Man - it's cold outside. Snuggling up to a Calaveras red is the perfect anecdote. I've asked CWA wineries what is their most popular red wine to temper winter's icy grip. Check these out!
Beaux Chevaux - 2006 Beckman Zinfandel - Al Beckman was one of the first people to plant Zinfandel in the Calaveras wine resurgence, and his head-trained vines produce a wonderful food-friendly wine that pairs beautifully with steak, brisket, chili, and mom's (or dad's) meatloaf.
Bodega del Sur - 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (Gold medal, Best of Class of Region at the California State Fair 2009) This single-vineyard, 100% Cabernet has many layers of flavor - bright cherry-blueberry and mint combined with subtle oak and soft tannins - a wonderful choice for cold winter evenings.
Brice Station - Vintage Port - A great full-bodied drink to sip and unwind at the end of the day. It can be served warmed, room temperature or chilled with a twist of lime. Brice likes to serve it with a tray of dried cherries, apricots, salty almonds, cashews and dark chocolate.
Broll Vineyards - Petite Sirah, as it pairs well with all meats as well as hearty winter soups and entrees of any kind.
Chatom Vineyards - 2005 Syrah (Gold Medal winner) - This deliciously full-bodied Syrah is the perfect warming red with its intense black fruit aromas and subtle notes of oak combined with flavors of ripe black currants - a perfect partner for rich chocolate desserts and cozy fireside sipping.
Frog's Tooth - 2007 Meritage - This 70% Cab blend with 10% each of Malbec, Merlot and Petite Verdot exhibits wonderful black cherry flavors to complement any meat dish as we fortify our bodies for cold weather. (And the 2007 Tempranillo just won a Gold Medal at the San Francisco Competition!)
Ironstone Vineyards - 2008 Cabernet Franc - A blend of 95% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot, this wine is full of bright berry fruit and toasty vanillas, and flavors of cherry, raspberry and oak undertones. It's a great accompaniment to BBQ dishes, and sweet braised pork with pineapple and orange juices.
Newsome-Harlow - 2007 Syrah (new release) - This is a perfect winter red - VERY full-bodied with massive deep dark blackberry aromas and flavors, and pairs beautifully with beef, pasta, friends and family. This wine is released around the first of every year and is gone by early summer.
Renner Winery - 2005 Syrah (Silver Medal SF Wine Competition) - This is a triple award-winning red, combining the flavors of blackberry and plum with a spicy full-mouthed soft finish. This wine is a commendable successor to Renner's award-winning 2004 release.
Solomon Wine Company - Mingle Blend - By far, Solomon's value-priced Mingle blend from the Muse Winery brand is the favorite, welcoming guests in the tasting room heated with mulling spices. The "secret" spice recipe and packets for mulling the wine are included with every purchase.
Tanner Vineyards - 2006 Melange de Mere (Our Cab, Syrah, Petit Verdot blend) A winter favorite! Rich, elegant and complex with a dark berry, chocolate and spice nose, taste pepper, spice and ripe berries. Complements French lamb cassoulet, winter stews, a grilled juicy steak and Italian pasta dishes.
Twisted Oak - The Spaniard - Polled on Facebook, The Spaniard is the ideal wine to enjoy in front of a fire. It also goes well with food that can be cooked on a grill or open fire - and even s'mores! Comments include "Spaniard, period." "Spaniard rocks." "The Spaniard - hands down."
Vina Moda - 2007 Barbera - "Stilettos tap out an echoing rhythm on a spotlit wooden floor. Scarlet rose petals jump and dance with each vibration. The music joins the dancer's beat, then explodes like fireworks. Learn to listen with your soul, and just maybe, the Barbera will save the next dance for you."
-Jan Hovey, CWA blogger jhovey@goldrush.com
