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At Mitchell Katz Winery, the focus is on producing single vineyard wines. Owner and winemaker Mitch Katz has formed relationships with growers throughout the Livermore Valley, many of whom he’s worked with for years, and looks to showcase the literal fruits of their labor vintage after vintage.
Here what our tasting panel thought about a few of the winery’s current releases:
Mitchell Katz 2011 Shadow Hills Vineyard Chardonnay
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Region: Livermore Valley
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of apple, mango, and creamy oak meld with nutty suggestions on the nose. Flavors of green apple, peach, and crisp pear are accented by notes of vanilla, grain, and creamy oak on the palate. A supple, buttery Chardonnay that still offers a pleasing acidity, it will pair nicely with creamy sauces. 1,100 cases produced.
Rating: 89
Mitchell Katz 2009 Falling Star Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Grape(s): 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Livermore Valley
Price: 50-55
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of blackberries, blueberries, and plums mingle with hints of minerals and oak on the nose. The palate delivers flavors of blueberry, plum, and cherry along with suggestions of cedar and earth. An easy-going Cabernet with plush tannins, fans of fruit-driven reds ought to give this bottle a try. 100 cases were made.
Rating: 87
Mitchell Katz 2010 Crackerbox Vineyard Sangiovese
Grape(s): 100% Sangiovese
Region: Livermore Valley
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of dark berries, all-spice, herbs, and cocoa greet the senses. A sip delivers flavors of cherry, raspberry, and blackberry that unfold into suggestions of caramel and clove. Not a typical Sangiovese, with lush red fruit and notes of sweet spice, it will pair better with glazed ham than Italian fare. Try a bottle if you are looking for something different. 300 cases produced.
Rating: 89
