No trip to Northern California would be complete without visiting some of the wineries that the area is famous for! JC and I stopped by three different wineries for a sampling of the local wines and a taste of the land.
The first stop we made came by way of a recommendation and was the Benzinger Family Winery, which has just over 80 acres of vineyards situated in a small valley backing onto Sonoma Mountain.
In addition to wine, JC and I ordered a cheese sampler and some prosciutto – OMG the cheese was delicious – seriously, some of the best I’ve ever had! Good wine, good cheese, good weather, and good company = awesome day!
Wines Sampled:
2012 Sauvignon Blanc, Frank Johnson Vineyard -Brimming with citrus aromas of lime and grapefruit, this wine has a nice soft entry, which carries through the center palate with a vibrant, fresh, crisp finish.
2011 Appellation Series Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast “Wente” Clone -The southern end of Sonoma is a naturally cool climate which produces wines with crisp acidity and fresh citrus flavors. On the palate, experience flavors of ripe peach, pear and pineapple. Its extended lees contact gives the wine its weighty texture and body.
2010 Signaterra Pinot Noir, San Remo -2010 San Remo has initial aromas of spice and nutmeg. In the mouth the wine has a rich red fruit quality with refreshing bright red cherry, raspberry, and strawberry fl avors, indicative of the cooler growing season.
2009 Sonoma Valley Syrah – This rich, supple and complex Syrah is full-bodied, with generous depth and length. Flavors are reminiscent of boysenberry jam, dark plum, toast, spicy oak and tobacco.
2007 Benziger Dry Creek Valley Port – (Sweet, but SO DELICIOUS!!!!) Sonoma Valley port is excellent paired alongside raspberry cheesecake, molten chocolate cake, or even mild blue cheese. Sold in 500ml bottles.
The grounds…
