I was compelled to make a Moroccan Beef Stew, a hearty dish to go with a bold wine. I'm a big fan of the Instant Pot, and it's what I used in making this.
It's an austere, no-nonsense wine, with a soft nose and hints of rhubarb. I made my Prosciutto, goat cheese and fig tarts to pair with this wine and they matched very nicely.
Most are on a first-name basis with Mel and to boot, seem to know the names of other patrons. And if they don’t, it doesn’t take long before everyone is talking, laughing and comparing notes on the wines.
Laura called it beautiful and full-bodied. Jan said it was very nice with a great nose and balance. Kim loved the nose and softness, but not the $45 price. I loved the violet color and mouthfeel. Jim called it a keeper. It scored better than four stars.
The fruit simply exploded from the glass. I thought this was an exceptional wine. Ken called it "luscious all the way through." Sue called it the perfect Merlot.
Diane and Ken Wilson own the Wilson Artisan Wineries as well as the Grape Leaf Inn. There are eight wineries all totaled and I visited three of them, starting with Matrix Winery. Formerly Rabbit Ridge Winery, the Wilsons purchased the property in 2007.
I had seen Phil Baily earlier and he sent me off with a bottle of his Baily Winery 2008 M & M, 60% Merlot/40% Malbec blend. Tony wasn't shy with his opinion: "Super great nose!Awesome taste! Drinks like a $100 bottle."
From Sonoma County we meandered to Spain via the 2010 Robaliño Albariño from Rias Baixas. Albariño is a delightful Spanish varietal and this one didn't disappoint.
