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Sonoma Country’s Dry Creek Valley is one of the premier grape growing regions in California. The area may be most famous for its Zinfandels, but there are a wide range of varieties that do very well in the valley. This month we will survey a handful of the area’s producers and their delightful offerings. We start with one of the region’s largest and best known wineries: Dry Creek Vineyard.
Dry Creek Vineyard 2012 Sauvignon Blanc
Grape(s): 90% Sauvignon Blanc & 10% Sauvignon Musqué
Region: Dry Creek Valley
Price: 10-15
Review:
A bouquet of honeydew, grapefruit, and fresh cut grass greets the senses. A sip offers flavors of grapefruit, lime, and melon along with hints of honey and minerals. A bright, refreshing wine that’s very approachable, pair it with grilled citrus chicken or shrimp cocktail and enjoy.
Rating: 89
Dry Creek Vineyard 2010 Old Vine Zinfandel
Grape(s): 89% Zinfandel & 11% Petite Sirah
Region: Dry Creek Valley
Price: 25-30
Review:
Aromas of blackberries, plum, and black cherry meld with suggestions of white pepper and perfume on the nose. The palate offers flavors of blackberry, raspberry, and cherry with accents of pepper and cardamom. A rich, robust wine that offers a nice balance of fruity and spicy flavors, Zin lovers will enjoy it very much.
Rating: 90
Dry Creek Vineyard 2009 ‘The Mariner’ Meritage Blend
Grape(s): 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 10% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot, & 5% Cabernet Franc
Region: Dry Creek Valley
Price: 40-45
Review:
Aromatics of bramble fruit and cassis mingle with hints of toasty oak on the nose. Flavors of blackberry, cherry, and currant unfold into notes of coffee, vanilla, and spice. A supple, nicely structured wine that will continue to develop in the cellar, fans of reds with rich tannins will enjoy this now. Pair a bottle with your favorite cut of beef.
Rating: 89
