. A huge, delicious palate. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Perched atop the property at 1,500 feet above the expansive Salinas Valley, our tasting room provides an unbelievable setting in which to experience the beauty of Paso Robles. A journey to taste here will offer you award-winning wines, breathtaking views, and a beautifully landscaped outdoor seating area. The experienced tasting room staff will guide you through the wines, and you can discover why we are so passionate about the wines produced here.” Check them out on Instagram here: @calcareouswine.

Open 10:00am – 5:00pm Daily at 3430 Peachy Canyon Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 239-0289

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

O’Reilly Wins Gold at the California State Fair!

THE STORY

My friend and home winemaker Erin O’Reilly recently dropped off her 2023 Affatim Cabernet Sauvignon for us to try. She was “super excited” because it was awarded a Gold Medal at the Spring 2025 California State Fair Home Wine Competition! We shared it with the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod for a thorough review.

I’ve written about Erin and her wine story before in Decanting Monterey.  You can find my previous post here: tèr·ra·ve·nos – Wine Experimentation and Production at Home!

ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA STATE FAIR HOME WINE COMPETITION

From the link above:

“The California State Fair Home Wine Competition supports and promotes winemaking as a home craft and is designed to increase the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the amateur winemaker. The competition provides an opportunity for these wines to be judged in an organized and professional manner while delivering impartial evaluation feedback, and to recognize the talent of the successful home winemaker.”

THE WINERY

Adapted from her website tèr·ra·ve·nos: Erin has completed the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program levels 1-3, and just earned her WSET Wine Diploma. In addition, she holds the Spanish Wine Scholar certification, along with the Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) credential through the Society of Wine Educators. She has completed the Wine Studies and Wine Marketing Program through Santa Rosa Junior College. And, like me, she is a member of the lively Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society.  As Erin says, if you’re local, join us!

THE WINE

Today I’m presenting a single wine from Erin. Winery notes come from Erin directly. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2023 Affatim Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast AVA, 14.2% ABV (#1602) 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot

Winery Notes: “Affatim means sufficient, amply, complete satisfaction. I was pleased with how this wine blend came together…The Cabernet Sauvignon 80% came from San Antonio Valley AVA, the Merlot 20% came from Almaden Valley in Santa Clara County…This is a solid wine, and I enjoyed making it and playing with blends and oak. I love how it all came together.”

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! We enjoyed this wine! April 2025

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

A June Afternoon at Odonata with the Magnificant Mushu!

THE STORY

On a quiet Tuesday in June, neighbors invited me to go with them to Odonata Wines out on the Monterey Wine Trail in the Salinas Valley.  We thought this might be a good adventure for our 5-month-old, rather large puppy.  It was a big car ride for him and a lot of pup handling for us, especially when I ran out of kibble. Heh. It is one of my goals that he be a great tasting room companion – we are getting there!

We were hosted by tasting room manager Rebecca Carranza, whom I had met before when she worked at Lepe Cellars.  She treated us so well and made sure we got to taste everything we wanted – and more!

THE WINERY

From their website:

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

“Odonata Wines is a small family winery owned and operated by winemaker Denis Hoey. Located on the California coast, farming vineyards around the Monterey Bay Area. Odonata produces small batches of each of their wines and focuses on local grapes that are organic and grown sustainably. Hoey works closely with local growers to ensure the highest quality wines from the vines to the glass…”

“The credo we subscribe to is blending of old world winemaking methods and attitudes with new learning and a continuous search for improvement. We always want it to be interesting and exciting when you come to the tasting room or winery.” — Winemaker Denis Hoey

THE WINES

Today I am presenting the 10 wines we tasted that lovely afternoon. Winery notes come from their website unless otherwise indicated. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2021 Odonata Brut Cuvée, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 12.5% ABV, $48 (#1592)

Grapelive Review: “The 2021 Odonata Brut Cuvée is a sparkling wine produced using the traditional Methode Champenoise…” no current notes available online…

My Review: Pale with tiny bubbles in the glass. A Champagne-like yeasty finish. We liked this wine. June 2025                                                                                                                                                     

2021 Odonata Sparkling Grenache Rouge, Hook Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 12.5% ABV, $46               (#1593)

Grapelive Review: “Again I was impressed and thrilled by the new set of releases from Odonata, and I especially loved the latest Grenache Rouge Fizz, which shows off a dark ruby hue and a Champagne style mousse with a dry, but expressive palate of strawberry, plum and tart cherry fruits, a touch of lees brioche, wet stones, mineral notes, a light sense of anise and candied orange and subtle florals. The Odonata Sparkling Grenache Rouge by winemaker Denis Hoey, sourced from the Hook Vineyard that is all Tablas Creek clone Grenache set on sandy loams, is a macerated on the skins to be a red Methode Champenoise bubbly. Made from these old vines in the Santa Lucia Highlands, this unique bubbly is exciting and lively on the palate, but with an elegant mousse and a depth of flavors. Hoey employed, as noted in prior reviews, a full skin maceration and primary fermentation in stainless steel, exactly as a normal red wine would have, before going through its patient journey of lees aging and riddling in bottle to become this ruby colored and crisply dry bubbly that was lovingly hand crafted to thrill the senses.”

My Review: A beauty in the glass, this sparkling grenache is surprisingly tart on the palate, balancing out the sweetness. June 2025

2024 Cote du Denis Sauvignon Blanc, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 12.4% ABV, $32 (#1594)

My Review: Tropical nose with a lime finish. June 2025

2023 Odonata Chardonnay, Boekenoogen Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey Couunty,14.6% ABV, $36 (#1595)

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

My Review: Pale in the glass. Caramel on the nose. Pretty delicious palate. Easy to drink. June 2025

2022 Odonata Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 13.1% ABV, $42 (#1596)

Winery notes: “Bright bing cherry with subtle hints of toast allure you into the glass. Palate is broad, rich and pleasurable. The finish is long and lingering. This elegant expression of a low alcohol Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot is testament to this great region. This wine will age gracefully for a decade or more but drinks playfully and fruit forward now.”

My Review: Dark cherry on the very tasty palate. Punches above its weight. I like this pinot noir. June 2025                                                                                                                                        

2020 Odonata Sangiovese, Machado Creek Vineyard, Santa Clara Valley, 14.5% ABV, $32 (#1597)

Winery Notes: “Juicy, fresh strawberries with a hint of woodsy vanilla from the oak. This wine is smooth and enjoyable now, but if cellared, the bright fruit will mellow, allowing the herbs and spices to emerge, making it a perfect match for food.”

Edible Monterey: “The 2022 Petite-Sangio blend hails from Machado Creek in Santa Clara Valley and blends the chocolatey lushness of Petite Sirah with the youthful tease of red cherry soda from the Sangiovese, to create a pop rocks sensation in the mouth. Kind of like a truffle filled with a tangy, boozy red cherry filling.” Laura Ness

My Review: Very tasty.  Wrong on so many levels but so, so good in the glass. A favorite of the day – I took some home! June 2025

2020 Odonata Petite Sirah, Machado Creek Vineyard, Santa Clara Valley, 13.8% ABV, $32 (#1599)

Winery Notes: “Boysenberry, root beer, peachy aromatics. Dense chewy tannins, fruit is expressive yet tamed by the dark brooding nature of this varietal. Pretty little spice and long textured finish. This is our work horse wine, every day red wine that pleases with every sip. This is our 11th year working and farming at Machado Creek Vineyard, this block is all head trained (meaning no wires) and leads to a really dynamic expressive fruit.”

My Review: This came to us late in the tasting when our pup became restless, so our notes are minimal: A tasty big wine. I’ve enjoyed this wine year over year. June 2025

2021 Odonata Syrah, Soberanes Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, 14.7% ABV, $42 (#1600)

Winery Notes: “Deep and brooding aromatics with subtle sun drenched exposed dusty rock. Notes of coriander, pink pepper corn, lavender, and black raspberry in the nose. Flavors of black olive and blackberry jam kissed with a bright and briny acidity. Finishes clean with bright floral notes lifting the palate!”

My Review: Cherry, red raspberry on the nose.  Cherry dominated the palate with orange peel on the finish. Very good for a cool climate. June 2025

2019 Odonata Cabernet Sauvignon, Prolific Vineyard, Santa Cruz Mountains, 14.1% ABV, $49 (#1601)                                                                                                                                                                                           

Winery Notes: Winemaking:  Destemmed completely, gentle punch downs for 21 day extended fermentation, pressed to barrel. 41% New Oak, (51% French, 45% American)

My Review: Very dark fruit cooked fruit almost portlike. I think this deserves a retaste on another day. June 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

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


© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Seabold Hosts an Exciting Summer Tasting for Local Wine Group!

THE STORY

American Wine Society Visits Seabold!

My quest to get the American Wine Society Monterey Chapter to every local tasting room continued this month at Seabold Cellars tasting room in Carmel Valley Village. This one took quite some time to arrange, as Eden Rift Vineyards and Seabold had a merger in 2024. (They described it as a “parent/sister” relationship; they continue to operate autonomously.) We took advantage of their offer for us to bring our own appetizers and make a little summer party out of it.  Their expansive and comfy outdoor space made it a perfect spot for our group of 25. We were hosted by Dre Bejines (Eden Rift) and Cynthia D’Vincent (Seabold Tasting Room Manager), who knows everything there is to know about Seabold!

Delicious food prepared by our members!

If you are interested in joining the American Wine Society Monterey Chapter on our quest to visit every Monterey County tasting room, please visit our website, join the National American Wine Society and select Monterey as your chapter! We hope to see you soon!

Our members enjoying being together on a summer evening!

THE WINERY

From their website:

“Seabold Cellars focuses on cool-climate organic and sustainable vineyards to produce balanced wines that showcase their origin more than their winemaking. During the year, more time is spent in vineyards than the winery. Our winemaking is as hands-off as possible, respecting traditional techniques and practices without being beholden to them. We produce non-interventionist, site-specific Burgundy and Rhône varieties, as seen through a California lens.”

“Seabold Cellars was founded in 2014 by Master Sommelier Chris Miller. Located in the small town of Marina, the winery is at the epicenter of California’s Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz wine growing regions.”

You can read more about Chris Miller and Seabold Cellars here.

THE WINES

Today I am presenting the 4 wines we tasted that evening. Winery notes come from their tasting sheet. As a practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites or materials. My notes today are amplified by my fellow AWS board member Erin O’Reilly, home winemaker and author of terravenos.

2023 BOLD Sauvignon Blanc, Griva Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 13.2% ABV, $25 (#1587)

Winery notes: “Fresh and exuberant on the nose, with loads of pink and white grapefruit, starfruit, exotic flowers, gooseberry, honeysuckle and a core of ripe tropical fruit framed by crystalized ginger and fresh cut grass.”

My Review: Pale golden in the glass. Subtle pineapple, guava, and passion fruit on the nose. Pleasant round palate with lemon notes on the finish. It’s a very good wine – a nice warm climate. I would buy this wine!  August 2025                                                                                                      

2020 Seabold Chardonnay, Eden Rift Vineyards, Cienega Valley AVA, San Benito County, 13.5% ABV, $40 (#1588)

Winery Notes: “An open and exotic nose, with butterscotch layered over dried pineapple and ripe lemon curd. Telltale Monterey Bay acidity frames the richness on the palate, giving a fresh li to counterbalance the rich and ripe fruit. Truly a bole to ‘drink or hold’, with an immediate appeal.”

My Review: Pale yellow and viscous in the glass. Buttery nose with lemon curd and golden apple. Bosc pear, white flower and just ripe yellow peach. All the fruit is ripe and rich. The nose is more interesting than the palate. I attribute that to the vintage. August 2025

2021 Seabold Pinot Noir, Eden Rift Vineyards, Cienega Valley AVA, San Benito County, 13.7% ABV, $40 (#1589)              

Winery Notes: “From 120-year-old head-trained vines in Redwood Valley. Roasted blackberries, black currants, seared venison, black cherry compote, violets, and black olives.”

My Review: Dark ruby in the glass. Cherry, herbs, dry leaves, and bergamot tea on the nose. Medium tannins. Zippy up front with a palate of cherry, raspberry, herbs, and tea.  Forest floor and a touch bitter on the back end. August 2025

2021 Seabold Syrah, Rodnick Farms, Chalone AVA, Monterey County, 13.3% ABV, $50 (#1590) 

Winery Notes: “On the nose, charred blueberries and plums give way to subtle undertones of grilled venison. With air, black olive tapenade, rosemary, and dried sage start to emerge. On the palate the tannins and acidity are present but seamless, showing balance in youth with a promising aging capacity.”

My Review: Dark in the glass. Warm berry jam and brown sugar on the nose. Rich palate of rather jammy fruit followed by ham hock notes and a spicy finish. This is a very nice, cooler climate Syrah. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Visit us at our tasting room, located in idyllic Carmel Valley Village. Graced with sunshine, tucked at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains, our tasting room is dog friendly and children friendly, and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.”

Seabold tasting room’s lovely outdoor seating!

3 Pilot Road in Carmel Valley Village.  Open Thursday-Sunday, 12-5 p.m. and by appointment (831-288-2730).


© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Lyndon Fog Cellars: These Well Made Wines Impress the Palate!

THE STORY

Laurel Livingston Lyndon Fog

I met Laurel Livingston the first time at the Monterey Winemaker’s Celebration in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where I first discovered Lyndon Fog Cellars. What piqued my interest was their Syrah made from Zabala Vineyard grapes. I’m a huge fan of Zabala Vineyard fruit. Fast forward to an I Brand party in the Fall of 2024 where Laurel and Glen generously gifted me the 3 wines I am presenting today.

Laurel Livington at I Brand Vertical Tasting

My last post including Lyndon Fog Cellars was here: Highlights from the 31st Annual Monterey Wine Country Winemakers Celebration!

THE WINERY

About Lyndon Fog Cellars from their website:

“We have been working and making wines on the Central Coast of California for over a decade. Since starting in the wine industry we’ve always dreamed of the day we could make our own wines that represent us and our passion and love for wine. Together we’ve started Lyndon Fog Cellars.

“These wines are a representation of us and our winemaking style. Our grapes come from vineyards we’ve worked with and believe produce the best quality grapes to make the wines in the style we want; well balanced and fruit forward allowing you to enjoy them with a variety of food or as a glass on their own.

“We are incredibly excited to share our wines with you and hope you enjoy!”

THE WINES

Today I’m bringing you 3 current releases we have tasted this year.  These were all gifted to me for the purpose of review. Winery notes come from the Lyndon Fog Cellars website. My tasting notes were amplified by my Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society fellow board members, Janet Torelli and Erin O’Reilly. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2023 Lyndon Fog Chenin Blanc, Vista Verde Vineyard, San Benito AVA, San Benito County, 14.3% ABV, $25 (#1585)

Winery Notes: “…fermented in neutral French Oak barrels. Following fermentation the wine aged in barrel for an additional 5 months, with 30% new French Oak. The result is a medium bodied tropical wine with a subtle brown spice from the new oak, which compliments the leading fruit flavors.” 

My Review: Pale straw in the glass. Golden apple, sweet lemon curd, apricot, white blossom, pineapple, Bosc pear (maybe some papaya?) on the nose. Light tropical flavors on the palate with a tasty punch of pineapple on the finish. February 2025

2023 Lyndon Fog Grenache, Zabala Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 14.8% ABV, $30 (#1586)

Winery Notes: “…This Grenache was aged 6 months in French Oak, 30% new French Oak. This 100% Grenache is a medium bodied red wine with aromas of ripe strawberry and baking spice.” 

My Review: Cranberry with hints of cherry cola and watermelon rind on the nose. Cranberry, cherry sucker, rose petals, and plum on the palate. The fruit is so right and fresh. This wine has a tongue-coating mouthfeel. Overall, a tasty palate with a dry finish. July 2025

2023 Lyndon Fog Syrah, Zabala Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, 13.9% ABV, $35 (#1429)

Winery Notes: “…This Syrah was aged 6 months in French Oak, 30% new French Oak. This 100% Syrah is a medium-heavy bodied red wine with aromas of plum, earthy notes, black pepper and dark toast.”

My Review: Medium garnet in color, cherry, dark plum, and milk chocolate (tar, ashes, and tobacco – a classic Rhône nose) on the nose. Bright palate of cherry at its core, wrapped in Game and leather with a dark plum finish. February 2025

LOCATE

You can find Lyndon Fog Cellars on their website!

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Parsonage Loses Parklet and Redesigns Beautiful Interior!

THE STORY

In May, I dropped by the Parsonage tasting room and was astonished it had taken down its parklet and beautifully redesigned its interior to accommodate more guests. So nicely done! I’m sharing some of the new pictures from their website in today’s post – with the permission of the winery.

Photo reprinted with permission of Parsonage

The following week, I stopped in with my neighbors for the Spring 2025 pickup. I was surprised by the number of new releases and gladly tasted them to make my allocation adjustments. The standout wine for me was the 2021 Parsonage Dario Reserve Merlot with its dark berry nose and palate. The 2021 Parsonage Bixby Reserve Petit Verdot is a very close second – a powerful cellar-worthy wine. I’ve reviewed them below, along with the other new releases I tasted that day.

Photo reprinted with permission of Parsonage

This visit was also a great opportunity to add another piece of Mary Ellen Parsons’ creative art to my home collection.  We have a chicken obsession in our home, so it was easy to add this giclée to our collection of her art in our home. You can read more about her art here and you can see her art on display in the Parsonage tasting room in Carmel Valley Village.

Then we attended the Parsonage Wine and cheese pairing session this past weekend – a flight of Parsonage wines with hand-selected cheeses to pair specifically with each wine. Our winner was their 2023 Wood Reserve Cardonnay matched with the Fromage D’Affinois Brie. I also enjoyed the Midnight Moon My real favorite, though, had nothing to do with cheese: the 2021 Rocco Reserve Syrah with the Rocco-infused dark chocolate sea salt truffle from Pieces of heaven. Yum.

2025 Cheese Pairing

My last post about Parsonage was here: Happy 21st Birthday, Rocco! Let’s jump into these wines!

THE WINES:

Today I’m bringing you 4 of the new releases we tasted in May plus the 2022 Hawk Reserve Pinot Noir. Winery notes come from the tasting sheet. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2022 Parsonage Pinot Noir, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $48 (#1572)

Winery Notes: “A vibrant nose of strawberry, cherry, pomegranate and wildflowers.  The gorgeous red fruit is full, round and rich on the palate with a hint of Darjeeling on the long, lovely finish.” 

My Review: Garnet in the glass. Bouquet signals that this is a Pinot Noir, while the palate is filled with darker fruit. Finishes with brighter cherry notes reminiscent of a Jolly Rancher – in a fruity, tasty and good way! May 2025

2022 Parsonage Grenache-Syrah, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $44 (#1573) 80% Grenache, 20% Syrah

Winery Notes: “Sweet anise, strawberry, black pepper with an earthy minerality.” 

My Review: Warm brown sugar and spice on the nose.  Cinnamon carries over to the palate with a tart cranberry finish. May 2025

2021 Parsonage Dario Reserve Merlot, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $98 (#1574)

Winery Notes: “The Dario is our signature Merlot. Pairs perfectly with ham and pork tenderloin. Black raspberry, black cherry, anise, cocoa powder, and the Parsonage wildflower-spice terroir characterize the stunning nose of this epic beauty. All of the above form harmoniously on the the firm palate to create a wine of remarkable character.”

My Review: Rich, dark fruit on the nose.  I could smell this wine all day. Ripe plum and blackberry/dark raspberry on the palate.  Really delicious and my favorite wine of the tasting. May 2025

2021 Parsonage Bixby Reserve Petit Verdot, San Antonio Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $98 (#1575)

Winery Notes: “Dark, dark fruit nose of blueberry, cassis, plum, violets, lavender, and sage. A bold melange of blueberry, dark fruit, cassis, and floral spices imposes itself in a full, well-rounded palate with an impressive finish.”

My Review: Best of both worlds – a tasty blend of bright and dark flavors, with licorice and cassis notes on the finish. This is a keeper. May 2025

2022 Parsonage Hawk Reserve Pinot Noir, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 15% ABV, $90 (#1591)

Winery Notes: “Made from grapes at the pinnacle of perfect ripeness, this Pinot has brilliant notes of black cherry with dried rose petals, cola, and English breakfast tea. The rich, round, muscular palate adds raspberry and currant to the dominant black cherry compote with the tea tannins driving the vibrant finish.”

My Review: Orange-rimmed garnet in the glass. Dark cherry and forest floor on the nose. Earth, cherry cola, and black pepper on the palate. A little zippy on the front palate and a little sweet. August 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Hooray! We are open for wine tasting daily.” 19 E. Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley Village

Photo reprinted with permission of Parsonage

Hours: Monday – Friday: noon to 5pm, Saturday & Sunday: 11am to 5pm, last seating for wine tasting: 4:15pm. “Reservations can be made here or by phone. Please call us at 831-659-7322 for same day reservations.” Also, check them out on Instagram here: @parsonagewinery.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Vote for Decanting Monterey: “Best Local Blog of Monterey County”

Loyal Fans:  It’s that time of year again! Thanks to each and every one of you, Decanting Monterey once again was nominated for Best Local Blog of Monterey County – that makes 3 years in a row!! We are 1 of 5 finalists for this category.  I am so thankful and humbled by this nomination. 

Now I ask that you take the important next step:  Please vote for Decanting Monterey, a labor of love to help educate others about our local vintners and their wines. For 5 years, I have been bringing you my personal experiences to broaden the world’s view of Monterey wines. If you appreciate my personal stories, the wines, the reviews, my insights, please vote today!

VOTING IS OPEN NOW!!

From Now-Aug 29th, voting is open here: 2025 Best of Monterey County MC Weekly. 

You may need to register with name, email and zip code, but you can also skip that part and just vote. 

Please click on the photo for “Around Town,” then search for Best Local Blog and vote for “Decanting Monterey.” 

Best Local Blog

You will need to vote for 19 other local spots to submit your vote – please look around and make your favorite picks!  I’ll be voting for lots of our local places – both in and outside of the wine industry.  For example, I’m thrilled Victorian Corner was nominated for Best Huevos Rancheros and Vivolo’s for Best Clam Chowder.

OTHER VOTING CATEGORY SUGGESTIONS

Here are some wine-related suggestions:

AGRICULTURE:

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND NIGHTLIFE:

  • Best Winery to Visit: Your choice
  • Best Tasting Room: Your choice
  • Best Selection of Wines by the Glass: Your choice

RESTAURANTS:

  • Best Wine List: Your choice
  • Best Sommelier: Your choice

SPECIALTY FOODS:

  • Best Local White Wine: Your choice
  • Best Local Red Wine: Your choice
  • Best Local Rosé: Your choice

SHOPPING AND SERVICES:

  • Best Wine Market: Your choice

Thank you so much, again, for your nomination and your vote! I couldn’t do this without you!

Central Coast Sharon

Profile Photo

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Barterra Winery: A Hidden Gem in Half Moon Bay!

Chris Minoletti Opened Just for Us!

THE STORY

Our friends invited us to visit them in Half Moon Bay during their family vacation. We said yes – and their immediate next question was what wineries to visit.  Wineries?  Are there wineries in Half Moon Bay?  The answer is yes! My quick research discovered several – who knew? I wrote to Barterra and they were able to open on very short notice just for our group.

We were hosted by Chris Minoletti who drove over from San Mateo just for our group.  As the great grandson of Angelo Minoletti, he proudly described each wine to us.  No, the grapes are not grown in Half Moon Bay – most of the grapes come from Lodi, with a few wines made from grapes in other regions of Northern California. We are grateful to his hosting us mid-week and we all tried to show our gratitude by buying his wine to share with others.

THE WINERY

From the Barterra website:

About Us: “My Grandfather, Angelo Minoletti, like thousands of immigrants, came to America to make a better life for his family. He settled in San Francisco’s North Beach and made wine for the family with my father, Attilio Minoletti. The making of wine was their simple pleasure, to enjoy with family.  We continue this tradition as a family-owned and operated business.” Paul Minoletti

Tools of the Trade Collected Over the Years by the Minoletti’s

Our Philosophy: “We have a hands-on approach, visiting the vineyards who prioritize growing quality grapes and only harvest by hand.  Our winemakers focus on crafting European-style wines that can be enjoyed now and have the potential for aging.  We meet with our winemakers on a regular basis to stay up-to-date with harvest trends and ensure the quality of our wines.”

THE WINES:

Today I’m bringing you the 9 Barterra wines we tasted. The notes are amplified by the “Decanting Monterey Wine Pod North” – our friends and their family, one of whom is studying to be a sommelier! Winery notes come from the tasting sheet, the bottle or their website. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a rule, I do not correct typos from the wineries’ websites.

2024 Barterra Gewurztraminer, Clarksburg AVA, Yolo County, 13.1% ABV, $29 (#1576)

Winery Notes: “This dry version of Gewürztraminer is full of spice and fruit, with notes of lychee, lime and green apple that all together is bright, savory. fresh, and floral. A medium body carries concentration through to a flinty, spicy lasting finish. Try this pleasantly refreshing wine with soft and fragrant cheeses. such as Munster or gorgonzola, or with an aromatic Asian dish that features ginger and exotic spices.” 

My Review: Pale in the glass. Lychee on the nose. Dry, lean and light palate with a faint ginger finish. Such an interesting little wine – and not something you see around here very often! July 2025

2024 Barterra Vermentino, Lodi AVA, Central Valley, 12.5% ABV, $29 (#1577)

Winery Notes: “Influenced by a delta breeze, the vineyard where these Vermentino grapes grow remains cool even during the warm summer. Enjoy this pleasantly tart wine with notes of lemon and tropical fruit while sitting in the sun. Pairs well with seafood, like oysters on the half shell, and with pasta dishes that feature fresh vegetables or pesto sauce.” 

My Review: Sweet honeysuckle, orange blossom on the nose with a touch of citrus. Light flavors on the crisp palate with some green apple, minerality. July 2025

2023 Barterra Chardonnay, Lodi AVA, Central Valley, 13.3% ABV, $29 (#1578)

Winery Notes: “This golden beauty has a silky smooth mouth feel enveloping golden apples and yellow peaches, along with hints of pineapple. A touch of vanilla bean emerges on the finish. Enjoy this Chardonnay with a wide variety of food, including seafood, chicken and tomato sauce dishes..”

My Review: Pale gold in color. Caramel with a hint of lime on the nose. Skipped malolactic fermentation and was aged in 20 % new American oak. Buttery mouthfeel without the buttery taste. Crisp and tasty. July 2025

2023 Barterra French Colombard, Mendocino County, 9.5% ABV, $26 (#1579)

Winery Notes: “Natural residual sugar, light and semi-sweet, and balanced with good acidity. Nice vivid aromas of white pears, golden apple, floral honeysuckle and fruit cocktail. Pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes, particularly Thai cuisine.”

My Review: One shade tan in the glass. Faint sweet plum on the nose. Faints sweet cherry, plum and cherry on the palate. Hey, for a semi-sweet wine, it is fine. July 2025

2021 Barterra Carignan, Lodi AVA, Central Valley, 12.5% ABV, $42 (#1580)

Winery Notes: “This 100% Carignan expresses itself as eminently elegant. The natural acidity balances mouthwatering, refreshingly tart blackberries, and savory notes of classic mirepoix infused with coffee that builds on the lasting finish. Think Pinot Noir when deciding what to pair with Carignan. Try seared duck breast or any cinnamon-spiced dishes, berry-based sauces, and smoky meats.” 

My Review: Ruby in color. Smoke and brown sugar (like a toasted marshmallow) with cranberry undertones on the nose. Plum, dark cherry and berry on the palate. Toasted marshmallow and pepper on the finish. Some tannin on the finish. Good mouthfeel. July 2025

2021 Barterra Wanderlust Red Blend, Lodi AVA, Central Valley, 15.3% ABV, $42 (#1581)

Winery Notes: “Enjoy an immense abundance of richness and get lost in the pure darkness of black fruits. This blend of Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Petit Verdot will dazzle your taste buds with gripping tannins on the finish that inspire a sense of adventure. Try pairing this with something from the grill.”

My Review: Dark in the glass. Deep garnet, brown sugar, rib barbecue on the nose. Cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, lavender (herby soap), plum blackberry, mocha, and dark berry on the palate, with a slightly stemmy finish. Petite Syrah dominates the palate, while the Petit Verdot comes out on the finish. July 2025

2021 Barterra Sojourn Red Blend, Lodi AVA, Central Valley, 15.2% ABV, $42 (#1582)

Winery Notes: “Concentrated savory rich ripe strawberry and cherry are supported by smooth rounded tannins and a bit of oak, finishing with hints of cinnamon and melted milk chocolate. The nice balance of tannin, fruit and acid pairs well with a very wide range of foods, from red sauce pastas to steaks.”

My Review: Increasingly garnet in color. Golden brown sugar melded with dark fruit, like a cherry cordial, on the nose – almost vanilla. The palate displays smoked meats and leather from the Syrah, along with some jammy fruit, with a peppery finish from the Zin. July 2025

2021 Barterra Odyssey  Red Blend, Lodi AVA, Central Valley, 15.2% ABV, $42 (#1583)

Winery Notes: “Abundant fruits of strawberry, black currant, blackberry, and black cherry are balanced with supporting tannins framed with balanced acidity. Potpourri and savory cinnamon rolls lead to red rose petals and black coffee on the finish. This wine will hold up to just about any big flavorful food, so a classic pairing would be a grilled ribeye or lamb roasted with sea salt, rosemary and olive oil.”

My Review: Newest release from mid-May. 1/3 each Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah. Dark garnet in the glass. Dark, jammy fruit with a hint of smoke. Big palate of dark fruit and BBQ, with tannins throughout. Cellar this baby. July 2025

2021 Barterra Exploration Red Blend, Lodi AVA, San Joaquin County, 14.2% ABV, $42 (#1584) 60% Petit Verdot, 20% Zinfandel, 20% Carignan

Winery Notes: “Take your tastebuds on a delicious journey beginning with notes of raspberry sorbet followed by rose petals, tart red plum and sour cherry.  Continue to enjoy the supporting tannins, balanced and medium-bodied, with a lasting finish that pleases the palate.” 

My Review: Dark berry, brown sugar and smoke on the nose. Really big delicious palate. Could be my favorite. July 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

“Barterra Winery is an urban winery with a tasting room in Princeton Harbor in Half Moon Bay. We believe that wine tasting should be approachable and educational. We offer guided tastings in a relaxed atmosphere where you can experience and learn about unique varietals and blends from the finest wine regions in Northern California.”

Location: 151 Harvard Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA

Hours: Saturday & Sunday: 12pm to 6pm, Monday – Friday: By appointment only

Check them out on Instagram here: @barterrawinery.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

SIGN UP HERE TO GET Decanting Monterey DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR EMAIL!!

Don't miss a single exciting post about our Central Coast/Monterey wines! Enter your email address below for a free subscription to Decanting Monterey. Be sure to open the confirmation email and validate your subscription! See you soon!!

Verified by MonsterInsights