Livermore Wines
2023 Wood Family Vineyards “Woody’s Cab” Cabernet Sauvignon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine is a tradition at Wood Family Vineyards as an approachable and smooth Cabernet Sauvignon. First on the eyes it has a crisp magenta and red color with medium viscosity. On the nose aromas of dark fruits coupled with fresh red fruits rise to greet the imbiber. On the palate, raspberry, plum and cherries swirl light heartedly in the mouth. The finish provided wonderful silky and rounded tannins and yet were distinguishable. This is a wine for both food and standalone sipping.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2023 vintage comes in at 13.9% alcohol and 709 cases were produced. It is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon comprised of 51% One Oak Vineyard Clone 8, 19% One Oak Vineyard Clone 30, 11% One Oak Vineyard Clone 30 #1AO, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon Smith Ranch Clone 8 and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon Smith Ranch Clone 337.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The wine was aged in 33% new French oak barrels for 19 months. Schedule for release on February 21st and 22nd at the release party. Price will be $36/bottle minus any club member discount.
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 slow cooked red wine Braised Short Ribs. The ribs were slowly cooked for 6 hours after braising the beef ribs on the stove. Ingredients were sea salt, black pepper, olive oil, sliced yellow onions, quartered baby mushrooms, minced garlic, red wine, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried marjoram and bay leaves.
Accompanied by swirled Russet potato, wine mushrooms and artichoke.
The Cabernet Sauvignon with its dark fruit and spice notes complemented the beef. The wine with its acidity and tannins cut through the richness of the fatty meat and heaviness of the beef. A very good food and wine pairing.
The Winery
Photo from Wood Family Vineyards website
Wood Family Vineyards, located in eastern Livermore Valley with Rhonda Wood owner & winemaker, has been producing award winning wines for over two decades. You can read more about her background from airline pilot to award winning winemaker at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2016/02/10/wood-family-vineyards-2
Current Wine Awards:
- 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon “Clone 30” – Double Gold – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2021 Cabernet Franc – Double Gold – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2021 Malbec – Double Gold – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2021 “El Loco Rojo” Bordeaux Red Blend – Double Gold – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2022 “Para Mas Amigas” Chardonnay – Gold – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2021 “The Captain” Bordeaux Red Blend – Double Gold – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2023 “Pink Pearl” Rosé – Double Gold – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2022 “Pink Pearl” Rose – Best of Class – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
- 2021 Albariño – Best of Class – SF Chronicle Wine Competition
For a complete listing see their website listed below.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2023 Cuda Ridge Wines 2023 Merlot and 2023 Cabernet Franc – Doubling Down on Dinner, and Which Wine Would You Choose?
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
Larry Dino, owner and winemaker at Cuda Ridge, was beyond excited at getting the news that his 2022 Merlot got mentioned as being one of the thirteen favorite Merlots from around the world. To be mentioned in an article featuring Merlot wines from Bordeaux, Tuscany, Napa Valley, Santa Maria Valley and Washington and some running up to $1,000 a bottle is some accomplishment and recognition. Story can be found at: https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2025/07/23/cuda-ridge-wines-2022-merlot-mentioned-in-wine-enthusiast-as-one-to-be-sought-after/
Photo from Cuda Ridge Wines
While visiting two weeks ago, Larry provided me a bottle of his 2023 Merlot to contrast with his award winning 2022. He also provided a 2023 Cabernet Franc to compare to his award winning 2022 at the 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition winning Double Gold from both the Professional and People’s Choice Judges.
My wife and I were discussing meals the other night and decided on a special cut of filet mignon with a red wine reduction sauce. We wanted to use either the Cabernet Franc or the Merlot. Finally decided on trying the meal with both wines and below is the story. Which would you choose to go with this meal?
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
**The 2023 Merlot**
Photo ©Michael Kelly
First on the eyes a deep purple and magenta color with a medium-heavy viscosity. This is no ordinary Merlot upon first glance! Even this would have made Miles from the movie “Sideways” take pause and notice! Once the cork was popped, the strong aromas of plums and blackberries rushed into the senses hinting as what was to come! This mystery dark wine with beautiful aromas once in your mouth only begins to tell the story of this varietal by Cuda Ridge Wines. The dark plum flavor along with blackberries co-mingled happily like the song Happy by Pharrell Williams on the palate. On the palate, one is struck with the boldness, jammy (not sweet but texturally) and a modicum of grippy tannins on the wine. On the finish black pepper counterbalanced by a note of vanilla in the background, provide an enduring conclusion to each sip.
The wine comes from the eastern portion of Livermore with the majority (88%) being Thatcher Bay vineyards where the cooling afternoon winds provide an overall warm climate. Larry adds 8% Insel Carmenere, 2% White Cat Vineyard Malbec and 2% White Cat Vineyard Cabernet Franc to make this elegant wine. Barrel treatment was 50% new French oak and 30% once used French oak barrels with the balance neutral barrels. The wine was in barrels for 19 months. Now the newsflash – it is listed at $42/bottle and comes in at 14% alcohol with only 242 cases produced. It was just released on June 28th, 2025. With the nuances being different than his 2022 mix (why would anyone tweak a great wine), however with the Malbec and Carmenere, the wine provides layers and layers of mystery and intrigue even outpacing 2022!
This wine just made my annual Best Wines Tasted in 2025 for the quality and value in the category up to $51.
**2023 Cabernet Franc**
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Again having won Double Gold Medals at the 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition for his 2022, I was more than curious to try his 2023. How could he improve it? Previous story on his 2022 can be found at: https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2024/06/10/2022-cuda-ridge-wines-cabernet-franc-a-gestalt-experience/
Here again, Larry took something excellent and made it extraordinary!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The wine consists of 93% White Cat Vineyard Cabernet Franc, 5% Thatcher Bay Vineyard Merlot and 2% Estate Petit Verdot. The wine was aged 18 months in French Oak with 43% being new, 33% once used and 24% neutral. It comes in at 14.4% alcohol with 536 cases produce. The list price is $46/bottle and was just released June 28th, 2025.
This wine, for me, not only had all the key characteristics of a well-made Cabernet Franc, as a whole, it even was larger than the components of the varietal. Yes it had fruit, modicum of pyrazines (herbaceous bell pepper notes), tannins, complexity and an alluring finish and additionally hit the palate with a bullseye! First on the eyes, a dark and alluring maroon, purple coloring and medium heavy viscosity in the glass. On the nose, aromas of black cherries and violets waft into the senses. On the palate the symphony of flavors comes bursting forth like different parts of the orchestra. Raspberries and cherries are the dominant flavors with secondary flavors of vanilla pipe tobacco, earthiness all in a well-structured and layered enjoyment of savory and appealing flavors. On the finish the juicy fruit is counter-balanced with acidity and defined grippy and pronounced tannins on the roof of the mouth and back teeth. Truly a remarkable wine and surely destined for more awards! Upon first smell and then a sip, it made my annual list for Best Wines Tasted in 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
So we get to the question of the day: which wine to choose with dinner? Having the butcher prepare a special large center cut filet mignon and then adding a dry rub we were set to sear and BBQ the meat to medium rare.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
At the same time a red wine reduction sauce was having the final touches made to it consisting of shallots, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, beef broth, red wine, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh Rosemary sprigs, minced fresh parsley, Kosher salt, black ground pepper and brown sugar. Accompanying the meal were sauteed Brussel Sprouts with bacon and halved roasted seasoned small red potatoes. The meal was fit for a King!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Now which wine went best with the meal? Both wines provided a great wine pairing, the Cabernet Franc with its raspberry fruit counterbalancing the sauce and tannins, engaging the meat. The Merlot provides layers of dark cherry and dark plum fruit to contrast with the red wine sauce. Both were extremely enjoyable but tipping the scale by a notch was the Cabernet Franc being more captivating. I would like to hear your thoughts on which you would choose.
The Winery
Larry holding up his 2022 Merlot featured in Wine Enthusiast Photo ©Michael Kelly
There is a lot to be said about Cuda Ridge Wines in Livermore, California with Larry Dino as the winemaker and his wife Margie as chief wine taster. They produce Bordeaux style wines. The Cuda Ridge Wines tasting room is located at 2400 Arroyo Road in Livermore, California. Cuda Ridge Wines current production is approximately 2100 cases. They produce the following Bordeaux varietals: Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and most recently their addition of Carménère. Always experimenting, Larry Dino also has produced non-Bordeaux style wines which are designated under their Black label, these wines include Sangiovese, New-World style Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and others. Each varietal produced are small lots ranging from 100 – 450 cases. Cuda Ridge does extensive blending of varietals and strives for lower alcohol wines with intense complexity and character, traditional of the Bordeaux style wines.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2018 Wood Family Vineyards “One Oak Vineyard” Merlot and a New Food Pairing
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This 2018 Merlot is one fierce wine and not a weak or wimpy Merlot. The color in the glass is your first clue this is a different Merlot. The color is dark purple/maroon and intriguing with a medium heavy viscosity on the eyes. On the nose, chocolate covered berries, ripe plum and vanilla waft into the senses. On the palate, it is a bit of a paradox as this is both your warm and cuddly drink that is relaxing and comforting to sip yet with some grippy tannins. Yet you are awakened with the first sip to an explosive mouthful of Bing cherries, plums, with subtle earthy tones of bramble and minerality. The finish has a textural feel, and a complex layered structure continues to enhance the wine experience. The words chewy and masculine almost come to mind in describing this beautiful wine. While having so many brawny characteristics, it still presents at the conclusion as elegant and charming. This is a Merlot to absolutely enjoy today, with or without food. Alcohol is 14 % with 242 cases being produced. The wine is 100% Merlot and aged 20 months in French oak barrels. This is worth seeing if they have any additional bottles for sale! This wine will make my annual list of Best Wines Tasted for 2025! The current vintage is their 2022 and is $38/bottle.
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
When your neighbors surprise you and drop off their just picked garden bell peppers and tomatoes, it seems only natural to make stuffed bell peppers! So, tonight’s meal was a new recipe calling for the bell peppers to be filled with beef, rice and veggies for an all-in-one meal. A slight twist was adding Italian sausage for more flavoring. The ingredients were olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, ground beef, chopped purple onion, minced bell pepper, finely chopped garlic cloves, diced zucchini, diced fresh tomatoes, white rice and shredded pepper jack cheese. Accompanied by a fresh garden salad with cherry tomatoes, green onions and candied almond slices. This combination was great with the wine’s smooth fruity notes and the stuffed meat (ground beef and Italian sausage) in the bell pepper. This recipe will be a standard this coming winter as “comfort food” on a cool night.
The Winery
Picture from Wood Family Vineyard, Rhonda and Harrison Wood
Over 20 years ago, I believe this was one of Rhonda Wood’s first wines produced and continues to be a crowd pleaser. Now her 2022 Wood Family Vineyards “One Oak Vineyard” Merlot will most definitely be an award-winning wine. Located in eastern Livermore Valley with Rhonda Wood owner & winemaker. You can read more about her background from airline pilot to award winning winemaker at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2016/02/10/wood-family-vineyards-2
Sláinte,
Michael
Cuda Ridge Wines 2022 Merlot Mentioned in Wine Enthusiast as One to Be Sought After
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
Larry Dino, owner and winemaker at Cuda Ridge, was beyond excited at getting the news that his 2022 Merlot got mentioned as being one of the thirteen favorite Merlots from around the world. To be mentioned in an article featuring Merlot wines from Bordeaux, Tuscany, Napa Valley, Santa Maria Valley and Washington and some running up to $1,000 a bottle is some accomplishment and recognition.
Photo from Cuda Ridge Wines
A week ago, I was able to sit down and enjoy this wine with him as it was featured during CabFranc Fest and obviously along with his Cabernet Franc.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
There is a lot to be said about Cuda Ridge Wines in Livermore, California with Larry Dino as the winemaker and his wife Margie as chief wine taster. They produce Bordeaux style wines. The Cuda Ridge Wines tasting room is located at 2400 Arroyo Road in Livermore, California. Cuda Ridge Wines current production is approximately 2100 cases. They produce the following Bordeaux varietals: Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and most recently their addition of Carménère. Always experimenting, Larry Dino also has produced non-Bordeaux style wines which are designated under their Black label, these wines include Sangiovese, New-World style Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and others. Each varietal produced are small lots ranging from 100 – 450 cases. Cuda Ridge does extensive blending of varietals and strives for lower alcohol wines with intense complexity and character, traditional of the Bordeaux style wines.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Paul Giamatti, the actor in the iconic movie “Sideways” playing the role as Miles and his disdain of Merlot almost killed this wondrous grape varietal in California. Even after two decades with Paul’s comments, Merlot is slowly recovering from his disparaging comments on the varietal. His classic comments ranging from “No, if anyone orders Merlot, I’m leaving” to “I am NOT drinking any ####### Merlot!” only begins to frame the movie. A great book that just came out called “Sideways Uncorked” by Kirk and Mira Advani Honeycutt recaps the Merlot saga as well as the rise of Pinot Noir. Many did not understand the significance of the end of the movie with Miles saving a bottle of Chateau Cheval Blanc, a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc that he was saving for a special occasion! He ended the movie confirming his love of Merlot!!
First on the eyes a deep purple and magenta color with a medium-heavy viscosity. This is no ordinary Merlot upon first glance! Even this would have made Miles take pause and notice! Once the cork was popped, the strong aromas of plums and blackberries rushed into the senses hinting as what was to come! This mystery dark wine with beautiful aromas once in your mouth only begins to tell the story of this varietal by Cuda Ridge Wines. The dark plum flavor along with blackberries co-mingled happily like an Irish jig on the palate. On the palate, one is struck with the boldness, jammy (not sweet but texturally) and a chewy quality of the wine. On the finish black pepper counterbalanced by a note of vanilla with subtle tannins in the background, provide an enduring conclusion to each sip.
The wine comes from the eastern portion of Livermore with the majority (90%) being Thatcher Bay vineyards where the cooling afternoon winds provide an overall warm climate. Larry adds 7% Smith Ranch vineyard Petit Verdot and 3% White Cat vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon to make this elegant wine. Barrel treatment is 90% French oak with 44% being new and 10% American oak barrels. The wine is in barrels for 19 months. Now the newsflash – it is listed at $40/bottle and comes in at 14% alcohol with only 220 cases produced.
This wine just made my annual Best Wines Tasted in 2025 for the quality and value in the category up to $51.
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
As the temperature had cooled off and the barbeque was at the ready, we decided to have a special BBQ burger this evening. Special in that finely diced purple onion, jalapeno peppers and our normal spices were mixed with the hamburger meat hours before going into the hamburger press. This allowed the uncooked meat to soak in all the flavors in advance. Once pressed, another portion of spices were applied to the meat. Accompanied by a grilled portabella mushroom and freshly made macaroni salad using small shells, peas, chopped purple onion, cut sharp cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeño peppers, chopped smoked applewood bacon and thousand island dressing. The hamburgers were cooked to medium rare and served on sesame seed bun with ketchup, mustard, purple onion slice and Kosher dill pickle slices. This was an excellent food and wine pairing with the wine embracing the spiciness of the meal with its fruits and slight vanilla on the finish. Perhaps one of the surprises of the evening, when researching a side dish for the Merlot wine, was a suggestion of mushrooms. Opting for the portabella mushroom with its earthiness and minerality it paired exquisitely with the Merlot. Who knew?
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
“Sideways Uncorked” by Kirk Honeycutt and Mira Advani Honeycutt
2023 Wood Family Vineyards Red Blend “The Runway” is the Authenic One!
Photo from Rhonda Wood
Background
Photo from Rhonda Wood
This new red blend wine called “The Runway” is a hat’s off to Rhonda Wood, the owner, winemaker and former airline pilot. Yes Rhonda Wood, winemaker/owner of Wood Family Vineyards used to fly planes (US Airways) but now can be found in the vineyards tending vines. Rhonda continues to fly about the western states in a private plane. She and husband Michael (with their two sons), have a winery in eastern Livermore. Rhonda started making wine in 1996. Besides sourcing wine on their property, they have 17 specific vineyards which are manicured to their specifications throughout Livermore’s ideal climate.
Another important piece for the background is it is called Red Blend. While this wine has the five main grapes of Bordeaux, the term “Bordeaux” is a geographic indication and a collective trademark. This only allows wine produced from and in the Bordeaux region of France to legally use “Bordeaux” name on the label. Producing or selling wine labeled as “Bordeaux” without authorization can lead to legal action, fines and even criminal charges! So while a wine listed as Bordeaux are desired and have a wonderful historical significance.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This is the second of two new wines being released on August 3rd, 2025 and is already a favorite wine! This is a “Bordeaux style” blend of five red grapes being 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 10% Malbec, 8% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot aged for 20 months in French oak barrels. The alcohol percentage came in at 13.7%. Combining these five grape varietals from Livermore Valley makes a wine that is greater than its components.
As Aristotle in his writing on Metaphysics wrote the “whole is more than just the sum of its components”. The resulting wine is more powerful, valuable and impactful than those varietals alone.
For example, the Cabernet Sauvignon portion provides structure, tannins and black fruit flavors (55%). The Cabernet Franc addition (22%) contributes herbal and lighter fruit notes. These two varietals make up 77% of the “Red Blend” giving it “a punch of tannins and fruit” with a modicum of herbal notes. Next up in the mix is Malbec (10%), which adds color, richness and often a smoky quality along with 8% Merlot which provides roundness, soft fruits and plummy notes. Lastly the Petit Verdot contributes tannins, structure and adds to the deep color. Having all these different, contrasting and complimentary tastes, flavors and aromas provide an elegant and beautiful wine.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Anticipated opening this inaugural wine as a fan of “Bordeaux” wines and history, was convinced this grape collection would provide a delightful wine. On the on eyes a dark almost black coloring with medium-heavy viscosity. As soon as the cork was popped, aromas of blackberry and blueberries awaken the olfactory senses. Decanted this young wine as it was just bottled three weeks ago for 2 hours before tasting at dinner. On the palate, each of the grape varietals stood “tall and proud” contributing their aforementioned qualities to each sip! As the wine engulfed the mouth, one immediately knew this is no ordinary wine as the notes of sharp tannins of the Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot were counterbalanced to a certain point with the roundness of Merlot. Each contributed to the symphony of total experience with drums, flutes, violins, etc., each doing their part to provide a classical orchestration of flavors. This wine possessed fruit, tannins, and chewiness all for textural delight.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
While I was a bit cautious on the youth of the wine just being bottled on the other new release (The Takeoff), without any hesitation, this Runway wine is now ready and over-delivered last evening!
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 evening’s meal was 24-hour marinated tri tip steak in Chaka sauce, then seared at 1500 degrees to medium rare. Accompanied by baked potato wedges that were cut into eights with olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper and finely grated parmesan cheese. Also, garlic French bread and our guests brought her exquisite field green salad with glazed apple slices browned and sprinkled with brown sugar and feta cheese crumbles.
A great food pairing with the tannins (punch) to fully engulf the steak and yet with a mellow fruit and roundness to enjoy. This young wine is ready for the runway to start its journey and will only age to become more spectacular.
Wood Family Vineyards with this release just added another wine to my annual Best Wines Tasted for calendar 2025!
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Since this wine is dedicated to Rhonda’s initial career as a pilot, I thought it interesting to draw a few comparisons between being a winemaker and key traits of captaining a commercial or private plane:
Attention to details: The Captain knowing all aspects of flight planning, aircraft operation, documenting aircraft performance & maintenance, operational compliance, adhering to government standards & regulations, manage emergencies, coordination with mechanics, ground crew and air traffic control. Rhonda Wood: knowing the vineyards for pruning, shoot thinning, cluster thinning, water strategy & compliance, cover crop management, details to county, AVA and government regulations.
Awareness: The Captain understanding optimal aircraft performance and ability for various aircraft being flown. Rhonda Wood: Knowing when and what to do in the vineyard(s) from Brix checks, ordering supplies for the winery (yeast, So2, etc.), scheduling harvest with vineyard manager, soil nutrition, timing on picking, pressing, sending juice panels to ETS, punch down timing & frequency, selecting yeasts and additives (if necessary), tank temperatures. All of these functions for each and every varietal and winery blend.
Documentation: The Captain recording all aspects of aircraft operations, fuel, temperature, oil pressure, hydraulics, weather, turbulence, aircraft avoidance and airspace incidents, noting functions outside of prescribed government regulations, flight plans, etc. Rhonda Wood: pre-ordering bottles, labels and corks for upcoming harvest and bottling, testing during fermentation, compliance and documentation for ABC laws, tasting room notes, pairing & technical sheets, shipment compliancy, etc.
The above only scratch the surface of the broad characteristics of being a Captain and Winemaker. This may indeed be the reason she wins so many awards for her wines! In addition, self-confidence, humility, clear communication skills, desire to learn and most importantly, the ability to approach the runway for a great journey!
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2023 Wood Family Vineyards Red Blend “The Takeoff”
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
Photo from Rhonda Wood
This new red blend wine called “The Takeoff” is a hat’s off to Rhonda Wood, the owner, winemaker and former airline pilot. Yes Rhonda Wood, winemaker/owner of Wood Family Vineyards used to fly planes (US Airways) but now can be found in the vineyards tending vines. Rhonda continues to fly about the western states in a private plane. She and husband Michael (with their two sons), have a winery in eastern Livermore. Rhonda started making wine in 1996. Besides sourcing wine on their property, they have 17 specific vineyards which are manicured to their specifications throughout Livermore’s ideal climate.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This is a blend of three red grapes being 51% Cabernet Franc, 34% Malbec and 15% Merlot aged for 20 months in French oak barrels. The alcohol percentage came in at 13.7%. It will be part of the August 3rd, 2025 release party at $50/bottle.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Anticipated opening this inaugural wine as it combined two of her three wines that have made my Annual Best Wines tasted in the year for three years in a row, that being her Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Also this combination made a delicious Bordeaux style blend. On the on eyes a medium dark crimson coloring with medium-heavy viscosity. On the nose the three varietals coalesced to provide a range of aromas of blackberry, cherry and dark plums fruits along with violet and rose scents. On the palate, the Merlot seemed to have throttled back the “zip” of the Cabernet Franc and the smokiness, mellow pipe tobacco and leather components of the Malbec. This may have been due to a little bottle shock as the wine was just recently bottled. The smooth finish provided exceptionally rounded tannins with a hint of vanilla. An extremely mellow and integrated even keeled wine to be enjoyed with or without food.
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 evenings meal was filet mignon steak, seasoned and seared on the BBQ at 1500 degrees and then cooked to medium rare. Plated with freshly made topping with Blue cheese, butter and chives. The same Blue cheese was used in the “smashed potatoes” also topped with fresh chives. Accompanied by a fresh garden salad with just cooked applewood smoked bacon, green onions and diced Roma tomatoes. A good food pairing lacking the tannins and “zip” to fully step up to integrate and take on the filet mignon this evening, but this young wine should age to be something spectacular.
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Interesting to draw a few comparisons between the winemaker and key traits of captaining a commercial plane:
Attention to details: The Captain knowing all aspects of flight planning, aircraft operation, documenting aircraft performance & maintenance, operational compliance, adhering to government standards & regulations, manage emergencies, coordination with mechanics, ground crew and air traffic control. Rhonda Wood: knowing the vineyards for pruning, shoot thinning, cluster thinning, water strategy & compliance, cover crop management, details to county, AVA and government regulations.
Awareness: The Captain understanding optimal aircraft performance and ability for various aircraft being flown. Rhonda Wood: Knowing when and what to do in the vineyard(s) from Brix checks, ordering supplies for the winery (yeast, So2, etc.), scheduling harvest with vineyard manager, soil nutrition, timing on picking, pressing, sending juice panels to ETS, punch down timing & frequency, selecting yeasts and additives (if necessary), tank temperatures. All of these functions for each and every varietal and winery blend.
Documentation: The Captain recording all aspects of aircraft operations, fuel, temperature, oil pressure, hydraulics, weather, turbulence, aircraft avoidance and airspace incidents, noting functions outside of prescribed government regulations, flight plans, etc. Rhonda Wood: pre-ordering bottles, labels and corks for upcoming harvest and bottling, testing during fermentation, compliance and documentation for ABC laws, tasting room notes, pairing & technical sheets, shipment compliancy, etc.
Photo from Rhonda Wood
The above only scratch the surface of the broad characteristics of being a Captain and Winemaker. This may indeed be the reason she wins so many awards for her wines! In addition, self-confidence, humility, clear communication skills, desire to learn and most importantly, the ability to remain calm under pressure especially during “Take Off” and landing!
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2023 Wood Family Vineyards Petite Sirah – Nothing Small About This Wine!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
Petite Sirah, as an educational note, is not a “smaller” version of Syrah as it is a wholly different varietal. The background on Petite Sirah is that it is the offspring of Syrah and Peloursin (a scarce and almost extinct grape) from northern Italy/Switzerland area. The varietal name is Durif and was first introduced in 1880. Petite Sirah possesses one of the highest levels of antioxidants. In the State Agricultural report for California, Petite Sirah represented only 2.3% in the 2024 harvest.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo by Don Lahey, The International Wine of the Month Club
Petite Sirah has a big bold structure accompanied by high tannins. Dark fruits abound in the glass akin to Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon but even more tannic profile! There might be a warning label on a bottle if you are not familiar with the varietal. This wine was opened a few hours before the meal and the first thing one notices is the dark and inky coloring in the glass.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Once in the glass, aromas of dominant blackberry compote and bramble waft into the senses. Once the first sip hits the palate, a tug-a-war begins with bold tannins facing off against the berry fruit. Secondary flavors of black pepper and subtle notes of vanilla (most likely from the barrels) smooth out the landing in the mouth. The finish provides scrumptious blueberries and dry earthen minerality that is long lasting.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The wine come in at 13.9% alcohol and will be released mid-June with an expected price of $40/bottle. The is 100% Petite Sirah from the Casa de Vinas vineyard. Only 107 cases were produced. Aged in 12.5% new Hungarian oak and 12.5% new American oak with the balance being neutral for 18 months.
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 this evening’s meal with a new recipe this evening called Pork Tenderloin Tacos. The wine was selected due to its full body with high tannins that did produce a little bitterness and with the rich pork created a perfect balance. The pork tenderloin was cut up in strips and marinated in olive oil, fresh lime juice, honey, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano and kosher salt for 9 hours. Then cooked in a skillet on the stove and served with prepared flour tortillas, lime wedges and street corn salsa.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The salsa ingredients included roasted corn kernels, minced Jalapeño pepper with seeds, diced red onion, minced garlic, fresh squeezed lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, cumin and kosher salt. With all the spices in the meal and smokiness, the Petite Sirah was an elegant match as boldness of the wine and the meal. Accompanied by refried beans and a fresh garden salad with multi-colored tortilla strips.
The Winery
Photo of Rhonda Wood (Winemaker) and Harrison Wood (VP)
Rhonda Wood, winemaker at Wood Family Vineyards, makes some exceptional wines from Livermore, California. The background on the winery can be found in another story at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2021/11/06/2018-wood-family-vineyards-chardonnay/
Rhonda and the family winery are small in comparison to some of Livermore’s known name wineries but have been regarded for twenty-five years as one of the top-quality wine producers.
From high in the sky to down to earth wines!! Yes Rhonda Wood, winemaker/owner of Wood Family Vineyards used to fly planes (US Airways) but now can be found in the vineyards tending vines. She and husband Michael (with their two sons), have a winery in eastern Livermore. Rhonda started making wine in 1996. Besides sourcing wine on their property, they have 17 specific vineyards which are manicured to their specifications throughout Livermore’s ideal climate.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2022 Wood Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon “Especial”
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
Livermore Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in California. Its geographic proximity to the San Francisco Bay provides breezes with the marine layer cooling effect to the Valley from the warm summer months. The west to east valley is unique in California allowing the cool air or fog to engulf the entire valley floor. The wines from this region can be age-worthy and are typically complex, balanced and excellent with various foods. A small tidbit of information is that Livermore Valley was the first wine to win a gold medal at the Paris Exposition in 1889 and not Napa Valley! The roots of Livermore Valley go back to the 1760’s when Spanish missionaries planted grapevines. Robert Livermore is credited with planting the first commercial vineyards in the 1840s. Fully 80% of California Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes can be traced back to Wente Winery and Concannon Vineyard. There is much more to know about Livermore Valley and suggest a quick tutorial at: https://www.lvwine.org/history.php
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Cabernet Sauvignon is unique due to its thick skins, high tannins and with aging potential. This provides wines that are full-bodied, dense, rich and full of complexity. Dark fruits abound with spices, pepper and typically tobacco notes along with oak characteristics. Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc are the DNA parents of Cabernet Sauvignon.
In the final 2024 California Grape Crush report Cabernet Sauvignon was the highest volume grape produced with 15.4% of the overall red grape harvest. There are 17 districts in the state and Livermore is District 6 which includes Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties. Livermore accounted for 7% of the 2024 harvest for Cabernet Sauvignon in California. In 2024 the number of tons harvested statewide was down considerably.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2022 Wood Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon “Especial” meaning for the Wood Family, is selecting only their favorite barrels for aging. It has been a solid wine in the lineup at Wood Family. First on the eyes an inky and lush purple coloring with medium-heavy viscosity with clarity and brightness. On the nose when first opening it, the aromas of violets and cherries rose up in a stately manner into the senses. On the palate dark fruits of dark cherries, blackberries and black pepper/cloves, counterbalanced with vanilla pipe tobacco and soft oak notes. The finish rolls out tannins that are present with silkiness at first being a bit timid and then rise up with a jagged edginess of deliciousness.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine was aged 30 months in 60% new French oak barrels. The grapes came from both the Thompson Ranch Clone 337 and from Smith Ranch being Clone 8 in Livermore. The wine is 14% alcohol and is smooth and refreshing. Most Cabernet Sauvignon wines usually need a meal to partner up with, but this was an extremely smooth wine to simply sip. It will be released in mid-June and the price is $60/bottle with only 95 cases being produced.
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 seasoned and seared ribeye steak served medium rare. Accompanied by a fresh homemade creamy potato salad. The salad in addition to the potatoes, was made with mayonnaise, white vinegar, yellow mustard, sea salt, black pepper, chopped celery stalks, chopped onions and hard-boiled eggs. Served with sprinkled paprika. The wine with its bold flavors and appropriate tannins surround each morsel of steak perfectly. An excellent food and wine pairing.
The Winery
Photo of Rhonda Wood (Winemaker) and Harrison Wood (VP) photo from Wood Family website
Rhonda Wood, winemaker at Wood Family Vineyards, makes some exceptional wines from Livermore, California. The background on the winery can be found in another story at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2021/11/06/2018-wood-family-vineyards-chardonnay/
Rhonda and the family winery are small in comparison to some of Livermore’s known name wineries but have been regarded for twenty-five years as one of the top-quality wine producers.
From high in the sky to down to earth wines!! Yes Rhonda Wood, winemaker/owner of Wood Family Vineyards used to fly planes (US Airways) but now can be found in the vineyards tending vines. She and husband Michael (with their two sons), have a winery in eastern Livermore. Rhonda started making wine in 1996. Besides sourcing wine on their property, they have 17 specific vineyards which are manicured to their specifications throughout Livermore’s ideal climate.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2023 Wood Family Vineyards Petit Verdot – A Calming Wine for Birria Tacos
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
Petit Verdot is best known as a blending wine for Bordeaux style wines. It was used consistently in Bordeaux as it was a late ripening grape varietal and it struggled to reach full maturity. Historically, when used in moderation (1-2%) for blending, Petit Verdot produced wines that were overly tannic and caused the vineyards to decline. More recently however Petit Verdot has had a resurgence due to plantings in warmer climates like California, Australia and Spain. The warmer climates allowing the fruit to fully ripen and provide a distinct character for the varietal. Providing a very drinkable wine full of body, tannins and structure.
Photo from wikipedia
Petit Verdot’s literal translation is “little green one”. This is because it is a late ripening grape from the Bordeaux region in France. It is a commonly used grape in blending, usually in small amounts to add color, tannin, structure and herbaceous notes of violet and sage.
The Wine – “Wine if bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
First on the eyes, this wine is a lavish and royal purple in coloring, unique and contrasting from other varieties. In the glass, it has a medium-heavy viscosity. On the nose, aromas of violets and lavender along with plum and blackberry rise up to beckon your first sip. Once on the palate the essence of dark fruits, strong tannins and firm acidity greet the imbiber. Blueberry notes soften the impact of the tannins with a silky smoothness and flavor. On the finish, black pepper and spices and dried herbal notes and rustic smoky tastes linger. After the finish, you are struck with its full body, structural characteristics and tannins.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Aging in oak barrels tends to soften the wine with a slight vanilla taste. This wine was aged 18 months in barrel with 33% being new French oak and the balance neutral. The wine is made with 100% Petite Sirah, 94% from One Oak Vineyard and 6% from Smith Ranch Vineyard. The wine come in at 14.8% alcohol and only 64 cases were produced. The anticipated price upon release mid-June is expected at $42/bottle.
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
The slow cooker Birria Tacos were cooked 8 ½ hours in a slow cooker. Besides the chuck roast, ingredients included chopped yellow onion, garlic cloves, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, chipotle in adobo, crushed fire roasted tomatoes, beef broth, white vinegar, kosher salt, bay leaves, shredded Oaxaca cheese and chopped fresh cilantro. Plated with white rice cooked with cilantro, fresh squeezed lime juice and green onions. Dipping sauce was on the side. This recipe was much easier than our previous one especially having to find all the fresh ingredients (see previous story at: https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2023/08/05/2020-jessies-grove-winery-fancy-quest-old-vine-zinfandel-and-birria-tacos-and-sauce/ .
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The recipe was excellent, and the wine refreshingly calming. A very good food and wine pairing.
The Winery
Photo from Wood Family Vineyards website
Rhonda Wood, winemaker at Wood Family Vineyards, makes some exceptional wines from Livermore, California. The background on the winery can be found in another story at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2021/11/06/2018-wood-family-vineyards-chardonnay/
Rhonda and the family winery are small in comparison to some of Livermore’s known name wineries but have been regarded for years as one of the top-quality wine producers.
From high in the sky to down to earth wines!! Yes Rhonda Wood, winemaker/owner of Wood Family Vineyards used to fly planes (US Airways) but now can be found in the vineyards tending vines. She and husband Michael (with their two sons), have a winery in eastern Livermore. Rhonda started making wine in 1996. Besides sourcing wine on their property, they have 17 specific vineyards which are manicured to their specifications throughout Livermore’s ideal climate.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2024 Culmination Sauvignon Blanc Aged in Barrel – What is Beyond Perfection?
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
Last year the Wood Family Vineyards produced their inaugural release of barrel aged Sauvignon Blanc. They have continued to do so again this year and have elevated this release to their second or premier label called Culmination. This is now the third wine being offered in the series.
The Wine – “Wine if bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The grapes come from the historic Louis Mel Ranch that was established in 1884. Mrs. Mel was friends with the Marquise of Chateau d’ Yquem and was able to secure cuttings from there. This will be the second release of Rhonda Wood’s Sauvignon Blanc aged in barrel. The wine is fermented in three barrels with one being an Acacia barrel aged for 7 months. The other two barrels were aged in neutral French oak. They were kept separate until tanked for bottling and aged on the lees and stirred every two weeks.
This is like no ordinary Sauvignon Blanc I have experienced in my wine life! I heaped praises on it last year (https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2024/04/24/2023-wood-family-vineyards-sauvignon-blanc-a-new-offering/), only to have the wine elevated even further with this release!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
First on the eyes this is a deeper golden color than ordinary stainless steel fermented wine with a much thicker viscosity, noticeable in the glass. On the nose dominate aromas of honeysuckle and lemon grass waft gently into the senses arousing the imbiber to take the first sip of this exotic elixir. Once on the palate, bright and lively flavors burst forth of lemon and lime, but not like a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, much more subdued and yet energetic and content to be second fiddle in the tasting profile. Lemon custard and tropical passion fruit, along with stone fruits of peach and apricot, softly coat the mouth. On the palate the intriguing and unique textural feel in the mouth was astonishing. Finally, concluding the sipping experience, the acidity is counterbalanced by a brioche note, making for a mildly tart, yet graceful finish, possessing finesse to produce an enjoyable drink.
The alcohol level is 14% and the price for this is $50/bottle, which is a bit higher than your average Suavignon Blanc, but this is anything but ordinary! Set to be released mid-June, this will surely sell out quickly for its flavor profile and uniqueness with only 75 cases produced.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine will make my annual Best Wines Tasted in 2025 due to its unique and mouth filling presence and flavors. In my opinion, following Wood Family Vineyards for 25 years, this may be the best wine Rhonda Wood has produced across the lineup, and she has won a tremendous number of awards!
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
The food pairing was also a bit unique with two entrées last evening. First up was sushi from a new store of both tuna and salmon. Both were very good. I have always had a glass of wine with sushi or sashimi to help kill off any bacteria (told so from many friends in Japan or sake). Only had one small portion with the sushi as wasabi, ginger and soy sauce would be too much to either be complimentary or too contrasting.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
However, the second entrée was a great summertime pasta salad. It was comprised of bow tie pasta, Northern Italian dressing, freshly cooked pepper bacon, fresh spinach, black pepper, Himalayan Sea salt, cherry tomatoes and onion. Chicken breasts were cut into small pieces and cooked on the stovetop with mesquite seasoning. They were combined and served. This wine caressed each morsel and bit of the salad and enlivened the meal perfectly. An excellent food and wine pairing.
The Winery
Photo from Wood Family Vineyards website
Wood Family Vineyards, located in eastern Livermore Valley with Rhonda Wood owner & winemaker, has been producing award winning wines for over two decades. You can read more on her background from airline pilot to award winning winemaker at the link below and their website.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly