I first tasted them at the Family Winemakers of California event earlier this year in Pasadena. Their 2010 "Chileano" Tempranillo was first up. Chris liked the deep ruby color, dark berry and cherry, balanced tannic structure and long smooth finish.
Kim called it a big, bold California style wine and enjoyed the blend. It sells for $38. Last up was Bel Vino's 2011 Zinfandel. Tony said it was like a spicy Tootsie Roll. "Yum!" Brain said "I like this. It's soft and coats the tongue with a velvety dark fruit. The Barry Manilow of wine."
I looked forward to trying the new 2012 Pinot from Frost Watch in Sonoma County, after being blown away two years ago with a barrel sample of the 2010 vintage. The 2012 was also extremely impressive. It was also a treat to meet and visit with Monty Paulsen, son of the late Pat Paulsen, who is carrying on his dad's legacy as winemaker and promoter for Pat Paulsen Vineyards.
The Grand Tasting , the a culmination of a weeklong city-wide event focusing on engaging, educational and unique winemaker panels and testing seminars, was held at Windfall Farms, a 724-acre thoroughbred horse farm east of Paso Robles. The farm has a Kentucky- style feel with white walls, red brick and steeples.
Karsten prepared a roasted butternut squash soup with citrus /mint/chili pesto to pair with the wine. The nose was modest, but on the palate it was crisp with notes of lemon and grapefruit.
This was a flawed wine, scoring 11.5 points out of a possible 60. Comments ranged from "Yuck! Toss it!" to "I get burning tyres. (Brian is British) And the mailman's used rubber bands. Actually not nice."
Just last night we gathered again, friends with food, wine and cheer for our last wine tasting of the year.
Prior tastings, however, took place that I need t...
