california
2022 Ehret Family Winery Zinfandel
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Admittedly not being a big fan of Zinfandel, I was turned around after enjoying this delicious wine when I first tasted it in 2023. My earlier experiences of Zinfandel were of the “fruit-bomb” characteristics and since then have shied away when given a chance to taste Zinfandels.
First on the eyes, a dark and enticing purple coloring greeted you in the glass. On the nose, blueberries and freshly picked raspberries exuded from the wine glass to the olfactory senses. At this point my a priori knowledge of Zinfandel was shattered, and I was about to experience something wonderful. On the palate, blackberry preserves and blueberries were dominant. Secondary soft tones of licorice and Christmas spices were present (nutmeg, cinnamon). On the finish one of the gentler landings in the mouth with a meaty fruit but non-sweet and light oak taste providing a fine waltz begging for another sip.
The 2022 vintage only a limited number of cases were produced, and it comes in at 16% alcohol. The wine was aged 18 months in 40% new French oak barrels. It received an awarded of 93 points and a Gold Medal at the American Fine Wine Competition. The current release vintage is 2023 and is listed at $60/bottle and worth every penny!
I just can’t imagine a better Zinfandel for my taste buds.
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
With a break in the weather, we wanted to start up the BBQ. Marinated a tri tip steak in Chaka sauce for 12 hours. Seared it on the outside at 1500 degrees and then slowly BBQ’ed it. Over cooked it just a bit. Accompanied with sauteed snap peas, long and short brown rice and a Cesar salad. The Zinfandel wine with its dark fruits encapsulated the BBQ meat beautifully.
This is both an excellent wine for food pairings as well as drinking without food. Unfortunately, it was my last bottle of 2022 Ehret Family Winery Zinfandel.
This wine will make my annual report for Best Wines tasted in 2025 that comes out in December. I am now a converted Zinfandel fan especially for Ehret’s Zinfandel!
The Winery
Photo from Ehret Family website
The Ehret Family Winery owners are Pierre and Susan Ehret with their three children Alex, Christian and Isabella. They established the vineyard and started producing grapes in 1996 at the Bavarian Lion Vineyards. It is one of the largest estates in Knights Valley consisting of 1800 acres of both hillside and valley floor terrain. Currently 500 acres are planted in vineyards allowing the balance to provide an ecosystem for plants and birdlife to dwell. From 1996 they sold their fruit to some of the more well-known wineries throughout Napa and Sonoma counties. In 2005, they selected the highest quality grapes and started their family brand, Ehret Family Winery. Today they produce various Cabernet Sauvignon’s, Red Blends, Zinfandel, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc wines. Their tasting room is in Healdsburg at 422 Healdsburg Ave and appointments are required.
Map courtesy from Vintroux https://vineyardandwinerysales.com/
Knights Valley is in Northern Sonoma County between Alexander Valley and over the Napa Valley border next to Calistoga.
The winemaker is Erin Green who has been there since 2015. Previously Erin had experience at Sonoma-Cutrer, Vinewood Cellars and Napa Wine Company. She has also blended wines for various premium projects such as Bryant Family, Colgin Cellars, Martinelli Winery and Pahlmeyer. From 2000-2012 Erin was the winemaker and Director of Winegrowing at Pahlmeyer.
Sláinte,
Michael
2022 Austin Hope “Cellar Select” Cabernet Franc – A Special Treat!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
This year’s #CabFrancMasters in Paso Robles at a dinner gathering I was seated next to Stasi Seay, Director of Vineyards at Hope Family Wines. While having had some exposure to Hope Family Wines, when the Austin Hope Cellar Select Cabernet Franc was served, I was startled by it opulence and richness. Having just completed the 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition with one hundred Cabernet Franc wines participating and Austin Hope’s Quest wine being entered in the less than $40 category for California Cab Franc wines. It received Silver Medal’s from both the Professional and People’s Choice Judges. Hosting the event I never had an opportunity to taste it. Stasi mentioned that Austin Hope, owner and winemaker, had been working on this additional label (Quest) for five years before releasing it. That alone was a startling statement. I had previously tried many of their Cabernet Sauvignon wines but had very little knowledge of the scope and breath of their operation. When the Austin Hope Cellar Select Cabernet Franc was served with a chocolate molten cake with beet and vanilla anglaise then I understood that this wine was on a different level than most Cabernet Franc wines. As I previously wrote it was one of the richest and “almost chewable” wines of the evening which paired so well with the food. It was between Austin Hope and one other Cabernet Franc wine for the best of the evening, which is saying a lot as all were outstanding. Mentioning we were having a dinner party and would like to buy a bottle to share with our guests the following Friday, she was kind enough to secure a bottle and ship it to us.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Pulled it out of the cellar three hours in advance of dinner to allow it to breathe and “warm up” for the dinner. When popping the cork, a floral boutique of aromas rushed into the olfactory senses. Later in the glass this dark and enticing color with a heavy viscosity had a brooding and mysterious allure. Upon the first sip, it was as I remembered from the #CabFrancMasters dinner, a deep and sensuous flavor of dark fruits of plum and blackberry swirled about in the mouth. This was no ordinary Cabernet Franc. Secondary flavors of dark chocolate counter balanced by a dry earthiness provided an all-encompassing experience. On the finish, layers of enjoyment and strong tannins both with some angularity and yet velvety, along with dark cherry completed the experience.
As I researched this magnificent bold and dry wine, I found out it was rated the #2 California Cabernet Franc wine today by Vivino. It sells for approximately $90/bottle, and it is an ageable wine that will only improve further! It will make my annual list of Best Wines tasted during the calendar year for 2025.
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
Prepared one of our favorite dishes last evening, Mediterranean beef kebabs. The recipe calls for sirloin beef but substituted filet mignon. Cut the filet mignon meat into 1 ½ inch squares and were marinated for almost two hours in the refrigerator. The ingredients for the marinade include fresh lemon juice, marjoram, oregano, parsley, paprika, black pepper, Himalayan Sea salt, olive oil and fresh minced garlic.
Pieces of the filet mignon and vegetables were cut up to fit in the kabab grilling baskets preferred for grilling to capture all the ingredients rather than skewers. Besides the beef, two different colored bell peppers slices (yellow and orange), and purple onion slices were loaded into the baskets. Plus, fresh Rosemary. Placed on the BBQ between medium to medium-high for about 10-12 minutes rotating the baskets 90 degrees every 3 minutes. Emptied from the basket and served.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The meal was accompanied by Greek roasted potatoes in chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder and fresh oregano
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Additionally, a fresh garden salad with onion, tomato and Kalamata olives. Served with a Greek dressing.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Also sautéed asparagus with minced garlic, shallots, topped with roasted peppers and feta cheese.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Dessert for those who could possibly eat anything more were both fresh blackberries and raspberries and Milano Double Dark chocolate cookie wafers.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This meal was extremely tasty, spicy and provided a real Mediterranean experience. It was like Spain, France, Italy and Greece combined to throw a party! Combined with the exquisite wine, one of the better food and wine pairings enjoyed last evening.
The Winery
Photo Hope Family Wines website
I have yet to visit the winery but have had the opportunity to speak with many of the folks from the winery such as Austin Hope Owner/winemaker, Stasi Seay Director of Vineyards, CJ Gormley Tasting Room and many others during this years and previous #CabFrancMasters in Paso Robles. What I did not know or understand was the enormity of the breath of wine offered by the Hope Family Wines! Austin Hope who I had a conversation with at last year at #CabFrancMasters has a quote that took on new meaning after tasting this wine stating, “the goal is simple: to make wines that express everything Paso Robles has to offer, with its pastoral beauty, perfect soils, maritime climate and limitless possibility.”
Photo Hope Family Wines website
Trying to sum up the Hope Family Wine offering is like taking a tour of a large luxury cruise ship. Behind each doorway and deck is waiting a new experience. So, this description is only the beginning of several on the winery. First off, the Hope Family Wines has six labels which are Austin Hope, Treana, Quest, Liberty School, Troublemaker and Austin. The wine offering is mind boggling with Graciano, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Chenin Blanc, a dry Rosé, Syrah, GSM, Grenache, Verdelho, Pinot Noir, Mourvèdre, various Rhône blends, etc. Way too many wines to mention and an astonishing assortment of wines to be explored. They source from over 50 growers from Monterey to Santa Barbara. All 42 acres of their estate are SIP Certified for Sustainable practices. It is estimated that Hope Family Wines produces around 400,000 cases of wine per year.
I am already contemplating my next visit to Paso Robles and will most likely need 2 or 3 days alone to comprehend the expanse of Hope Family Wines. Truly an amazing line up of wine!
Special thanks to Stasi Seay for providing the background and scope of Hope Family Wines over dinner.
Sláinte,
Michael
6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition Awards by the People’s Choice Judges – Division Awards
Pictures of Awards from 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition from the People’s Choice Judges. Professional Judges awards were published the day before.
Grand Sweepstakes Overall Winner, Creekside Cellars – Grand Junction, Colorado
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medal, Best of Show Southwest Division
Professional Judges – Silver Medal
Eastern Division, Best of Show – Chateau Niagara – Finger Lakes, NY
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Silver Medal
Central Division, Best of Show – Heineman Winery – Lake Erie, Ohio
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Bronze Medal
Northwest Division, Best of Show – Alexander Nicole Cellars – Prosser, Washington
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Silver Medal
Southwest Division, Best of Show – Creekside Cellars – Grand Junction, Colorado
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medal, Grand Sweepstakes Overall
Professional Judges – Silver Medal
California Division, Best of Show – Overall for all California Price Categories, L’ Autre Cote – Livermore, California
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
California – Best of Category – less than $40 – Del Valle Winery, Livermore
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Silver Medal
California – Best of Category – $41 to $55 – Wood Family Vineyards, Livermore
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold
Professional Judges –Silver Medal
California – Best of Category – $56 to $70 – J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Paso Robles
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
California – Best of Category – $71 to $85 – Smith Madrone Vineyards
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Gold Medal
California – Best of Category – $86 to $105 – Ledson Winery & Vineyards – Kenwood
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
California – Best of Category – $106 and up – L ‘Autre Cote – Livermore
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medals
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medals
International Division – Best of Show – Pillitteri Estates Winery – Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
Professional Judges – Silver Medal
Specialty Division – Best of Show – 3 Steves Winery – Rose – Livermore, California
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice – Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Silver Medal
Blend Division – Best of Show – 3 Steves Winery – Cab Franc & Zinfandel – Livermore, California
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
People’s Choice – Gold Medal
Professional Judges – Gold Medal
I was very impressed that the judges were able to discern the top picks from a variety of regions!
Hope you (and I) get a chance to taste some of these wines in the near future!
Slainte,
Michael Kelly
6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition Awards by the Professional Judges
Pictures of Awards from 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition from the Professional Judges. People’s Choice Judges awards will be published tomorrow.
Grand Sweepstakes Overall Winner, Yates Family Vineyard – Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
Eastern Division, Best of Show – Boundary Breaks Vineyard – Finger Lakes, NY
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
Central Division, Best of Show – Heineman Winery – Lake Erie, Ohio
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Bronze Medal
People’s Choice – Gold Medal
Northwest Division, Best of Show – Spangler Vineyards – Southern Oregon
Professional Judges – Gold Medal
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Southwest Division, Best of Show – Vivac Winery – New Mexico
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Silver Medal
People’s Choice Judges – Gold Medal
California Division, Best of Show – Overall for all California Price Categories, Yates Family Vineyard
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
California – Best of Category – less than $40 – Darcie Kent, Lemmons Vineyard, Livermore
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
California – Best of Category – $41 to $55 – Mitchell Katz, Livermore
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
People’s Choice – Silver Medal
California – Best of Category – $56 to $70 – Donati Family, Paso Robles
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
California – Best of Category – $71 to $85 – Yates Family Vineyard
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal, Best of California
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
California – Best of Category – $86 to $105 – Middle Oak Wines – Napa Valley
Professional Judges – Double Gold Medal
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
California – Best of Category – $106 and up – L ‘Autre Cote – Livermore
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Best of Category, Double Gold Medals
People’s Choice Judges – Double Gold Medals
International Division – Best of Show – Pillitteri Estates Winery – Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Gold Medal
People’s Choice Judges – Silver Medal
Specialty Division – Best of Show -Chateau Niagara Winery – Appassimento – Newfane, NY
Professional Judges – Gold Medal
People’s Choice – Silver Medal
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Blend Division – Best of Show – Philip Carter Winery – Hume, Virginia
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Professional Judges – Gold Medal
People’s Choice – Bronze Medal
I was very impressed that the judges were able to discern the top picks from a variety of regions!
Hope you (and I) get a chance to taste some of these wines in the near future!
Slainte,
Michael Kelly
The 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition Results – Dedicated Exclusively to Cabernet Franc Wines
Not all the bottles of competition shown (Photo ©Michael Kelly)
The 6th Annual Cabernet Franc Wine Competition was held yesterday on March 5th at the Copperopolis Armory. It was constructed in 1864 and is now a California designated Historical Site. The format for the blind competition utilizes the Danish system, where the wines are “bagged and tagged and marked with coded numbers”. There were four tables of wine judges (2 tables of Professional Judges and 2 tables People’s Choice Judges each with 3 judges at each table) voting on medal designation, Best of Category, Best of Show and Grand Sweepstakes Winner. If all could not agree on the medal, which does happens, then a lively discussion going over the key characteristics of the specific wine is debated to reach a consensus award by each group of judges.
In total there were eight Divisions this year. They were the Eastern Division, Central Division, Northwest Division, Southwest Division, California Divsiion, International, Blend (must be 50% Cab Franc) and Specialty (Cab Franc Ice Wine, Rose, Appassimento, Blanc, etc.). In total 96 wines entered the competition. The event started at 8:30 am and went non-stop, concluding at 2:30 pm with a luncheon for the judges and volunteers.
One of the two tables of Professional Judges (L to R-Tom Bender, Debra Miller, Martha)
The Grand Sweepstakes winner from the Professional Judges was the 2021 Yates Family Vineyard in Mount Veeder AVA in Napa Valley, California. Here they have 35 acres of hillside estate vineyards. It is 100% Cabernet Franc from their estate. In addition, they won Double Gold Medals, Best of Category and Best of Show from the Professional Judges. The People’s Choice Judges awarded them a Silver Medal.
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
The Grand Sweepstakes winner from the People’s Choice Judges was 2020 Creekside Cellars from Evergreen, Colorado. They are located at 7200 feet elevation. The grapes came from the Grand Valley AVA ranging from 4,000 to 5,000 elevation. They won Best of Category, Double Gold, Best of Show from the People’s Choice Judges and the Professional Judges awarded them a Silver Medal.
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Detail stories on the Grand Sweepstakes winners will be forthcoming in the coming weeks. Below are the listing for Best of Class and Medal Awards (just showing Gold & Silver) for the various Divisions.
PROFESSIONAL JUDGES RESULTS:
Eastern USA Division:
Best of Show: Boundary Breaks Vineyard from the Finger Lakes AVA in New York. They were also awarded Double Gold
Medal Awards:
Sheldrake Point – Gold (2022)
Philip Carter Winery – Gold (2022)
Wolffer Estate – Silver (2022)
Roanoke Vineyard “Poet” – Silver (2022)
Narmada Winery – Silver (2020)
Roanoke Vineyard “Gabby” – Silver (2022)
Quartz Rock Vineyard – Silver (2023)
Ducard Vineyards – Silver (2022)
Roanoke Vineyard “Merlot” – Silver (2022)
Chateau Niagara – Silver (2023)
Central Division:
Best of Show: Heineman Winery located in the Lake Erie AVA.
Northwest Division:
Best of Show: Spangler Vineyards located in Roseburg, Oregon. They also received Best of Class and a Gold Medal.
Medal Awards:
Quady North Winery – Gold (Applegate Vineyard) – 2020
Camaraderie – Silver (2021)
Terra Vina – Silver (2022)
Alexander Nicole (2021)
Southwest USA Division:
Best of Show: Vivac Winery located in Dixon, New Mexico from the New Mexico AVA with their 2022 vintage.
Creekside Cellars – Silver (2020)
California USA Division:
Best of California Division overall: Yates Family Vineyard
Best of Category 1 (up to $40):
Best of Category: Darcie Kent Vineyards (Lemmons Vineyard) – 2023
Medal Awards:
Eco Terreno – Silver (2022)
Quest – Silver (2022)
Lava Cap – Silver (2022)
Sierra Vista – Silver (2022)
Fenestra – Silver (2021)
Revolution Wines – Silver (2022)
Fenestra – Silver (2022)
Best of Category 2 ($41 to $55):
Best of Category: Mitchell Katz located in Livermore, California. They also won Double Gold for their 2020 vintage.
Medal Awards:
Cuda Ridge – Double Gold (2022)
3 Steves – Double Gold (2019)
Notre Vue – Double Gold (2021)
Kenefick Ranch – Double Gold (2022)
McGrail Vineyards – Gold (2021)
Shale Canyon – Gold (2019)
Rosa Fierro Cellars – Gold (2021)
Steven Kent Winery – Silver (2022)
McKenzie-Mueller – Silver (2020)
L & M Vineyard – Silver (2021)
Wood Family Vineyard – Silver (2022)
Dracaena Wines Reserve – Silver (2022)
Le Vigne Winery – Silver (2022)
Omega Road – Silver (2021)
Best of Category 3 ($56 to $70):
Best of Category: Donati Family Vineyard for their 2021 vintage and Double Gold.
Medal Awards:
Eco Terreno – Double Gold (2018)
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines – Double Gold (2022)
Sequoia Grove – Gold (2021)
Titus Vineyards – Gold (2022)
Selin Cellars – Silver (2022)
Mid-Point Winery – Silver (2021)
Foxen Vineyard & Winery – Silver (2021)
Peltzer Winery – Silver (2020)
Best of Category 4 ($71 to $85):
Best of Category: Yates Family Vineyard for their 2021 from Mount Veeder AVA.
Medal Awards:
Smith-Madrone – Gold (2021)
Culmination – Gold (2022)
Brecon Estate – Silver (2022)
Bianchi Winery – Silver (2021)
Best of Category 5 ($85 to $105):
Best of Category: Middle Oak Wines for their 2021 vintage and Double Gold.
Medal Awards:
Ledson Winery & Vineyards – Double Gold (2021)
Brecon Estate Reserve – Gold (2022)
Canard Vineyard – Silver (2021)
International Division
Best of Show: Pillitteri Estate Vineyard & Winery for their 2022 “Cellar” Cabernet Franc from Canada.
Medal Awards:
Le Monde – Silver (2020) from Italy
Pillitteri Estate Vineyard & Winery – Silver (2020 – paper label) from Canada
Specialty Division:
Best of Show: Chateau Niagara for their “Appassimento style” Cabernet Franc from Niagara County.
Medal Awards:
Pillitteri – Gold for their Ice Wine (2019)
Steven Kent Winery – Silver – Cab Franc Blanc (2024)
3 Steves Winery – Silver – Cab Franc Rose (2024)
Blend Division (must be 50% Cabernet Franc grapes):
Best of Show: 3 Steves Winery for their 2022 Blend receiving also a Gold Medal.
Medal Awards:
Philip Carter (Ten Vines) – Gold (2023)
Foxen – Silver (2020)
Graveyard Vintage – Silver (2022)
Quady North – Silver (2022)
Toast Winery – Silver (2022)
Cuda Ridge – Silver (2022)
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines – Silver (2022)
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PEOPLE’S CHOICE JUDGES RESULTS:
Eastern USA Division:
Best of Show: Chateau Niagara for their 2023 from New York. Also Received Double Gold.
Medal Awards:
Sheldrake Point – Gold (2022)
Wolffer Estate – Gold (2020)
Boundary Breaks – Silver (2023)
Wolffer Estate – Silver (2022)
Philip Carter Winery – Silver (2023)
Quartz Rock – Silver (2023)
Roanoke Vineyards – Silver (2022)
Glendale Ridge Vineyard – Silver (2020)
Central USA Division:
Best of Show: Heineman Winery located in the Lake Erie AVA and won Gold.
Medal Awards:
Silver Crest – Silver (2019)
Northwest USA Division:
Best of Show: Alexander Nicole for their 2021 and won Gold.
Medal Awards:
Spangler Vineyards – Silver (2021)
Quady North Winery – Silver (2020)
Camaraderie – Silver (2021)
Southwest USA Division:
Best of Show: Creekside Cellars for their 2020 and won Double Gold
Medal Awards:
Vivac Winery – Gold (2022)
California USA Division:
Best of California Division overall was L’Autre Cote from Livermore and won Double Gold.
Best of Show for Category 1 (up to $40
Del Valle – Double Gold (2021)
Medal Awards:
Darcie Kent Vineyards – Double Gold (Strong Silent, 2021)
Fenestra – Double Gold (2022)
Eco Terreno – Silver (2022)
Quest – Silver (2023)
Lava Cap – Silver (2022)
Sierra Vista – Silver (2022)
Revolution Wines – Silver (2022)
Best of Category 2 ($41 to $55):
Best of Category: Wood Family Vineyards – Double Gold (2022)
Medal Awards:
Cuda Ridge Wines – Double Gold (2022)
McGrail Vineyards – Double Gold (2021)
Le Vigne – Gold (2022)
McKenzie-Mueller – Gold (2020)
Darcie Kent Vineyards – Gold (2022, Stone Patch)
Mitchell Katz – Gold (2020)
Kennefick Ranch – Gold (2022)
Rosa Fierro Cellars – Silver (2021)
Notre Vue – Silver (2021)
Omega Road – Silver (2021)
Steven Kent Winery – Silver (2022)
Cinnabar Winery – Silver (2022)
Dracaena Wines – Silver (2022)
L & M Vineyards – Silver (2021)
Dracaena Wines, Reserve – Silver (2022)
3 Steves – Silver (2019)
Schema – Silver (2023)
Ancient Peaks – Silver (2021)
Best of Category 2 ($56 to $70):
Best of Category: J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines and won Double Gold.
Medal Awards:
Peltzer Family – Double Gold (2020)
Titus Vineyards – Gold (2022)
Donati Family – Silver (2021)
Selin Cellars – Silver (2022)
Eco Terreno – Silver (2018)
Sequoia Grove – Silver (2021)
Best of Category 3 ($71 to $85):
Best of Category: Smith-Madrone Vineyards for their 2021 and won Gold.
Medal Awards:
Yates Family Wine – Silver (2021)
Culmination – Silver (2022)
Brecon Estate – Silver (2022)
Bianchi Winery – Silver (2021)
Best of Category 4 ($86 to $105):
Best of Category: Ledson Winery for their Moon Mountain 2021. They also won Double Gold.
Medal Awards:
Brecon Estate Reserve – Gold (2022)
Canard Vineyard – Silver (2021)
Middle Oak Wines – Silver (2021)
Best of Category 5 ($106 & up):
Best of Category: L’ Autre Cote for their 2022 from Livermore and winning Double Gold
Medal Awards:
LXV Wines – Double Gold (2022)
International Division:
Best of Show: Pillitteri (paper label) for their 2020 and a Silver Medal
Medal Awards:
Pillitteri – Silver “Cellar” (2020)
Specialty Category:
Best of Show: 3 Steves for their 2024 Rosé using one Cabernet Franc and 2 different Cabernet grapes. Also won a Gold Medal.
Medal Awards:
Pillitteri – Gold for Ice Wine (2019)
Quady North – Silver for sparkling (2021)
Chateau Niagara – Silver for Appassimento style (2023)
Steven Kent Winery – Silver for Blanc (2024)
Cabernet Franc Blends (being a minimum of 50% Cabernet Franc grapes)
Best of Show: 3 Steves for their 2022 and a Gold Medal.
Medal Awards:
Cuda Ridge Wines – Silver (2022)
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines – Silver (2022)
Foxen – Silver (2020)
Graveyard Vineyards – Silver (2020)
Toast Winery – Silver (2023)
____________________________________________________________________
A very special thank you to both sets of judges and volunteers without which this event could not have happened!
Professional Judges were Tom Bender, Debi Miller and Martha Dunne picture at beginning of story. Unfortunately the second table did not get their picture taken consisting of Mike Dunne, Tana Cole and Michelle Becker.
People’s Choice Judges, left to right: Scott Behiel, Gary Miller and Peter Singh.
People’s Choice Judges, left to right: Chris Cox, Greg Pelican and Candy Strubbe.
No pictures of the volunteers who literally were on their feet all day running wine! A big hearty thanks!!
Susan Kelly
Ansuiya Singh
Suzanne McElroy
Mary Goulart
Darlene Besst
Patty Powers
Two special shout outs: First to Joe Goulart & Peter Singh who helped with the 6:30 am set up unloaded all the wines from cars! And the second to Susan Kelly who took on gathering and securing all the food, non-alcoholic beverages and serving materials as she was acting for the group as CEO, Catering Executive in charge of Ordering.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2024 Frog’s Tooth Grenache Blanc – A Common Misconception About Grenache Blanc
Photo from Frog’s Tooth Winery
A quick background on Grenache Blanc
Grenache Blanc is often confused as being a Grenache grape lightly pressed to extract the juice like a Cabernet Franc Blanc coming from the red grape. It is a white grape that produces a full body wine with citrus and herbal notes, much different than the red Grenache grape. Originally native to northeastern Spain and has been also planted in France since the Middle Ages. The first planting in California came recently in 1997. In the California Grape Crush Report in February 2025, the tonnage of Grenache Blanc processed was reported at 1,757 tons. That represents .0013% of the total white wine grapes by ton harvested in the state!
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
I have enjoyed this wine for years from Acquiesce Vineyards in Lodi where it has won various awards including last month a Gold Medal from the SF Chronicle Wine Competition (https://www.acquiescevineyards.com/). This is the first time enjoying a Grenache Blanc from the Sierra foothills. This was the first time Grenache Blanc was produced by Frog’s Tooth and won a Gold Medal at the SF Chronicle Wine Competition. It is a combination of Grenache Blanc grapes and Grenache red grapes (pressed lightly to extract the juice). It is a field blend as both grape varieties are grown at their vineyard.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine has a crisp and clean and light tannish/golden sheen rather than a distinct color. On the nose aromas of green fruit, citrus and white peach greet the imbiber. Once on the palate, a symphony of flavors abounded dominated by apples and peach. Secondary flavors of stone fruit and herbs were present specifically lemon zest and dried sage. The finish provided a textual feeling with clean tempered acidity.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The wine was released already and goes for $26/bottle. Only 120 cases were produced, and it is a solid and versatile wine for food. It can even work “standalone” as a patio pounder! This wine will make my annual list of Best Wines Tasted in 2025 for both the flavor profile and a delicious wine in the less than $50 category.
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 pulled to go with fresh scallops picked up at Ohana Seafood in Modesto. My idea was to prepare the scallops in a blackened spice and cook in a skillet. The spice recipe used included garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, basil, thyme, cayenne pepper, kosher salt and black pepper combined and mixed. Each scallop was completely coated with the final blend and dipped into a hot buttery skillet. Served over thin pasta prepared with butter and fresh Asiago grated cheese. A fresh garden salad complemented the dinner.
As it turned out the spices used to blacken the scallops were extremely too strong for this wine. Truth be told, a fire hose would have been the correct liquid to enjoy with the spicy scallops. Previously when I used the spice blend, I also topped off the fish with a mango & pineapple salsa which “cooled down” the blacken fish. Lesson learned this evening!!
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Wrote a story this last summer (2024) that Frog’s Tooth was making significant strategic moves in revamping the winery. For a full recap of a 4+ hour discussion with the owner/managing partner Larry Aderman discussing the winery, the wines, their new winemaker Tana Cole and how they are elevating their game plan for the winery you can click the following link for specifics:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2024/06/14/frogs-tooth-winery-making-strategic-moves/
I am happy to announce one of their first wines making a qualitative impact will be their 2022 Alicante Bouschet. This wine was produced by Tana at her previous winery with Frog’s Tooth purchasing the wine from barrels. They aged the wine additionally for several months in neutral French oak. In the future, they will be offering wine produced from the Frog’s Tooth vineyard.
Sláinte,
Michael
2020 Middle Oak Wines Cabernet Franc -Smooth and Delicious
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Wine “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Enjoyed this wine the other evening. This is Christina’s favorite wine that she produces. Her “Middle C” Cab Franc on the eyes is a lush dark ruby and purple coloring and is medium-full bodied viscosity. On the nose, black cherry is the predominate aroma that wafts into the senses followed by raspberry and herbal notes. On the palate, flavors of black cherry reign with hints of dark chocolate and a skosh of vanilla with a minimal number of pyrazines on the palate. The finish is simply remarkable, smooth with structured velvety tannins, yet soft and rounded to be noticed but not overwhelm your mouth. This wine sells for $115. They used only French oak, with 100% being new for 12 months then transferring it to neutral barrels for another 12 months. It is comprised of 92% Cabernet Franc and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Winery and Background
Christina Skinner is the owner of a small, woman-owned and family operated winery in Friendswood, Texas. Friendswood is located 23 miles southeast of Houston. Christina being a devoted artist (music and painting), had a dream to be involved with wine and the wine industry. After much studying, her dream came to life in the fall of 2021 with the introduction of her 2018 vintage “The Middle C”.
Her personal belief is that the arts and wines are intertwined disciplines. She sources her fruit from hand selected vineyards in Napa Valley, using organic, biodynamic and sustainable farming techniques producing beautiful fruit. Today, besides their Cabernet Franc, she produces Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache, Merlot, Red Blends, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Christina keeps production small focusing on the high quality producing 200-300 cases a year.
Christina launched a wine club recently with a great reception. Her near-term goal is going to gradually increase her production and move to a larger more functional and versatile space for her tasting room. One of the things she is most grateful for is that every single wine produced has won at least one medal/award, every year!
Christina was fortunate to meet and work with Rudy Zuidema, a winemaking star in Napa Valley. You can read a previous story on Rudy at:
Rudy, a UC Davis graduate in viticultural, has worked as a head winemaker, vineyard manager and general manager in Napa. His experiences in winemaking include time at Cuvaison, Honig, Robert Craig, Ehlers Estate and other projects include Napa De Oro Winery, Red Cap Vineyards and his own label Zuidema Wines. Rudy is the winemaker for Middle Oak Wines.
Previously at the International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition Middle Oak Wines won various awards. For the 2023 Competition Category 5 ($101 and up) for California (based grapes), they won a Gold Medal and Best of Class from the People’s Choice Judges.
Sláinte,
Michael
2023 Girasole Vineyards Rosé – Fresh, Crisp and Flavorful
Photo from Girasole Vineyards
The Winery
I have written a couple of stories on BARRA of Mendocino and their wines. The winery also has another label, being Girasole Vineyards. All their wines are California Certified Organically Farmed (CCOF) and have been for 20 years. Even before certification, Charlie Barra had been doing this twenty plus years before “being certified”. You can read the history, the vision, the family and vineyards at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2022/03/30/barra-of-mendocino-winery-2019-petite-sirah/
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Admittedly not being a big fan of Rosé, I did try this wine on a solid recommendation. As it turns out it was a “delightful and airy wine” and very enjoyable. The grapes were a combination of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Zinfandel from the family’s home ranch in Redwood Valley, Calif. The winery sits at 820 feet in elevation. The grapes were gently pressed and extracted for their juice and color. After being clarified, the lees separated, a slow fermentation was done to secure the fresh aromatic fruit flavors.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The wine greets one on the eyes with a color of richness being copper with hints of gold and peach all in one unique tone. On the nose this wine held court demanding attention and respect with garden fragrances of strawberries and plum aromas. On the palate, it was crisp and clean with the two varietals presenting themselves individually and together. From the Pinot Noir, the elegant presence of strawberries and from the Zinfandel the forwardness of blackberry and plums. Secondary flavors of just a tinge of cinnamon and clove spice provide another layer of the wine. On the finish, balanced acidity and a modicum of citrus made for a savory conclusion.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This is a wine for the summer while on the lake or simply as a refreshing “patio pounder” on a warm day! At $16/bottle and 13% alcohol this is a wine to be added to your summer shopping. I know it will be for me.
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
Paired this evening with a salsa chicken breast. Accompanied by a Yukon Gold potato and a fresh garden salad. The honey slices of almonds made the salad and wine strikingly tasteful. The Pinot Noir contribution did well with the chicken and the Zinfandel portion was sufficient to handle the tomato from the salsa. The overall taste of the Rosé contributed a refreshing comfort to the spiciness of the meal.
Slainte,
Michael
2009 O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Mt Veeder
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The winery is located on Howell Mountain; however, they do source some fruit from their other estate located on Mount Veeder. So, they offer both Mt Veeder and Howell Mountain vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon.
First thing to notice how well the winery did in selecting the perfect cork that has lasted for over 15 years. Of course, it was stored at the correct temperature and humidity levels.
2009 O’Shaughnessy 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is from the west side of the Napa Valley, Mount Veeder. On the eyes, a dark ruby coloring with medium heavy viscosity. On the nose, a woody but sweet briar, with blackberry and black cherry fruits wafting into the nose. On the palate, extremely concentrated fruits, licorice and black cherry exploded in the mouth with a background of sweet tobacco smoke and leather. Additionally, secondary flavors of dark chocolate were noticed. The finish had some strong tannins, but without any “edginess” which provided for a long velvety crescendo. Rated at 97 points by RP. This wine could easily go another 5 years but why wait?
This wine will make my annual list of Best Wines Tasted for 2025. O’Shaughnessy Winery has made this list for 15+ years annually for their exquisite wines.
For more information on the winery read one of the previously written stories at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2015/12/23/oshaughnessy-estate-wines/
Sláinte,
Michael
2014 Keenan Winery – Irish Eyes Are Smiling on Spring Mountain!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Winery
I have been a fan of Keenan wines for over twenty years. Keenan winery is located on Spring Mountain which is one of the unique areas for Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot wines. Michael Keenan’s 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley is grown primarily from grapes on the Spring Mountain estate at 1700 foot elevation. I visited the winery and have been to wine pairing dinners with Keenan Winery and always enjoyed every sip.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
One of the hallmarks of Keenan wines is his year-to-year consistency. This is due in part to the viticulture of the estate and the artistry of wine maker Nils Venge. I have enjoyed every wine he has made or acted as the consulting winemaker! Have not had any recent Cabernet Sauvignon’s but will be looking forward to trying some soon.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The last time I wrote about this wine was in 2021. Last evening, another bottle pulled to see and taste its progression. The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon was comprised of 78% from Spring Mountain District and 22% from Pope Valley District, both in Napa Valley. This wine was barrel aged for twenty months in 33% new French oak barrels. It comes in at 14.3% alcohol and was purchased back in 2016 at the winery. It may have a couple of years still to go, but right now can’t imagine it getting much better.
Also notice in the picture how this cork was perfectly fitted by the winery and stored for nine years in optimal conditions.
The wine offered on the eyes an intensely deep red/maroon/purple coloring on the eyes appearing almost black and medium heavy viscosity. On the nose, both beautiful aromatics and blend of flowers and old-world rustic dust and bramble filled the senses. Also raspberries provided sufficient fruit to entice one to take the first sip. On the palate, the layers of complexity from both the estate and Pope Valley intermix to provide a mouthful flavor of red stone fruits. On the finish, a long and enduring adventure. Initially some jagged tannins were present, however with the time, they did mellow out to become smooth and comforting. Truly a classic Napa Valley Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine will make my annual list of Best Wines Tasted for 2025.
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
With the rain finally hitting California, we could not BBQ so we cooked a ribeye steak in a cast iron skillet last evening. Seasoned and topped with two dollops of blue cheese, chives and butter medley. Accompanied by mashed potatoes infused with blue cheese and chives. Always a great food/wine pairing with a steak and big bold Cabernet Sauvignon.
Sláinte,
Michael