Occasio Winery, in the Livemore Valley, may have fairly small production, but they’re starting to get noticed in a big way. The folks at Occasio recently won three major categories at the 2012 ‪Livermore‬ Valley Uncorked Competition and earned rave reviews from Wine Enthusiast Magazine. After tasting through a number of the winery’s current releases, our panel had to agree that Occasio, and their winemaker John Kinney, are certainly worth keeping an eye on. More great things are bound to come.

 

Grape: Merlot

Winery: Occasico

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2009

Price: 30-35

Review:

Aromas of earth and dried herbs meld with notes of currants and blackberries on the nose. Flavors of dark berries and plum come together with dusty earth and Italian herbs on the palate. A fuller, more robust Merlot than many out there, perhaps it’s more reminiscent of Bordeaux than California. In any case, those who enjoy a nice balance of fruit and earth, along with a solid structure, should give this wine a try.

Rating: 90

Grape: Cabernet Franc

Winery: Occasico

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2009

Price: 45-50

Review:

Aromatics of blackberries and cherries mingle with suggestions of sweet spice and floral notes on the nose. A sip unfurls flavors of blackberry, plum, and cherry with accents of all-spice and earth. With concentrated fruit flavors framed by supple tannins, if you enjoy lighter, slightly earthy Cabernet Sauvignons, give this Cab Franc a try. Odds are you’ll be happy.

Rating: 90

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon

Winery: Occasico

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2009

Price: 35-40

Review:

The nose offers dark berry fruit accented by hints of smoke, vanilla, and earth. Blackberry and currants meld with suggestions of dusty earth and sweet spice on the palate. A fairly soft, elegant Cabernet that’s very approachable now, but still has the structure to age nicely. Fans of more elegant reds will enjoy this bottle very much. 250 cases produced.

Rating: 90

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon 50% & Petite Sirah 50%

Winery: Occasico

Region: Livermore Valley

Special Designation: Sotto Voce

Year: 2009

Price: 30-35

Review:

A blend of fruit from two distinct Livermore Valley vineyards, the wine offers aromas of blackberries and currants mingle with highlights of dark chocolate, sweet spice, and floral hints. A sip delivers flavors of black currants and bramble fruit along with suggestions of all-spice, coffee, and floral, earthy notes. A smoother red, with some heartier edges, if you enjoy a nice balance of fruit and non-fruit flavors, this is worth a try.

Rating: 88

Grape: Petite Sirah

Winery: Occasico

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2009

Price: 30-35

Review:

Sourced from Del Arroyo Vineyard, dense black fruit, leather, and a nice highlight of black pepper rise up from a glass. Blueberry, currant, and blackberry flavors mingle with notes of clove, spice, leather, and pie crust. A hearty Petite Sirah with smooth edges, fans of bold, rich reds will really enjoy this wine. 252 cases produced.

Rating: 90

Grape: Pinot Noir (rosé)

Winery: Occasico

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2011

Price: 20-25

Review:

Aromas of cranberries and cherries rise up from a glass accented by hints of sweet spice and herbs. Bright red berries emerge on the palate along with suggestions of springtime flowers and honey. A fairly crisp rosé, with bright fruit flavors and a smooth mouthfeel, it’s a fine wine for a warm summer afternoon.

Rating: 88