Exciting to be in Napa for a 3rd visit. It’s been
quite busy and a really active visit. And it’s not even over yet
1. 1. Luna Winery
I first stopped at Luna Winery just at the entrance of Oak
Knoll. Italian inspiration. They stood out for growing Sangiovese grapes
imported from Itality in Napa. Left with some Classico Sangiovese.
2.
2. Reynolds Winery
After driving a little further ended up on the right at
Reynold’s winery. The team there was especially nice and you can taste outside
and indoors. They really stood out for their darker and boldier Pinot Noir. But
what was really special was their Quote blend made without sulfites but with an
Ozone ( O3) process. Very fruity and flavorful. Also really liked their 100%
Petit Verdot which tasted surprisingly like a really nice Cabernet Sauvignon.
3. 3. Grgich Hills Winery
After a nice lunch at Rutherford Grill, as usual, moved on
to Grgich Hills winery not far from the restaurant on the left. It is on the
main road and very popular. The owner is of Croatian origin and they have a
nice board showing Napa’s wine history. Nice wines but a little pricey. Left
with a 100% Petit Verdot from here too, mostly as an educational wine showing
the tannins power in a Petit Verdot while keeping the wine still very pleasant.
4.
4. Heitz Winery
Continued with the Heitz Winery. I had a bottle of their
Cabernet Sauvignon in Capital Grill at a very reasonable price and really
wanted to try their collection. Was not disappointed. They had some 1998 Cab
single vineyard which had a unique minty nose and body. The mint aroma I had
never had before especially in a red wine could potentially come from a lot of
eucalyptus trees around the vineyard. And what stood out for me was also their
port made with the original port grapes , a whole mix of 5 or so grapes, from
Portugal. Not cheap, but they do make ½ bottles and their 750ml bottles are
still reasonable. Maybe a trip to Port in Portugal is worth it.
5. C5. Corasin Winery
Finished with a unique visit at Corasin winery. It is on
reservation only but I was exceptionally welcomed in by Nolan who also opened
up their wine collection for a taste. They have a TINY, and by that I mean TINY
offering and the entire vineyard is in the back of the winery. They are known
for pickcing their grapes early in the season. And you couldn’t tell from the
wine color. Unique wines worth the experience but certainly on the expensive
side.
No comments:
Post a Comment