Maple Creek Winey is located along the twists and turns of Highway 128 that cuts a path through the Yorkville Highlands. There, winemaker Tom Rodrigues loves to paint, and he makes use of that artistic talent to create the images on his “Artevino” and estate wine labels. Of course, Tom also has a real artistic touch with his wines. Here’s what our tasting panel had to say about a few of his current offerings:
Maple Creek 2012 Chardonnay
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Region: Mendocino County
Price: 30-35
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of golden apples, ripe pears, and toasty vanilla greets the senses. The palate reveals flavors of baked pear and tart apple accented by suggestions of caramel and creamy oak. A crisp, mouth-filling Chardonnay with a welcoming acidity, it would complement a lobster bisque nicely. 320 cases produced.
Rating: 90
Maple Creek 2007 Merlot
Grape(s): 100% Merlot
Region: Mendocino County
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of bramble fruit and cherries come together with a hints of earth and toasty oak on the nose. Flavors of black cherry, plum, and blackberry meld with notes of earth and cedar on the palate. A smooth Merlot with plush tannins, fans of rather dry, slightly earthy reds should try this bottle. 191 cases were made.
Rating: 89
Maple Creek “Artevino” 2012 Weir Vineyard Pinot Noir
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Mendocino County
Price: 45-50
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of plums and cherries mingle with nuances of earth and sweet spice on the nose. Black cherry, plum, and strawberry flavors unfold into suggestions of cola, minerals, and cinnamon on the palate. A light, bright Pinot Noir, enjoy a bottle with a mushroom risotto. 160 cases produced.
Rating: 89