Inspired by Alsace and committed to sustainable farming, Claiborne & Churchill is a family-owned winery located along California’s Central Coast in the Edna Valley. Founded in 1983 after Claiborne Thompson and Fredericka Churchill left their positions at the University of Michigan, they focus on making bright, balanced wines that are sure to win over plenty of fans.
Claiborne & Churchill 2014 Dry Gewurztraminer
Grape(s): 100% Gewurztraminer
Region: Central Coast, Ca
Price: 20-25
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of lychee fruits, pears, citrus fruits, and spring flowers rises up from a glass. The palate delivers flavors of peach, lychee fruit, and key lime that interweave with suggestions of white blossoms and sweet spice. A bright wine with a refreshing acidity, open a bottle with chicken korma. 1,550 cases were made.
Rating: 90
Claiborne & Churchill 2014 Dry Riesling
Grape(s): 100% Riesling
Region: Central Coast, Ca
Price: 20-25
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of pears, peaches, and grapefruits meld with allusions of sweet spice and honeysuckle on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of green apple, peach, and grapefruit that flow into undertones of white flowers and baking spice. With a lively, crisp character, a veggie stir fry would be a fine companion. 1,497 cases produced.
Rating: 90
Claiborne & Churchill 2014 Pinot Gris
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Gris
Region: Arroyo Grande Valley, Ca
Price: 20-25
Tasting Notes:
Fragrances of peaches, pears, melons, and minerals greet the senses. The palate offers flavors of pear, peach, and honeydew, which are accented by hints of minerals and baking spice. Fairly round for a Pinot Gris with a friendly acidity, match it up with pork chops. 458 cases were made.
Rating: 89
Claiborne & Churchill 2014 Estate Pinot Noir
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Edna Valley, Ca
Price: 30-35
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of cherries, raspberries, and plums combine with elements of cola, floral earth, and spice on the nose. Flavors of bing cherry, strawberry, and raspberry open up into sassafras root, white pepper, and floral hints. Offering bright red fruit flavors with supple tannins, enjoy a glass with a wild mushroom risotto. 787 cases produced.
Rating: 90
Claiborne & Churchill 2014 Twin Creeks Pinot Noir
Grape(s): 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Edna Valley, Ca
Price: 40-45
Tasting Notes:
Strawberry and cherry aromas combine with undertones of floral earth and all-spice on the nose. Cherries, plums, and strawberries intermingle with rosemary, sweet spice, and minerals on the palate. A welcoming acidity and lively fruit make this wine a fine match for grilled salmon. 959 cases were made.
Rating: 91