Don’t know how many times I’ve visited. One more, before hundreds more, couldn’t hurt. Wanted to stock up on some wine, and capture some of the celestially unparalleled vistas. I parked, and was instantly agape with the grounds’ arrangement and layout. Took over a dozen pics within a minute of being there. As I walked up the little hill to the tasting Room, I noticed a quiet, calm area that would serve ideal for a picnic, or just an afternoon bottle of the ’09 Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc that Cathie poured for me. Once on the deck, your eyes ingest almost a difficult amount of gorgeous views, charming picturesque pulses.
So, the wines...all impressive. Disciplined structure, versatile and voluptuous, opulently ornate. Tasting Room Lead Cathie started me with the Sauv Blanc aforementioned, then escorted me to the 2008 Sonoma County Chardonnay. My messy blue-inked note in the little catalogue: “Nice flow with creamy character.” In my opinion, Chard is a dangerous varietal, risky. Too many times I’ve seen it overdone with the ML. But not this one. Crisp, rich, certainly sippable, even for those who don’t regularly connect with Chardonnay. Then, Chris took over, pouring me some reds that really entrenched themselves on my palate, in my memory. The 2007 Jackson Park Merlot stunned me with its profile and presence, fluttering finish. Then, Chris dove into the library, poured me a 1999 Sonoma County Merlot (5% Cab) followed by a 2002 Sonoma County Cab (8% Merlot). I don’t even have words for these two. Well, I do: I bought one of each...
I love this new AVA, its ruling Room. I had to laugh to mySelf on the way back to Bennet Valley Road, on the long soothing driveway, as I live, LITERALLY, five minutes down the road. Fortunate. This winery, with its art gallery/loft of an interior, would dazzle anyone. Again, I’ve been there several times. So why was I so impressed today? Maybe because I did a full tasting this time; maybe the interactions I had with Cathie and Chris; maybe the weather; maybe all of it coming together, my realization of my nearness. Either way, visit as soon as you can. You’ll probably see me there. Sip, sip ...
(Friday, 2/11/11)
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