Tagged: Wine Reviews

TURLEY ROLLS OUT THE 2023 FALL RELEASE WITH A PARTY!

Ambitious Paso Robles Weekend Part 5

THE STORY

We are now smack in the middle of our weekend in Paso Robles at the winery which brought us there –  Turley. When Turley announce this first pre-release tasting, we decided this was a rare opportunity for once to try the wines before buying.

We were hosted as though we were wine judges, seminar style, in the winery by certified sommelier, Christina Turley. Christina is the oldest of Larry’s 4 daughters. She did a fabulous job educating us on the vineyards and the vintage. I thought this was excellent marketing – a way to get members down to their Templeton tasting room after closing their Amador one. Our bonus was tasting some library wines, all of which was accompanied by some charcuterie – if you could pull yourselves away from the tastings! But the icing on top was free shipping on our Fall order – if we placed it then.  Smart!

You can read my last post about Turley here: A NEW TURLEY FROM PASO ROBLES!

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.”

There is a great story on their website about how emergency room doctor Larry Turley got into winemaking and co-founded Frog’s Leap Winery, leaving it to start Turley Wine Cellars in 1993. But what I liked even more was this description, which explains why Turley makes so many wines from so many vineyards:

“Because Larry has never met an old vine vineyard he didn’t like, Turley now makes 47 separate wines from over 50 different vineyards, some with vines that date back to the late 1800’s.  Often weak and decaying, these old vine vineyards require extra care and attention in order to restore them to their former glory.  After twenty-five years in the emergency room, Larry can now focus his resuscitative skills on the various old vineyards that comprise the wines he loves.”

THE WINE

I have 8 wines to present to you today from Turley. Interestingly, none are Central Coast!  Winery notes come from their website, unless otherwise indicated. As a rule, I don’t correct typos from winery websites. Any errors are mine and mine alone.

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Zampatti Vineyard, Sonoma, $50 (#1627)

Winery Notes: “A miniscule jewel of an organic vineyard, planted 1915. Raspberry preserves, violets, and holiday spices, evocative of the orange and clove pomanders we make at home each year. Juicy and mouthwatering with plenty of lift, freshness, and zesty energy. A lovely pairing with either “Mule Skinner Blues” and “Love is like a Butterfly.”

My Review: Blueberry on the nose. Rich and delicious red fruits and blueberry on the palate. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Dog Town, Clements Hill AVA, Lodi, $50 (#1628)

Winery Notes: “A jewel of Lodi, these organically farmed ungrafted vines were planted in 1944. An ambrosial mélange of cranberry, currant, gingerbread, orange peel and cigar box-like spices. Refined and elegant, tea-like tannins combined with the baker’s chocolate and dried raspberry on the palate make this wine a must-have from 2023. Enjoy with the haunting beauty of “Silver Dagger.”.”

My Review: Texture like tea steeped for a while. Cassis or prune on the palate. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Judge Bell, Amador, $43 (#1629)

Winery Notes: “Ungrafted vines planted 1907 in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Sweetly scented of cherries, cranberries, chapparal, baking spices, and sappy evergreen. The fine-grained granitic dust tannins are softened up with a pleasurable candy-coated-like texture from the ripe fruits. A true delight, evocative of the ancient mountain soils.”

My Review: Dark slightly cooked fruit. I kinda like it. We have enjoyed the Judge Bell year over year. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley, $76 (#1630)

Winery Notes: “Legendary 1888 planting on Moon Mtn., along the southeastern edge of the Mayacamas. Fragrant dark fruits, black pepper, orange peel; palate is boldly full bodied with plenty of richness. If you are a fan of the Dragon, don’t miss Monte Rosso. Lay down and/or decant before enjoying.”

My Review: More sophisticated. The Monte Rosso has become one of my favorites. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Brandlin Ranch, Napa, $53 (#1631)

Winery Notes: “Historic 1926 Zinfandel vineyard atop Mt. Veeder, along the steep southern edge of the Mayacamas Mountains. Refined Napa Valley brambly mountain fruits, violets, graphite; signature Mt Veeder tannins with a bright, fresh finish. A Zin that could convert a skeptic or two. Beautiful, even more so with some air.”

My Review: Delicious nose. We are long time fans of Zinfandel from this vineyard and ordered some. August 2025

2023 Turley Zinfandel, Dupratt  Vineyard, Mendocino, $50 (#1632)

Winery Notes: “A destination worth the distance, this remote, secluded old vine Mendocino mountain vineyard was planted ungrafted in 1919 at 1500 ft. Wild brambly berries, meat marinade, sarsaparilla, and game. More fruit and plenty of mountain tannin on the palate, with bright balancing acidity and an impressive, dynamic, lengthy finish. Given this site is oft referred to as the “islands in the sky,” it is only fitting to pair it with Dolly’s “Islands in the Stream.” Decant.”

My Review: Medicinal on the nose. Pine needles in the soil. Try the old Dupratts now. Really delicious. Lay down and decant August 2025

2023 Turley Petite Syrah, Library Vineyard, Napa Valley, $71 (#1633)

Winery Notes: “Cherished in the community, this incredibly varietally diverse vineyard was planted 1880-1920. Deep and dynamic, it draws you in with blackberry, currant, tropical fruits, and grilled game. Lay down and decant and enjoy for many years to come.”

My Review: Really dense in the glass alcohol and smooth dark fruit like the bbq we had last night. Sweet and spicy. August 2025

2023 Turley Petite Syrah, Rattlesnake Ridge, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, $66 (#1634)

Winery Notes: “Certified organic estate vines planted at nearly the highest point (2400 ft.) on Howell Mtn, on a windswept ridge overlooking Napa Valley. Classic Rattlesnake notes of berries wrapped in supple leather and surrounded by wild herbs and underbrush. Texture is signature mountain structure, lending length and robustness to the finish. Pair with Dolly’s early hit about a rough yet romantic lonesome soul, “Joshua.”

My Review: No note but I am sure I ordered some. August 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

2018 Boëté Cabernet Franc Revisit: Scrumptiousness in a Glass

THE STORY

We recently opened this astounding, impressive 2018 Boëté Reserve Cabernet Franc. After a bit of digging, I realized my initial writeup of this wine (Boëté – A Personal Milestone Celebration Inside the Winery!) was pre-release and at the end of a tasting, so I am bringing it back to you again, 4 years later.

I last wrote about Boëté Winery here: Boëté Presents Outstanding Carmel Valley Wines to the Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society!

THE WINERY

Here’s a bit of their story from their website:

“…Working in the vineyard and at the winery is a family affair with sons Jesse, Sam, and Dillon working full-time alongside their dad. John makes all the vineyard and wine making decisions, with great attention to detail being paid throughout the growing season and the wine making process; from pruning to fermentation and aging, to blending and barrel selection.

“Today, more than 6,000 grapevines grow on 7 acres, producing fruit that is widely regarded as some of California’s best.”

THE WINES

Today I am presenting just one wine. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a matter of practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

2018 Boëté Reserve Cabernet Franc, Carmel Valley AVA, Monterey County, 14% ABV, $52 (#336)

My Review: Dark garnet, almost purple in the glass. Blackberry, cedar, coffee, and Coca Cola on the nose, all carrying over to a cassis-driven palate with a delicious dark cherry finish. I like this wine. July 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

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

You can read more about the winery and purchase their wines on line here: https://www.boetewinery.com/our-wines-list/Our-wines-list/#close. For more information, please call 831-625-5040 or email boetewinery@comcast.net.

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Joyce Wine Company & The Winehouse: A Carmel Valley Destination!

THE STORY

On a hunt in Carmel Valley for a local Riesling for a virtual wine class, this 2017 Joyce Wine Company Alluvial Fan Dry Riesling was recommended to me.  I found it at The Winehouse and brought it home.  I decided not to have any wine during our virtual class and tucked it away.  When it got pulled out as I cooking wine, I intervened and tried to clarify that this was not a cooking wine!  Separately, we found the 2019 The Wine House Cabernet Sauvignon in our wine room and shared it on a Sunday night.

I last wrote about Joyce Wine Co @joycewinecompany here: The Big Party Continues for Arroyo Seco Winegrowers!  

THE WINERY

About Joyce Wine Company (from their website):

“The origins of Joyce Winery trace back to when now owner and winemaker Russell Joyce’s father stumbled upon the small rural town of Carmel Valley California in 1972. Russell’s father was in search for a place where he could both practice his day job but also set up a race shop for his race cars he used to compete in his professional racing career. The close proximity of the infamous Laguna Seca raceway along with the rural feel of the area appealed to him being a small town farm boy from Wisconsin. After settling down and starting a family he was on to his next passionate endeavor – wine. In 1986 he planted the small 5 acres around the family home and Joyce Winery was born.

“Russell, born in 1986 grew up working on the small vineyard his entire childhood. From pulling weeds, hand terracing vineyard rows and pressing grapes in the small mirco-winery located on the property a passion was being provoked without him even realizing it at the time. A self taught winemaker Russell has spent his entire adult life pursuing his dream of creating Joyce Winery into a sustainable winery that he can hopefully one day share with his children. Working day jobs along the way in produce and metal fabrication in the Salinas Valley helped pay the rent but his passion for winemaking never subsided.

“The next chapter led to Russell setting up a small production winery in an industrial building in the rural Salinas Valley.  Struggling every step of the way the small winery accommodated the production from about 2006 – 2019. Strapped for space Russell and his wife Charlotte began searching for a rural piece of land, vineyard or winery they could purchase in hopes of one day developing it into a family estate. After several failed deals Russell stumbled upon the old Ventana Winery in Soledad, Ca. Familiar with the Arroyo Seco AVA from years of purchasing fruit Russell saw a great potential in this site even though it was quite run down. In 2020 a handshake deal was made with the former Ventana Winery partners and the next chapter for Joyce Winery began.

Russell Joyce 2024 Monterey Wine Trade Event

“Russell has spent years rebuilding the old winery along with developing much of the barren land around the winery to make it suitable for a new organic vineyard. He has partnered with the original Ventana Vineyard owners in developing some new plantings of gamay noir and other aromatic white wine varieties suited to the terroir. All of the long-standing contracts to purchase fruit come from neighboring family owned vineyards all within a 10 mile radius of the winery.”

About The Winehouse:

“Charlotte and Rachel Beshoff, two young sisters, along with Charlotte’s husband Russell Joyce, founded The Wine House with a shared vision: to create a welcoming space where the community could come together and enjoy the sunny ambiance of Carmel Valley in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. As owners of Joyce Wine Co., Charlotte and Russell sought a place where they could showcase some of their favorite local wines and craft beers. The building that houses The Wine House, originally the Hatton Dairy storefront, dates back to the 1950s. The Wine House officially opened its doors in December 2017, following the relocation of the Joyce Wine Co. tasting room which is right next door.

​“Focusing on artisanal California wines and small craft breweries, The Wine House offers a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, beers, and seasonal small bites. The expansive outdoor patio features two large fire pits, while cozy indoor bench seating and communal tables create a relaxed, social setting.”

THE WINES

Today I am presenting just 2 wines.  Winery notes in general come from the tasting sheet, their website, the label, or from tasting room staff. Any errors are mine and mine alone!

2017 Joyce Wine Company Alluvial Fan Dry Riesling, Monterey County, 12% ABV (#1570)

Winemaker Notes: “This Riesling was inspired by the sloped alluvial fans in which these vineyard sites reside. The well drained soils of the alluvial fans are created as water drains from the Santa Lucia Mountains down into the Salinas Valley washing down a build up of coarse-grained sediment. The strong marine influence of the Monterey Bay coupled with these soils and thoughtful, minimalistic winemaking practices allow this wine to show the natural tension and vibrancy of Monterey County Riesling.”

My Review: “Pale in the glass. Faint honeysuckle and white peach on the nose. Lime and minerality, petroleum dominate the palate. May 2025”

2019 The Wine House Cabernet Sauvignon, San Benito County, 13.8% ABV (#1571)

My Review:  I didn’t get specific tasting notes on this wine. I recall it as an enjoyable Cabernet Sauvignon – not as complex or voluptuous as a Napa or Carmel Valley. It passed the taste test at our house and pairs well with Sunday Night Dinner. 

THE TASTING ROOM

The Joyce tasting room is located at 1 East Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley Village is open.  It has a lovely outdoor setting and The Wine House is right in front of it.  You can find more information and make a reservation here.

The Winehouse: “Welcome to The Wine House, your neighborhood destination for beer and wine. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just looking to unwind, we offer a curated selection of local wines and craft beers in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Come gather with friends, enjoy a glass, and experience the best of what our community has to offer.”

“We are located in the heart of the charming Carmel Valley Village. Our patio seating is open on a first come, first serve basis. No reservations.” Hours: Wednesday & Thursday 3-8pm; Friday & Saturday 1-8pm, Sunday 12-7pm, Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Decanting Monterey Hits the 5 Year Milestone: A Reprise!

Today marks the fifth anniversary of Decanting Monterey, A Central Coast Wine Blog! I really can’t believe what sprang from a pandemic pastime (literally) has persevered and is now an internationally-recognized effort.  Whether you get my weekly reviews delivered to your email (sign up today – it is free!), see them on social media (Instagram, Facebook, or CELLAR TRACKER, or discover them via Google search; I hope you are enjoying reading about our Monterey wines through my lens. I value every view, like, and comment. I write this blog out of passion for our Monterey wines, not for profit, and have continued to keep this space ad-free for you. I deeply appreciate each and every one of you who is reading my posts!

HUGE THANKS UP FRONT!

I want to express my gratitude to those vintners in year 5 who have comped me wine tastings, given me discounts, and especially those who have donated wine to the cause! I am grateful to Chesebro, Corral Wine Co., I Brand, Parsonage, and Rombi for their generosity this year in donated wines, steep discounts or assistance with group tastings. I am especially thankful for Sal Rombi who has donated pre-release for us to taste in-depth and replacement bottles for many of the wines I have reviewed. And to my fellow board members at the Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society who continue to trust me to organize most of their events. And, of course, the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod who make this all tons of fun!

Fellow AWS Board Members

A BRIEF RECAP OF THE LAST 4 YEARS:

Year 1: Deep in the unvaccinated period of the pandemic in July 2020, Decanting Monterey initially was focused on wines from our own collection sampled at home, with or without our neighboring friends and our daughters, who quickly became known as the COVID Wine Pod. It was 2 posts per week and, mostly, one wine at a time. Back then, some wineries had just reopened with their COVID procedures and we still weren’t venturing out much. I also established the @decantingmonterey Facebook page.

During Year 2, as we became fully vaccinated and boosted – and double boosted, we were able to get out to more local wineries at a more deliberate pace. And the COVID Wine Pod was renamed the Decanting Monterey Wine Pod! I also moved to a single post per week and presented a single wine class to my old DC wine group. Most of the posts were based on event-driven or winery tastings and fewer individual, cellar-driven posts.  And I started the @decanting_monterey Instagram feed.

During Year 3, I was able to get recognition as an entity with some stature behind it. Our local Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society invited me to join them as a Board Advisor. As a result, I arranged 8 of their monthly events. I presented our Monterey wines to 3 classes: in Washington DC, in Northern Virginia, and to the Carmel Rotary! I covered 2 local wine events: the Santa Lucia Highlands Sun, Wind & Wine Festival and the Monterey Winemakers Celebration.

My friends from Corral Wine Co.

Year 4 was the strongest year for Decanting Monterey. I was nominated for Best Local Blog in the Monterey County Weekly’s 2023 “Best of” competition. I covered 8 local wine events, including the 30th Monterey Winemakers Celebration, the Arroyo Seco Winegrowers 40th Anniversary, the 50th Anniversary of the Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association, the Grand Opening  of LadySomm in the Barnyard, the East End Passport, and the Santa Lucia Highlands Sun, Wind & Wine Festival. Arranged 7 winery visits and supported 2 tasting events for the Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society, and hosted 1 wine dinner. I also presented 5 Monterey wines to an East Coast wine appreciation group.

Wine Pod Visit to Zabala Vineyards

During Year 5, we kept on going, but covered far fewer events due to serious injury (all better now, thanks!):

Wine Blog of the Year!

I have some high-level stats to share with you about Year Five of Decanting Monterey!

  • www.decantingmonterey.com surpassed the 33,000 “views” mark – which more than doubled in a single year!! This statistic is very important to me.  If you are seeing my blog on social media or via email, please be sure to click the link and open it!
  • In its lifetime, 349 total posts, including this one.
  • 183 wines (168 for the first time) were presented on Decanting Monterey in Year 5.
  • 138 red wines were presented, as well as 32 whites, 13 rosés, including a single sparkling wine.
  • Wines from 11 California counties are represented, with over 60% from Monterey.  In addition to the counties depicted on the chart, there were also a few from Madera, Santa Clara, Sonoma, and Yolo counties. 

  • Wines from 7 of the 10 Monterey American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) were covered, with the most from Carmel Valley, followed by the Santa Lucia Highlands and Monterey.
  • Parsonage was the most represented family of wines, followed by Bernardus, I Brand, and Chesebro.
  • In addition, we included 5 wines from Washington State, and one each from Australia, France and Spain.
  • Finally, we covered 2 wine events at LadySomm, and a trip to Amador.

2024 Monterey County Crop Report: Wine in Decline

I’ve written before about the declining wine market as people focus more on their health and drink less. The recent release of the 2024 Monterey County Crop Report highlights this situation quite directly, with a staggering 21% drop in the value of wine grapes in the county. It’s a worrisome trend for our wineries, as Dave Faries mentioned in the Monterey County Weekly article: The plummeting demand for wine has many in the industry worried. But is the situation so dire? I don’t know how much it affects our smaller, local wineries with their loyal followings, but the shift in the marketplace needs attention, with an eye to both short-term and longer-term strategies. I wrote about this in my Amador post here: Is this a permanent shift? Is wine becoming passé? Is anyone making a good de-alcoholized red wine? Here are the telling stats from the crop report:

Screenshot from the 2024 Monterey County Crop Report

  • Grapes went down in ranking from 5th place in 2023, to 8th place in 2024 – behind strawberries, leaf and head lettuces, broccoli, cauliflower, celery and spinach.
  • Acreage of planted grapes declined from 40,200 in 2023 to 39,600 in 2024.
  • Grape crop value decreased from $194,642,000 in 2023 to $152,251,000 in 2024.
Grapes left hanging in Amador Fall 2024

WHAT’S NEXT?

While I have some posts already queued up for Year 6, let me ask my mighty readers:  Where should I visit next?  I have a short list of wineries not yet presented and new or relocated tasting rooms. And I do have a short trip to Paso Robles coming up. Beyond that? Please leave me a comment on this post and let me know what some of your favorite, local places are to wine taste that I should not miss in Year 6!

And, if you have not signed up for my free, weekly blog email, please do! I judge how well I am doing by how many views, subscribers, and comments I receive. (Go, Instagram!) No ads and I don’t sell your data. Please help me spread the word and feel free to comment on my posts! And follow my Facebook (@DecantingMonterey) and Instagram (@decanting_monterey) sites.

So, here we go – Year 6!  I don’t think I will ever surpass Year 4, but even coasting in this world of Monterey wines has allowed me to access and promote some of the very best California has to offer. I hope you will try some wines from Monterey County and share your experiences with me!

Central Coast Sharon

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Nominate Decanting Monterey for Best Local Blog Today!

I just realized the 2025 Best of Monterey County® nominations are open!  The deadline for nominations is Sunday, July 20th!  My simple ask is that you please go in and vote for Decanting Monterey as Best Local Blog.  Here is the link: https://2025-best-of-monterey-county-nominations–mcweekly.contest.vote/. If you have already voted, please go back in and add this single nomination. If you haven’t nominated anyone yet, please do so today (or by Sunday).  Yes, you need to nominate 20 entities across the categories.  If you are local or have ever visited the area, you have the knowledge to do so!  Yes, you have to register your email, but you don’t need to sign up for anything. Thanks so much!

Central Coast Sharon

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

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

Rombi Releases A Brand New, Stunning 2023 Petit Verdot!

THE STORY

When we stopped in for my Rombi wine pickup in late April, we got to taste a big surprise: a brand new 2023 Petit Verdot from Napa! This wine shows so well at this young age that I took an extra one home!

And, oh by the way, if you haven’t tried his 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, it is drinking really well – we took one of those home, too. You can read about it in this Decanting Monterey post: Get the Scoop Here: A Preview of Rombi New Releases!

My final news from Sal Rombi is he will soon release his 2018 Petite Sirah, which I previously previewed here: Rombi’s 2018 Petite Sirah Expresses Its Napa Pedigree!

THE WINERY

ABOUT ROMBI WINES:

“Since 2006, hands-on winemaking that reflects a unique sense of place”

“Wine is a gift from nature, and every bottle produced at Rombi Wines tells a story of the land, the geography, the climate, and the hands-on philosophy of one man. Salvatore Rombi takes winemaking personally, obsessing over every detail — from harvest to barrel aging — to produce a unique range of elegant yet bold and complex red wines from the Carmel Valley Appellation. Rombi’s small vineyard and intimate tasting room provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable wine journey. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a strict allegiance to sustainable farming practices, Rombi creates award-winning, limited-production vintages. As an ode to terroir — the rock and soil, but also the land and legacy, culture and commitment, time and tradition — the wines from Rombi are always bottled poetry.”

THE WINE

Today I’m presenting just this one wine, the 2023 Rombi Petit Verdot, which was part of my allocation.

2023 Rombi Petit Verdot, Napa Valley AVA, 14.45 ABV, $75 (#1561)

My Review: Fresh crushed plum, violets and berries on the nose. Rich vanilla, dark plum and cassis on the palate. Wow – this wine tastes so good now. Imagine how exceptional it is going to be when you give it some time. I took another bottle home! April 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

Visiting Sal Rombi in his tasting room is one of my favorite experiences – you might walk in as strangers, but you will walk out as old friends. His wines are some of the finest made in Monterey County.

Taste Award-Winning Vintages at Rombi Wines:

“At Rombi Wines, our unique tasting room provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. Salvatore Rombi is most often on hand to guide you through the winemaking process and your tasting experience. Step off the beaten path and discover Rombi, where every bottle tells a story.

“Rombi Wines Tasting Room is at 1 Center St., in the charming Carmel Valley Village. We are open Saturdays and Sundays from noon–5 p.m., although appointments can be made for weekday visits.”

(831) 659-7200

© Decanting Monterey 2025

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

Boëté Presents Outstanding Carmel Valley Wines to the Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society!

THE STORY

AWS Members

The Monterey Chapter of the American Wine Society (AWS) had its April session on The Barrel Room’s patio where Jana Saunders of Boëté Winery introduced their wines to us.  As long-time members of their wine club, I was thrilled to finally make this happen for our members.  We were allowed to bring appetizers to share and – bonus – it was a beautiful, sunny and warm afternoon. The wines were all delicious and the hospitality, unrivaled. 

Member Steve and Chapter Chair Jacqueline

I last wrote about Boëté Winery here: Boëté Opens a New Tasting Venue Inside The Barrel Room!

AWS Board Members Janet and Damon

THE WINERY

Boëté makes such tasty wines from its Bordeaux varietals grown just beyond Carmel Valley Village. I pulled this short history from its website and encourage you to read the rest on its website:

“In the early 80’s John Saunders made wine at his Soledad Ranch in the Santa Lucia Highlands. At first making wine was a hobby and when his wines became popular with many of his friends in the restaurant industry, he decided to create a winery. In 1994, John and his wife Jana traded their 250-acre citrus orchard in Soledad California for 15 acres in Carmel Valley; land that had gone uncultivated due to lack of water. The first water well John drilled had gushed enough water to irrigate his vineyard forever. In early spring 1997, they planted their first vineyard on their sun-drenched hillside.”

THE WINES

Today I am presenting just one new wine, as the others we tasted are available in the post linked above. Any errors are mine and mine alone. As a matter of practice, I do not correct typos from winery websites.

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

Winery Notes: N/A

My Review: Ruby in the glass. Pleasant cherry dominates the nose. Tart palate with red cherry juice flavors. I would like to taste this new release gain – separate from an event. April 2025

THE TASTING ROOM

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

You can read more about the winery and purchase their wines on line through their website.

© 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