I’ve been going on and on to my partner in wine crime about how Washington Cabernet is the fun, approachable alternative to Napa Cabernet. Is it the terroir? The winemaking? Or the fact that the folks up here want that alt-personality reputation. All of the above? Anyway, I was so happy when the folks at Upchurch queried me for sampling. It’s a welcome opportunity to taste wines from outside my state. And also prove to my partner that (once again) I was right…
Terra d’Oro 2017 Deaver Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel
From the winery: The story of the Deaver Vineyard starts in the 1800s during the California Gold Rush. Italian immigrants brought Zinfandel cuttings from the East Coast and planted vineyards in the Sierra Foothills. The fourteen acre piece of the Deaver family vineyard used to make Terra d’Oro Deaver Vineyard 130+ Year Old Vine Zinfandel was planted in 1881 but that is not the only reason the fruit is singular and exceptional. As vines mature they produce less but more concentrated fruit. The dry farmed vine’s roots continue to grow deeper into the soil as years pass and pull water and nutrients from multiple soil layers. Last but not least the relationship between the Trinchero family of Terra d’Oro and the Deaver family, stemmed in the 1960’s over a passion for Amador Zinfandel, and has since been one of loyalty and mutual respect.
Big Sur Vineyards 2014 Reserve Pinot Noir
A Pinot Noir as deep as the sea: Let’s dive in.
Townley 2015 Alder Springs Grenache
I have no information on this wine, as it was received as a gift, not as a sample for review. But I will tell you this, it’s a pretty easy drinker and I recommend pairing it with something with a bit of spice (spiceful not spicy) and a bit of sauce, as I did. Grenache can be hit or miss. This is a definite hit, but by no means a homerun.
Panther Creek 2016 Reserve Pinot Noir
NO! The last of my Panther Creek stash! Ah well, it was much appreciated and much loved as this wine was opened for (one of) my anniversary dinners.