Month: April 2023
2019 Aridus Wine Syrah – An Unexpected Delight From Arizona!
The Winery
First thing right up front is most don’t think of Arizona as a “winery state”! Turns out Arizona has over 120 wineries scattered throughout the state. Aridus is located in southeastern Arizona in Willcox, about 85 miles east of Tucson in Cochise County. The town of Willcox has 14 different tasting rooms!
(Picture from City of Willcox)
Scott and Joan Dahmer founded Aridus Wine Company in 2012, just outside the city of Willcox. The name Aridus, come from the Latin word meaning “dry or arid”, most appropriate for most people’s idea of Arizona.
(Tasting room in Willcox. Picture from Aridus Wine Company)
The winery/crush facility and tasting room are located in two different locations in Willcox. They also have another tasting room in Scottsdale on Main Street. Their yearly production is approximately 2,500 cases. They have an amazing lineup of different varietals available including: whites including Malvasia Bianca, Viognier, Chardonnay, Fume Blanc and Muscat. Reds include Merlot, Mourvèdre, Graciano, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Petite Verdot and Montepulciano, as well as several Rosés.
(Tasting room in Scottsdale. Picture from Aridus Wine Company)
The winemaker, Lisa Strid has produced wine for the last seven years at the winery. During this time, she has produced 183 wines from five different growing regions in Arizona, New Mexico and California. Since 2020, Aridus is now making wine exclusively from its estate vineyard.
The Wine – 2019 Aridus Syrah
Photo ©Michael Kelly
When I was sent three wines, including the Syrah, I had no idea what to expect. In California some of the best wines come from warm regions and dry farmed, forcing the roots to seek water and bringing forth wonderful minerality. So I welcomed a warm climate wine expecting something, possibly something very good. This Syrah came from two vineyards located next to each other on the Willcox Bench. This bottle is 100% Syrah. Only 220 cases were produced and it sells for $60/bottle. A unique characteristic of this wine was that it was aged 30 months in French oak barrels, 73% second-fill French oak, and 27% neutral oak.
First on the eyes, a dark radiant and enticing purple/magenta hue. On the nose, lavender and blueberry, waft into the senses. On the palate, raspberry, sweet vanilla and cinnamon bounce joyfully from side to side expressing a fullness in the mouth. A hint of mocha and light roasted coffee are present on the enticing finish beckoning yet another sip. To say I was both pleasantly shocked and excited tasting this wine from Arizona is an understatement!
It is often difficult to find a well balanced Syrah from the known Syrah regions of France, California, Chile, South Africa and Australia, let alone, at least for me, the unknown Willcox, Arizona region was delightful.
The Food and Wine Pairing
Photo ©Michael Kelly
While this might not be what one is accustomed to seeing for semi-gourmet meals, the temperature hit 80 degrees in northern California for the first time in 6 months after our cold and wet winter. Felt like lighting up the BBQ and having a simple comfort food hamburger (no bun) for dinner. Pulled this wine out not knowing what to expect. Now I wish we had pork loin, chicken mole, beef short ribs or various other typically match food pairing with a Syrah! The burger with Roma tomatoes, purple onion slice, with mustard and ketchup still hit the spot. Accompanied by rustic French fries and a fresh garden salad was a great way to welcome the BBQ season. The wine with its flavors and full mouth feel, were an excellent pairing.
I can hardly wait to taste the two other wines sent from Aridus Wine Company, the 2020 Viognier and the 2019 Tempranillo. Those stories will follow in the next coming weeks and I may have to plan a wine tour in Arizona!!
Sláinte,
Michael
2017 Ledson Winery Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
The Winery
Photo from Ledson Website
The story begins in England in 1896 and is detailed on the website https://ledson.com/discover-ledson/history/ . It is a tale of hard work, family ties and a desire to do more for the community. Steve Ledson’s history is both unique and common—unique with background and successful venture and common with family ties. His demeanor and casual manner speaks volumes.
The Castle is the official tasting room of Ledson Winery and the architecture and construction alone are worth the visit! Ledson Winery offers the largest premium wine portfolio of any family owned winery in the United States. Today their offering numbers more than 70 wines annually! More information on Ledson Winery can be found at:
The Wine
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine has made my list of “Best of Year California Wines Tasted” annually. I took this bottle out of the cellar for our Friday Night Wine & Dine dinner. As soon as it was opened I remembered why it made the Best Wines Tasted list for the last 3 years!
On the eyes, a beautiful golden color with a mid-heavy viscosity (odd for a Sauvignon Blanc). On the nose, aromas of pineapple were dominate with guava and papaya following closely behind. On the palate, a unique soft citrus taste challenged the pineapple. In the mouth it was perhaps the most robust and mouth filling Sauvignon Blanc tasted in recent memory. It was also unique in tasting somewhere between New Zealand and the United States style Sauvignon Blanc on flavors. On the finish, it was medium length with a clean crispness, dry and yet exotic tropical fruits abounded.
The wine has received 93 points and a Gold Medal from the 2019 American Fine Wine Invitational and 90 points and a Gold Medal from the 2019 Winemaker Challenge International Wine Group.
It will once again get mentioned in the 2023 Best California Wines Tasted list at the end of this year.
The Food and Wine Pairing
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Dinner was at Verona18 at the Copper Valley Golf Course. Paired with the freshest and most tasteful shrimp with cocktail sauce I have had in the last 15 years.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The main entrée was a Caesar Salad with salmon. Both were excellent with this wine and made a great pairing.
Sláinte,
Michael
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
https://www.coppervalleygolf.com/homepage/current-operations
42nd Sierra Foothills Wine Competition Selected Winners
The results of the 42nd Sierra Foothills Wine Competition awards for several past varietals which stories have been written and their award this year. It is gratifying to get affirmation that wines which I selected for full feature stories do indeed win in a blind tasting competition with other judges. Vintages may differ. Congratulations on your awards showcasing your excellent wines!
Gossamer Cellars
Negroamaro – Double Gold Medal
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2019/09/19/gossamer-cellars-2014-negroamaros/
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2019/01/18/gossamer-cellars-a-unique-find/
Alicante Bouschet – Silver Medal
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2022/04/14/2017-gossamer-cellars-alicante-bouschet/
Tannat- Bronze Medal
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2022/11/28/2019-gossamer-cellars-tannat/
Other noteworthy medals that Gossamer Cellars won and I will soon be doing a story are: Nebbiolo/Gold; Sangiovese/Gold; Verdelho/Silver
Mineral Wines
Tempranillo – Silver Medal
Malbec – Silver Medal
Other noteworthy medals that Mineral Wines won and I will soon be doing a story are: Merlot/Gold; Cab Franc/Silver/; Rhone Blend “Vino de Oro”/Gold
Above The Rush Wines
Tempranillo – Silver Medal
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2022/09/24/above-the-rush-wines-2019-tempranillo/
Albariño – Silver Medal
Other noteworthy medal/award won and I will soon be doing a story are: Barbera/Double Gold and Best of Show for Calaveras
Twisted Oak
Graciano – Double Gold Medal
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2021/08/06/2016-twisted-oak-graciano/
Black Sheep
Cinsault – Silver Medal
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2019/11/12/2014-black-sheep-cinsaut-a-beautiful-wine/
OTHER PAST STORIES ON WINERIES WHO WERE IN THE COMPETITION BUT PERHAPS NOT ON THE VARIETAL ENTERED.
Lavender Ridge
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2023/01/09/2018-lavender-ridge-vineyard-roussanne/
Jazz Cellars
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2020/10/07/2012-jazz-cellars-rhapsody-one-of-my-favorites/
Jeff Runquist Winery
Ironstone
Indian Rock
Brice Station
Stevenot
Inner Sanctum Cellars
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2019/04/18/inner-sanctum-cellars-went-inside-and-what-i-saw/
Sláinte,
Michael
2017 Shale Canyon Consortium Blend – A Wine for the Wild West
Background on the Arroyo Seco Appellation
For those not familiar with Arroyo Seco AVA in California, here is a detailed map of the area. It also shows the area is located in California and secondly a map of where Shale Canyon fits in:
(Map from Arroyo Seco Winegrowers Association)
Consisting of 18,240 acres the Arroyo Seco AVA is one of the smallest AVAs in California. While this area receives about 13 inches of rain per year, they have gone 100% solar power for their operation and today are one of two wineries working completely off the gird.
The Winery
(View of vineyard from above Shale Canyon. Photo from Shale Canyon)
So who are the owners/winemakers of Shale Canyon Wines? They are a two man show with Keith Prader and his brother Tim. The responsibilities are for Keith to handle the winemaking, software, sales and marketing. Tim handles the vineyard management, facilities manager and tasting room manager. For the last two years, Keith has been the winemaker. While lines of responsibilities may be drawn, each can and do fill in any and all needs of running a small two man winery. While this area receives about 13 inches of rain per year, they have gone 100% solar power for their operation and today are one of two wineries working completely off the gird.
Formed Shale Canyon in 2007, their property is 375 acres with only 7 acres planted in vineyard. Their first production was 2008. On the estate property they have planted besides Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo, Mourvedre, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel. Keith mentioned to me that on the estate grapes, they drop a lot of fruit and target about 3 tons per acre. Flavor profile is key and dropping fruit allows more “flavor per grape” (FPG). They have sourced grapes for their Chardonnay, Malbec and Syrah. In 2018 they produced about 1,000 cases and today produce approximately 1500 cases. Looking out in time to 2025 they believe they will be between 2000 to 2500 cases maximum.
(Photo from Shale Canyon)
You can experience their wines at their tasting room in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Paseo San Carlos, west side of San Carlos between Ocean and Seventh. They are open daily from 12 to 6 pm. They offer some unique wines like a 100% Mourvèdre and Tempranillo, two varietals uncommon for Monterey County.
The Wine
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo shot with this picture as Keith and his wife, Kimberley were here at Copper Valley for the Cabernet Franc Wine Stroll on their 34th wedding anniversary. Winery Tasting Notes: “A classic blend of Bordeaux varietals. Very aromatic with a distinctive cherry note on the nose. It is an elegant, yet complex wine with black berry, dark cherry, plum and blueberry on the palate. It has a long finish with wisps of cedar, smoke and medium plus tannins.” I also picked up anise flavor with an earthiness and forest spices and a tinge of cedar on the finish. It was extremely dark color with smooth silky tannins. They produced 139 cases of the 2017 and sells for $50/bottle.
The Food and Wine Pairing
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Paired with slow cooked red wine braised bone-in beef short ribs. Ingredients included olive oil, yellow onions, baby mushrooms, minced garlic, Cabernet Sauvignon, beef broth, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried marjoram and bay leaves. Slow cooked for 8-10 hours. The meat literally fell off the bone and was delicious. Accompanied with French fried potatoes and a fresh garden salad. The Consortium added an earthiness and subtle fruit to the food pairing and was a solid pairing.
Quality has been their mantra since inception and to this point, they drop between 40-50% of the fruit on the vines to provide the most intense flavored grapes for their wines. Kudo’s to Tim and Keith for some excellent work.
Sláinte,
Michael
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
https://www.shalecanyonwines.com/
The 4th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition and Celebration Concluded with a Gourmet Dinner, featuring Cabernet Franc Wines from Around the World
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The third and final event for the 4th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition and Celebration was a gourmet dinner featuring Cabernet Franc wines from around the world. It was held at The Golf Club at Copper Valley clubhouse on Saturday April 22nd, 2023. Featured Cabernet Franc wines were paired with specifically chosen foods to complement and enhance the experience. The wines started off with a Cabernet Franc Blanc from Livermore, California then moved to a wine from Chinon, France. Next was this year’s Grand Sweepstakes winner from the competition from Paso Robles and ended with a Cabernet Franc blend from Colchagua Valley, Chile. Each wine was entirely different, unique and represented the terrior from their respective regions. The wines will be described in more detail with each dish further below.
The dinner started off with a quick overview of Cabernet Franc wine history and profiles be it a warm or cool climate, pricing trends per ton for Cabernet Franc, what regions/geography Cabernet Franc is grown, food pairings, etc.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Each table was set with four wine glasses, the food menu and the wine menu for the evening. Some additional bottles of other Cabernet Franc wines were presented at each table with wines from a combination of New York, Washington, California and Virginia.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
As the guest were let in to the Grandview Room, each was handed a bloody Mary shrimp shooter with perfectly prepared spices and fresh shrimp with vodka. Absolutely tasted as good as it looked!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The first plate was a butter lettuce salad with Gorgonzola and pear dressing including diced avocado, thinly sliced pear, roasted and chopped hazelnuts and sweetened and dried cranberries. This was paired with L’Autre Côte Cabernet Franc Blanc from Livermore. This won a Gold Medal and Best of Class in the Specialty Division at the International Cabernet Franc Competition held March 29th. A newly released wine from winemaker Steven Kent Mirassou that can only be described as “other worldly and phenomenally delicious”. Aromatic with intense floral notes and in his words “fresh Kauai Plumeria”. Flavors of stone fruit white and yellow peaches with nectarines in the background. An excellent food pairing and unique white Cabernet Franc.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Next up was the chicken Raviolo with red wine demi-glace with Gremolata & Porcini mushrooms, paired with a Cabernet Franc from Domain Fabrice Gasnier from Chinon, France. This wine was bright and racy with great concentration and length. A “lighter wine” but with the food it turned into one of the best food and wine pairings of the evening. Domain Fabrice Gasnier with their biodynamic techniques in farming with no pesticides or herbicides, provide a pure essence of a Cabernet Franc from France.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
After an Intermezzo of lemon sorbetto, we were treated to the third plate of prime strip loin Oscar. An extremely tender beef cooked to medium rare and topped off with fresh crab in a Béarnaise sauce. Accompanying the plate was asparagus and gratin roasted potatoes. This was paired with the Grand Sweepstakes Winner of the wine competition held March 29th of LXV Wines of Paso Robles. The wine had savory notes of garrigue, sliced raspberries and aromas of fresh lilacs on the nose. On the palate, vanilla counter balanced with white pepper and sage, along with the fruit provide mouth filling experience with silky smooth tannins and a beautiful long finish.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The fourth plate, the dessert was decadent chocolate Pots de Crème with a dollop of fresh cream and chocolate shavings. This was served with a Marquis Lien Cabernet Franc blend from Colchagua Valley, Chile of 60% Cabernet Franc, 29% Carménère and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine won a Silver Medal at the Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition in the International Division. While referring to the lighter Cabernet Franc from Chinon as a ballerina, this was a heavy weight boxer. Yet still providing sufficient French Oak nuances and ripe red fruit aromas. Intense tannins and structure was achieved with this blend of wines. By itself it was a strong sipping wine, but with a small amount of rich chocolate, it softened up and was a delightful conclusion to the meal.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Executive Chef Jaime Alderete showcased his culinary skills to perfection. The attendees were literally blown away with the food and wine pairing as the played like a royal orchestra in the mouth. Food and Beverage Manager Edwarda Alderete worked with her staff to set up the room and provided an elegant touch to each table setting. The wonderful wait staff was prompt and attentive to a very loud room all night long. Bravo to Jaime and Edwarda Alderete for a spectacular evening that will be remembered for years.
Sláinte,
Michael
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
https://www.coppervalleygolf.com/homepage/current-operations
https://www.coppervalleygolf.com/
https://www.lautrecotecabfranc.com/
2017 Prie Winery and Vineyards Barbera – Paired With a Scrumptious Lasagna from Verona18
The Winery
Quaint, small, charming may be some of the words to describe the tasting room which holds about 4-6 people comfortably. That may be a “turn off” but the reality is that the two owners John and Lisa Gash have hearts and minds the size of Texas. Originally from Livermore and working at Lawrence Livermore Labs, they understood wine from being in the beautiful Livermore Valley. Their adventure into the wine business began with Lisa starting this as a hobby. Today John and Lisa, who are “self-taught” winemakers, credit their friends and community in helping them achieve all their accolades. The two make a great “Ying and Yang” team of winemaking prowess and creativity/artistic bent.
They started officially in 2010 in Livermore sourcing grapes from the iconic Soucie Vineyard in Lodi. In 2012 they purchased the Cliff Mettler house and vineyard in Lodi. They constructed the winery and in 2015 opened their boutique tasting room.
A road less travelled would be a great theme for the wine offerings. Their goal is to source from individual vineyards (including their own) to provide an expression of the terroir of Lodi AVA and surrounding areas.
Currently Prie offers a large selection of wines (different vintages). The red wines include Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Carignane, Alicante Bouschet, Dornfelder, Counoise, Prieto Picudo, Grenache, Mourvedre, Zinfandel, Nebbiolo, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also offer a couple of blends and a few white wines.
Background on Barbera
Barbera, the red-headed step child of Italian descent! Yes that is how many people view Barbera wine. Yet the pedigree goes back to the 7th century as compared to the relatively “new comer” Cabernet Sauvignon which dates only to the 17th century. The production of Barbera is primarily in Italy boasting about 83% of worldwide vines. The United States accounts for the second largest production of approximately 11% and is found primarily in the Sierra Foothills, Central Valley and Santa Barbera areas. The small balance can be found in Australia and Argentina. Barbera was at one time the third most planted grape in Italy behind Sangiovese and Montepulciano.
If the aristocratic Cabernet Sauvignon is the King of Varietals, then Barbera is “wine of the people”. In northern Italy, especially in Piedmont, it does not get the same respect as Nebbiolo with prime real estate. Barbera is grown in the low slopes and valleys. Often very good Barbera can be obtained for a fraction of the price of a vintage Nebbiolo. Thus the early years of Barbera was known as a “jug wine”. When immigrants coming to the United States desired an inexpensive wine, Barbera filled the demand. Barbera is meant to be enjoyed young with intense aromas of cherries and blackberries.
The Wine
This Barbera possess a typical profile. On the eye the color is a deep crimson and medium heavy body. On the nose and palate, dark cherry, blackberries and a hint of strawberry wafts into the olfactory receptors and then the mouth discerns spices of vanilla and mild black licorice. What makes Barbera unique are the low tannins but high acidity. This makes it easy to pair with just about any meat dish, pasta or herbaceous cheeses like blue cheese. The next release is this summer and will sell for $37/bottle and is described as having aromas and tastes of red currants and dark cherries tilted towards forest and cedar notes.
The Food and Wine Pairing
Last evening our Wine & Dine Group ate at Verona18 at the Copper Valley Golf Club. Selected a pasta dish to go with this Barbera wine. Started out with a Caesar salad, hearts of Romaine, Parmigiana-Reggiano, cheese and Caesar dressing (with a little extra on the side!).
Dinner was beautiful lasagna consisting of layers of flat pasta, Bolognese, mushrooms, seasoned with ricotta and mozzarella and fresh seasonal vegetables.
And of course a scoop of chocolate ice cream for dessert!
Overall a wonderful food and wine pairing with the Barbera wine and lasagna. Verona18 hit another home run this evening.
Sláinte,
Michael
2020 Wood Family Vineyards Malbec with Carne Asada
The Wine
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine on the eyes is medium viscosity with a deep royal purple coloration, yet around the rim it is almost translucent. On the nose blackberries and dark red plums are the leaders rushing in to claim dominance in the olfactory senses. Also present were violets and roses. On the palate almost overpowering black and dark red fruits (blackberries and plums) come to the forefront with tobacco, French oak, chocolate, black licorice and fresh leather. The finish is velvety smooth with medium acidity and rounded embracing tannins with no sharpness. Also on the finish the presence of ground stone minerality provide a juicy and mouth filling finish. Alcohol was 15.1 % and listed at the winery at $36/bottle. This Malbec has been on my list of Best Wines Tasted Yearly for the last three years and continues to be in 2023. Heard they just bottled the 2021 Malbec this last Monday and it should be released this early summer.
The Food and Wine Pairing
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Dinner with this wine was a special Carne Asada. The ingredients included, fresh chopped Serrano peppers (3 with seeds) rather than Jalapeño peppers , olive oil, soy sauce, fresh squeezed orange and lime juice, minced garlic cloves, ground cumin, Kosher salt, ground black pepper marinated for 24 hours with a flank steak. The steak was seared on the BBQ with an infrared ceramic burner at between 1200 to 1400 degrees for about 3-4 minutes a side along with Serranto peppers roasting on top of the steak. Topped off with fresh minced cilantro, fresh marinade sauce and a modicum of fresh squeezed lime juice. Accompanying the meal were roasted quartered potatoes, fresh garden salad and broccoli. The Carne Asada was flavorful and spicy with a little more punch than using Jalapeño peppers. This is now one of our go to summer food pairings! It will definitely make my “Best Wines Tasted This Year” again (comes out each December).
This Malbec with its fruit surrounded the spicy meat and cooled it off to be absolutely a wonderful pairing.
Sláinte,
Michael
Cabernet Franc Wine Stroll at 4th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition & Celebration
The second event of three this year at the Annual International Cabernet Franc Celebration and Wine Competition was held Saturday April 15th, at the Grandview Room at The Golf Club at Copper Valley, Copperopolis, California. A warm sunny and beautiful day in the Sierra foothills hosted all the 92 guests and 16 personnel from the wineries from all over California.
Only the past winners from the previous year event are invited to pour. Thus only the Best of the Best participate. Eleven wineries participated pouring their Cabernet Franc’s (current vintage) which had previously won Gold or Double Gold Medals, Best of Class or Best of Show. Each winery had on their table a display with the left side describing their Cabernet Franc and the right side providing information on their winery, offering, club membership, etc. Each winery were allowed to pour their others wine varietals. AVAs represented included Paso Robles, Arroyo Seco, Livermore Valley, Sonoma, Calaveras County and Napa Valley. This allowed guests to taste excellent Cabernet Franc wines from various and entirely different terroirs to find their ideal wine and experience different regions all at the same venue.
Verona18 restaurant provided an epic spread of delicious appetizers for the guests to enjoy. The appetizers were hand selected to go with the Cabernet Franc wines. The constant replenishing of appetizers kept up with the guests enjoying with the wines.
They could grab a few appetizers and wine and then sit outside overlooking the beautiful grounds. Here were the wineries that had previously won and some of their other wines they were pouring.
At the first table was Michael Budd of Dracaena Wines from Paso Robles, California. Michael was pouring their award winning wines of Cabernet Franc, a Cabernet Franc Blend called Phoenix, Chenin Blanc and a Rose.
Next up was Larry Dino, winemaker/owner of Cuda Ridge Wines from Livermore, California. Larry and his wife Margie were pouring their Best of Show & Class 2019 Blend called Melange d’Amis as well as their 2018 Melange d’ Amis and their 2020 Cabernet Franc.
Elliot Stern of Oakville East located in Napa Valley poured four of his award winning wines. The first was the 2018 “Franc n’ Stern” Cabernet Franc followed with Oakville East Core Stone Blend, Oakville East Harter Family, Double H Ranch 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and one of my personal favorites Oakville East Exposure Cabernet Sauvignon.
Up next was Keith Prather from Shale Canyon making his wines from Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County. Keith and his wife Kimberley were celebrating their anniversary and made it a two day event in the Sierra foothills. He poured various wines including his 2017 Cabernet Franc, Amalgamation Reserve a blend of Zinfandel, Tempranillo and Petite Sirah, ZSM blend of Zinfandel, Syrah and Mourvedre, Contemplation blend and a few others.
Chris Hayes from Quintessential Wines representing Kautz & Kramer of Lodi was pouring their award winning wine Cabernet Franc Sheldon Ranch, Block 72. Kautz & Kramer is one of the premier brand of Ironstone.
A regular and always award winning Wood Family Vineyards from Livermore, California was next up. Rhonda Wood, owner and winemaker, with her son Harrison Wood, poured their 2020 Cabernet Franc as well as 2019 Zinfandel, 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon and their every popular 2021 Chardonnay.
As guests continued throughout the room, they came to Steven Kent Mirassou’s newest label, L’Autre Côte Cabernet Franc from Livermore, California. This is the third year of production of this wine/label, showcasing only Cabernet Franc. Shown with his assistant winemaker Beth Refsnider. A most interesting L’Autre Côte Blanc was showcased.
(This was last year’s picture)
Robert Rex and his wife PJ poured their 2013 and 2017 Cabernet Franc from Kenwood, California. They also poured many of their award winning wines including 2014 Zinfandel, 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Fox Run, 2020 Sangiovese, 2018 Chardonnay and a 2019 Syrah Rose. Lots of positive comments on the Cabernet Sauvignon from the attendees!
Cornerstone Cellars from Napa Valley poured their award winning 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon. Lynne Prescott and her husband held a busy table with folks enjoying their wine.
Middle Oak Wines of Texas was present pouring their Best of Show their 2018 “Middle C” Cabernet Franc. The winery is located in Texas but uses grapes from Napa Valley. Pouring was Chris Klein as Christina Skinner owner could not attend.
Villa Vallecito Vineyards from the community of Vallecito in Calaveras County had owner Ghee Hagedorn pouring several wines. Her award winning 2020 Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Cabernet Franc blend “EL Rey” and a few others.
Each of these winemaker’s and owners spend a lot of time & effort getting to the event and it was greatly appreciated by attendees.
If you want to read more about each these wineries, I have provided a link to just one of the many stories written on these excellent wineries and their wines. Click on the link below the name to find out more.
Dracaena Wines
Cuda Ridge Wines
Oakville East
Shale Canyon
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2020/12/16/shale-canyon-wines-does-it-again/
Kautz & Kramer
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2022/06/01/2018-kautz-kramer-a-love-affair-story/
Wood Family Vineyards
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2021/01/17/2018-wood-family-vineyards-cabernet-franc/
L’Autre Cote
Cornerstone Cellars
Villa Vallecito Vineyards
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2023/03/20/the-2020-villa-vallecito-vineyards-cabernet-franc/
Two wineries I have not yet written stories on but will be doing soon are Deerfield Ranch Wines and Middle Oak Wines.
Special Thanks: Verona18 Food & Beverage Manager Edwarda Alderete and her staff did an amazing job setting up the room and providing wonderful appetizers. Cindy Acre and Patty Powers did a wonderful job warmly greeting and registering the guests.
Sláinte,
Michael
2021 Wood Family Vineyards Chardonnay – A Great Pairing Wine
The Winery
Located in eastern Livermore Valley, Rhonda Wood owner & winemaker, has been producing award winning wines for over two decades at Wood Family Vineyards. You can read more on her background from airline pilot to award winning winemaker at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2016/02/10/wood-family-vineyards-2/
and
Here is just a “partial listing” of her current winning wines:
- 2021 “Pink Pearl” Rose – Best of Class – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2021 Albariño – Best of Class – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2021 Chardonnay – 91 points Wine Enthusiast
- 2020 “The Captain” Red Blend – 94 points Wine Enthusiast + Editor’s Choice
- 2020 GSM – 93 points Wine Enthusiast + Editor’s Choice
- 2020 Petite Sirah – 93 points Wine Enthusiast
- 2019 Cabernet Franc – Double Gold – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 LVVC – Double Gold – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 Syrah – 95 points + Double Gold Orange County Wine Fair
- 2019 “Viva” Cabernet Sauvignon – Gold – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 Merlot – Gold – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 “The Captain” Red Blend – Gold – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 “Big Wood” Zinfandel – Gold – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 “Woody’s” Cab Cabernet Sauvignon – Silver – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2018 “Especial” Cabernet Sauvignon – Silver – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2018 Clone 30 Cabernet Sauvignon – Silver – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 “El Loco Rojo” Bordeaux Red Blend – Silver – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 GSM – Silver – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2019 ‘Muy Bueno” Zinfandel – Silver – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
The Wine
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine has truly been one of my favorite Chardonnay’s for the last six years. While always delicious and winning awards, with caramel and full secondary malolactic fermentation creating a tinge of buttery finish, each year has a slight change. Her 2021 Chardonnay is 98% of the same “deliciousness” as her previous vintages yet with even more body and fullness. The slight changes were twofold, the first being a more “mouth filling” slightly heavier body due to more stirring of the lees during barrel fermentation. The second was a hint of an ever slight Asian pear sweetness on the finish. The balance of the wine was almost identical in color (golden yellow), aroma (fresh brioche), taste (pear and apple) and a beautiful finish! This wine was as “comfortable and inviting” as her previous vintages once again. The bottle sells for $32.
The Food and Wine Pairing
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Chardonnay was paired with a lemon garlic shrimp pasta dish. It consisted of whole wheat spaghetti, shrimp, olive oil, unsalted butter, garlic cloves, dried oregano, spinach, crushed red pepper, chopped parsley and lemon juice. Topped off with fresh Parmesan shredded cheese. The “lightness” of the meal paired wonderfully with this exquisite lightly oaked Chardonnay. Having the wine at home with a meal reconfirmed my voting it for the Best Wines Tasted for several years now!
Generally speaking we always have her Chardonnay in the cellar, especially for warmer weather, but for the first time in my record keeping of red verses white wines consumed, in March we consumed an equal amount of white wines (a lot being Wood Family Chardonnay) as it went with so many different dishes.
Sláinte,
Michael
The Best of Show Winners from The 4th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition
As the winners of the Best of Show for their respective Category a full feature article will be forthcoming soon. For now I wanted to provide you a glimpse of each of the winning wines and their awards.
Overall Grand Sweepstakes Winner from the Professional Judges: LXV Wines from Paso Robles, California
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Overall Grand Sweepstakes Winner from the People’s Choice Judges: Ledson Winery from Kenwood, California
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Best of Show for Eastern Division from both the Professional and People’s Choice Judges: Granite Heights Winery from Warrenton, Virginia and winning a Gold Medal from each set of Judges.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Best of Show for Northwest Division from the Professional Judges: Camaraderie Cellars from Port Angeles, Washington and winning Double Gold Medals.
Best of Show for Northwest Division from People’s Choice Judges: Terra Vina Wines from Wilsonville, Oregon and winning a Gold Medal.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Best of Show for Cabernet Franc Blend (min 50% Cab Franc) for Professional Judges: J. Lohr from Paso Robles, California and winning a Gold Medal.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Best of Show for Cabernet Franc Blend (min 50% Cab Franc) for People’s Choice Judges: Cuda Ridge Wines from Livermore, California and winning Double Gold Medals.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Best of Show for California Division for the Professional Judges: LXV Wines from Paso Robles, California and winning a Gold Medal.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Best of Show for California Division for the People’s Choice Judges: Ledson Winery from Kenwood, California and winning Double Gold Medals.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Best of Show for the International Division for the Professional and People’s Choice Judges: Corti Brothers from Colli Euganei, Italy and the Professional Judges awarded them a Gold Medal. The People’s Choice awarded them a Double Gold Medal.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Specialty Division (Cabernet Franc White, Sparkling or Rose) did not have enough wines entered to award Best of Class or Best of Show this year.
Stay tune for articles on each of these award winning wines featuring the winery, the wine and perhaps a food and wine pairing!
Sláinte,
Michael
California Wines & Wineries 