by Howie Hart » Sat Jun 30, 2012 8:58 am
I bought this during my stop in Santa Cruz, on the way back from Hawaii in April. The winery is located in a small industrial park in Santa Cruz, that has a few other excellent wineries and a great bakery (sourdough). I chatted with the owner, who is a few years my senior, for a hour or so. He owns vineyards in the Napa Valley, but likes the Santa Cruz area much more, so that is where is winery is located. I think I paid about $35 for this wine - 14.7% abv. Very deep ruby color, nose with lots of red fruit and a touch of leather. The alcohol did not seem overwhelming. Long full finish, hitting everywhere in the mouth and not overly tannic. Not really a fruit bomb, as it had good balance. It went well with pan-seared steak, fresh corn-on-the-cob, home made bread and salad. As an aside, the owner also owns property on the Big Island in Hawaii and also sells coffee he grows there. I bought some of that - amazing stuff, sold under the name of Diamond Head.
Chico - Hey! This Bottle is empty!
Groucho - That's because it's dry Champagne.