House Wines of Sonoma County

In the southwest corner of the Californian Wine Country lies Sonoma County. The area is known for producing distinctly, superb wines, and is one of the top producers of wine grapes, out ranking the better known Napa Valley. With numerous wineries, many of which host tours and tastings as well as other recreations, touring these lands is a treat. While you are there, stock up on these recommend favorites.

The 2007 Vitner's Reserve Chardonnay from the Kendall Jackson Vineyard Estate starts with a light aroma of green apples and honey. The light golden color captures the light as the glass is raised. The first flavor to capture your attention is crisp apple, followed by sweet melons, pineapple and toasted nuts. This barrel-fermented wine has a silky mouthfeel, and a lingering taste. At fifteen dollars a bottle, this is an excellent wine to serve with your favorite white fish plate, or a light salad with fruit.

Cline Ancient Vines produces an outstanding Mourvedre. Bottled in 2007, this full-bodied red wine boast hints of minty bay leaves and a strong blackberry and plum taste with chocolate overtones. With soft tannins, a hint of pepper and a smooth mouthfeel, this wine is best served with darker meats, tenderloin, and dark chocolates, and is guaranteed to bring out the smoky flavor of any grilled food, be it meat or vegetables.

Pinot Blanc is probably one of the "lesser appreciated wines". Valley of the Moon Winery has provided wine lovers with a 2007 Pinot Blanc that might change some minds. The light honeysuckle aroma is appealing. The taste of kiwi and pear lingers on the palate and finishes with a hint of tangerine. There is a slight mineral undertone. This wine is best served with a seafood pasta dish.

B.R. Cohn has a wine that many are talking about. With a delicate combination of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvede, the 2008 Rose is a sweet, fruity wine with a smell of honeysuckle and raspberry, but drifts into peach and nectarine overtones, and finishes dry with a touch of spice. This is the perfect summer wine. It is best when served slightly chilled, with shrimp or grilled chicken.

Finally, you can't mention Sonoma wines without mentioning Ravenswood Winery. Their Sonoma County Merlot is a consistent, velvety smooth, rich red wine. The first sip carries a smoky hint that eases into a taste of olives, plums and cherries, then finishes with a touch of licorice. You must close your eyes and savor while sipping this wine, there is simply no other option.

But Ravenswoods is best known for their Zinfandels. Their 2006 Vintner's Blend Californian Zinfindel is probably the best known, and most appreciated across the board. While mostly raspberry and spice with a good oak backbone, this wine can also boast a heavy red cherry presence. Full-bodied yet delicate on the tongue, this Zinfandel can be enjoyed with any meal.

There is little doubt that Somona County produces some of the top wines in the world. With varying soils and atmosphere, many flavors are unique to this area. Be sure to pick up a bottle the next time you are out. You might find a new favorite to add to your growing cellar.

www.kj.com
www.clinecellars.com
www.valleyofthemoonwinery.com
www.brcohn.com
www.ravenswood-wine.com