The Santa Cruz Mountains (SCM) appellation is known mainly for Pinot noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.† But wine makers around here actually do grow an assortment of other grapes including Syrah, Merlot, Zinfandel, and plenty of others in experimental quantities. Aside from that, many of them buy grapes from other regions and in general, make … Continue reading “Cal-Ital” wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains
Tag: Cal-Ital
A little California Nebbiolo revelation
I tried a new California Nebbiolo last week and I was totally ready get on here and start dogging it but ... well I had a revelation. And so did the wine. So a couple weeks ago Jeff invited me to his annual company party, telling me that this year it was going to be … Continue reading A little California Nebbiolo revelation
California Nebbiolo
“It grows like a weed,” Randall Grahm said to me first when I asked him to describe his experience with Nebbiolo in California. This is ironic because Nebbiolo is supposed to be one of the most difficult varieties to grow in the world. The point is that the vine does grow like a weed. But … Continue reading California Nebbiolo
Benessere Vineyards Sorridente 2005
I expect it will come as no surprise that one of my favorite Napa Valley wineries is a producer of Italian varietal wines and blends: Benessere Vineyards. It is located just outside of St. Helena in the northern part of Napa Valley. Benessere means “well-being” in Italian. As it applies to the family who owns … Continue reading Benessere Vineyards Sorridente 2005
Ai suma
Part I. One of my favorite things to do is cook for my friends. My friends are troopers; they allow me to be this way. My husband also puts up with it. So about once a year, I go crazy and make a multi-course meal with wine pairings and all the accoutrements. The theme these … Continue reading Ai suma
Cal-Ital Wine Reviews (marzo – maggio)
Barrel Tasting Weekend Every March I attend the Russian River/ Dry Creek/ Alexander Valleys Barrel Tasting weekend(s). These appellations are connected and make up the northern part of Sonoma County. Together they create one of the very best wine producing regions in California – in my bold opinion. My wine buddies and I, quite a … Continue reading Cal-Ital Wine Reviews (marzo – maggio)
enotecaMarcella 