At Valley of the Moon, they don’t think of their wines as a commodity, simply bottles to be sold. Instead, their philosophy is to craft wines that embody a senses of place, that show off the unique character of Sonoma. That mandate has served them well; just taste their wines and discover for yourself.
Valley of the Moon 2013 Blend 41
Grape(s): 44% Zinfandel, 24% Syrah, 18% Barbera, 8% Merlot, 4% Petite Sirah, & 2% Sangiovese
Region: Sonoma County, California
Price: 20-25
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of blackberries, plums, cherries, and spice greets the senses. The palate showcases flavors of dark cherry, blackberry jam, and cassis that flow into notes of all-spice and oak. Supple tannins and ample dark fruit make this wine a fine companion for BBQ pulled pork.
Rating: 89
Valley of the Moon 2013 Zinfandel
Grape(s): 97% Zinfandel & 2% Petite Sirah
Region: Sonoma County, California
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of blackberries, plums, and black cherries intermingle with traces of pepper and sweet spice. A sip reveals flavors of bramble fruit, dark cherry, and plum, along with elements of black pepper and clove. A nice balance of fruit and spice make this a very compelling Zin.
Rating: 90
Valley of the Moon 2014 Chardonnay
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Region: Sonoma County, California
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
Fragrances of tropical fruits, golden apples, and toasty vanilla rise up from a glass. Passion fruit, guava, and apple flavors emerge on the palate, accented by creamy, toasty suggestions. A pleasant acidity and balanced barrel influence make this an inviting Chardonnay.
Rating: 90
Valley of the Moon 2014 Pinot Noir
Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay
Region: Sonoma County, California
Price: 20-25
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of cherries, strawberries, and plums coalesce with allusions of bacon and clove on the nose. Lots of cherry, strawberry, and raspberry flavors come together with expressions of sweet spice, rose petal, and earth on the palate. Plush tannins and a balanced acidity make this an ideal wine to pair with grilled salmon.
Rating: 89
Valley of the Moon 2014 Pinot Blanc
Grape(s): 91% Pinot Blanc & 9% Chardonnay
Region: Sonoma County, California
Price: 15-20
Tasting Notes:
The nose offers notes of tropical and orchard fruits. A sip reveals flavors of mango, apple, and pineapple that open up into nuances of honey and white flowers. Fairly round with a pleasant acidity and slight sweetness, it’s a very approachable wine.
Rating: 89
Valley of the Moon 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
Grape(s): 86% Cabernet, 8% Malbec, 4% Merlot, 1% Cab Franc, & 1% Petite Verdot
Region: Sonoma County, California
Price: 25-30
Tasting Notes:
Blackberry, currant, and dark cherry aromas mingle with hints of oak and spice on the nose. Black cherry, bramble fruit, and plum flavors come forth on the palate, alongside suggestions of cocoa and toasty oak. Firmly structured, the wine may open up more after a few years in the cellar, but if you’re not that patient, pair it with a roast beef.
Rating: 88