{"title":"2\/26: Sonoma The Experience","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"mauritson-jacks-cabin-zinfandel-sonoma-california-2021","title":"Mauritson \"Jack's Cabin\" Zinfandel, Rockpile, Sonoma County 2021","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/span\u003e                                                                     \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSince 1868, the Mauritson family has been growing grapes in the Dry Creek Valley. Our great-great-great grandfather S.P. Hallengren, a grape growing pioneer in the Rockpile region, first planted vines in 1884, shipping every ounce of his wine back to Sweden. Our family's Rockpile homestead and ranch grew to 4,000 acres by the early 1960s when all but 700 ridgetop acres was acquired by the Army Corps of Engineers in order to develop Lake Sonoma. The vineyards shown in many of our historical family photos are now under water! For the next 30 years, the Rockpile property would serve mostly for sheep grazing.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSix generations and more than 150 years later, we're earning a reputation for outstanding winemaking along with our sought-after harvests. Opened in April 2004, our winemaking facility and tasting room is located at 2859 Dry Creek Road, on the corner of Dry Creek and Lytton Springs roads in Healdsburg. We can't wait to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/learnaboutwine.com\/products\/learnaboutwine-presents-zinfandel-wednesday-june-14th-at-7pm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/FtinZinfandel.png?v=1686166208\" style=\"margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 10px; float: right;\" width=\"183\" height=\"183\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 10px; float: right;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/FtinZinfandel.png?v=1686166208\" data-mce-selected=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003ewelcome you and share our wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNamed after one of the area’s earliest settlers, the Jack’s Cabin site has quite a colorful history. Though Jack Ireland’s primary occupation was clearing land for sheep and cattle grazing, he was most known for his moonshine and disregard for the law. Apparently, he spent many a night in the county jail. When my father, and grandfather before him, were growing up on the property, only the tattered remnants of Jack’s house remained. The old decrepit structure only strengthened the notion that the “cabin” was haunted, and thus was born the legend of Jack’s Cabin!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlanted at nearly 950 feet in elevation and roughly 15 degrees slope, the Jack’s Cabin Vineyard is one of Rockpile’s premier sites. It has a southern sun exposure and is planted with the meandering natural slope of the bench. Relatively hidden from the coastal breezes that howl through Rockpile, this vineyard is the least stressed of all the blocks.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e94% Zinfandel 6% Petite Sirah\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eRockpile, Sonoma County, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eOur 2021 Jack’s Cabin Zinfandel is a delicious and complex wine. Shy in its initial presentation, this incredible Rockpile Zinfandel is just starting to reveal its detail and incredible energy. Aromatics include sticky blackberry compote, espresso grounds and purple iris petal, with a soft dusting of cedar and vanilla. A beautiful intensity persists on the palate, with explosive fresh blue and black fruits, coffee bean and dried herbs. An almost chewy texture balances generous tannins and a lingering fresh finish. Please enjoy over the next 5-8 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Ian Blackburn\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDark colors of black, purple and garnet; nose of minerals and rock with dense fruit skins of purple plums and purple flowers. Quality wood notes support this youthful giant - and its claret styling will continue to age gracefully for a decade or more.  Finish is flush with tannins and length - a great ride.  Color 14.5, Aroma 24, Body 24, Overall 33.5 = 96 \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chambers","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45388626592049,"sku":"","price":52.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Mauritson-Jack_s-Cabin-Zinfandel-Sonoma-California-2021.jpg?v=1686603744"},{"product_id":"addax-pinot-noir-sonoma-coast-california-2021","title":"Addax, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, California, 2021","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/ekBiVOY61No\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eAbout the Producer\u003c\/span\u003e                                                                       \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCrafted by Russell Bevan, one of the most sought-after winemakers in California today, Addax is an artisan winery founded by Brian Kearney and Josh Peeples. \u003cimg style=\"float: right;\" height=\"90\" width=\"126\" src=\"https:\/\/bacchusandvenuswine.files.wordpress.com\/2020\/11\/addax_18spinot-back.jpg?w=500\" alt=\"\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"float: right;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/bacchusandvenuswine.files.wordpress.com\/2020\/11\/addax_18spinot-back.jpg?w=500\"\u003eWhat began with a few friends and a few barrels of Cabernet in 2009 has evolved into a phenomenal portfolio of wines, including Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon, Petaluma Gap and Sta. Rita Pinot Noir, and a selection of Sonoma Chardonnays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter more than a decade, we continue our quest to work with exceptional vineyard sites to produce wines with brazen personality. As a part of The Institution family of wines, made at 2100 Hoffmane Lane, we utilize our winery in Yountville to highlight some of California’s most sought-after vineyards. Our dedicate cellar team is passionate about producing wines that stand shoulder to shoulder with the most sought after wines in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBevan is one of the most sought after winemakers today and one of the world’s most acclaimed. A superstar with critics, colleagues and consumers alike. Wine critics regularly praise his wines, providing correspondingly sky-high scores.  You would recognize his work from a number of our past wine club favorites such as Elyse, Belden Barns, Morgado, and his own label, Bevan Cellars.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eAbout the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnother Russell Bevan home run, Addax is an artisan wine brand led by Brian Kearney and Josh Peeples. The brand began with a few friends and 4 barrels of Cabernet back in 2009, and has evolved into a phenomenal portfolio of wines, including Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon, Petaluma Gap Pinot Noir, and a Sonoma Coast Chardonnay.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRussell’s approach to winemaking was perhaps best summarized by the words of Robert Parker:  “In many respects, the impressively talented visionary Russell Bevan produces wines very much in his own bigger-than-life, boisterous image. With his serious insider knowledge, which gives him access to some great sources that other producers somehow have missed, he seems to magically transform his wines into personality-filled, savory, intensely flavored efforts.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e100% Pinot Noir\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePetaluma Gap, Sonoma County, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFull aromas of black cherry and vanilla billow out of the glass. The palate is full and lush echoing the dark cherry flavors vanilla with added notes of Asian 5 spice and orange that flows seamlessly to a powerful yet silky finish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"KJS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48340881932593,"sku":null,"price":72.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Addax_PinotNoir_SonomaCoast_California_2021.jpg?v=1708273043"},{"product_id":"paul-hobbs-pinot-noir-west-sonoma-coast-california-2022","title":"Paul Hobbs, Pinot Noir, West Sonoma Coast, California, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePioneering winemaker Paul Hobbs established his namesake winery in 1991 with the vision and dedication to sustainably craft wines with minimal intervention and meticulous care to capture the purist concept of place. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWidely recognized for forging new paths in pursuit of excellence, Paul Hobbs Winery is the pinnacle reflection of our desire to showcase the individuality of new and historical sites in Napa Valley and Sonoma County.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePaul Hobbs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e100% Pinot Noir\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSonoma Coast,\u003c\/span\u003e California\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLovely ruby red shades catch the eye, while exotic notes of tart Morello cherry and pungent pine forest swirl with fresh raspberry. Bright, pure fruit carries through on the palate, layered with earthy hints of damp loam and rocky salinity, all backed by the elegant, fine-grained tannins and stylish grip that cool West Sonoma Coast offers at its best.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFlowers, pure fruit, sandalwood, and perfume. Medium body, with such lively fruit character. So bright. Spice. Purity of fruit. So much going on here. All about the energy and liveliness here. Lovely length. Drink or hold.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2022 Pinot Noir West Sonoma Coast is bursting with pomegranate and briar fruit, and it has loads of fine accents including allspice, licorice, sagebrush, tea leaves and blood orange. The light-bodied palate features nuanced, layered fruit. It has gently chalky tannins, bright acidity and a long finish laced with spice. This boasts a lot of complexity for such a lifted, ethereal frame.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WINEBOW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49519076147505,"sku":null,"price":79.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/PaulHobbs_PinotNoir_WestSonomaCoast_California_2022_f1f9dae5-5cdd-4673-bab3-9373dbf2ce01.jpg?v=1773948468"},{"product_id":"singer-baker-lane-estate-viognier-sonoma-coast-california-2022","title":"Singer Baker Lane Estate, Viognier, Sonoma Coast, California, 2022","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLocated in the Sebastopol Hills of West Sonoma County, the Baker Lane Estate is a cool-weather, west facing site with undulating hillside terrain. The Baker Lane Estate vineyards are devoted exclusively to the northern Rhône Valley varieties of Syrah and Viognier. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn 2002 Sebastopol was already well into its transition from a region famous for apples to a vanguard perch in the quest for cooler grape-growing terroir. We loved the area for its beauty and slightly out of the way-ness, but could we grow Syrah of great distinction here? The truth is, I didn’t know. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhat I had come to understand, though, from years of visiting many of the world’s great wine regions, is that the world’s best wines were made from grapes that necessarily struggled to achieve maturity. I came to understand that the best grape choice (memorialized repeatedly by the emphatically chosen cultivars for all great viticultural zones) is the one that just barely gets ripe. In doing so, the grapes enjoy more time on the vine developing complexity, color, structure, balance and depth of flavor while avoiding over-ripeness and declining acidity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-bind=\"foreach: AttributeList \u0026amp;\u0026amp; AttributeList.split('\\n')\" class=\"vs2-productDetail-attributes\"\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eViognier\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSonoma, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOur 2022 Singer Viognier has a lush golden color that shows greenish hints at certain angles. In every respect it is a worthy successor to its widely admired 2021 predecessor, although if anything, it shows a touch more volume and texture on the palate. In achieving this, we can happily report that the former’s sense of a bright acid core and palate liveliness were not sacrificed in the least. The wine’s tropical floral and stone fruit inflected aromas clues into its precise varietal identity, but when it comes to California Viognier, we believe it stands alone for its ability to marry successfully with all kinds of dishes. Just about any lobster (or other shellfish) dish would shine alongside it and spicy vegetarian or chicken preparations would benefit easily as well.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Winewise","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50443484922161,"sku":null,"price":59.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/SingerBakerLaneEstate_Viognier_SonomaCoast_California_2022.jpg?v=1733956031"},{"product_id":"raen-lady-marjorie-chardonnay-sonoma-coast-california-2023","title":"RAEN, Lady Marjorie Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, California, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAs winemakers and farmers, Carlo and Dante attribute a great deal of what they have learned to their grandfather Robert and father Tim, both whom influenced them from a young age.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarlo and Dante’s father Tim was a pioneer for California Pinot Noir in the early 1970s and has always had a tremendous regard for the great wines of Burgundy. To this day his Pinot Noirs from the 1970s are showing incredibly well. Carlo and Dante credit their father’s passion for Pinot Noir as the early inspiration that got them excited at a young age.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDante studied abroad in Switzerland at the Webster University in Genève as well at UC Davis in California. Carlo studied in France at the University of Aix-en-Provence and in Italy at the University of Milan. After their formal studies were complete Carlo and Dante continued their educational work with the winemaking team lead by their father Tim Mondavi at Robert Mondavi Winery and Opus One.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen Robert Mondavi Winery was sold in 2004, the brothers joined their father Tim, Aunt-Marcia and grandfather Robert as they founded Continuum in 2005.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn 2013 Carlo and Dante founded RAEN winery with the goal to produce world class Pinot Noir on the western hills of the Sonoma Coast. RAEN currently focuses on making three Pinot Noirs, from three unique sites on the Sonoma Coast.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCarlo and Dante Mondavi\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChardonnay\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis bottling is dedicated to our grandmother Marjorie, who will always be a bright light of inspiration for us. An incredible woman, her hard work and steadfast determination led us to where we are today. Born from the remote, rugged landscape of the Sonoma Coast, our Lady Marjorie Chardonnay hails from the rocky soils of the true Sonoma Coast, resulting in a wine of incredible depth and vibrancy. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wine fills the bowl with floral notes of lemon zest, crushed gravel, white and yellow flowers, honeysuckle and just-ripe nectarine. On the palate, these aromas come together with notes of zesty lime blossom and stone fruits, all integrated seamlessly with a bright backbone of wet rock minerality, and subtle notes of salinity that all lead to an incredibly bright and persistent finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA light-bodied yet oh-so-full-flavored wine that opens with stony, floral aromas that lead to fresh and ripe fruit flavors backed by racy acidity. A great creamy texture but vivid in acid, minerals and chalk that lift the pear, citrus and white flower flavors. So elegant and lively, yet full of flavor and marked by a lingering finish. Drink or hold. Jan 2025\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grapevine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50680984830257,"sku":null,"price":79.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/RAEN_Lady_Marjorie_Chardonnay_Sonoma_Coast_California_2023_bd50ba09-d5ef-4c35-b90e-255f76f14c23_copy.jpg?v=1749077434"},{"product_id":"merry-edwards-russian-river-vineyard-sauvignon-blanc-california-2023","title":"Merry Edwards, Russian River Valley, Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County, California, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eMerry Edwards Winery was founded in 1997 and produces critically acclaimed terroir-driven Pinot Noirs and Sauvignon Blanc using site-specific viticulture in the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast appellations. Over two decades, Merry assembled a stellar collection of vineyards and with her meticulous attention to detail crafted Pinot Noirs of immense depth, elegant structure and exceptional longevity. Her Sauvignon Blanc is among the most sought after in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow a Certified California Sustainable Winery, the brand entered a new chapter after Merry’s retirement. Merry’s handpicked successor, Winemaker Heidi von der Mehden, and Winery President Nicole Carter have taken up exactly where Merry left off and will continue to make wines treasured by legions of Merry Edwards’ fans well into the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhether planted to Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc, all of Merry’s grape sources are characterized by enduring commitment, respect for the land, family ownership and site-specific viticulture. With exceptional Russian River Valley grapes, Merry Edwards is able to produce her highly acclaimed wines using gentle, traditional, labor-intensive winemaking practices.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe core of this wine is composed of grapes from Ted's oldest block of Pommard and Swan Pinot Noir planted in 1989. Rounding out the blend is some additional Pommard fruit from a section established several years later, along with a touch of 12-year-old Dijon 115 and 667. Lauren Klopp now assists her dad with caring for this precious vineyard. She has embraced farming seriously, losing sleep whenever growing conditions are not completely perfect! It's wonderful to witness the evolution of another dedicated generation\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eHeidi von der Mehden\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSauvignon Blanc\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRussian River Valley, Sonoma County, California\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWe began making our Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc in 2001, and we have lovingly reproduced this delicious wine each vintage since. Winemaker Heidi von der Mehden follows specific protocols, including fermentation in French oak barrels and twice-weekly lees stirring, to craft this aromatic, lush bottling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nose of the 2023 vintage features fragrant tropical aromas of white pineapple, passionfruit, mango and guava, with subtle hints of plumeria, lemon curd and lime zest. The palate is clean and bright, with accents of ruby red grapefruit, honeysuckle and ripe melon followed by a burst of crisp, refreshing acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Meridith May, Tasting Panel magazine, July 2025\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAromas of pineapple, guava, and gardenia. Lemon curd, pink grapefruit, and tangerine blossom form a delicate, creamy wave across the palate. Tropical flowers such as gardenia and plumeria play alongside honeyed pears, dotted with a salty, crisp seashell finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-tabula=\"\" id=\"mpx-detail-main\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-tabula-panels=\"\" id=\"panels\"\u003e\n\u003csection data-tab-label=\"Winemaker's comments\" id=\"tab-winemakers-notes\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e91 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2023 Sauvignon Blanc (Russian River Valley) is classy and polished to the core. Citrus peel, marzipan, white flowers, and light tropical inflections all grace this aromatic, beautifully perfumed Sauvignon Blanc from Merry Edwards. Drink it over the next year or two.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eProduct Size: 750ml\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wine Book","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51111732314417,"sku":null,"price":49.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Merry_Edwards_Russian_River_Valley_Sauvignon_Blanc_Sonoma_County_California_2023_1be313fb-ce70-426e-a587-1e3406a31e25.jpg?v=1744681927"},{"product_id":"maybach-family-vineyards-irmgard-chardonnay-sonoma-california-2021","title":"Maybach Family Vineyards, 'Irmgard' Chardonnay, Sonoma, California, 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout The Producer\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFrom humble beginnings as a trainee in a German orphanage, Wilhelm Maybach came to invent the high-speed internal ignition engine which led to his creation of the first motorcycle. In 1901, as chief engineer and business partner to Gottlieb Daimler, he designed and built the first Mercedes cars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1996 Wilhelm Maybach was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in Detroit.\u003cbr\u003eKarl Maybach developed the first high-speed diesel engine and constructed motors for the Zeppelin airships that circled the globe in the 1920’s and 30’s.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdvancing his father’s legacy, Karl founded the Maybach car company wherein he applied his own inventions and technological advancements. The result was a line of vehicles which earned worldwide praise and an unparalleled reputation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2002, Daimler AG revitalized the Maybach brand in recognition of the father and son who together played such a monumental role in defining German engineering. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChris Maybach founded the Maybach Family Vineyards in 2004 with Thomas Rivers Brown.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThomas Rivers Brown\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChardonnay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSonoma, California\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFrom a hillside vineyard a few miles from the Pacific Ocean, grafted with budwood from vines that produce our Eterium. Planted in 2008 the vineyard has never been treated with weed herbicide; the rows are always hoed by hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWarm days, brisk nights and deep loamy soil provide this coastal site with ideal conditions for growing cool climate varietals naturally high in acidity. The result is a wine of terrific structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"USA Wine West","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51475285836081,"sku":null,"price":89.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Maybach_Family_Vineyards_Irmgard_Chardonnay_Sonoma_California_2021.jpg?v=1752013633"},{"product_id":"once-future-franks-block-teldeschi-vineyard-zinfandel-dry-creek-sonoma-2022","title":"Once \u0026 Future, 'Frank's Block' Teldeschi Vineyard Zinfandel, Dry Creek, Sonoma, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFrom the Here and Now, the early 1980’s seem like a long time ago!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI was a long-haired bearded young man who found himself having an unexpected luncheon with Frank and Caterina Teldeschi and their sons Dan and John…. Welcoming hosts, they represented the most recent two generations of an Italian family that had been farming their part of Dry Creek Valley since the early 1900’s. The lunch included copious amounts of wine (some made by me, some by Frank) and extraordinarily delicious food cooked by Caterina. I can still remember the menu; stuffed zucchini, homemade pasta with meat sauce made from tomatoes that \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/learnaboutwine.com\/products\/learnaboutwine-presents-zinfandel-wednesday-june-14th-at-7pm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg height=\"183\" width=\"183\" style=\"margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 10px; float: right;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/FtinZinfandel.png?v=1686166208\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eCatarina grew in the back yard from seeds she brought with her from Italy as a young bride, roast chicken from her chicken yard, and a pork roast with potatoes from a wild pig Frank had caught rooting around the vineyard. To finish the meal, perfect biscotti and delicate rolled anise flavored cookies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI don’t know whether it was the food, the wine, the people or the amicable mix of all the ingredients that created the magic, but at the end of that lunch, Frank and I had a handshake deal for 4 tons of grapes and as it turns out, a 36 plus year friendship with the family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOver the years from that small beginning, the wine made from the Frank Teldeschi family grapes grew into one of Ravenswood’s most successful and most awarded single vineyard designated wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocated in the heart of Dry Creek Valley on the Eastside bench land, Teldeschi Vineyard is in the best location of a valley that might be one of the best spots for growing Zinfandel in the world. Of course, Frank Teldeschi had his favorite blocks of grapes on the ranch; one of them was a small somewhat mixed block planted in the cobbly Tuscan Red Hill Series soils that Frank claimed was the oldest block on the ranch - that would mean it was planted sometime around 1900. “Frank’s Block” is low production – around a ton and a half per acre – and includes Carignane and Alicante Bouchet in the mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e83% Zinfandel, 9% Carignane \u0026amp; 8% Alicante Bouschet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eDry Creek Valley, California\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyard is traditionally farmed—head-pruned, deep-plowed, cross-cultivated, and dry-farmed. The wine that I make from this vineyard is a co- fermented mix of 75% Zinfandel and equal parts of Carignane and Alicante Bouschet. This blend provides ripe fruit flavors from the Zinfandel, acidity and depth from the Carignane, and dark tones and color from the Alicante Bouschet. The wines can be dramatic and intense. The 2019 Teldeschi Zinfandel has a lovely deep color. The nose is a perfumed mix of black cherries, citrus zest, vanilla, and exotic spice. The mouth feel is round and silky smooth. The finish is fresh, bright, fruitful, balanced, and persistent. Delicious now, this wine will provide drinking pleasure for many more years. 115-year-old vines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2022 Zinfandel Teldeschi Vineyard Frank's Block is a complex, dynamic wine. In this tasting, the Teldeschi impresses with its striking energy - a feeling that builds with time in the glass. Dark toned fruit, leather, game, spice, tobacco and menthol are all dialed up. This is fabulous. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Monterey Bay","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51573496512817,"sku":null,"price":58.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Once_Future_Franks_Block_Teldeschi_Vineyard_Zinfandel_Dry_Creek_Sonoma_2022.jpg?v=1755438636"},{"product_id":"silver-oak-cabernet-sauvignon-alexander-valley-california-2021","title":"Silver Oak, Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, California, 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSilver Oak Cellars was started in 1972 with a simple driving philosophy - to focus production on only one varietal, Cabernet Sauvignon. What's more, they resolved to create a wine with a style all its own: not another hard, tannic red wine requiring years of aging to enjoy, but a wine of fully developed flavors and a velvety soft texture on the day it is released for sale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSilver Oak Cellars produces Cabernet Sauvignon from two appellations. Their Napa Valley derives its fruit from both owned and contracted vineyards, and is produced entirely at their Oakville winery. Beginning in 1994, small amounts of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot have been included in their Napa blend to add complexity and softness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSilver Oak also produces stellar Cabernet from their Alexander Valley vineyards. A critical reason for the success of this wine, and every wine they make, has always been that they create the final blend before aging it in American oak barrels and then bottles. Over the course of four-and-a-half years, the wine’s flavors, aromas, and textures have an opportunity to meld with one another and the wood’s delicate qualities to create the kind of graceful cohesion found only in the world's most elegant wines.\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganic and Sustainable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid grid--space-between\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"jss565\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDan Kemp\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlexander Valley, Sonoma, California\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2021 harvest brought balance and clarity. A dry winter, cool spring, and gentle summer let the vines thrive naturally, producing fruit with depth, vibrancy, and the hallmark character of Alexander Valley. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eAfter blending in early 2022, our 2021 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon was transferred to American oak barrels from our cooperage, The Oak, where it aged for 24 months. Blending before barrel aging—a signature of our winemaking style—allows blends to be based on the inherent qualities of their vineyard components before oak influence. Vintage to vintage, the resulting Cabernets emerge integrated and ready to drink upon release.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eSo full-bodied, ripe and robust, offering spicy, iron-like, black fruit aromas, with generous dark cherries on a firmly tannic palate. Concentrated black plum, graphite, black pepper, coffee bean, pine resin and oak toast flavors on a full body. The tannins are powerful and fine-grained, shaping the texture significantly at this stage. Drinkable now, but best from 2030.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tony K","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52462700527921,"sku":null,"price":79.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/SilverOak_CabernetSauvignon_AlexanderValley_California_2021.jpg?v=1770149623"}],"url":"https:\/\/merchantofwine.com\/collections\/2-26-sonoma-the-experience.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}