Month: September 2025
2023 Cuda Ridge Wines “Insel Family Vineyard” Carménère
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
This story is part two of three on the three different vineyards that Cuda Ridge Wines makes their Carménère from. The first story was on “Little Dog Vineyard” and this being “Insel Family Vineyard”. Due up next will be the story on Casa de Viñas Vineyards. Will be doing a comparison between the three Carménère wines by Cuda Ridge Wines.
A Brief History of Carménère
The history of the Carménère varietal is as fascinating as it is happenstance! It was once one of the grapes in the Médoc region of Bordeaux. It served a similar purpose as Petit Verdot does today – producing a deep red/purple ink on wines. It was one of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux. Carménère originates from the French word for crimson (carmin) which refers to the crimson color of the autumn foliage.
(Photo from Wikipedia)
When the Phylloxera plague hit in 1867 destroying most of the vineyards in Europe, many thought the Carménère grape was extinct. It wasn’t until 150 years later that it was discovered that Chile had preserved the Carménère grape thinking it was Merlot (from clippings planted from France). DNA confirmed that it was the missing 6th varietal of Bordeaux.
Carménère Today
Carménère grows mainly in Chile, specifically the Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley and in the Maipo Province. It is also grown in the Veneto region of Italy, and recently several wineries in Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, Napa and Calaveras are producing it, albeit in small quantities. Walla Walla, Washington also has some root stock growing in Carménère. In California only 111 acres are producing Carménère which accounts for .000075% of the red grape harvest. Interestingly while in California the red grape harvest was down 25%, Carménère harvest was up 10%. These numbers are from the USDA Grape Crush Report for 2024, their errata dated August 25, 2025.
Uniqueness of Carménère
Photo from Pat Spangler from Spangler Vineyards/Oregon of Carménère Vineyard
As a varietal, it has the deep ruby coloring and aromas of red fruits. Tannins are softer and milder than Cabernet Sauvignon, thus its use in blending to soften a strong Cabernet. The use is like the use of Merlot in formulating an enjoyable blend. Chile produces a 100% Carménère which has a cherry and fruity flavor but has traces of smoke and earthy notes with the inky coloration.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2023 Cuda Ridge Carménère Insel Family Vineyard wine comes from Pleasanton on the western portion of Livermore Valley AVA. The vineyard is flat with sandy loam and loam soil. It is 100% Insel Family Vineyard Carménère. On the eyes, a medium-heavy viscosity wine with a unique inviting deep purple/maroon coloration. On the nose, ripe Bing cherries greeted the senses. The palate is where this wine excelled. First the bright cherry taste was intense and concentrated. Ripe juicy plums and dark fruits then came forth with a hint of soft, dry and wet earthen tones (minerality and forest floor) with black tea and leather in the background. The earthen notes are generally found in Chilean Carménère but not found too often in California. The finish was long lasting with mocha and pepper finishing off the enjoyment with a hint of Eucalyptus and Cedar counterbalanced with vanilla.
The Insel Family Vineyards Carménère compared to the Little Dog Vineyard possesses a bit more tannins and acidity which should be considered in the food pairings. It still was enjoyable with caressing tannins on the palate.
The wine is aged in new French oak barrels (50%) and once used American oak (50%) for 17 months. The wine comes in at 13.3% alcohol and is sold at $50/bottle. Only 48 cases were made so this will go fast. It will be released on September 27th and 28th at a release party at Cuda Ridge Wines.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine was specifically chosen to pair with the meal of Pork Tenderloin Tacos. Ingredients for the marinade included olive oil, fresh squeezed lime juice, honey, minced garlic cloves, cumin, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, kosher salt and flour tortillas. The pork tenderloin was cut up into small strips and added to the marinade for 8 hours in the refrigerator. The pork tenderloin was cooked in an iron skillet on the stove top with about one half the marinade. On a separate burner, the Street Corn Avocado Salsa was prepared. It included grilled corn, Serrano peppers, diced red onion, minced garlic, fresh squeezed lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, cumin and kosher salt. The tacos combined the three (shells, meat and street corn) and topped off with additional chopped cilantro to be served.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
We purposely cut back on the chili powder and Serrano peppers so as not to overpower the wine. This was critical as the tacos and wine were paired wonderfully and I was glad to have less heat in the dish. An interesting note is that we had plenty of pork left over and the next night we used it in a pork taco salad, and it tasted even better!
A very good pairing and if more peppers and spices were to be used you might consider a Merlot wine.
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Larry Dino, owner and winemaker at Cuda Ridge Wines, now has all six modern Bordeaux varietals available at the tasting room. The Carménère is the first locally produced wine varietal in the Livermore AVA.
One of the solid and simple marketing ideas that Larry devised is his coloring scheme: White label for his Reserve wines, Black label for his non-Bordeaux wines and purple label for his Bordeaux varietals. Obviously Carménère falls in his purple label.
His Carménère will surely garner many awards in the upcoming wine competitions. Truly a good price point given the uniqueness and scarcity of Carménère plantings in California and the only current Livermore grown Carménère being offered. Besides the Insel Family Vineyard Carménère he offers two other vineyards designated Carménère wines: Little Dog Vineyard and Casa de Viñas. All three Carménère wines will be released to the public on September 27th and 28th at the winery.
His awards for these delicious wines are as follows:
2020 Carménère Insel– Silver Medal, 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Competition
2020 Carménère Little Dog Vineyard – Wine Enthusiast, 92 points
2019 Carménère – Gold Medal, 2021 Orange County Fair
The list of awards for all his other wines is extensive and would direct you to his website to view the dozens and dozens of noteworthy awards.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
Cellar 13 2021 Albariño – A Great Choice with Sashimi
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Winery
Photo from Cellar 13
Cellar 13 was founded by Darin Winton, who also happens to be one of the few Native American Winemakers in the United States. He proudly uses the Cherokee language for their two Bordeaux style blends. The Right Bank blend is named “Aliheliga” which means grateful, and the Left Bank blend is named “Tsogadu” the number 13. On the backside of these two labels is artwork from Cherokee artist John Balloue.
Darin retired in 2017 and was immediately hired as the Assistant Winemaker at 3 Steves Winery in Livermore, California. Here he learned about wine making from start to finish. He was able to produce his own wines under his label. He has used a few wineries in Livermore as an impromptu “custom crush operation”. Darin handles the winemaking, and Gail Henderson runs the operations and marketing side of the winery.
The goal of Cellar 13 is to establish high quality and award-winning wines using fruit from only the best Vineyards. To that point here is just a partial list of their most current award-winning wines in just a few short years:
CHARDONNAY
* 2017 Chardonnay – Double Gold – 2019 SF Chronicle Wine Competition
* 2018 Chardonnay – Gold Medal Winner 94 points – 2023 Sunset International Wine Competition
* 2019 Chardonnay – Best in Class Winner – 2021 Livermore Valley Uncorked Wine Competition (Best Chardonnay in Livermore), Gold Medal Winner – 2021 SF Chronicle Wine Competition
ALBARIÑO
* 2021 Albariño – Gold Medal Winner – 2023 Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition
* 2023 Albariño – Gold Medal Winner – 92 POINTS 2024 Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition. Gold Medal Winner – 92 POINTS Sunset International Wine Competition.
SAUVIGNON BLANC
* 2023 Sauvignon Blanc – Double Gold Medal Winner – 2025 SF Chronicle Wine Competition.
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
* 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon – Double Gold Medal Winner 97 points – 2023 Sunset International Wine Competition, Double Gold Medal Winner – 2023 SF Chronicle Wine Competition. 2024 Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition, top 1% of awards.
BORDEAUX BLENDS
* 2019 Tsogadu (13 in Cherokee) – Left Bank Bordeaux Style Blend – 2019 Tsogadu (13 in Cherokee) – Left Bank Bordeaux Style Blend – 94 Points, Gold Medal Winner – 2024 California State Fair. Gold Medal Winner – 2023 Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition.
* 2019 Aliheliga (“Grateful” in Cherokee) – Right Bank Bordeaux Style Blend – Best in Class Winner – 2023 Livermore Valley Uncorked Wine Competition, Gold Medal Winner – 2022 SF Chronicle Wine Competition.
See their website for the complete listing of their awards.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Albariño or Alvarinho is a variety of white wine grape grown in Galicia (northwest Spain) and in Northwest Portugal (Monção and Melgaço). Albariño is the name for the grape in Galician. In Portugal it is known as Alvarinho, and sometimes as Cainho Branco. Around 93% of the world’s Albariño vines are planted in Spain and Portugal. In California for the 2024 harvest 9,784 tons were processed of Albariño grapes. That represents only .007% of the total white wine grapes for California! Approximately 81% of Albariño grapes come from San Joaquin County (AVA #11) and Yolo County (AVA #17), both AVA’s include portions of Sacramento County per the USDA Grape Crush Report for 2024.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Typical flavors of Albariño are lemon zest, grapefruit, honeydew, nectarines and salt and often finish with a slight bitter note or minerality note. I have noticed that American Albariño is crisp and with strong aromatic notes of stone fruits and honeysuckle.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
On the eyes Cellar 13 had a pale-yellow tinge. On the nose a strong aroma of honeysuckle flooded the olfactory senses. On the palate, stone fruit, honeydew melon with lemon zest completed the tasting experience. On the finish both minerality and a salinity note completed the tasting. A great wine for seafood and shellfish. The 2021 Albariño was a Gold Medal Winner at the 2023 Orange County Fair Commercial Competition. The grapes from Livermore which only contributes less than .0035% of the total California production of Albariño grapes.
This wine made my annual Best Wines Tasted for 2025, which comes out each December.
The current release is 2023 and goes for $29/bottle and is 13% in alcohol.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Selected this wine this evening for tuna sashimi picked up earlier in the day. Usually I go with Sauvignon Blanc but have enjoyed this wine with other seafood and decided to give it a go. It was a solid choice with its acidity and citrus notes with the Maguro. This gives me one additional wine to pair with my weekly sashimi meal.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2018 L’Autre Côte Cabernet Franc – Matured to Perfection!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
We enjoyed this wine at our Friday Night Wine & Dine dinner the other night with a few friends.
Background on L’Autre Côte and Steven Kent Mirassou
It is not often that one sets out to turn the world upside down, but that is exactly what Steven Kent Mirassou is attempting with his newest label called L’Autre Côte meaning the “other coast”. The L’Autre Côte brand falls under The Lineage Collection. The goal is to make world acclaimed Cabernet Franc wines from two of Livermore’s well-known vineyards. He accomplished that in 2017 with his two versions of Cabernet Franc, one from Ghielmetti Vineyard and one from Sachau Vineyard. He made 50 cases. Both sold out almost immediately. Since that article was written ( https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2022/09/11/2018-lautre-cote-cabernet-franc-one-of-the-best-cabernet-francs-available/ ) he has received 96 points for his Ghielmetti Vineyard and 94 points for his Sachau Vineyard Cabernet Franc wine. Remember this was his inaugural release. He was just awarded 95 points from Wine Enthusiast for his 2018. His Lineage “Bordeaux Style” wine and his Cabernet Sauvignon were both rated 100 points and the only Livermore Valley wine to be rated so highly.
The 2018 L’Autre Côte continued with using two designated vineyard Cabernet Franc wines, but this year he combined the two together as it produced a higher quality Cabernet Franc. In Steven’s words “the wine is truly magical because their irreducible wholeness comes about as a function of their purity of fruit, balance of acidity and overt sexiness”.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Ghielmetti and Sachau Vineyards have been a long-time source for Steven’s wine be it Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc. The one block at Ghielmetti of Cabernet Franc Clone 332 is 3.7 acres in size. Sachau vineyard is six acres in size with a loamy soil. The 50/50 combination of the two (each aged separately) then, with 4% Cabernet Sauvignon added provided the best of both vineyards. On the eyes, a bright and dark reddish/purple coloring, with medium viscosity. On the nose a very fruit forward aroma of raspberry and blackberry fruits. On the palate, besides the fruit bursting with excitement, you are rewarded with chocolate, jasmine tea and minerality. The finish provides rounded and defined tannins without overt edges, giving one a silky landing. The finish is mid-lasting with a tinge of fruit sweetness, yet with subtle pyrazines in play. Using once used French barrels, this wine does not have a dominance of oak but rather allows the fruit to be showcased. The current vintage is 2022 and is listed at $125/bottle.
What is unique about this award-winning wine is its maturity over seven years to being elegant with complex levels of structure and yet silky smooth.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Had beautifully prepared Bruschetta as an appetizer with sliced toasted garlic bread, tomato, basil, garlic and drizzled with olive oil. The wine was paired beautifully with this appetizer.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Next up was a light entrée of four Italian braised meatballs with tomato, white wine, basil and fresh parmesan shavings. The wine and food pairing was once again spot on wonderful with this dish.
The group enjoyed sharing various other wines brought to dinner this evening.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Photo ©Michael Kelly
While this 2018 has absolutely matured to perfection, Steven and Beth Mirassou will be having some new and even more exciting Cabernet Franc wines coming out shortly! Read a previously published article: https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2025/07/22/a-tasting-experience-and-conversation-with-steven-mirassou-at-steven-kent-winery/
Stay tuned……
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2020 Optio Vineyards Grenache – “Optio” Latin Meaning Choice
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Two years ago, we met with winery owners Troy and Michelle LaMar on their 14-acre vineyard. Nine acres are currently under vine. The vineyard is located at the tail end of the Templeton district within the Geneseo District appellation. Their production is around 500 cases a year with the balance of the fruit being sold off. Their goal is to increase production steadily with club membership and getting the word out on their quality wines. They already have won many awards including for their 2022 Chardonnay, Las Vegas Global Platinum Medal with 96 points and their 2021 Estate Tempranillo, Las Vegas Global Platinum Medal also with 96 points! This is the little winery that not only could but has!!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Troy is a general surgeon in Los Angeles and met his wife Michelle as she was a floor nurse at the same hospital. She is now in nursing education. Today with their son LT, they spend as much time as possible on the estate. Their winemaker is Aaron Jackson from Tin City with 23 years of making gorgeous wines. Aaron’s background includes Four Vines, ONX and Saxum wineries. He earned his Wine & Viticulture degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and spent a year in Australia where he earned a Master’s degree in Oenology.
The winery today produces Chardonnay, Inmesceo (meaning blend together of Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvedre, Syrah and Petite Sirah), Grenache, Tempranillo and Petite Sirah. Had the opportunity to taste each one (a few with different vintages) and uniquely different was that each one was a solid and exceptional wine. Not a so-so or average wine in their offering. Rare and very much appreciated I am sure by their customers.
The name Optio comes from the Latin word meaning “choice” which has paid off for the LaMar family. Troy while in medical school his first day heard a professor quote William Jennings Bryan “Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for; it is a thing to be achieved.” Literally and physically, the little vineyard on top of the hill, has reached up to achieve many excellent wines.
More information on their wines and vineyards can be found in the previous story at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2023/12/07/optio-vineyards-the-little-winery-that-can/
The Wine – 2020 Optio Vineyards Grenache – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This style of Grenache is old world with layers of rich flavors and juicy, rustic tannins. On the eyes, a very dark blood red coloring with medium-full viscosity. On the nose aromas of plum blueberries, new leather, and clove waft into the senses. On the palate you are awakened to a lively and enjoyable juicy cherry followed by a complex finish of fig, licorice, molasses, and black cherry with hints of spices and dried herbs. The finish shows the earthy minerality and earthiness of these grapes. They use 100% neutral oak barrels and age the wine for 17 months. Only 75 cases were produced. This is one of the best Grenache wines I have experienced! Their current release is 2022 and goes for $62/bottle and worth every long-lasting sip.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine was selected this evening to go with Udon noodles and chicken with broccoli stir-fry entrée. Enjoyed one glass with the meal and another after dinner. The juicy red fruit and spices stood up nicely with the vegetables and Udon noodles.
I left the winery with four bottles and wished I had purchased a few more as this was my last bottle. Time for another visit!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
Gourmet Food, Exquisite Wines and History Lessons at City Hotel in Columbia
Photo from City Hotel website
Background
Columbia State Historic Park in lower Sierra Foothills near Sonora, California owns this historic gold rush settlement, and the restaurant is run by a cooperative organization. The building was opened by George Morgan in 1856. The restaurant has a rich history in providing traditional cuisine and showcasing locally sourced produce. Without going into too much history, in 1947 the State of California purchased the building, and a local gem and mineral society used the adjoining bar, What Cheer, to display various gems. In 1974 the building was restored and opened as the City Hotel under operation by the Columbia City Hotel Cooperative Corporation.
Over the various years many food and wine events have been held at the restaurant. Today it is a unique patron-owned Cooperative with 310 stakeholders.
The Event
This evening had two noted and well-respected people conducting the wine and food pairing. Noted wine historian/wine judge/wine writer Mike Dunne recounted the development of the wine industry in the Sierra foothills. Mike traced back the history to John Sutter, Marshall’s employer, who used wild grapes growing along and about the American River to make brandy and wine, an experiment that lasted just a few years. Marshall, who helped build Sutter’s sawmill at what now is Coloma along the American River, was the first to spot the flakes that triggered the Gold Rush in 1848. Marshall didn’t have much luck prospecting, and in the long run became celebrated for his grape growing and winemaking on the slopes just above the sawmill.
A brief background on Mike, he started writing about wine in 1971 and continues to do so without wavering. Two years ago he published “The Signature Wines of Superior California: 50 Wines That Define the Sierra Foothills, the Delta, Yolo and the Delta” (shameless plug available on Amazon).
Picture of Martha and Mike Dunne Photo ©Michael Kelly
Tom Bender, local writer/college professor/wine judge and former manager of the City Hotel, curated and coordinated with the staff to prepare the five-course meal and coordinated securing the wines for the dinner.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Food and Wine Menu
One of my favorite quotes and used often is “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” by Andre Simon. This evening that quote fitted perfectly as the meal and wine were conjoined as living partners!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Approximately fifty food and wine aficionados gathered for this event. First dish for the evening was Ahi tuna in dill cone with garlic aioli, capers, shallots and avocado. This was paired with Noceto Amador Rosado d Sangiovese. Mike mentioned that this Rosé produced by Noceto is only one of ten Sangiovese wines produced yearly.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Next up was a surprisingly delicious heirloom tomato and cucumber Gazpacho with crème Fraiche and chives paired with Hovey Calaveras Chardonnay. The chives came out of Tom & Wendy Benders herb garden and made this spectacular. Mike explained the detailed history of Chuck Hovey and his quest to make Chardonnay in Calaveras County, not known for Chardonnay. He called it “Duende” meaning powerful & emotional. A very good pairing.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
All the dishes this evening were beautifully prepared, presented and tasted wonderful. This next dish was one of the best standalone and with the wine exquisite. This was potato gnocchi with white corn, roasted red peppers, parmesan and basil cream. Paired with Runquist Wines “Cooper Vineyard” Amador Barbera. The dish was sensational and with the wine transformed it into being heavenly sent. Mike explained that when Dick Cooper planted his 40-acre estate he wanted to challenge the preconceived notion that only Zinfandel should be the dominant varietal for Amador County. While Barbera grapes coming out of northern Italy are high in acidity, Amador “terroir” provided fragrant and elegant aromas and taste. One sniff and we were all captivated by this wine.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
We finally arrived at the entrée for the evening: seared rack of lamb with fig chutney, goat cheese espuma and fondant potato and haricot verts. This was served perfectly cooked and served with two wines: Scott Harvey “1869” Amador Zinfandel and Milliaire Calaveras Syrah. Both wines were exceptionally good. A show of hands was taken to see which the attendees favorited with the food pairing. By a large percentage the Syrah was preferred with the rack of lamb.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
If this wasn’t already enough food and wine to enjoy, we concluded with dessert being profiterole filled with peach jam, chocolate ganache and crumbled pistachio. This was paired with Shenandoah Vineyards Amador Vintage Port made from Zinfandel grapes. While adjusting the belt on my pants, this was a perfect conclusion to the evening.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Mike provided some additional insight as to why El Dorado, Amador and Calaveras counties rose to be the premier counties with a rich history in grape growing. This was primarily due to factors, the first being European immigrants coming from Spain, Italy, Germany, etc., in search of gold. The second reason was transportation of the railroad system which also allowed grapes to be shipped back to East Coast. Conversely, Tuolumne County had more Mexican and Chinese immigrants and the railroad system did not come until much later.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
A great anecdotal story was told by Mike about wines being shipped to the miners in Nevada. In history books, one was called Toe Wine produced by Italian miners who stomped the grapes with their feet. The other was called Jackass Brandy. This was aptly named as the brandy was carried in wooden 10-gallon barrels. Local donkeys were fitted with a metal frame to carry one on each side of the animals.
Truly an educational and fun evening with food and wine for all to enjoy. As a side benefit met many new like-minded food & wine folks who we will most certainly see again! The City Hotel holds several events during the year including their well-known yearly Victorian Christmas Feast.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2023 Cuda Ridge Wines Carménère from Little Dog Vineyard
Photo ©Michael Kelly
A Brief History of Carménère
The history of the Carménère varietal is as fascinating as it is happenstance! It was once one of the grapes in the Médoc region of Bordeaux. It served a similar purpose as Petit Verdot does today – producing a deep red/purple ink on wines. It was one of the original six red grapes of Bordeaux. Carménère originates from the French word for crimson (carmin) which refers to the crimson color of the autumn foliage.
(Photo from Wikipedia)
When the Phylloxera plague hit in 1867 destroying most of the vineyards in Europe, many thought the Carménère grape was extinct. It wasn’t until 150 years later that it was discovered that Chile had preserved the Carménère grape thinking it was Merlot (from clippings planted from France). DNA confirmed that it was the missing 6th varietal of Bordeaux.
Carménère Today
Carménère grows mainly in Chile, specifically the Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley and in the Maipo Province. It is also grown in the Veneto region of Italy, and recently several wineries in Mendocino, Livermore, Lodi, Napa and Calaveras are producing it, albeit in small quantities. Walla Walla, Washington also has some root stock growing in Carménère. In California only 111 acres are producing Carménère which accounts for .000075% of the red grape harvest. Interestingly while in California the red grape harvest was down 25%, Carménère harvest was up 10%. These numbers are from the USDA Grape Crush Report for 2024, their errata dated August 25, 2025.
Uniqueness of Carménère
Photo from Pat Spangler from Spangler Vineyareds/Oregon of Carménère Vineyard
As a varietal, it has the deep ruby coloring and aromas of red fruits. Tannins are softer and milder than Cabernet Sauvignon, thus its use in blending to soften a strong Cabernet. The use is like the use of Merlot in formulating an enjoyable blend. Chile produces a 100% Carménère which has a cherry and fruity flavor but has traces of smoke and earthy notes with the inky coloration.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2023 Cuda Ridge Carménère Little Dog Vineyard wine lived up to and exceeded the key characteristics of Carménère. It is 100% Little Dog Vineyard Carménère.On the eyes, a medium-heavy viscosity wine with a unique inviting deep purple/maroon coloration. On the nose, ripe Bing cherries greeted the senses. The palate is where this wine excelled. First the bright cherry taste was intense and concentrated. Plums and dark fruits then came forth with a hint of soft dry and wet earthen tones (minerality and forest floor) with black tea and leather in the background. The earthen notes are generally found in Chilean Carménère but not found too often in California. The finish was long lasting with mocha and pepper finishing off the enjoyment with a hint of Eucalyptus and Cedar.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Of special note was the smoothness of the finish, silky and smooth tannins like a tranquil lake. This is unique to the varietal/grapes and the winemaking in which Larry Dino produces this wine.
The wine is aged in French oak barrels (50%) and neutral American oak (50%) for 17 months. The wine comes in at 13.6% alcohol and is sold at $50/bottle. Only 48 cases were made so this will go fast. It was just recently released at a club member event. This wine immediately after tasting made my annual “Best Wines” tasted for 2025 (full list published in December).
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
A twist to our normal food and wine pairing. Tasting this vintage for the first time, was unsure of its tasting profile and characteristics, being strong or mellow.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
So, two sauces were prepared this evening to go with the seared and BBQ’ed tri-tip steak. The first was an Argentina Chimichurri sauce consisting of fresh flat-leaf parsley, garlic, minced onion, distilled red wine vinegar, kosher salt, dried oregano, hot pepper flakes, ground black pepper and extra-virgin olive oil (the green sauce in the top of picture). The second sauce (on the bottom of picture) is generally used for a Caprese steak consisting of olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt and black pepper. Accompanied by a garden salad with pepita seeds, diced tomatoes, green onions and sharp cheddar cheese. Long and short grain wild rice were also served.
With the wine possessing smooth and silky tannins, the Argentina Chimichurri sauce worked best with the grilled meat and provided a scrumptious food and wine pairing.
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Larry Dino, owner and winemaker at Cuda Ridge Wines, now has all six modern Bordeaux varietals available at the tasting room. The Carménère is the first locally produced wine varietal in the Livermore AVA.
One of the solid and simple marketing ideas that Larry devised is his coloring scheme: White label for his Reserve wines, Black label for his non-Bordeaux wines and purple label for his Bordeaux varietals. Obviously Carménère falls in his purple label.
His Carménère will surely garner many awards in the upcoming wine competitions. Truly a good price point given the uniqueness and scarcity of Carménère plantings in California and the only current Livermore grown Carménère being offered. Besides the Little Dog Vineyard Carménère he offers two other vineyards designated Carménère wines: Insel Family Vineyard and Casa de Viñas. These other two will have stories written on them shortly. These two special Carménère wines will be released to the public on September 27th.
His awards for these delicious wines are as follows:
2020 Carménère Insel– Silver Medal, 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Competition
2020 Carménère Little Dog Vineyard – Wine Enthusiast, 92 points
2019 Carménère – Gold Medal, 2021 Orange County Fair
The list of awards for all his other wines is extensive and would direct you to his website to view the dozens and dozens of noteworthy awards.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
Wood Family Vineyards Wine and Pizza Pairing Competition
Wood Family Vineyards with nine unique pizza restaurants held their 2nd Annual and Pizza Pairing Competition at Wood Family Estate in the vineyards. When you combine creative and unique pizzas with Wood Family Vineyards wines you combine two of life’s greater pleasures elevating the experience to an art form. Here are just a few pictures of the pizzas served:
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Original Anthony’s Pizza featuring 2024 Sauvignon Blanc
Extreme Pizza featuring 2022 “Especial” Cabernet Sauvignon
La Matix Pizza featuring 2023 Grenache
Dino’s Pizza Kitchen featuring 2023 “The Runway” Red Blend
Melo’s Pizza & Pasta Livermore featuring 2022 “Muy Bueno” Zinfandel
Tio’s Pizza featuring 2022 “Big Wood” Zinfandel
Much Ado About Pizza featuring 2023 “Para Mas Amigas” Chardonnay
Swirl On the Square Inc featuring 2024 “Pink Pearl” Rose of Grenache
Hearth Wood Fired Pizza & Catering featuring 2023 Cabernet Franc
The competition took place on Labor Day, Monday, September 1st, at the Wood Family estate surrounded by picturesque vineyards. Guests enjoyed a mouthwatering experience as they sampled expertly crafted artisanal pizza and paired with various Wood Family Vineyards selected wines by the pizza owners. The participating pizza vendors paired with Wood Family Vineyards wines, included:
Each vendor presented their signature creations alongside select Wood Family wines, offering a fun and delicious journey for the palate. Guests then got to vote on their favorite pizza and pairing combinations all while enjoying great music by Sugar Bear.
Additionally, a panel of judges with wine and gastronomical experience also voted on specific categories. The judges were:
Fran Cunniffe – WSET Level 4 and Certified Sommelier
Jeremy Troupe-Masi – Sommelier and Founder/Owner of JTM in the Kitchen
Brandon Wood – Cheese monger and Founder/Owner of The Cheese Parlor
Alexander (Sasha) Burdujan- Winemaker at Wood Family Vineyards
Michael Kelly – Owner of https://californiawinesandwineries.com/ and Founder of the International Cabernet Franc Competition
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Approximately 300 folks joined the event tasting the creative pizzas, pairing it with various wines and listening to great music! Harrison Wood, Executive VP presided over the event.
The judges’ four awards were the following:
The Most Classic Pairing was awarded to Dino’s Pizza Kitchen, Sicilian and New York style called The Bruschetta consisting of fresh mozzarella, basil, garlic, Parmigiano Romano cheese and extra virgin olive oil. Paired with Wood Family Vineyards 2023 “The Runway”.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
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The Most Original Pairing awarded to Original Anthony’s Pizza for their Hawaiian Pizza. The zesty acidity of Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of lightly smoked pork, while its passionfruit and lime notes complement the sweetness of charred pineapple. A hint of honey and cilantro adds herbal brightness, creating a refreshing and balanced pairing. Paired with Wood Family 2024 Sauvignon Blanc.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
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The Best Pizza was awarded to La Matrix Pizza called the Kekou consisting of honey garlic sauce, fresh shredded mozzarella, pork potstickers fillings baked and finished with house-made chili aioli and green onions. Paired with Wood Family Vineyards 2023 Grenache.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
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The Best Pizza Pairing was awarded to Hearth Wood Fired Pizza called Bazaar Superstar consisting of garlic oil base topped with shredded mozzarella, kafta, thinly sliced red onions and finished with pomegranate seeds, fresh parsley and a lemon mint yogurt drizzle. Paired with Wood Family Vineyards 2023 Cabernet Franc.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
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The People’s Choice Awards were three pizzas:
The Best Pizza was awarded Tio’s Pizza for their Blossom & Smoke pizza. This was a Detroit-style pie that brought heat with smoky bacon jam, whole milk mozzarella and creamy stracciatella. Apricot preserves add a sweet, juicy twist, balanced by a burst of color from edible flowers. Paired with Wood Family Vineyards 2022 “Big Wood” Zinfandel.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
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The People’s Choice from participants awarded Best White Wine Pairing to Much Ado About Pizza with their sourdough crust, featuring garlic sauce, fresh spinach, mozzarella, smoked cheeses, topped with smoky chicken sausage, bacon, sweet onion and tart green apple for a savory bite. Paired with the 2023 “Para Mas Amigas” Chardonnay.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
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The Best Red Wine Pairing was awarded Tio’s Pizza (2nd award) for their Blossom & Smoke pizza. This was a Detroit-style pie that brought heat with smoky bacon jam, whole milk mozzarella and creamy stracciatella. Apricot preserves add a sweet, juicy twist, balanced by a burst of color from edible flowers. Paired with Wood Family Vineyards 2022 “Big Wood” Zinfandel.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
It was a wonderful event on a triple digit warm day, still the food and enjoyable wine with a solid band made it a great day! The Wood Family Vineyards motto is “It is always good at Wood’s!” and it certainly was on Labor Day!
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
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