The Livemore Valley, as a growing region, hasn’t received the notoriety it deserves. While the region has taken positive steps with Cabernet, with several wineries in the Valley earning prestigious awards, only a select group of people really understand the quality of the Rhone varieties from the area. Collin Cranor, winemaker at Nottingham Cellars is doing his best to help spread the word. He recently released a traditional Rhone-Style blend, a Syrah, and a Petite Sirah all produced from Livermore Valley fruit, as well as a Vioginer from Monterey County. The reds are a testament to the world class Rhone-Style wines the Valley can produce and fans of the varieties should really take notice.

Winery: Nottingham Cellars

Grape(s): Syrah 57%, Mourvedre 28%, Grenache 15%

Special Designation: Awakening

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2010

Price: 35-40

Review:

Aromas of cherries and plums meld with highlights of leather, earth, and spice on the nose. Flavors of cherry, plum, and raspberry are accented by notes of smoked meat and pepper on the palate. A wine with rich, hearty flavors that’s still quite smooth, if you enjoy a nice balance of red fruit, leather, and spice, this is a wine for you.

Rating: 91

Winery: Nottingham Cellars

Grape(s): Syrah

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2010

Price: 35-40

Review:

Aromatics of smoked bacon, pepper, and dark fruit greet the senses. The palate delivers flavors of bramble fruit and plum along with highlights of very dark chocolate, smoky earth, and spice. A rich, Syrah that delivers concentrated fruit with a nice balance of heartier flavors. If you enjoy more robust wines, this is a must try.

Rating: 90

Winery: Nottingham Cellars

Grape(s): Petite Sirah 97& Cabernet 3%

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2010

Price: 35-40

Review:

A bouquet of blueberries, cherries, and blackberries with accents of leather and spice rises up from a glass. A sip unfurls flavors of blackberry and blueberry along with highlights of dark chocolate, spice, leather, and earth. A hearty, concentrated red, tri-tip or ribs would make excellent pairings.

Rating: 90

Winery: Nottingham Cellars

Grape(s): Vioginer

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2010

Price: 25-30

Review:

Aromatics of pineapple, orange, melon, and floral notes rise up from a glass. Tropical fruit and orange blossoms with a few accents of sweet spice emerge on the palate. A welcoming acidity and a nice balance of flavors make this a an very approachable white. 150 cases produced.

Rating: 88