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The folks at Seebass Vineyards have been growing grapes on their estate, in California’s Mendocino County for over thirty years. Much of that fruit is sold to Clos du Bois, Kendall Jackson, Hess Collection, Paul Dolan, Graziano Family of Wines, and other fine producers in the area. But a select amount goes into making Seebass wines, which what our tasting panel found to be top-notch:

Seebass_2015_Grenache_Rose_F_300dpi

Seabass 2015 “Fantasie” Grenache Rose

Grape(s): 100% Grenache

Region: Mendocino County, California

Price: 30-35

Tasting Notes:

Fragrances of strawberries, melons, grapefruits, and honey rise up from a glass. The palate showcases flavors of strawberry, raspberry, and citrus fruit that flow into hints of sweet spice. A fresh acidity balanced by approachable fruit make this a ideal wine to pair with grilled shrimp. 173 cases produced.

Rating: 90

Seebass_2014_GR_Chardonnay_F_300dpi

Seabass 2014 “Grand Reserve” Chardonnay

Grape(s): 100% Chardonnay

Region: Mendocino County, California

Price: 35-40

Tasting Notes:

This vegan wine (no animal products used in filtering or fining) presents with aromatics of pears, apples, and peaches mingle with allusions of crème brulee and lemon zest on the nose. A sip delivers flavors of golden apple and pear that unfold into suggestions of marzipan and citrus zest. Offering a welcoming acidity and slightly creamy mouth-feel, pair it with crab cakes. 242 cases were made.

Rating: 91

Seebass_2013_GR_Syrah_F_300dpi

Seabass 2013 “Grand Reserve” Syrah

Grape(s): 100% Syrah

Region: Mendocino County, California

Price: 40-45

Tasting Notes:

Blackberry, cherry, and plum aromas interweave with elements of spice, floral earth, and herbs on the nose. Dark cherries, bramble berries, and ripe plum flavors emerge on the palate, alongside undertones of white pepper, dried herbs, and floral earth. A vegan wine with intriguing layers (that may seem a bit exotic to some), open a bottle with lamb chops. 263 cases produced.

Rating: 89

Seebass_Mysterios

Seabass NV “Mysteriös” Blend

Grape(s): Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Grenache

Region: Mendocino County, California

Price: 45-50

Tasting Notes:

A combination 2011 & 2012 fruit, this wine offers a bouquet of jammy raspberries, cherries, boysenberries, and sweet spice. Cherry, raspberry, and plum flavors emerge on the palate, accented by whispers of spice and minerals. Elegant with soft tannins, match it up with hamburgers fresh from the grill. 175 cases were made.

Rating: 89

Seebass_2012_GR_Merlot_F_300dpi

Seabass 2012 “Grand Reserve” Merlot

Grape(s): 100% Merlot

Region: Mendocino County, California

Price: 45-50

Tasting Notes:

Notes of blackberry, plum, and raspberry meld with hints of vanilla, anise, and earth on the nose. Raspberries, boysenberries, and plums fuse with elements of vanilla, cocoa, and minerals on the palate. With welcoming fruit and plush tannins, enjoy a glass of this vegan wine next time you have a mushroom risotto. 190 cases produced.

Rating: 89

Seebass_2011_OV_Zinfandel_F_300dpi

Seabass 2011 “Old Vine” Zinfandel

Grape(s): 100% Zinfandel

Region: Mendocino County, California

Price: 45-50

Tasting Notes:

The nose offers aromas of cherries, plums, and raspberries that blend with whispers of pepper and perfumed earth. On the palate, jammy plum, raspberry, and cherry are accented by nuances of coriander and earth. Quite rich for a Zin, with refined tannins and a pleasant bit of spice, a rack of ribs would be a lovely companion. 212 cases were made.

Rating: 90