This week’s wines come to us from  Coquelicot Esates in Santa Barbara County. The name Coquelicot is French for the striking red poppy flower that graces all the labels on of their wines. The 58 acre vineyard, from which the wines are produced,  is an organically farmed property in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. Our tasting panel offers reviews of a selection of their current releases.

 

Grape(s): Sangiovese

Region: Santa Barbara County

Year: 2007

Special Designation: (none)

Price: N/A

Review:

A lovely nose offers aromas of cranberries, cherries, a suggestions of oak, and bit of spicy herbs. A sip reveals flavors of cranberry and cherry accented by a bit of cocoa, earth, and herbs. The wine is brighter than many California Sangioveses (and more reminiscent of their counterparts from Italy), making it very food friendly. Enjoy with your favorite Italian fare.

Rating: 90

Character: medium-bodied, bright fruit, balanced tannins

 

Grape(s): Pinot Noir

Region: Santa Barbara County

Year: 2009

Special Designation: (none)

Price: 25-30

Review:

A bouquet of cherries, plums, and sweet spice, along with hints of bacon and marmalade greet the senses. Flavors of black cherry and plum flow into notes of springtime flowers and anise on the palate. A lush, more elegant wine, it’s ideal for fans of well-balanced, softer Pinots.

Rating: 92

Character: dark fruit, light tannins, smooth mouthfeel

 

Grape(s): Syrah & Viognier

Region: Santa Barbara County

Year: 2008

Special Designation: Sixer

Price: 30-35

Review:

Cherry, strawberry and raspberry aromas are accented by notes of bacon on the nose. The same red berry flavors mingle with smoked meat and spice on the palate. A lighter wine that’s still rich with layers, it strikes a wonderful balance between heartier flavors and sweet fruit. Try a bottle if you’re a fan of Pinots and want something similar yet a bit different.

Rating: 91

Character: dark fruit, light tannins, smooth mouthfeel

 

Grape(s): Syrah

Region: Santa Barbara County

Year: 2007

Special Designation: Black Oak

Price: 40-45

Review:

Notes of blackberries and plums meld with suggestions of pepper and smoked meat on the nose. Flavors of currants and blackberries unfold into hints of smoked meat, pepper, and earth on the palate. A dark, slightly earthy wine with a medium-body, it’s not too fruity. So if you enjoy wines that are more robust and less fruit-driven, this is a bottle for you.

Rating: 88

Character: dark fruit, supple mouthfeel, balanced tannins