Vie comes from the Old French word meaning “to invite” or “to give occasion for”. But, in French today, it is simply translated “life”. So if you’re in San Francisco, visit the winery’s tasting room on Treasure Island and celebrate life and wine, as the offerings we sampled from them were all excellent.
Vie 2014 “Belle-Amie” Rosé
Grape(s): Grenache, Mourvedre, & Syrah
Region: Lake County, Ca
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of raspberries, cherries, watermelon, and herbs greets the senses. The palate delivers flavors of bright red berries and pomegranate that unfold into hints of white pepper, minerals, and grass. A friendly acidity and ample fruit, make this a lovely wine to sip on a warm evening. 100 cases produced.
Rating: 90
Vie 2012 “L’Intruse” Mouvedre
Grape(s): 94% Mourvedre, 4% Syrah, & 2% Grenache
Region: Lake County, Ca
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of cherries, boysenberries, and plums combine with notes of Italian Seasoning and chocolate on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of bramble fruit and cherry that open up into traces of spice, herbs, and dark chocolate. With bright fruit and supple tannins, it would make a fine match with gamy meats. 125 cases were made.
Rating: 90
Vie 2012 “Las Madres Vineyard” Syrah
Grape(s): 100% Syrah
Region: Sonoma County, Ca
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
Fragrances of blueberries, black cherries, smoked paprika, and smoked meat rises up from a glass. The palate offers flavors of cherry, blueberry, and raspberry that combine with highlights of spice, bacon, and herbs. Layered and vibrant with balanced tannins, Rhone lovers will find a lot to like here. 150 cases produced.
Rating: 91
Vie 2012 “Thompson Vineyard” Syrah
Grape(s): 100% Syrah
Region: Santa Barbara County, Ca
Price: 40-45
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of bramble fruits, red currants, and plums are accented by hints of bacon, cedar, and vanilla on the nose. Flavors of blackberry, cherry, and red currant meld with notes of all-spice, smoky oak, and game. Hearty flavors are balanced by lush fruit, making this a very inviting wine. 100 cases were made.
Rating: 91
Vie 2012 “White Hawk Vineyard” Syrah
Grape(s): 97% Syrah & 3% Viognier
Region: Santa Barbara County, Ca
Price: 40-45
Tasting Notes:
Blackberry, currant, and plum mingle with traces of pepper, cedar, and game on the nose. With a sip, flavors of blackberries, boysenberries, and currants interweave among nuances of spice, smoke, and minerals. Lively with complex, robust flavors, enjoy a bottle with lamb burgers fresh from the grill. 100 cases produced.
Rating: 92