de terria

De Tierra Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery focused on producing handcrafted wines from Monterey County in California. As their name, meaning ‘of the land,’ clearly implies, they strive to showcase the distinctive character and cool microclimates of the region. Thus, their grapes are sourced from a handful of select sites with favorable yet unique soils. The goal is for each and every wine to provide the best representation of the one-of-a-kind flavors of Monterey County.

DT_09-Pinot

De Tierra 2009 Pinot Noir

Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir

Region: Monterey County, Ca

Price: 25-30

Tasting Notes:

Aromas of cherries, plums, and raspberries meld with notes of coffee, earth, and caramel on the nose. A sip delivers flavors of raspberry, plum, and black cherry that open up into suggestions of toasty clove, roast coffee, and fresh minerals. A smooth, layered Pinot, with ample red fruit, enjoy a bottle with roast chicken or duck. 700 cases produced.

Rating: 90

D

De Tierra 2012 “The Puzzler” Red Blend

Grape(s): Syrah & Merlot

Region: Monterey County, Ca

Price: 25-30

Tasting Notes:

Fragrances of blackberries, cherries, and strawberries mingle with nuances of spice on the nose. Flavors of bramble fruit, strawberry, and cherry emerge on the palate along with suggestions of white pepper. A supple red with rich tannins, pair a bottle with grilled lamb chops. 117 cases were made.

Rating: 89

DT_2009 Merlot (2)

De Tierra 2009 Merlot

Grape(s): 100% Merlot

Region: Monterey County, Ca

Price: 25-30

Tasting Notes:

Aromatics of black cherries and plums wrap around traces of roses, mocha, and earth on the nose. Blackberry, cherry, and plum flavors unfurl into notes of coffee, creamy oak, and floral suggestions on the palate. A bright Merlot with a welcoming acidity, try a bottle if you enjoy lively, dry reds. 360 cases were made.

Rating: 89

DT_2011_CH_Russell_Estate

De Tierra 2011 “Russel Estate” Chardonnay

Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County, Ca

Price: 35-40

Tasting Notes:

A bouquet of pear, golden apple, and caramel greets the senses. The palate reveals flavors of pear and tropical fruit accented by hints of vanilla bean and creamy oak. A crisp, mouth-filling wine, fans of rich Chardonnay ought to give this bottle a try. 137 cases produced.

Rating: 88