The Solvang area is warmish but with chilly nights. This beautiful Cab Franc shows why this variety may be Santa Ynez’s best red Bordeaux grape. Aromas of blackberry and cherry lead to sweet berry-cherry flavors that flood the palate and end with a flourish of ripe tannins. Its feminine charm is irresistable.
— S.H.
(10/1/2003)
Believe it or not, a wine made only from the south-facing side of the vines, which is the warmer side. Smells dramatically ripe and oaky, with a waft of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, caramel, olive, herbs and a hint of leather. Feels rich and intense in the mouth, long on blackberry and cherry flavor wrapped in a mellow, soft texture.
— S.H.
(11/15/2003)
A rough wine, despite the ripe tropical fruit flavors and overlay of oak. There’s an earthy, mushroomy undertow that feels heavy and clammy on the palate.
— S.H.
(12/31/2003)
There’s lots going on in this Pinot, which comes from the Santa Maria Valley. It shows cool-climate acidity and tiered flavors of red stone fruits, tea, cola and dried spices. And all of that is packaged into a silky, elegant, refined body.
— S.H.
(12/1/2006)
Rich in peach, pear and tropical fruit, with an exotic toasted coconut cream pie taste that’s simply delicious. Waves of rich, ripe, flamboyant flavor are what this Chard is all about.
— S.H.
(12/1/2006)
From the Los Alamos area, a nice lighter-style Merlot, with red and black cherry, smoke, and minty aromas and flavors, finished with an oaky veneer of vanilla and cream. The easy tannins lead to a finish that’s long on the taste of cherries.
— S.H.
(3/1/2004)
Drinks rich and juicy, with ripe berry, cherry and herb flavors and a round, smooth, supple mouthfeel. The finish is long and sweet with ripe berries.
— S.H.
(11/15/2003)
A 100% Pinot Noir from the Santa Maria Valley with ripe flavors of strawberry, rose hip tea, peach and smoke. Feels dry and fancy in the mouth, with an enjoyable depth and complexity. Finishes with smoke and honey. VALUE.
— S.H.
(10/1/2003)