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Authors: Giancarlo Gariglio, Editor-in-chief
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emiliano, di approfondire le varie tematiche lì enunciate.
PER IL VINO BUONO PULITO E
SLOW WINE COALITION PER IL VINO BUONO PULITO E
SLOW WINE COALITION
SLOW WINE COALITION
vino buono, pulito e giusto nasce dall’esperienza maturata da Slow storia, in cui il vino ha avuto un ruolo centrale e importantissimo, esperti, vignaioli e tecnici. Attraverso la produzione e il consumo seguendo il Manifesto ci poniamo l’obiettivo di incidere sul futuro troppo legata all’uso della chimica e ha stravolto la biodiversità successo imponendo la monocultura. Da qualche anno le avanguardie hanno capito che si deve cambiare rotta. Il Manifesto punta alla del vino un potente strumento di riscatto culturale delle campagne. Manifesto sono sia custodi del territorio, sia promotori di un sistema biodiversità e giustizia sociale. Solo così il patto comunitario soggetti legati alla iliera enologica avrà un ruolo di crescita sociale e culturale.
PER IL VINO BUONO PULITO E
vino buono, pulito e giusto nasce dall’esperienza maturata da Slow storia, in cui il vino ha avuto un ruolo centrale e importantissimo, esperti, vignaioli e tecnici. Attraverso la produzione e il consumo seguendo il Manifesto ci poniamo l’obiettivo di incidere sul futuro troppo legata all’uso della chimica e ha stravolto la biodiversità successo imponendo la monocultura. Da qualche anno le avanguardie hanno capito che si deve cambiare rotta. Il Manifesto punta alla del vino un potente strumento di riscatto culturale delle campagne. Manifesto sono sia custodi del territorio, sia promotori di un sistema biodiversità e giustizia sociale. Solo così il patto comunitario soggetti legati alla iliera enologica avrà un ruolo di crescita sociale e culturale.
vino buono, pulito e giusto nasce dall’esperienza maturata da Slow storia, in cui il vino ha avuto un ruolo centrale e importantissimo, esperti, vignaioli e tecnici. Attraverso la produzione e il consumo seguendo il Manifesto ci poniamo l’obiettivo di incidere sul futuro troppo legata all’uso della chimica e ha stravolto la biodiversità successo imponendo la monocultura. Da qualche anno le avanguardie hanno capito che si deve cambiare rotta. Il Manifesto punta alla del vino un potente strumento di riscatto culturale delle campagne. Manifesto sono sia custodi del territorio, sia promotori di un sistema biodiversità e giustizia sociale. Solo così il patto comunitario soggetti legati alla iliera enologica avrà un ruolo di crescita sociale e culturale.
S L O W W I N E C O A L I T I O N
PER IL VINO BUONO PULITO E
vino buono, pulito e giusto nasce dall’esperienza maturata da Slow storia, in cui il vino ha avuto un ruolo centrale e importantissimo, esperti, vignaioli e tecnici. Attraverso la produzione e il consumo seguendo il Manifesto ci poniamo l’obiettivo di incidere sul futuro troppo legata all’uso della chimica e ha stravolto la biodiversità successo imponendo la monocultura. Da qualche anno le avanguardie hanno capito che si deve cambiare rotta. Il Manifesto punta alla del vino un potente strumento di riscatto culturale delle campagne. Manifesto sono sia custodi del territorio, sia promotori di un sistema biodiversità e giustizia sociale. Solo così il patto comunitario soggetti legati alla iliera enologica avrà un ruolo di crescita sociale e culturale.
vino buono, pulito e giusto nasce dall’esperienza maturata da Slow storia, in cui il vino ha avuto un ruolo centrale e importantissimo, esperti, vignaioli e tecnici. Attraverso la produzione e il consumo seguendo il Manifesto ci poniamo l’obiettivo di incidere sul futuro troppo legata all’uso della chimica e ha stravolto la biodiversità successo imponendo la monocultura. Da qualche anno le avanguardie hanno capito che si deve cambiare rotta. Il Manifesto punta alla del vino un potente strumento di riscatto culturale delle campagne. Manifesto sono sia custodi del territorio, sia promotori di un sistema biodiversità e giustizia sociale. Solo così il patto comunitario soggetti legati alla iliera enologica avrà un ruolo di crescita sociale e culturale.
del Manifesto: trattare il vino come qualcosa che vada oltre al importanza strategica per il futuro di noi tutti. Slow Food si è posta energia la propria voce rispetto a questi argomenti, e riunire attorno crescere una comunità attiva e desiderosa di operare forti cantine presenti sulle pagine di Slow Wine, in questo momento, assonanza con quanto dichiarato nel Manifesto, che ha una storia l’obiettivo sarà quello di unire sempre di più le strade, e far aziende recensite sia in linea con il decalogo che trovate qui a ianco.
del Manifesto: trattare il vino come qualcosa che vada oltre al importanza strategica per il futuro di noi tutti. Slow Food si è posta energia la propria voce rispetto a questi argomenti, e riunire attorno crescere una comunità attiva e desiderosa di operare forti cantine presenti sulle pagine di Slow Wine, in questo momento, assonanza con quanto dichiarato nel Manifesto, che ha una storia l’obiettivo sarà quello di unire sempre di più le strade, e far aziende recensite sia in linea con il decalogo che trovate qui a ianco.
A COLLABORATIVE WINE NETWORK S L O W W I N E C O A L I T I O N A COLLABORATIVE WINE NETWORK S L O W W I N E C O A L I T I O N
vino buono, pulito e giusto nasce dall’esperienza maturata da Slow storia, in cui il vino ha avuto un ruolo centrale e importantissimo, esperti, vignaioli e tecnici. Attraverso la produzione e il consumo seguendo il Manifesto ci poniamo l’obiettivo di incidere sul futuro troppo legata all’uso della chimica e ha stravolto la biodiversità successo imponendo la monocultura. Da qualche anno le avanguardie hanno capito che si deve cambiare rotta. Il Manifesto punta alla del vino un potente strumento di riscatto culturale delle campagne. Manifesto sono sia custodi del territorio, sia promotori di un sistema biodiversità e giustizia sociale. Solo così il patto comunitario soggetti legati alla iliera enologica avrà un ruolo di crescita sociale e culturale.
A COLLABORATIVE WINE NETWORK
del Manifesto: trattare il vino come qualcosa che vada oltre al importanza strategica per il futuro di noi tutti. Slow Food si è posta energia la propria voce rispetto a questi argomenti, e riunire attorno crescere una comunità attiva e desiderosa di operare forti cantine presenti sulle pagine di Slow Wine, in questo momento, assonanza con quanto dichiarato nel Manifesto, che ha una storia l’obiettivo sarà quello di unire sempre di più le strade, e far aziende recensite sia in linea con il decalogo che trovate qui a ianco.
del Manifesto: trattare il vino come qualcosa che vada oltre al importanza strategica per il futuro di noi tutti. Slow Food si è posta energia la propria voce rispetto a questi argomenti, e riunire attorno crescere una comunità attiva e desiderosa di operare forti cantine presenti sulle pagine di Slow Wine, in questo momento, assonanza con quanto dichiarato nel Manifesto, che ha una storia l’obiettivo sarà quello di unire sempre di più le strade, e far aziende recensite sia in linea con il decalogo che trovate qui a ianco.
del Manifesto: trattare il vino come qualcosa che vada oltre al importanza strategica per il futuro di noi tutti. Slow Food si è posta energia la propria voce rispetto a questi argomenti, e riunire attorno crescere una comunità attiva e desiderosa di operare forti cantine presenti sulle pagine di Slow Wine, in questo momento, assonanza con quanto dichiarato nel Manifesto, che ha una storia l’obiettivo sarà quello di unire sempre di più le strade, e far aziende recensite sia in linea con il decalogo che trovate qui a ianco.
non è esaustiva, ma costituisce un punto di partenza su cui incontrarsi dal 26 febbraio 2022 a Bologna organizzeremo la Slow Wine Fair, che accoglierà vignaioli e vignaiole, professionisti e professioniste appassionate che si riconoscono nel Manifesto e che avranno emiliano, di approfondire le varie tematiche lì enunciate.
non è esaustiva, ma costituisce un punto di partenza su cui incontrarsi dal 26 febbraio 2022 a Bologna organizzeremo la Slow Wine Fair, che accoglierà vignaioli e vignaiole, professionisti e professioniste appassionate che si riconoscono nel Manifesto e che avranno emiliano, di approfondire le varie tematiche lì enunciate.
del Manifesto: trattare il vino come qualcosa che vada oltre al importanza strategica per il futuro di noi tutti. Slow Food si è posta energia la propria voce rispetto a questi argomenti, e riunire attorno crescere una comunità attiva e desiderosa di operare forti cantine presenti sulle pagine di Slow Wine, in questo momento, assonanza con quanto dichiarato nel Manifesto, che ha una storia l’obiettivo sarà quello di unire sempre di più le strade, e far aziende recensite sia in linea con il decalogo che trovate qui a ianco.
non è esaustiva, ma costituisce un punto di partenza su cui incontrarsi dal 26 febbraio 2022 a Bologna organizzeremo la Slow Wine Fair, che accoglierà vignaioli e vignaiole, professionisti e professioniste appassionate che si riconoscono nel Manifesto e che avranno emiliano, di approfondire le varie tematiche lì enunciate.
non è esaustiva, ma costituisce un punto di partenza su cui incontrarsi dal 26 febbraio 2022 a Bologna organizzeremo la Slow Wine Fair, che accoglierà vignaioli e vignaiole, professionisti e professioniste appassionate che si riconoscono nel Manifesto e che avranno emiliano, di approfondire le varie tematiche lì enunciate.
non è esaustiva, ma costituisce un punto di partenza su cui incontrarsi dal 26 febbraio 2022 a Bologna organizzeremo la Slow Wine Fair, che accoglierà vignaioli e vignaiole, professionisti e professioniste appassionate che si riconoscono nel Manifesto e che avranno emiliano, di approfondire le varie tematiche lì enunciate. W W I N E
O W W I N E C O A L I T I
W I N E C O A L I
N E C O
C O A L I T
non è esaustiva, ma costituisce un punto di partenza su cui incontrarsi motivo dal 26 febbraio 2022 a Bologna organizzeremo la Slow Wine Fair, che accoglierà vignaioli e vignaiole, professionisti e professioniste appassionate che si riconoscono nel Manifesto e che avranno emiliano, di approfondire le varie tematiche lì enunciate.
the Slow Food Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
the Slow Food Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
the Slow Food Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
Slow Food Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
eseriWin stmu
eseriWin stmu
the Slow Food Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
Slow Food Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
lvessethem grow a uminimm 70% of the grapes used in the production of their wine. Exceptions are given for regions in which widespread sourcing is common: i.e. Madeira, Napa Valley, the south of Spain, etc.
lvessethem grow a uminimm 70% of the grapes used in the production of their wine. Exceptions are given for regions in which widespread sourcing is common: i.e. Madeira, Napa Valley, the south of Spain, etc.
eseriWin stmu
the Slow Food Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
lvessethem grow a uminimm 70% of the grapes used in the production of their wine. Exceptions are given for regions in which widespread sourcing is common: i.e. Madeira, Napa Valley, the south of Spain, etc.
lvessethem grow a uminimm 70% of the grapes used in the production of their wine. Exceptions are given for regions in which widespread sourcing is common: i.e. Madeira, Napa Valley, the south of Spain, etc.
Wineries may not use chemically synthesized fertilizers, herbicides, or anti-botrytis fungicides.
The Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine is born from Slow Food’s experience over the years, a long-standing relationship in which wine has played a crucial role, thanks to the passionate involvement of wine experts, winemakers and technicians.
eseriWin stmu
Wineries may not use chemically synthesized fertilizers, herbicides, or anti-botrytis fungicides. A conscious and sustainable approach to the use of environmental resources winemaking must be applied. Dependence on irrigation systems must be limited
Wineries may not use chemically synthesized fertilizers, herbicides, or anti-botrytis fungicides.
A conscious and sustainable approach to the use of environmental resources winemaking must be applied. Dependence on irrigation systems must be limited
Wineries may not use chemically synthesized fertilizers, herbicides, or anti-botrytis fungicides.
A conscious and sustainable approach to the use of environmental resources winemaking must be applied. Dependence on irrigation systems must be limited
Winery buildings, uldhos they deen to be cted,ruconst stmu respect their onmentalirenv surroundings. ,ntManageme upkeep and eventual restauration extant buildings should take sustainability into ount.cca
Winery buildings, uldhos they deen to be cted,ruconst stmu respect their onmentalirenv surroundings. ,ntManageme upkeep and eventual restauration extant buildings should take sustainability into ount.cca
A conscious and sustainable approach to the use of environmental resources winemaking must be applied. Dependence on irrigation systems must be limited
1 Wineries must themselves grow a minimum 70% of the grapes used in the production of their wine. Exceptions are given for regions in which widespread sourcing is common: i.e. Madeira, Napa Valley, the south of Spain, etc.
1 Wineries must themselves grow a minimum 70% of the grapes used in the production of their wine. Exceptions are given for regions in which widespread sourcing is common: i.e. Madeira, Napa Valley, the south of Spain, etc.
eseriWin uldhos not eizutil iqueshntec like reverse ssimoos or other physical
Winery buildings, uldhos they deen to be cted,ruconst stmu respect their onmentalirenv surroundings. ,ntManageme upkeep and eventual restauration extant buildings should take sustainability into ount.cca eseriWin uldhos not eizutil iqueshntec like reverse ssimoos or other physical
1 Wineries must themselves grow a minimum 70% of the grapes used in the production of their wine. Exceptions are given for regions in which widespread sourcing is common: i.e. Madeira, Napa Valley, the south of Spain, etc.
Through the production and consumption of wine made according to the Manifesto, we aim to positively influence the future of viticulture, by breaking the ties from the use of chemicals and monocultures, and re-establishing our connection to biodiversity across terroirs and regions.
Winery buildings, uldhos they deen to be cted,ruconst stmu respect their onmentalirenv surroundings. ,ntManageme upkeep and eventual restauration extant buildings should take sustainability into ount.cca
eseriWin uldhos not eizutil iqueshntec like reverse ssimoos or other physical
tedraconcent grape must) or sugar (according ot the ountryc of production) is not permitted, with the exception of sparkling wines or wines where these practices fall under traditional techniques. Oak chips to aromatize wines are also prohibited from use.
tedraconcent grape must) or sugar (according ot the ountryc of production) is not permitted, with the exception of sparkling wines or wines where these practices fall under traditional techniques. Oak chips to aromatize wines are also prohibited from use.
2 Wineries may not use chemically synthesized fertilizers, herbicides, or anti-botrytis fungicides.
1 Wineries must themselves grow a minimum 70% of the grapes used in the production of their wine. Exceptions are given for regions in which widespread sourcing is common: i.e. Madeira, Napa Valley, the south of Spain, etc.
2 Wineries may not use chemically synthesized fertilizers, herbicides, or anti-botrytis fungicides.
eseriWin uldhos not eizutil iqueshntec like reverse ssimoos or other physical
tedraconcent grape must) or sugar (according ot the ountryc of production) is not permitted, with the exception of sparkling wines or wines where these practices fall under traditional techniques. Oak chips to aromatize wines are also prohibited from use.
2 Wineries may not use chemically synthesized fertilizers, herbicides, or anti-botrytis fungicides.
Slow Food durante importantissimo, ed è stato consumo di bottiglie futuro della viticoltura, biodiversità dei terroir di avanguardie più illuminate costruzione di un campagne. I vignaioli sistema che unisce tra appassionati, culturale.
2 Wineries may not use chemically synthesized fertilizers, herbicides, or anti-botrytis fungicides.
Union’s regulations for organic wine.
tedraconcent grape must) or sugar (according ot the ountryc of production) is not permitted, with the exception of sparkling wines or wines where these practices fall under traditional techniques. Oak chips to aromatize wines are also prohibited from use.
3 A conscious and sustainable approach to the use of environmental resources in winemaking must be applied. Dependence on irrigation systems must be limited and should only been finalized to avoid critical water-stress conditions.
Union’s regulations for organic wine.
3 A conscious and sustainable approach to the use of environmental resources in winemaking must be applied. Dependence on irrigation systems must be limited and should only been finalized to avoid critical water-stress conditions.
Union’s regulations for organic wine.
isolating native yeasts that can be replicated and then used by the winery or various winemakers of the same area and geographical denomination.
3 A conscious and sustainable approach to the use of environmental resources in winemaking must be applied. Dependence on irrigation systems must be limited and should only been finalized to avoid critical water-stress conditions.
Union’s regulations for organic wine.
isolating native yeasts that can be replicated and then used by the winery or various winemakers of the same area and geographical denomination.
The wines stmu be free of any winemaking defects, as they tend to izogenomh the wines and stamp out any regional identity.
The wines stmu be free of any winemaking defects, as they tend to izogenomh the wines and stamp out any regional identity.
Winery buildings, should they need to be constructed, must respect their environmental surroundings. Management, upkeep and eventual restauration of extant buildings should take sustainability into account.
4
3 A conscious and sustainable approach to the use of environmental resources in winemaking must be applied. Dependence on irrigation systems must be limited and should only been finalized to avoid critical water-stress conditions.
For some years now, vanguard vignerons from across the globe have understood and communicated that we must change course. This change, however, cannot happen by acting alone. For this reason, we are calling on wine lovers and professionals alike to come together and play a fundamental role in the promotion and consumption of wines with strong environmental, ethical and social values. This is important now, more than ever, as we navigate a period of economic and ecological reconstruction.
isolating native yeasts that can be replicated and then used by the winery or various winemakers of the same area and geographical denomination.
isolating native yeasts that can be replicated and then used by the winery or various winemakers of the same area and geographical denomination. The wines stmu be free of any winemaking defects, as they tend to izogenomh the wines and stamp out any regional identity.
The winery uldhos actively gageen and ateorblacol with the eirent surrounding farming community in order to gthenentrs and enhance the turalulagric system of the area. In this vein, the winery stmu naintaim a principled pshirelation with associates, as well as sit employees, ingerfost nalsoper and professional growth. is reovermo important that the winery cooperates and reshas edgewlkno with the other producers, ngdiavoi raifun competition.
The winery uldhos actively gageen and ateorblacol with the eirent surrounding farming community in order to gthenentrs and enhance the turalulagric system of the area. In this vein, the winery stmu naintaim a principled pshirelation with associates, as well as sit employees, ingerfost nalsoper and professional growth. is reovermo important that the winery cooperates and reshas edgewlkno with the other producers, ngdiavoi raifun competition.
The wines stmu be free of any winemaking defects, as they tend to izogenomh the wines and stamp out any regional identity.
Winery buildings, should they need to be constructed, must respect their environmental surroundings. Management, upkeep and eventual restauration of extant buildings should take sustainability into account.
al bicchiere, e che posta l’obiettivo di attorno a sé le forze forti cambiamenti. momento, sono in molto recente. A far sì che quanto ianco.
4
4 Winery buildings, should they need to be constructed, must respect their environmental surroundings. Management, upkeep and eventual restauration of extant buildings should take sustainability into account.
The winery uldhos actively gageen and ateorblacol with the eirent surrounding farming community in order to gthenentrs and enhance the turalulagric system of the area. In this vein, the winery stmu naintaim a principled pshirelation with associates, as well as sit employees, ingerfost nalsoper and professional growth. is reovermo important that the winery cooperates and reshas edgewlkno with the other producers, ngdiavoi raifun competition.
4 Winery buildings, should they need to be constructed, must respect their environmental surroundings. Management, upkeep and eventual restauration of extant buildings should take sustainability into account.
The winery uldhos actively gageen and ateorblacol with the eirent surrounding farming community in order to gthenentrs and enhance the turalulagric system of the area. In this vein, the winery stmu naintaim a principled pshirelation with associates, as well as sit employees, ingerfost nalsoper and professional growth. is reovermo important that the winery cooperates and reshas edgewlkno with the other producers, ngdiavoi raifun competition.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 the Slow Food Manifesto for good, clean and fair wine
incontrarsi e discutere. Fair, la prima Terra professioniste del settore, la possibilità, nel
heT blenataiuss rkeainemw gesencoura ityrsdivebio ghouthr practices such ngalternati the neyardvi thwi geshed and dedoow s;area a lois mentnagema that desluinc ssagr nda eengr ureanm and s,decluex in any case, reba l,ois with altueven het oneptiexc for rthos lnasoeas ds;riope het iontprotec of ingatinllpo ctsinse an ulsefu naauf by ngsiu preferably cidestisecin allowed in icngaor ingfarm enwh suc of the nevi and ertho soucebarhe iescpes present in the neyard;vi het dingeebr alsnima in ctperes of rthei welfare dan the nioproduct of renuma on het m;far the mfar uctionodrp of ompostc romf ngnirup residues and other organic materials.
5 Wineries should not utilize techniques like reverse osmosis or other physical methods of must concentration. Furthermore, the addition of RCGM (rectified concentrated grape must) or sugar (according to the country of production) is not permitted, with the exception of sparkling wines or wines where these practices fall under traditional techniques. Oak chips to aromatize wines are also prohibited from use.
Through this interaction with other actors in the network, winemakers themselves will have the opportunity to be exposed to other fundamental subjects such as education to conscious consumption, the centrality of a narration focused on what is really important to tell (and to know) about each wine and the territory from which it comes from, as well as recognizing the right value of one’s product.
heT blenataiuss rkeainemw gesencoura ityrsdivebio ghouthr practices such ngalternati the neyardvi thwi geshed and dedoow s;area a lois mentnagema that desluinc ssagr nda eengr ureanm and s,decluex in any case, reba l,ois with altueven het oneptiexc for rthos lnasoeas ds;riope het iontprotec of ingatinllpo ctsinse an ulsefu naauf by ngsiu preferably cidestisecin allowed in icngaor ingfarm enwh suc of the nevi and ertho soucebarhe iescpes present in the neyard;vi het dingeebr alsnima in ctperes of rthei welfare dan the nioproduct of renuma on het m;far the mfar uctionodrp of ompostc romf ngnirup residues and other organic materials.
5 Wineries should not utilize techniques like reverse osmosis or other physical methods of must concentration. Furthermore, the addition of RCGM (rectified concentrated grape must) or sugar (according to the country of production) is not permitted, with the exception of sparkling wines or wines where these practices fall under traditional techniques. Oak chips to aromatize wines are also prohibited from use.
heT blenataiuss rkeainemw gesencoura ityrsdivebio ghouthr practices such ngalternati the neyardvi thwi geshed and dedoow s;area a lois mentnagema that desluinc ssagr nda eengr ureanm and s,decluex in any case, reba l,ois with altueven het oneptiexc for rthos lnasoeas ds;riope het iontprotec of ingatinllpo ctsinse an ulsefu naauf by ngsiu preferably cidestisecin allowed in icngaor ingfarm enwh suc of the nevi and ertho soucebarhe iescpes present in the neyard;vi het dingeebr alsnima in ctperes of rthei welfare dan the nioproduct of renuma on het m;far the mfar uctionodrp of ompostc romf ngnirup residues and other organic materials.
Wineries should not utilize techniques like reverse osmosis or other physical methods of must concentration. Furthermore, the addition of RCGM (rectified concentrated grape must) or sugar (according to the country of production) is not permitted, with the exception of sparkling wines or wines where these practices fall under traditional techniques. Oak chips to aromatize wines are also prohibited from use.
5
heT blenataiuss rkeainemw gesencoura ityrsdivebio ghouthr practices such ngalternati the neyardvi thwi geshed and dedoow s;area a lois mentnagema that desluinc ssagr nda eengr ureanm and s,decluex in any case, reba l,ois with altueven het oneptiexc for rthos lnasoeas ds;riope het iontprotec of ingatinllpo ctsinse an ulsefu naauf by ngsiu preferably cidestisecin allowed in icngaor ingfarm enwh suc of the nevi and ertho soucebarhe iescpes present in the neyard;vi het
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 the
5 Wineries should not utilize techniques like reverse osmosis or other physical methods of must concentration. Furthermore, the addition of RCGM (rectified concentrated grape must) or sugar (according to the country of production) is not permitted, with the exception of sparkling wines or wines where these practices fall under traditional techniques. Oak chips to aromatize wines are also prohibited from use.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 the
dingeebr alsnima in ctperes of rthei welfare dan the nioproduct of renuma on het m;far the mfar uctionodrp of ompostc romf ngnirup residues and other organic materials.
t.iowine.slwww 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 the Slow Food
Goff Books
54 Coombsville Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 2
Favia
94 Dry Creek Valley Anderson Ranch
Zinfandel 2017 2
Quivira Vineyards
92 Dry Creek Valley Carignane 2018 2
Preston Farm & Winery
47 Dry Creek Valley Estate
Sagrantino Riserva 2013 2
DaVero Farms & Winery
94 Dry Creek Valley Fig Tree Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2019 1
Quivira Vineyards
78 Dry Creek Valley Kierkegaard Vineyard Chenin Blanc 2018 1
Mâitre de Chai
112 Edna Valley Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard Albariño 2019 1
WINE
26 Lodi Grenache Blanc 2020 1 EVERYDAY WINE Acquiesce Winery
36 Lodi Terra Alta Vineyard Albariño 2019 1 EVERYDAY WINE Bokisch Vineyards
26 Lodi Viognier 2020 1 Acquiesce Winery
69 Los Alamos Clairette Blanche 2020 1 Jolie-Laide Wines
66 Petaluma Gap Saltonstall Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017 2 House Family Vineyards
63 Red Hills Lake County Petite Sirah 2017 2
WINE Hawk and Horse Vineyards
32 Redwood Valley Girasole Vineyards Pinot Blanc 2020 1
WINE BARRA of Mendocino
65 Redwood Valley Lolonis Family Vineyard Folk Machine Film & Camera Valdiguié 2019 2
WINE Hobo Wine Company
111 Redwood Valley Lolonis Vineyard Sémillon 2020 1 Trinafour
81 Redwood Valley Petite Sirah 2016 2
WINE Mia Bea Wines
68 Russian River Valley Endless Crush Rosé of Pinot Noir 2020 3 Inman Family Wines
90 Russian River Valley George’s Hill Vineyard Old Vine Chardonnay 2018 1
WINE Porter Creek Vineyards
57 Russian River Valley Grenache Blanc 2019 1
WINE Front Porch Farm
Goff Books
68 Russian River Valley Inman Family OGV Estate Pinot Noir 2018 2
WINE Inman Family Wines
WATSONVILLE SONOMA
ALFARO FAMILY VINEYARD & WINERY
420 Hames Road – tel. (831) 728-5172
www.alfarowine.com – mail@alfarowine.com
PEOPLE - Alfaro is very familiar to most long-time Santa Cruz residents as a pioneering local bread business. But in 1997, Mary Kay and Richard Alfaro transitioned to the wine industry when they bought a 75 acre property in Corralitos and have since grown an equally recognizable wine label, primarily showcasing distinct Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. In 2019, their son Ryan Alfaro took over the winemaking role, while Richard continues to oversee the farming.
VINEYARDS - The winery has six different vineyards, all dry farmed and planted to Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Merlot. Alfaro also planted two acres of Gruner Veltliner, an Austrian variety. The family recently bought the historic 42 year old, dry farmed Trout Gulch Vineyard in Aptos, which Richard had been farming for 10 years, and plan to continue to dry farm it as well as put in some new rootstock and graft some vines.
WINES - Though it started making wine during the days of Robert Parker, with full bodied wines, the house style has now lightened up to please consumer’s desires for lighter bodied wines.
T Santa Cruz Mountains Alfaro Family Vineyard
Estate Pinot Noir 2019 2 425 cs; $ 45 - c - One of the more robust of the Alfaro estate Pinots, retaining a savory component with a full, velvety mouthfeel. It is compelling, with earthy, almost minty aromatics and tons of acid.
Santa Cruz Mountains Trout Gulch Chardonnay 2019 1 250 cs; $ 30 - a - From Ryan’s favorite vineyard, four miles from the ocean, produces wines with ripping acidity. Crisp and citrusy it’s made in stainless tanks. Santa Cruz Mountains Trout Gulch Pinot Noir 2018 2 225 cs; $ 45 - c - Blended from two clones, fermented separately. There’s a bit of stem influence from the whole cluster is along with a super bright, dark berry flavor profile with excellent tannin balance.
PEOPLE - Arrowwood’s history is the stuff of legend, showing wine critics—back in the 1980’s— that Sonoma Cabs were on equal footing with those from Napa. He teamed up with Sonoma’s leading organic vineyardist Phil Coturri, a left leaning hippie who wears tie dye shirts, and began championing organic grapes, which Arrowood says make better tasting wine. When Richard retired, he sold to neighbor Brion Wise, but will continue making the wines through 2021.
VINEYARDS - The estate vineyard (certified organic) grows Cabernet and red Rhone varietals on red and white volcanic soils in the Moon Mountain District AVA, a landscape of hardened lava flows. Chardonnay comes from Joseph Belli Vineyard (certified organic) in the Russian River Valley AVA. In 2018, for one vintage only, a single vineyard bottling of Zinfandel came from Coturri-farmed Nuns Canyon (certified biodynamic) where the vines are 60 to 80 years old.
WINES - Arrowood’s elegant and complex wines are widely recognized as consistently among the best in Sonoma. The 2021 harvest marks his 56th year as a winemaker.
T Moon Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 SLOW WINE 2 1,700 cs; $ 100 - c - Grown on early ripening clones (chosen for that reason), an ageworthy wine that sports plum, blackberry, and blueberries notes. Nuns Canyon Zinfandel 2016 2 130 cs; $ 50 - c - A singular wine made only in this vintage (the vineyard was later damaged by fire), expressing the Pinot like flights an old vine Zin can take in the hands of a master who adores the variety. Raspberry and blueberry aromas deepen into brambleberry and bright, tart cherry notes. Russian River Valley Jos. Belli Vineyards Chardonnay 2018 1 780 cs; $ 50 - c - Bottle fermented and aged in barrel, delicate and rounded, it offers elegant lemon, citrus and stone fruit notes and a long finish.
acres 14 - cases 5,000
Fertilizers compost, cover crops
Plant protection sulfur, synthetic pesticides
Weed control chemical, mechanical
Goff Books
Yeasts commercial cultured yeasts
Grapes purchase 25%
Certification some of the vineyards are certified organic
AMBYTH ESTATE
510 Sequoia Lane – tel. (805) 319-6967
www.ambythestate.com – info@ambythestate.com
CAmByth stewards the land and its wines with deep sincerity.
PEOPLE - Ambyth founder Phillip Hart grew up in the green hills of North Wales. In the rolling golden hills of Paso Robles, he realized his dream of owning a winery which he named AmByth, from the Welsh word meaning ‘forever.’ Biodynamic farmers from the start in 2003, second gen Gelert now manages the vineyards, fruit, farm, and olive orchards, and makes the wine.
VINEYARDS - Of 42 acres, AmByth has 17 planted with Demeter certified Mourvèdre, Grenache, Syrah, Counoise, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier, & Grenache Blanc with 2/3 of the vines on their own roots. Dry farmed, vines are headtrained and widely spaced with roots exploiting cracks in the limestone to survive. Low yields and high demand means Gelert has expanded to embrace vineyards farmed with a similar philosophy.
WINES - The winery specializes in natural wines that are foot stomped and have zero additives Whites typically have extended skin contact. Wines age in amphorae or neutral oak barrels.
T Paso Robles Decorus 2020 SLOW WINE 6 Viognier, Marsanne, Grenache Blanc, roussanne; 84 cs; $ 38 - eA cloudy deep orange sunset, with complex aromas of honeysuckle, garden flowers, sandalwood, orange oil, and fresh mint, the palate offers bee pollen, apricot, orange pith, and oxalis with a dry chalky texture, and a resonating, mouthwatering finish.
Santa Barbara County Sauvignon Blanc O.W. 2020 6 230 cs; $ 28 - e - From Coquelicot Vineyard: a golden cloud presenting a complex melange of white stone fruit when first opened, moving toward herbal notes of bell pepper, oxalis, jalapeno jelly, with the same changes on the palate, and a consistent, amazing textural experience.
Paso Robles Zinfandel 2018 2 78 cs; $ 38 - e - A balanced, textural zin laden with earth, mint spice, fruitcake, rhubarb, bramble fruit.
CAttention to farming practices makes this winery stand out.
PEOPLE - Life can change in a flash. A missed appointment on Sept. 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center led busy executives Rebecca and Peter Work to reassess their lives, and decide to change to a slow paced lifestyle closer to the land by moving from Los Angeles to Lompoc to grow grapes and make wine. In 2006, they committed to biodynamics. Ampelos means “wine” in Greek; they also own a hotel in Greece by the same name.
VINEYARDS - Saving soil is of primary importance to Peter Work. First in the US to be certified organic, sustainable, and biodynamic, Ampelos vines grow in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA close to the Pacific which brings cooling afternoon breezes, deep marine fog at night, and sunshine during the day. Justly famous for pinot noir, they also grow grenache, syrah, viognier, and riesling.
WINES - Work makes still, sparkling, and dessert wines in a minimalist style using native yeasts.
T Sta. Rita Hills Lambda Pinot Noir 2018 SLOW WINE 2 620 cs; $ 39 - c - Hand picked, hand sorted, with some stem inclusion, three days of pumpover with native fermentation and 8-10 days on skin, this pinot noir blend develops into translucent raspberry with tart fruit, herbs, and earth.
Sta. Rita Hills Delta Grenache 2017 2 216 cs; $ 38c - Lean and clean, this pale translucent raspberry hued gem tickles the palate with bright acidity, fresh raspberry fruit, and a hint of cinnamon.
Sta. Rita Hills Gamma Syrah 2017 2 263 cs; $ 35c - An explosion of baked cherry brownie, Christmas fruitcake, cardamom, spearmint hit the nose while cherry, lean acidity, and chalky minerals delight the palate.
PEOPLE - With roots in Catalan, Markus Bokisch studied enology at UC Davis where he met wife Liz. After graduating, they traveled and worked in Spain where Markus made Cava and Liz taught English. In 1995 they purchased land in Clement Hills; in 1998, they imported Spanish budwood. Two years later, their dream came true: to make wine made from Spanish grapes for Americans. A steward for the land, in 2005, he began farming organically. In 2016, Elyse Perry became winemaker.
VINEYARDS - At one time, Bokisch had 3000 acres, but they went to 880 with 303 acres of the Las Cerezas, Vista Luna, and the Terra Alta Vineyard certified organic. The remaining acres follow Lodi Rules, farmed organically and sustainably but not certified. The Bokisch Vineyards label offers nine Spanish varieties including Garnacha Blanca, Verdejo, Garnacha, Monastrell. The Tizona label includes Malbec, Petit Verdot, Old Vine Zin, and blends.
WINES - From sparkling Albariño to rosado to Tempranillo to late harvest Graciano, Bokisch speaks to a passion for food friendly wines made from Spanish grapes grown sustainably and produced with respect for people and planet. Eleven of 25 bottlings are certified organic.
T Lodi Terra Alta Vineyard Albariño 2019
EVERYDAY WINE 1 1,100 cs; $ 22 - a c - With citrus, stone fruit, and vibrant acidity, this organic wine’s roundness on the palate comes from 30% neutral oak.
Lodi Vista Luna Garnacha Blanca 2020 1 312 cs; $ 24 - a c - Fragrant with gardenia and cherry, this organic wine offers tangy acidity, lingering tangerine, and nutmeg on the finish.
Lodi Terra Alta Vineyard Graciano 2018 2 300 cs; $ 27 - c - Tart berries and a finish of mouthwatering salinity and acidity follow a perfumed nose of mulberry, roses, and forest floor.
PEOPLE - Randall Grahm, one of the original Rhone Rangers, is well known and loved in the California wine industry and beyond. His soulful, esoteric and honest approach to growing Rhone and other grapes and packaging them with quirky labels is like nothing else. He recently sold the winery to War Room Ventures and continues as Director or Winemaking with long-time winemaker Nicole Walsh continuing to craft naturally soulful and original wines.
VINEYARDS - Fruit is purchased from vineyards selected and known for farming following biodynamic principles. Many are with long-standing arrangements. After many years of research, in 2010 Grahm finally settled on a 400-acre estate in San Juan Batista, Popelouchum, or “paradise” in the language of the Mutsun, where he continues to push the viticultural bar for the state and beyond.
acres 880 - cases 6,000
Fertilizers compost, humus, mineral fertilizer
Plant protection organic, sulfur
Weed control n/a
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes 100% estate-grown
WINES - While production includes whites, reds, and roses, that is where the connection to the rest of California wines ends. Each product is utterly unique if not downright weird and quirky.
Central Coast Le Cigare Volant Red Wine of the Earth 2020 2 Grenache, cinsault, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Counoise; 11,000 cs; $ 15 - a - Light, tart and dry with notes of cherry cola, charred meat, mushroom and cedar.
Central Coast Le Cigare Blanc White Wine of the Earth 2020 1 Grenache Blanc, Vermentino, Clairette Blanche; 2,600 cs; $ 15 - a - Light, silky and dry with notes of lemon curd, apricot, cantaloupe, sage, almond and pine nut.
Central Coast Vin Gris De Cigare Pink Wine of the Earth 2020 3 Grenache, Cinsault, Grenache Blanc, Vermentino, Clairette Blanche, Mourvèdre; 26,000 cs; $ 15 - a - Crisp and refreshing with notes of strawberry, watermelon, cucumber and celery.
acres 0 - cases 41,800
Fertilizers compost
Goff Books
Certification converting to organics and biodynamics, some of the vineyards are certified organic
PEOPLE - As Mendocino’s pioneering organic and biodynamic producer, Bonterra continues to pursue climate initiatives for the 1,000 acres it has under vine. In 2021 the winery became the world’s first organically-farmed winery to achieve Climate Neutral certification for its entire business, and to make its climate footprint public. Director of Winemaking Jeff Cichocki works with winemaker Sebastian Donoso and vineyard director Joseph Brinkley..
VINEYARDS - While its own 900+ acre estate in Mendocino and grapes from local growers started the brand off way back when, the winery now buys 80 percent of its grapes–mostly from growers in coastal and central California. It owns 290 acres of biodynamic vines on three Mendo sites (which go into its 500+ cases of high end biodynamic wines). An addition 605 acres in Mendocino are organic..
BRENDEL
1227 1st Street – tel. (707) 963-8774
www.brendelwines.com – hello@brendelwines.com
CA new label that offers artisanal, affordably priced (for Napa), organically grown wines made by top winemakers and focusing on diverse varietals.
PEOPLE - Named for an early Italian grower in St. Helena, Leon Brendel, this new label debuted in 2021, under the rapidly expanding Demeine Estates owned by the Lawrence family, whose wealth comes from Tennessee banking and U.S. ag. Brendel the man famously grew Grignolino, a grape from Italy’s Piemonte region. The Heitz family bought his vines and kept the Grignolino tradition alive. Cassandra Felix heads the winery. Brittany Sherwood leads winemaking.
VINEYARDS - The winery sources from Demeine Estates’ 450 acres of organically certified vineyards in Napa, which were acquired by the Heitz family. Grignolino comes from vines the Heitz family planted in St. Helena at their historic winery site. Chardonnay comes from their Oak Knoll vines while the Cabernet is sourced mainly from Rutherford.
WINES - The first vintage for The McNab was 2000 and The Butler followed in 2007. Vintage variation can be seen in the wines but Donoso hasn’t shifted the winemaking style.
Mendocino County The McNab 2019 2 350 cs; $ 68c - Petite Sirah lends additional depth and nuance to aromas of blackcurrant, fig, and dark chocolate, and energetic flavors of cassis, toast, tobacco and star anise are framed by firm, finely textured tannins.
Mendocino County The Butler 2019 2 1,000 cs; $ 85 - c - This Rhone-style blend of 77% Syrah, 15% Petite Sirah, 7% Mourvèdre and 1% Viognier is dark and brooding with black currant, plums, black pepper, and mushrooms layered over herbaceous notes of oregano and bay leaf.
Mendocino County Dry Muscat 2019 1 220 cs; $ 27a - A lean and lively wine that delivers fragrant notes of honeysuckle and lychee with juicy mango, stone fruit, tangerine and a crisp, dry finish.
WINES - Brendel offers its winemakers a chance to showcase lesser known grapes–like port wine varieties–in adventurous blends, in addition to the traditional Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet.
T Napa Valley Cooper’s Reeds Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 SLOW WINE 2 15,073 cs; $ 40 - d - Adventurously aged in a supersized, 60 year old, 20,000 liter upright oak barrel (to minimize the oak impact) and sealed with reeds, it’s fresh and on the light side–not your average Napa cab–with black cherries and soft tannins. You could drink it tonight.
Napa Valley Noble One Chardonnay 2019 1 1,867 cs; $ 30 - a - Young and filled with citrus and lemon, it’s a drink now wine with a bright finish.
Napa Valley Sparkling Young Leon Grignolino 2019 4 900 cs; $ 30 - a - A reinvention of a Heitz Cellars tradition, a dry, lightly carbonated (frizzante) rosé, its gracefully shows off citrus and pomegranate flavors. Like Processo, it’s carbonated via the Charmat method.
PEOPLE - “I love wine, but I love the world more” says Adam Huss, winemaker and owner, with wife Wendy, of Centralas Wines. A chef by trade, his property bursts with grapes, herbs and fruit trees. In his mission toward all aspects of sustainability, he has mounted “The Organic Wine Podcast” that he hosts with a range of guests whose subject matter goes beyond agricultural to issues of access and social justice in the wine world.
VINEYARDS - For 2019 and 2020, Centralas sourced pinot noir from the organic Spear vineyards in the Sta Rita Hills and syrah and grenache from the biodynamic Martian Ranch vineyard in the new Alisos Canyon AVA. More recently, the search for more local grape sources has led to Lopez vineyard, a centenary desert vineyard in Fontana, one hour east of Los Angeles and a meticulously tended practicing organic vineyard in Hemet, yet another hour east. So, there will be new wines in 2022.
WINES - While his grape wines display ample focus, in the name of localism, Huss is experimenting with fermenting cactus fruit.
Santa Barbara County Syren Pinot Noir 2019 2 100 cs; $ 50 - c - Shows powerful red florals, menthol and red and dark cherry/berry aromas leading to a red and dark cherry palate imbued with earth and cedar.
Santa Barbara County Hussy Rosé 2019 3 100 cs; $ 35 - a - Grenache and syrah and emulates certain French rosés that incorporate oak aging. With ample floral notes, the palate shows elegant cherry/berry fruit with subtle vanilla and nuttiness.
Santa Barbara County Noctilucence Rosé Noir 2020 3 175 cs; $ 28 - c - As advertised is a very dark rosé of syrah that shows extravagant rose and gamey dark cherry aromatics that belie a light-bodied palate of cherry and blackberry fruit.
PEOPLE - Charlie & Echo came about from the inquiry of Eric Van Drunen, a former physicist, of how to make more food-friendly wine than what he found around him. The story of the winery is how, largely insulated from the “wine world”, he invented his wine with few peers or mentors. An exception was the San Diegan Los Pilares crew who were after the same lighter styles and purity of fruit vinified with no inputs. Wife Clara (retired Air Force) is the ‘Charlie’ in Charlie & Echo and came up with the name.
VINEYARDS - C & E lays claim to expressing San Diego County terroir, both in its understanding of ‘natural wine’ and marketing strategy. Keeping it simple, Van Drunen makes a red, a white and a rosé in still and sparkling versions with varieties and blends subject to change. He remarks that in the past, finding clean grapes was challenging. Currently, he has settled on Valentina Vineyard in Dulzura.
WINES - Now, with a suitable a grape source, his current releases are remarkably concentrated and interesting.
T San Diego County Valentina Vineyard Whoa Jake 2019 EVERYDAY WINE 4 90 cs; $ 25 - a - A sparkling blanc de noir of sangiovese and grenache. Biscuit, fennel and ripe yellow apple are on the nose with apple and grapefruit pith flavors.
T San Diego County Valentina Vineyard Darkstar 2019 EVERYDAY WINE 4 217 cs; $ 25 - a - A blend of nebbiolo, petite sirah, syrah and zinfandel. Rose, pepper and dark cherries rise out of the glass which features flavors of loamy strawberries and cherries.
San Diego County Uncharted 2020 1 28 cs; $ 23a - A riesling with a green herb and peach syrup aroma presiding over a rich white peach and lemon palate.
acres 0 - cases 6,000
Fertilizers biodynamic compost, green manure, organic-mineral
Plant protection organic, sulfur
Weed control mechanical
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes purchase 100%
acres 0 - cases 502
Fertilizers organic-mineral
Goff Books
Certification some of the vineyards are certified organic, some of the vineyards are certified biodynamic
Plant protection organic, sulfur
Weed control mechanical
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes purchase 100%
Certification none
CAMINO ST. HELENA
CHATEAU DAVELL
3020 Vista Tierra Drive – tel. (530) 644-2016 www.chateaudavell.com – chateaudavell@att.net
C Vintages speak with minimal interference using organic and biodynamic farming so the Sierra Foothills fruit shines.
PEOPLE - Chateau Davell is named after Davell Hays, the mother of winemaker Eric Hays. Along with Eric’s wife Emily, the three manage the winery operations. Following a 15 year career in the restaurant business where Eric discovered his passion for wine, Eric worked as an Assistant Winemaker at nearby Lava Cap; he also paints the art for the labels. Emily keeps the business green and operates the tasting room, while Davell is the master gardener.
VINEYARDS - Located at 1100’ elevation, Chateau Davell’s Estate Vineyard’s organic and biodynamic practices support the vitality of the surrounding ecosystem with cover crops and other natural farming techniques. Most of the 12.5 acre estate is set aside for wildlife habitat, forest, riparian, orchards, and 30 varieties of heirloom tomatoes.
WINES - Grapes are purchased from small organic family farms in Amador and El Dorado Countie. With a philosophy that wine is made in the vineyard, winemaker Eric Hays lets each vintage speak for itself with minimal interference and leaves wines unfiltered and unfined. Yeasts are native to where the grapes originated.
El Dorado Chloe Reserve Chardonnay 2018 1 22 cs; $ 34 - c d - This all organic estate wine had extended skin contact to create the intense color and flavor profile with roasted apple, sweet tartness, pear texture, and acidity.
El Dorado Estate Zinfandel 2017 2 n/a; $ 34 - cGreat body yet light and easy to drink, this zinfandel is fruit forward without being too jammy.
El Dorado Gaia 2015 2 n/a; $ 71 - c - This is one of those wines that slows down time: earthy complexity, a mix of dark fruits, with a meaty smoky bacon savoriness on the nose, and black pepper on the finish.
R709 Main Street – tel. (707) 968-0625 www.cliffamily.com – winery@cliffamily.com
PEOPLE - Avid bicyclists and organic philanthropists, co-owners Gary Erickson and Kit Crawford co-founded their CLIF Bar company in 1992. In 2004, they bought a weekend getaway on Howell Mountain and started their own winery and a farm. Manager Linzi Gray oversees the winery, farm and their food products. Laura Barrett makes the wines. In 2020, the owners generously donated $500,000 to found the California Organic Institute with the University of California.
VINEYARDS - While Clif Family currently sources from various sites (about half of which are organic), in 2020, it took a major step towards becoming an all organic, all estate producer, with the purchase of an 80 acre vineyard on the valley floor in the Oak Knoll District AVA. It also owns 11 acres of certified organic vineyards on Howell Mountain. It buys organic grapes from growers in Yountville and Sonoma Valley. Erik Dodd manages the estate vines.
WINES - In keeping with their love of bicycles, Clif Family’s wine labels feature bike chain graphics, name their wines after bike routes, and rent bikes at the tasting room.
Yountville Rte. Blanc Sauvignon Blanc 2020 1 1,000 cs; $ 48 - a - Bursting with fruit flavors, this is a white wine for people who like their Sauvignon Blanc big and bold. Sonoma Valley Grenache 2019 2 500 cs; $ 72 - cTangy notes of strawberry, cherry and plums and tannins. Howell Mountain Kit’s Killer Cab 2018 2 750 cs; $ 137 - c - Sourced from its two Howell Mountain vineyards, a vibrant, drink now wine, with integrated cassis, cherry, and plum notes.
acres 11 - cases 12,000
Fertilizers compost, cover crops, mineral fertilizer, organic
Certification converting to organics, some of the vineyards are certified organic
FLOREZ WINES
2487 Freedom Boulevard – tel. (530) 760-5140
www.florezwines.com – james@florezwines.com
PEOPLE - As many college graduates do, James Jelks wanted to travel abroad post-graduation. He ended up looking at the UC Davis summer abroad program, and for some reason the Intro to Winemaking course in Burgundy jumped out. “I had always been a hobbyist, always had eccentric and focused interests,” he says, “and then at some point, wine just clicked.” The trip to Burgundy eventually led to the launch of his own label, Florez Wines, in 2017.
VINEYARDS - Initially, Jelks planned to only make wines from Santa Cruz grapes but could not find enough organic fruit there. He now personally farms two sites in Santa Cruz, one of which was originally planted in the 1970s, first with Riesling and then Chardonnay. He just planted some Gamay there and is about to plant the more obscure varietal, Savignen. At another, gently sloped, south-facing site is an acre of Chardonnay and a little bit of Syrah.
WINES - Jelks likes to consider his winemaking as experimental, and while his wines are whimsical and playful, he also has the experience to pull them off with precision.
T Mendocino County Shangra-Li Mendo Savvy-B Sauvignon Blanc 2020 EVERYDAY WINE 1 250 cs; $ 26a - A signature wine for Jelks. The 2020 is from Upton Vineyard in Redwood Valley, planted 1968 and certified organic. Reminiscent of an Italian orange wine, wonderfully salty, with lush salinity.
Dunnigan Hills The Pope’s Smoke Grenache 2020 2020 2 192 cs; $ 28 - c - A pretty, light bodied, low alcohol wine, which some could even classify as a rose. Yet it is structured, with good tannins and juicy strawberry notes.
Santa Cruz Mountains Moonmilk Chardonnay 2020 1 200 cs; $ 40 - c - The grapes come from the Glenwood Vineyard in Scotts Valley that he farms, resulting in a very delicate, classic Chardonnay, which he has been making since the start of his label in 2017.
acres 3 - cases 1,333
Fertilizers compost, green manure, mineral fertilizer, organic
PEOPLE - Ken and Akiko Freeman returned to California after living in Asia and fell head over heels in love with Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. They visited more than 300 properties before establishing their winery in 2001 on the cool, western edge of the Green Valley of Russian River Valley. Akiko took over as winemaker in 2010 and leads an all-female winemaking team.
VINEYARDS - Gloria Vineyard next to the winery, planted in 2006, is at 400’ elevation, 10 miles from the ocean, and has the classic goldridge sandy loamy soil. Art Robledo Jr farms the estate vineyards. Greg Adams helped plant the vineyards and began moving to fully organic. In 2007 they acquired a 14-acre sheep ranch in West Sonoma in the cool Sonoma Coast AVA and planted it with seven clones of Pinot Noir. Yu-Ki is at 1,000’ elevation, 4 miles from the ocean and enjoys the shelter of Redwoods.
WINES - Ken and Akiko Freeman stood fast to their beliefs while the world went for candied, super-ripe and lavishly oaked California Pinot Noirs. Today they are considered a founder of the movement towards elegant, understated, site and vintage expressive wines.
T Sonoma Coast Yu-ki Estate Pinot Noir 2018 2 400 cs; $ 68 - c - Light, tart, elegant and dry with notes of pomegranate, raspberry, white rose, cedar and nutmeg.
Russian River Valley Gloria Estate Pinot Noir 2019 2 450 cs; $ 68 - c - Gentle and delicate, silky and dry with notes of cranberry, red currant, sage leaf and red rose.
acres 24 - cases 5,000
Fertilizers compost, green manure, organic-mineral
Goff Books
Grapes purchase 100%
Certification some of the vineyards are certified organic
Plant protection copper, organic, sulfur
Weed control none
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes purchase 25%
Certification none
RUTHERFORD
FROG’S LEAP
8815 Conn Creek Road – tel. (707) 963-4704
www.frogsleap.com – ribbit@frogsleap.com
COne of the first to be organic in Napa (in 1997), its farm to table approach (chickens, veggie gardens and fruit orchards), solar energy, labor policies and pioneering ecostewardship make it a leader.
PEOPLE - The poster child for organic farming in Napa, Frog’s Leap, founded by John Williams in 1981, is popular for its ecofriendliness, witty sense of humor, and finely balanced wines. It went solar in 2005 and built a Silver LEED certified farmhouse tasting room in 2006–the first winery to achieve this milestone. On the worker front, it employs its staff year round. Employees receive healthcare and other benefits, a claim few wineries can make.
VINEYARDS - The winery farms 200 acres of organic vines in Rutherford, St. Helena and the Carneros. Additional fruit comes from Mendocino and Napa. Committed to preserving heritage varieties, it grows Valdiguie and field blends. The Red Barn site (built in 1884) houses the winery and 30 acres of Cabernet.
WINES - The winery acquired the historic 52 acre Rossi Ranch (with old vines and an iconic water tower) in 2007, preserving more Napa history. With Pablo Polanco and Xochilt Polanco, winemaker Rory Williams, John’s son, continues the house style of pure and balanced wines. Many wines are unfined and unfiltered.
Napa Valley Shale and Stone Chardonnay 2019 1 8,348 cs; $ 60 - b c - Harvested in 8 separate picks, whole cluster pressed and aged sur lie (without stirring)–the delicate attention is reflected in this crisp, vibrant, fresh wine, outstanding for balance and elegance.
Napa Valley Zinfandel 2019 2 11,200 cs; $ 60 - b cRose-scented aromas on the nose, delicate cherry notes on the palate–it’s almost Pinot-esque in its lightness and grace.
Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 2 13,982 cs; $ 111 - c - Light on its feet–and unfined and unfiltered–it offers up cherry and black fruit notes on the palate. Cab is 88 percent of the blend.
acres 200 - cases 60,000
Fertilizers compost, cover crops, organic
Plant protection copper, organic, sulfur
Weed control mechanical
Yeasts commercial cultured yeasts, spontaneous
HEALDSBURG
FRONT PORCH FARM
2550 Rio Lindo Avenue – tel. (707) 433-8683
www.fpfarm.com – info@fpfarm.com
C“The health of the soil is at the forefront of our thinking.” – Sebastien Pochan, winemaker.
PEOPLE - Owners Mimi and Peter Buckley started Front Porch Farm with a vision — to grow healthy food and to gather people together. Their estate wines are very much part of that vision. Sébastien Pochan oversees all of the viticulture as well as the winemaking. He believes that when you farm well, everything else falls into place, and that the balance and diversity of the terroir should be reflected in the wines.
VINEYARDS - Front Porch Farm’s idyllic, organically-certified estate vineyards, planted on welldrained, steep hillsides, frame their picturesque 110-acre farm in a small and sunny valley that looks up at Fitch Mountain and runs beside the Russian River. They are planted to Rhône grape varieties including Syrah, Grenache, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, and Mourvèdre. Everything is farmed by hand.
WINES - Front Porch Farm’s aim is to produce organic and balanced wine that are meant to be enjoyed with food and in good company.
T Russian River Valley Grenache Blanc 2019 SLOW WINE 1 148 cs; $ 32 - b - Vibrant and fleshy, redolent of roasted pineapple, lemon, melon, white flowers, almond and flint.
Russian River Valley Grenache 2018 2 199 cs; $ 28c - Well-balanced, complex and intense with an alluring mix of blackberry, raspberry, chocolate, baking spices and rose petals.
Russian River Valley Rosé 2020 3 Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah; 390 cs; $ 26 - a - Fresh and with a pleasing velvety texture this rosé offers gentle flavors of strawberry, peach, and orange blossom.
acres 12 - cases 1,250
Fertilizers compost
Goff Books
fermentation
Grapes purchase 25%
Certification organic
Plant protection organic, sulfur
Weed control mechanical
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes 100% estate-grown
Certification organic
HAMMERLING WINE
1350 Fifth Street – tel. (510) 984-0340
www.hammerlingwines.co – hello@hammerlingwines.co
PEOPLE - Josh Hammerling plowed ahead into his traditional method sparkling wine project, in acceptance of the perils of the challenging style. Having spent time at Syncline in the Columbia Gorge and with future neighbors, Broc Cellars and Donkey and Goat Winery in Berkeley, he felt that 2018 was the time. But unique to most winemakers, Hammerling was able to quickly sell his product, courting wine club members and doing popups with restaurateurs. The cashflow has allowed him to contend with the complexities of learning the sparkling game on the fly.
VINEYARDS - Observation grit and have landed Hammerling fine sources for California sparkling (and still) wine. They range from the Sierra Foothills to Mendocino and where he sources the most: the Cienega Valley.
HANDLEY CELLARS
3151 Highway 128 – tel. (707) 895-3876
www.handleycellars.com – handley.lulu@gmail.com
CIn 1982, Milla Handley was the first female winemaker in the U.S. to establish a namesake winery in the fledgling Anderson Valley AVA.
PEOPLE - Lulu Handley, Milla Handley’s younger daughter, has been managing the winery since 2016. Handley Estate was the first producer to certify an organic vineyard in Anderson Valley in 2005. Handley works with winemaker Randy Schock who joined winery in 2004 as cellarmaster and vineyard manager Jose Jimenez who has been with the winery since 1989.
VINEYARDS - The RSM Estate Vineyard which achieved certification in 2017 is named for Handley’s late father, Rex Scott McClellan. At 1,000 ft., this steep hillside vineyard sits above the fog line and is sheltered from the wind by dense coastal redwood and fir forests. RSM is among the first to be harvested largely due to its shallow soils and the warmer nighttime temperatures. Water conversation practices have been a focus along with reduced tillage.
WINES - Recently, Hammerling has made cuvées from many vineyards to understand what his options are. In the future, he intends to settle on a more limited portfolio, though with a resolve for experimentation. His wine names derive from film and literature expressing the desire to push boundaries.
El Dorado Wind, Sand & Stars Sparkling Gamay Noir 2020 4 120 cs; $ 34 - c - Shows yellow apple and yeasty hints on the nose giving way to a burst of citrus and rounded tree fruit flavors. The perle twines effortlessly with the acidity.
Monterey Down by Law Solera Sparkling Riesling 4 100 cs; $ 38 - c - Shows a nose of yeast and citrus with a lush palate of nectarine and grapefruit pith, a combination 2018 and ‘19 wines.
Lime Kiln Valley Enz Vineyard Wild One Cabernet Pfeffer 2020 2 200 cs; $ 34 - c - Cedar, red cherry, light rose aromas. Intense strawberry and peach flavors are bound with refined tannins.
acres 0 - cases 2,500
Fertilizers compost, green manure, mineral fertilizer, organic
WINES - Founding winemaker Milla Handley whose wines put Anderson Valley on the map passed in 2020 but her legacy lives on. Lulu Handley notes that styles are evolving with the changing climate and she will continue to make wines that are true to the valley.
T Anderson Valley Handley Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir 2017 SLOW WINE 2 325 cs; $ 50 - c - From the cooler end of the valley showing raspberry, blueberry and dark cherry with loam and herbal notes from the indigenous pennyroyal and a touch of caramel.
Anderson Handley Valley Estate Vineyard Chardonnay 2018 1 1,928 cs; $ 28 - c - Partial ML keeps flavors of poached pears, Meyer lemon and green apples bright and intense with nutmeg and golden caramel extending the finish.
Anderson Valley Gewürztraminer 2020 1 200 cs; $ 26 - a c - Pronounced aromatics of rose, orange zest and white cardamom with lush white tree fruits, grapefruit, ginger and a tropical flourish of lychee on the finish.
acres 35 - cases 9,000
Fertilizers organic, cover crops, compost
Goff Books
Grapes purchase 100%
Certification none
Plant protection sulfur, organic
Weed control mechanical
Yeasts commercial cultured yeasts, spontaneous
fermentation
Grapes purchase 50%
Certification some of the vineyards are certified organic
SONOMA LOWER LAKE
HANZELL VINEYARDS
18596 Lomita Avenue – tel. (707) 996-3860
www.hanzell.com – maildesk@hanzell.com
CAchieving organic certification in 2021 elevates the farming model at Hanzell to its apex.
PEOPLE - Winemaking at Hanzell is credited to a team that includes Jason, McNeill, Lynda, Cesar, Jim and Jose while Brandon Bredo and Jose Ramos Esquivel whose tenure at the winery spans 45 years do the farming. The winery won its reputation for being among the first to plant and produce world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir on the Mayacamas in the 1950s but isn’t resting on its laurels. The wines are as authentic and interesting as the unique property itself.
VINEYARDS - Bredo posted a CCOF-certified sign for both the winery and the vineyards at the entrance of the estate this year and is now pursuing regenerative certification. The degree of biodiversity at the property is nothing less than astounding: a resident herd of sheep graze cover crops, chickens scratch, a drove of heritage hogs work on clearing underbrush and two placid Maremmano-Abruzzese sheepdogs manage the proceedings.
WINES - Never shouting, never shy, the balance and intensity of the wines continues to be a hallmark for this treasured estate.
T Sonoma Valley Hanzell Vineyards Chardonnay 2018 SLOW WINE 1 1,336 cs; $ 78 - a c - An elevated Wente clone expression with lemon custard, nutmeg, lemon and orange zest, green tropical fruits and golden apples that’s precise, balanced and sublime.
Sonoma Valley Hanzell Vineyards Pinot Noir 2018 2 1,336 cs; $ 98 - c - Some whole cluster lends sapidity and cumin notes to the savory ground cherry, leather, tobacco and tangy blood orange and saline mineral flavors that make this so memorable.
Sonoma Valley Hanzell Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 2 255 cs; $ 125 - c - Roses and lavender dominate the aromas of spicy pomegranate, red plums, cassis, red cherries and leather of this truly elegant blend.
CMitch and Tracey Hawkin’s holistic approach at their Diamond B Ranch includes a natural compost factory – a herd of highland cattle. They were Certified Organic and are now Demeter Certified.
PEOPLE - In 2004 the Hawkins produced their first vintage on Diamond B Ranch, a former goldmining, sight in Lake County’s Red Hills AVA. The ranch was originally purchased by Tracey’s stepfather David Boies as a family gathering place. In 2008 they hired legendary winemaker Richard Peterson and their Vineyard Manager of 20 years, Miquel Chavez, lives on the ranch.
VINEYARDS - This Demeter certified ranch has the classic silica “Lake County diamond” studded red volcanic soil and sits at an elevation of 1800’2200, producing thick-skinned small berries and low yield. The area has the cleanest air in the nation and intense, sunshiny days with the nearest city, San Francisco, 130 miles away.
WINES - Focusing on Bordeaux varietals and French Oak-aged Petite Sirah, the wines are as rich and sumptuous as the best of Napa Valley but at 1/3 the price.
T Red Hills Lake County Petite Sirah 2017 SLOW WINE 2 150 cs; $ 65 - c - Full, chewy, gripping with an underlying juiciness and energy and notes of raspberry, blackberry, dried herbs, spearmint and vanilla.
Red Hills Lake County Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 2 1,800 cs; $ 75 - c - Intense, powerful, gripping and dry with classic notes of cassis, fig, maple, vanilla and cedar.
Red Hills Lake County Cabernet Franc 2017 2 150 cs; $ 65 - c - Rich, ripe, well-structured and lively with notes of cherry liqueur, shitake mushroom, tobacco, cedar, nutmeg and vanilla.
acres 46.1 - cases 10,000
Fertilizers green manure
Plant protection organic, synthetic pesticides
Weed control animal grazing
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes purchase 20%
acres 18 - cases 2,800
Fertilizers biodynamic compost
Plant protection biodynamic preparations
Weed control mechanical
Yeasts commercial cultured yeasts
Grapes 100% estate-grown
Goff Books
Certification some of the vineyards are certified organic
Certification biodynamic
LOS ANGELES RIVER WINE CO.
4185 East Third Avenue
www.scholiumwines.com
PEOPLE - L.A. River Wine Company was conceived to be a hybrid facility; a winery and a tasting room that showcased grapes from southern California made in Abe Schoener’s idiocyncratic style. Covid prevented this from taking place. The plan B was staying lean and mean as an operation by making the wines in rented warehouses and parking lots with rapid response teams of pickers and processors. Schoener shows that with basic tools and technology, compelling wines can be made.
VINEYARDS - L.A. River Wine Co. wines are mostly sourced from old and sometimes formerly neglected desert vineyards between Rancho Cucamonga and Temecula east of Los Angeles. The significance of these vineyards lies in their age and their survival. Grapes such as mission and palomino were planted many decades ago in the production of mostly fortified wine.
SAN DIEGO LOS PILARES
1477 University Avenue – tel. (619) 709-0664 www.lospilareswine.com – michael@lospilareswine.com
PEOPLE - Los Pilares grew out of the friendship of wine lovers Michael Christian and Coleman Cooney who had spent extended time in France and Spain, respectively. Encouraged by early experiments with a home vineyard, they went commercial in 2010. What Europe taught them was that good wine expressed a sense of place- what they sought to bring out in San Diego County by simplifying fruit extraction in their winemaking. They repeatedly come back to muscat and grenache, though a newly planted vineyard with warm weather varieties is about to come on-line.
VINEYARDS - Los Pilares grapes come from McCormick Ranch in Pauma Valley as well as Highland Hills Vineyards and the Hunter and Mazzetti Vineyard on the Rincon Indian Reservation. Soils are mostly granite and clay. Coastal influence and elevation make for cool nights. Farming is done without chemical inputs.
WINES - Today, Schoener makes table wines from these vines while accounting for the special requirements of the tannic mission or the low-acid palomino. Pecorino is sourced from a younger-vines vineyard. All fruit is foot treaded. No pumps are used. Pressing is generally in a manual press.
T California Maglite Blanc 2020 1 9 cs; $ 100 - cA Blanc de noir white wine made from grenache and rose of peru. The wine displays a curry nose which follows to a palate of tart fresh lemon and yellow apple. The depth of fruit is remarkable.
California Rancho California Flor 2019 1 13 cs; $ 50c - A pecorino made in a modified sherry style with fino and hazelnut aromatics and rich apple/pear fruit. Acidity and skin tannins make for a sizzling texture.
California Munoa Lone Wolf Red, 2020 2 62 cs; $ 75 - c - Smells and tastes like an apple orchard, though on the palate more berry complexity is apparent, as well as an irony mineral presence.
acres 0 - cases 600
Fertilizers n/a
Plant protection n/a
Weed control n/a
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes purchase 100%
Certification none
WINES - The sparkling wine is crushed whole cluster while the red wine is left partly uncrushed accessing some carbonic effects.
T San Diego County Grenache 2020 EVERYDAY WINE 2 105 cs; $ 23 - c - A screaming deal for a serious wine, showing red and dark cherry fruit, a full but effortless mid-palate and heady aromas of berries/cherries and violets.
T San Diego County La Dona Sparkling Muscat 2019 EVERYDAY WINE 4 150 cs; $ 25 - a - In pet nat style, has citrus blossom, subtle spice and a fermented tang on the nose. The palate is broad with peach, pear, and a celery note. Fun and interesting.
San Diego County Nokoa Falanghina 2020 1 150 cs; $ 22 - a - Has a sweet, fermenty nose of ginger and yellow flower with a concentrated palate of pear, lemon and orange pulp.
acres 0 - cases 350
Fertilizers compost
Plant protection organic, sulfur
Weed control mechanical
Goff Books
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes purchase 100%
Certification none
MADROÑA
$ WATSONVILLE MADSON WINES
2560 High Hill Road – tel. (530) 644-5948 www.madronavineyards.com – winery@madronavineyards.com
PEOPLE - Dick Bush worked as a metallurgical engineer and his wife taught school, but starting in 1973, the family planted own-rooted vines on 32 acres surrounded by a diverse ecosystem including madrones. The winery followed in 1979. Paul Bush took over from his dad, and with wife Maggie, they grow organic grapes, make wine, and maintain the family values of environment, community, and education.
VINEYARDS - Located at 3000’ elevation in the Sierra foothills above Placerville, Madroña Vineyards is in the heart of Gold Country where the 2021 vintage was disrupted by the Caldor fire. From the original 32 acres, Madrona added 250 in 1993, with 35 in vine, and the rest woodland, with 10 more acres of vines in 2001. Three vineyard sites provide various soils with over 26 varietals including Nebbiolo, Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Syrah, Zinfandel, Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Gewürztraminer.
WINES - Madroña Vineyards makes remarkably affordable, high quality wines with acidity, elegance, and grace for three labels: Madrona, Rucksack, and M-Series which limits alcohols to 12.6 ABV. Yeast type depends on the grape and the vintage.
El Dorado County Signature Cabernet Franc 2017 2 407 cs; $ 26 - c - With a strong backbone of tannin, texture, and tart cherry, the wine offers elegance, balance, and a dusty blackberry finish.
El Dorado Nebbiolo 2017 2 372 cs; $ 26 - c - Planted in 1997, the wine’s exotic aromas include violets, earth, spices, and raspberry, which is delivered on the palate along with pine, plum, and plenty of tannins.
El Dorado Signature Zinfandel 2016 2 235 cs; $ 26c - A blend of two vineyards each located at 3,000’, this expressive Zinfandel offers cool-climate tannins, and a complex balance of Sierra Spice, black pepper, bold fresh berry, tart cherry, plus violets and roses.
PEOPLE - Madson Wines, located in the Corralitos area of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, was founded in 2016. The team consists of Cole Thomas, founder and winemaker, and Ken Swegles and Abbey Chrystal—viticulturists, partners, and Santa Cruz wine community “power couple.”. Before his career in wine, Cole was an organic vegetable farmer and manager of the Demeter Seed Library. He found his passion in wine while working for Jeff Emery of Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard. Ken and Abbey live on and farm the Ascona vineyard.
VINEYARDS - Madson Wines leases vineyards where they farm or consult directly with local Santa Cruz Mountain growers. Most of the vineyards are in the Santa Cruz Mountains (Ascona, Toyon, Arey, Legan, Red Tail, Hawk’s Feather), and all of them have been converted to 100% organic farming practices. Regenerative agricultural farming practices are also employed.
WINES - A leader in the natural wine movement in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Madson Wines uses all native yeasts, no fining or filtration, neutral oak, and mostly 100% whole cluster. The wines are clean and fresh.
T Santa Cruz Mountains Toyon Vineyard Chardonnay 2019 1 75 cs; $ 40 - c - From a 3-acre vineyard grazed by sheep, this Chardonnay is balanced with refreshing acidity, bright citrus, apple, pineapple, ginger, white flowers, and vanilla cream notes.
Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir 2019 2 75 cs; $ 32c - Showcasing the cool coastal Santa Cruz Mountains terroir, the wine offers fresh raspberry, tart cherry, blood orange, spicy cinnamon, earth, and wet stone.
Santa Cruz Mountains Red Tail Vineyard Syrah 2020 2 50 cs; $ 32 - c - Coming from a 2100-foot vineyard above the, this elegant Syrah presents notes of black fruit, meat, white pepper, mint, dark chocolate, and lilac.
acres 175 - cases 10,000
Fertilizers compost, mineral fertilizer
Plant protection sulfur
Weed control mechanical Yeasts n/a
Grapes 100% estate-grown
Certification none
acres 0 - cases 1,500
Fertilizers compost, green manure, organic-mineral Plant protection organic, sulfur
PEOPLE - Sicilian native Fabiano Ramaci grew up in his family’s restaurant business, La Traviata, and began making wine in his early 20s. He started with Barbera from Lodi and is now pioneering the production of Amarone-style wines made with Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara, Corvinone and others grown in Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley and Russian River AVAs. Ramaci spent time in Valpolicella working with producers to learn the art of appassimento production and his passion for the wine style has proved fruitful.
VINEYARDS - By convincing growers to over graft from sites once planted to Merlot to the indigenous grape varieties needed for authentic Valpolicella-style wines, Ramaci only works with these varieties that improve in flavor during withering. The amount of which depends up on vintage conditions. The appassimento technique informs each of the wine styles which rely more on the expression of the varieties themselves than of terroir.
WINES - Ramaci’s wines are listed by Michelin-starred restaurants and his bottles are individual works of abstract art; each hand painted to express the soul of the wine.
T Valporone 2015 2 2,400 cs; $ 85 - c - A contemporary Amarone in style with just 14.5 abv, the character of Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara and Negrara varieties is undeniable in the macerated cherries, sweet spices and complex tertiary flavors.
Valpo 2018 2 2,700 cs; $ 55 - c - A ripasso technique wine that referments the base wine on amarone pommace and uses 30 percent appassimento for savory aromas of dark berries and cinnamon with earthy red fruit and spicy tannins.
Retico 2016 2 1,200 cs; $ 90 - c - A tawny dessert wine made from Port varieties that have undergone appassimento and aged in solera showing roasted figs, hazelnuts, dried cherries and caramel.
SARATOGA
MOUNT EDEN VINEYARDS
22020 Mount Eden Road – tel. (408) 867-5832 www.mounteden.com – info@mounteden.com
PEOPLE - The longest lineage of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the United States is at Mount Eden Vineyards, the estate property founded in 1945 by Martin Ray. This historic site holds a storied past full of intrigue, drama and shocking tales. Yet at the root is always great wine. In 1981, a young Jeffrey Patterson came on as assistant winemaker, and over the next thirty years, he and his wife Ellie became the majority shareholders of this historic estate.
VINEYARDS - There are few sites in the Santa Cruz Mountains that grow Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon on one single estate property. Mount Eden is one of these, in which the elevation, clonal selections and soil structure allow for ageable wines. Patterson’s philosophy of making “vineyard wines” as opposed to “winemaker wines” means that his direct involvement in the vineyard results in low volume, high quality, consistent wine year after year.
WINES - The Patterson’s son and daughter have recently begun stepping into leadership roles as the next generation of Mount Eden.
T Santa Cruz Mountains Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 2 1,285 cs; $ 100 - c - In line with the previous outstanding Mount Eden Cab vintages. This one is inky and aromatic, full of cassis, spice, and tobacco.
Santa Cruz Mountains Estate Pinot Noir 2018 2 944 cs; $ 65 - c - Made without fining, filtration or additions, with 35% whole cluster fermentation. It is a dark ruby beauty, with rich, spice box notes and gentle blackberry and cocoa flavors.
Santa Cruz Mountains Estate Chardonnay 2018 1 1,288 cs; $ 60 - c - Has the astounding acidity, structure and minerality that Mount Eden is known for, with pretty floral aromas and a tropical, nutty, citrus burst. The 2014 vintage of this wine was poured at the most recent royal wedding, so some would say there are high expectations here.
4282 Pleasant Valley Road – tel. (530) 664-6201 www.narrowgatevineyards.com wine@narrowgatevineyards.com
PEOPLE - In 2000 Frank and Teena Hildebrand moved their family to a cattle ranch in the Sierra Foothills to plant a vineyard and make wine, eventually becoming one of the only fully biodynamic wineries in the state. Selling completely direct-to-consumer, their tasting room harkens to more rustic times, repurposing wood from the original ranch. Teena uses her cooking skills to help attract a solid customer base. They raise animals and practice restorative stewardship of their land while producing a diverse line of wines.
VINEYARDS - For the 15 acres that the Hildebrands farm, their forest soils have been enriched compost and biodynamic amendments. Vineyards are in former pastures and a dry streambed. The soils are based on decomposed iron-rich Sierra granite and volcanic ash. Flora such as the surrounding ponderosa pine and chapparal inform the flavors of Narrow Gate wines.
WINES - Rhône varietals are the specialty with gamay recently added. White wines are pressed whole cluster while reds are destemmed and experience a short carbonic pre-fermentation.
T El Dorado Dunamis Block Head-Trained Grenache 2017 2 24 cs; $ 36 - c - Bursts with woodsy, buckbrush aromas while the flavors are lively dried cherry/strawberry with a singular hazelnut streak.
T El Dorado Roussanne 2020 EVERYDAY WINE 1 70 cs; $ 28c - Co-fermented with 10% viognier shows aromas of pretty white flower and a hint of nuts while the palate is broad with dried fig, pear and pineapple.
El Dorado Primitivo 2017 2 150 cs; $ 32 - c - Smells brambly and spicy over dried dark cherry and blackberry. Flavors display darks fruits and orange peel with an herbal undercurrent.
C Mark Neal has converted more than 1,000 acres of Napa’s vineyards to organic farming and certification. His own wines cover the spectrum from affordable to prestigious, agewothy and collectible.
PEOPLE - Mark Neal’s day job is being one of Napa’s top organic vineyard managers, farming world class wines for his clients (including Demeine Estates). But he makes superb wine under his own brand–known mostly to insiders. Martin Mackenzie makes the wines; Tony Biagi is the consulting winemaker. Jessica Neal, Mark’s daughter, manages sales and marketing.
VINEYARDS - Neal’s two estate vineyards encompass the alpha and omega of Napa: valley and hillside. The 17 acres of valley vines in Rutherford are planted on a site Mark’s parents purchased in 1966, growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Syrah, and Zinfandel on loam soils known for their fine tannins. The iron rich, 10 acre Howell Mountain vineyard, at 1,800 feet of elevation, has four different soil types. Its tiny berries add intensity.
WINES - Soil geek that he is, Neal has his wine labels made in the color of Aiken Loam, the soil type of his Howell Mountain vineyard.
T Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 2 2,000 cs; $ 100 - c - Grown on volcanic and slate soils, the wine is deep and vibrant, with red and blue fruits–cassis, blackberry, plum and dark cherries, and a touch of spice.
Napa Valley Cabernet 2017 2 560 cs; $ 55 - c - A steal at this price–a blend from both Rutherford and Howell Mountain, aged 60 percent in new French oak, it’s full of cherry, blackberry, and cassis.
Rutherford Rutherford Dust Zinfandel 2019 2 500 cs; $ 32 - c - Blended with Petite Sirah (9%), juicy, with blueberry notes, a food friendly demeanor and well balanced fruit and acidity.
acres 15 - cases 1,800
Fertilizers biodynamic compost
Plant protection biodynamic preparations
Weed control mechanical
Yeasts spontaneous fermentation
Grapes purchase 10%
acres 27 - cases 6,000
Fertilizers compost, cover crops
Goff Books
Certification spme of the vineyards are certified biodynamic
PEOPLE - Antony Beck of South Africa’s Beck Family Estates founded Abbott Claim Vineyard on a former 1855 land claim skirting the Savannah Ridge in Carlton. Here, French-trained winemaker Alban Debeaulieu, assistant winemaker David Martinez, and viticulturist Heath Payne balance diverse nature and agriculture in harmony to produce wines Debeaulieu calls ”vectors of terroir.”
VINEYARDS - The 170 acre estate includes 49.1 acres of dry-farmed, mixed-clone chardonnay and pinot noir planted on ancient marine sandstone ranging between 330-480 feet, with south, southeast and southwest exposures. The balance of land supports natural habitats, cover crops, pollinator corridor, fallow mixes, and heirloom wheat. Payne employs regenerative, no-till agriculture to balance nitrogen, increase and maintain humidity, and nurture complex microbiome habitats. Other sustainable practices include solar panels, rainwater catchment, and worms to recycle grey water.
22075 SW Lebeau Road - tel. (503) 625-1978
www.allorovineyard.com – info@allorovineyard.com
PEOPLE - David Nemarnik’s vision to find a special place in Oregon’s north Willamette Valley for a sustainable vineyard and integrated farm came true in 1999 when he purchased his 110-acre property. At Alloro, he works with a passionate and dedicated team that includes winemaker Tom Fitzpatrick, cellarmaster Andrew Ward, sales/marketing manager Eric Ploof and field foreman David Lopez. Nemarnik is also the CEO of Pacific Coast Fruit Company and founder/owner of Rose City Transportation.
VINEYARDS - Loess soil, a variety of aspects and elevations, and a prime location on the eastern flank of the Chehalem Mountains AVA combine to make a perfect spot to grow Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Muscat and Nebbiolo. The property is dry farmed, no till and managed with a sustainable focus. Sheep and pigs lend a hoof in controlling the cover crop. A new tasting room is currently offering light snacks such as charcuterie and house-cured olives.
WINES - Ethereal, elegant, seamless wines evocative of place, with a timeless purity of expression.
T Yamhill-Carlton Due North Pinot Noir 2019 2 145 cs; $ 115 - c - Ethereal red-fruited core, effortless body, refined tannins, lilting finish. Sublime.
Yamhill-Carlton Pinot Noir 2019 2 808 cs; $ 75 - cLovely, lithe mèlange of floral (rose, violet) red fruit (pomegranate, tart red cherry, currant, raspberry), and sous bois.
Yamhill-Carlton Orientate Pinot Noir 2019 2 173 cs; $ 115 - c - Seamless structure, intense red and dark fruit notes, underpinnings of forest floor echo on the finish.
WINES - Nemarnik believes that by paying attention to the health of the plants and soil, you can produce beautiful wines of place. That is the focus at Alloro.
Chehalem Mountains Justina Pinot Noir 2018 2 200 cs; $ 95 - c - The Justina Pinot Noir highlights the favorite barrels from a given year and includes wine with notable weight and structure; this year’s offering is redolent of spiced cherry jam and fresh cooking herbs.
Chehalem Mountains Chardonnay 2019 1 200 cs; $ 39 - c - Creamy and rich, with aromas of baked apple and barrel spice and flavors of lemon zest and salted caramel.
Chehalem Mountains Bianco de Nero 2020 3 680 cs; $ 37 - a - Made in the style of a white Pinot Noir but with the color of a rosé, this bottling exhibits strawberry shortcake, melon and white flowers on the nose and palate.
acres 49 - cases 1.675
Fertilizers biodynamic compost, compost, cover crops, humus, mineral fertilizer, organic-mineral
CBiodynamic® grower-producer Analemma Wines fosters a healthy, sustainable community for its workers and the environment through thoughtful stewardship of the land and property using regenerative agriculture.
PEOPLE - Analemma Wines, a partnership between vigneron Steven Thompson and Kris Fade, sits amidst the Mosier Valley, part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in Mosier, Oregon. Founded in 2010, Analemma employs biodynamic farming, composted teas and herbs and manure derived from their 4-cow herd. Analemma also encourages biodiversity, incorporating a sweet cherry orchard, grasslands, and oaks amidst the vines.
VINEYARDS - Analemma Wines source from three sites: Mosier Hill Estate, their own 52-acre biodynamic vineyard planted on river stones and granitic glacial erratics. They also source from Oak Ridge Vineyard which has alpine and volcanic soils. Since 2010, the winery also leases and grows Gewürztraminer and Pinot Noir on historic, high-altitude Atavus Vineyard.
WINES - Thoughtfully crafted, deftly balanced still and sparkling wines, some wrought from unconventional varieties and aging vessels, all alive with an energetic core reflective of the region’s craggy clash between maritime and continental climates.
T Columbia Gorge Mosier Hills Estate Blanco 2019
SLOW WINE 1 Viognier, Albariño, Godello; 350 cs; $ 36b - A masterful balance between seductive orange blossom, jasmine, and yellow fruit notes, and a flinty stone, star fruit, and mineral core.
Columbia Gorge Mosier Hills Estate Mencia 2019 2 250 cs; $ 42 - d - A lean, exotic wine redolent with notes of cinnamon, allspice myrrh, nutmeg and red currant
Columbia Gorge Mosier Hills Estate Syrah 2019 2 180 cs; $ 48 - d - A surprising, light-bodied wine, replete with heady aromatics, and notes of rich red fruit, baking spices, and savory white pepper that linger on the finish.
Antiquum Farm was founded by Stephen and Niki Hagen in 1996 as a model of sustainable agriculture and an all-encompassing food system.
PEOPLE - The Hagen family keeps dogs, sheep, pigs, goats, geese, ducks, turkeys, and chickens. All aid with grape growing in one form or another, and some of the animals also provide meat that is available through a farm share and will eventually be available for consumption in the property’s charming tasting room.
VINEYARDS - A former garden designer who grew up on a farm near his present-day home, Stephen started farming the property with draft horses to keep his carbon footprint low and lower soil compaction. He has since moved to a grazing-based viticulture system, where a series of hooved and feathered animals work together to maintain a permanent cover crop. This system requires no tilling, which stabilizes the microbiome of individual plants and the property as a whole. The result is fruit with incredible acid retention and low pH levels that reaches phenolic ripeness at consistent times from year to year.
WINES - Antiquum Farm’s grazing-based viticulture program makes it a model of carbon sequestration and sustainable agriculture, while also allowing winemaker Andrew Bandy-Smith to creatively showcase the beauty and terroir of the estate’s fruit.
Passiflora Pinot Noir 2019 2 250 cs; $ 68 - c - Made with 667 and Wadenswil clones planted at the highest reaches of Antiquum’s vineyard, this exceptional wine exhibits flavors of dried mango, red plum, cranberry, blueberry and rose.
Willamette Valley Luxuria Pinot Noir 2019 2 150 cs; $ 85 - c - This wine comes from lower-elevation fruit that produces a dark, brooding drink full of blackberry, new leather, pepper and clove.
Willamette Valley Aurosa Pinot Gris 2019 3 320 cs; $ 30 - c - After spending 72 hours on the skins, this blushing wine explodes with aromas of apple blossom, melon, lemon skin and gravel.
