Pedroncelli Scores in California Competitions
At the recent Santa Barbara showing of California wines that I attended, the person with the biggest smile on his face was Mark Abraham of Pedroncelli, in the Dry Creek Valley of Sonoma, shown in the accompanying photo. Mark was showing a cluster of his newest releases that virtually swept the competition at the recent LA and Orange County Fairs.
He was especially happy at the performance of his 2006 Zinfandel Rose, which scored on top in San Francisco and Riverside International Wine Competitions ($7.99). The timing could not have been better. With the warmest time of the year here, a cold glass of a beautifully colored, refreshing Rose is just what is needed on a hot summer afternoon.
I am familiar with this 80-year old family owned vineyard, tucked away on the slopes of Geyserville. The brothers Pedroncelli, John and Jim, are 2nd generation winemakers, following in their father’s footsteps by making beautiful Zinfandel, especially “Mother Clone” Zin from 100 year old vines, the latest of which is the 2004 ($13.99). It too has done well in competition, taking gold at the Tasters Guild International Competition and silver at LA and Riverside County Fairs.
Abraham, the sales manager at Pedroncelli marvels at how, in the 80 years in the wine business, the winery keeps re-inventing itself with innovative brands.
“John and Jim are taking what they have to another level of wine making. They are getting away from the French style of wine and putting in more of a fruit-style of wine.Take our Zinfandel Rose as an example. It’s a 100% Zin that’s aged in stainless steel until that rose color is achieved, then it’s bottled. You get strong aromas of strawberry and rose petal. You taste black cherry, vanilla and nectarine flavors. It’s versatile in that it pairs well with summer BBQ chicken or burgers, and especially grilled salmon.” I would add that it showed crisp acidity and a fresh Zin flavor that is thirst-quenching. It has just enough sweetness to give it a full fruit flavor, yet is dry enough to beg for food… a master stroke.
You’ve got to get it good and cold to refrigerator temperature, for a crisp, luscious taste.Dry Creek Sonoma, where these wines came from, is widely recognized as one of California’s most productive areas for wine. Up in the north end of Sonoma, this AVA is just 25 miles from the ocean, with warm days and cool nights with evening fog. The Pedroncelli estate has over 100 acres in the valley’s hillsides where the well-drained gravelly soils help with the concentrated flavors, known to lovers of Zinfandel.
Wine Tastings Sure to Please
• Falkner Viognier 2005 ($19.95). Ray Falkner of Temecula Wine Country saw my article on Viognier last week and mentioned that his Viognier captured gold recently in Long Beach at the Grand Cru (Chairman’s Best of Class). Another reason to put Viognier on your wine list.
• Silver Oak Alexander Valley Sonoma Cabernet 2003 ($59.99). Newest release from the legendary Cab makers. Introduced by Wine Street Carlsbad.
• L’Ecole Columbia Valley Washington 2004 ( $29.99). Also showcased by Wine Street, beautiful blackberry mouthfeel. A smart value.
• Byron Santa Maria Pinot Noir 2004 ($25). Best of a recent tasting at the Westgate Hotel, downtown San Diego, lots of earthiness, rich aromas of red plum. Silky feel on the palate.
• Baily Temecula Valley Estate Meritage 2002 ($30). Phil Baily is one of the early pioneers in Temecula. He loves to do Bordeaux style wines. This one has 58% cab, 32% cab franc and 10% merlot. 35 months in French oak!
• Felipe Rutini Argentina Malbec 2004 ($12). From the Mendoza growing area. Smooth tannins, accented aroma. A Wine Spectator “Smart Buy.”The Local Sip
Vino 100 in San Marcos and the Quail Restaurant in San Marcos are joining forces for a “Wine & Amuse Bouche Pairing.” The last one proved to be fun and brought a large turnout so the next event will be Thursday August 23 at 6:30pm. Six different wines will match up with six small portioned food pairings. $50 per person. Call 760-591-9113 for an RSVP.
***
Wine Loft in Carlsbad has a Paul Hobbs of Napa flight Thursday thru Sunday, August 23 to 26, then Thursday, August 30 they have a Rhone tasting. Call 760-944-1412 for times and cost.***
Morton’s Steakhouse at the Harbor Club, San Diego, presents their “Women of Spirit” wine event at 6:30pm on Tuesday, August 21, in partnership with the Red Cross. Women across America will be honored. Hanna Winery provides the wine. $150 per person. For info, call 619-696-3369.***
Friar’s Folly in San Marcos is really innovating with Girls Gone Wild Wednesdays and unique musical presentations. Wednesday, August 22nd, enjoy Milliesa Mcdonnell and her brand of rock music. 6-9pm. The 29th, Jerome Dawson moves in with Blues music. More details at 760-736-8035.Frank Mangio is a renowned wine connoisseur certified by Wine Spectator. Reach him at mangiompc@aol.com.
10631 Vinedale Street, Sun Valley, CA 91352 - Phone (818) 767-3413 - Fax: (818) 767-1410
