Podcast Epsoide 104 -- Exploring Sebastopol

Grenache --Varietal of the Month

 Grenache or Granacha as it’s known in Spain, is a medium bodied red wine with moderate acidity, and bright red fruit and strawberry flavors. The tannin structure can range from light and smooth to more pronounced and firm depending on the climate in which it is grown. Grenache is a wonderful and versatile varietal all on it’s own, but its claim to fame is its use as one of the fundamental grapes in the highly regarded French Rhone blend Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Below are capsule reviews of Grenache wines you may find along the Wine Road.

Amista 2016 Grenache, Dry Creek Valley, Morningsong Vineyard  
Exhibiting plum, leather, and licorice with dried strawberry on the nose, the Amista 2016 Grenache has a touch of ripe raspberry and fig on the palate with smooth lingering tannins. This Grenache shows tremendous balance with smooth medium tannins and a nice weight on the finish. I paired the Amista with an old school recipe for Chicken Marbella and it was marvelous complement to the dish, both savory and rich. An old school recipe with a new world wine made for a perfect pairing.

J. Rickards Winery 2018 Grenache, One Lone Row, Alexander Valley  
Rich and juicy the J.Rickards 2018 Grenache is full of black cherry, lavender, jam and allspice on the nose. It delivers a mouth-watering burst of cherry and blueberry, piecrust, and strawberry crumble on the palate with a sweet note of spun sugar on the finish. A delight on its own but I absolutely loved it with Eggplant Parmesan.

Meeker 2016 Grenache Hoskins Ranch, Dry Creek Valley  
Oh boy! This Meeker 2016 Grenache just could not stay in the glass very long! Each sip brought something new starting with bright strawberry and red grapefruit notes then deepening to flavors of blueberry pie, plum and licorice with mid-weight tannin structure. What to pair? I recommend strip steak fajitas with caramelized onions and peppers—it’s just the ticket to make this Grenache shine.

Mounts 2017 Grenache, Estate Grown, Dry Creek Valley
Simply gorgeous—the Mounts 2017 Grenache connects all the dots from tannin to acidity to balance and flavor. It’s a fully integrated and thoroughly delicious example of the grape with tart strawberry and rose on the nose and rich mouthful of pomegranate, ripe cheery and blueberry on the palate with pleasant long lasting tannins. I paired this with a tater tot casserole, which is essentially an old school Shepherd’s Pie, but with tater tots in lieu of mashed potatoes and it elevated the dish from simple and down home to upscale and stunning.

Quivira 2017 Grenache, Wine Creek Ranch, Dry Creek Valley
The Quivira 2017 Grenache is an enigma of tannin and acidity that will captivate you from the first sip. A rush of ripe red fruit with tart strawberry, grapefruit and orange peel aromatics on the nose. The tannins tap dance across the palate with flavors of pomegranate, maraschino cherry, all–spice and white pepper propelled forward by a rush of tart and energetic acidity. Something grounding and savory such as Figs wrapped in Prosciutto would pair quite well with this juicy Grenache.

This was first published on Along the Wine Road here.

Sauvignon Blanc--Varietal of the Month

Widely planted around the world, Sauvignon Blanc has an array of styles from lean and bright, to juicy and plush. Sauvignon Blanc typically offers great aromatics and flavors that range from zesty citrus, to tart apple, to creamy peach and lean nectarine. Best bets for paring are briny oysters, Thai food, crab cakes, and goat cheeses.

Here are capsule reviews of some of the many Sauvignon Blanc wines you may find along the Wine Road.

A. Toraño 2018 Sauvignon Blanc Kick Ranch Sonoma County
Lean and bright, with medium acidity and tart notes of lemon, lime and quince. This Sauvignon Blanc offers a bit of a riddle, a horse of a different color, with fine spiky tannins that ride into a long finish but with a surprising dollop of creaminess on the end. Satisfying and delicious, a wine equivalent of “Old Town Road”–catchy and memorable. Put it in rotation on your back porch now and all summer long.

Armida 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Redwood Road Estate, Russian River Valley
Apple, pineapple and creamy notes of peach and guava are the leading flavors in this spicy beauty with a rush of floral aromatics on the nose and immense texture and brilliant acidity. Complex and captivating, pair with rosemary roasted chicken or garlic prawns.

Colagrossi 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County 
Pure sunshine and happiness, the Colagrossi Sauvignon Blanc is a classic example of bright citrus, pear and apple flavors and snappy acidity with a clean crisp finish. Nice balance and worthy of a great meal featuring Crab or Lobster. Or enjoy with a simple charcuterie place of spicy meats and goat cheese while relaxing on the deck with your people.

Dry Creek Vineyard 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley
You can’t go wrong with this perennial favorite from Dry Creek Vineyards. Intensely aromatic and floral, this wine opens with big flavorful waves of pineapple, grapefruit and lime and delivers light creamy notes of peach, vanilla and guava on the finish. Elegant and full-bodied with a slightly plush mouth-feel, it’s suited to pairing with everything from light cheeses, to vegetable dishes like roasted tarragon carrots, or even pork chops.

Dutton Estate 2018 Sauvignon Blanc Kylie’s Cuvée
Alive with texture and flavor the pale gold with tint of green color hints at the flavors within. On the nose a bouquet of peach blossom, orange, lime, green bell pepper and touch of white pepper. The palate is full of bright acidity and a play of stone fruit and citrus. Round and balanced, pair with goat cheese and arugula salad or your favorite sushi roll.

Hanna 2018 Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley
Year after year Hanna delivers on the promise of an honest well-made example of the grape with an exciting melody of flavors including pink grapefruit, white peach, lychee, orange peel, lemon and lime and notes of galangal, which is a spice like ginger. It has a fleshy, rich mouth-feel, yet maintains a bright and zesty mineral finish.

Kelley & Young 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Alexander Valley
Pretty, elegant and refined, this medium to full bodied Sauvignon Blanc is the epitome of genteel. Meaning it’s a delight in every way from pleasing aromatics of citrus blossoms and jasmine and to the plush full flavors of apricot, ripe peach, grapefruit, vanilla and a touch of ginger. Lovely long finish that is clean and bright. Pair with good friends and great conversation.

Longboard 2019 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley
Pale straw yellow with a slight tinge of green, the Longboard Sauvignon Blanc is lean in style but full of mouth puckering juicy citrus, plus notes of kiwi, peach, crisp Asian pear and fresh cut grass. Floral and herbaceous aromatics are a signal to what lies ahead on the palate. Makes for a wonderful breakfast wine paired with quiche! Really. Don’t judge. 😉

Peterson 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Redwood Glen Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley
A varietal fever dream full of classic Sauvignon Blanc characteristics such as crisp green apple, Meyer lemon, and grapefruit along with a creamy lush line of guava, passion fruit and ripe peach.  There is a an ever so slight savory note of tomato leaf that gives this wine a refreshing lilt and lift from common place to singular with a brisk mineral finish.

Rodney Strong Vineyards 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Charlotte’s Home, Sonoma County
Fresh aromatics with zesty crisp acidity and full of fleshy peach, passion fruit, quince and green melon. Grounded and balanced with clean, long finish. Classic and refreshing this Rodney Strong Sauvignon Blanc is the definition of Porch Pounder – which is just another way to say it’s eminently quaffable and thoroughly enjoyable. Oysters, with a jalapeño mignonette, would be just the ticket for a perfect pairing.

West Wines 2017 Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley
Opens with a surprising soft floral nose exhibiting aromas of peach and ripe melon. On the palate the West Wines Sauvignon Blanc offers great minerality with bracing bright citrus notes of grapefruit, tangelo, and lemon. Great balance and structure –bring this to share at book club and after the first sip, I guarantee no one will be talking about the book!

Zialena 2017 Sauvignon Blanc, Redwood Ranch, Alexander Valley
Tart and full of minerality this classic style of Sauvignon Blanc offers a spring garden of floral aromatics featuring orange blossom, jasmine and bright lime. The initial flavors are lean and dry but quickly open to zesty notes of lemon, kiwi, and an intriguing hit of jalapeño! Perfect summer sipper paired with oysters or spicy Thai dishes.

This post was first published on Along the Wine Road here

Barbera-- Varietal of the Month

Barbera, a variety native to Italy, can vary in flavor depending on where it’s grown; be it warm or cool climate, and how it is produced. Wines from cool climes tend to display brighter tart red fruits and warmer climes revel deeper dark berry fruit flavors. Typically Barbera is delightfully spicy with good acidity, and tends toward medium to light tannins with a smooth finish.

Here are capsule reviews of some Barbera examples you may find along the Wine Road.

Amphora 2014 Barbera, Clarksburg, Heringer Vineyard  

If you’ve spent any time in Italy, or lived there like I have, you may notice that the Amphora Barbera captures an essential “Italian-ness” in its structure and flavor profile. Clean and brisk, yet deeply savory. The initial approach offers bright acidity, and then opens beautifully into a plush mouthful of rich earthy tones and notes of smoky mushroom and leather. Medium tannins carry to a long luxurious finish that would pair exceptionally well with a hearty beef stew or even Pasta alla Norma made with eggplant.

Colagrossi 2017 Barbera Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County

From Aunt Mary to Uncle Giuseppe, this crowd-pleasing Barbera will satisfy even the most persnickety of palates. The Colagrossi Barbera is full of dark red fruit and luscious blackberry with notes of licorice and Allspice. The long easy tannins are a like a big warm hug and perfect for a Sunday family meal of Spaghetti and Meatballs or Chicken Cacciatore. Saluti!
bottles of barbera form colagrossi, Peterson and Ramazzotti

Peterson 2014 Barbera Tollini Vineyard, Mendocino

When my Italian grandfather liked a wine he used to say— “Questo bellissimo!” And I think he would certainly like this Barbera for it’s spicy richness and overall balance. From Tollini vineyard in Mendocino, the Peterson Barbera delivers a wonderful bright sour cherry flavor grounded with notes of Santa Rosa plum and a touch fennel. Satisfying full round mouth feel, with pleasant persistent tannins. Pair with something rich and meaty like Pappardelle with Duck Ragù or perhaps a Mushroom Risotto.

Portalupi 2016 Barbera, Shake Ridge Ranch, Amador County

Hailing from the much-lauded Shake Ridge Ranch in Amador County, the Portalupi Barbera delivers on all the inherent expectations of a great vineyard. Rich, balanced and tremendously nuanced with lush aromas of blackberry jam and deep flavors of mulberry, raspberry. A distinct spicy note of lavender and anise floats along a river of supple tannins to the long and savoy finish. Share with friends over great conversation and pair with braised lamb shanks or sausage pizza.

Ramazzotti 2016 Barbera, Dry Creek Valley, Estate Grown

The Ramazzotti opens with aromas of cocoa and blackberry and a delightful hint of bright strawberry. Spicy and tart, the initial hit of acidity yields to a intriguing note of sweet black cherry on the mid palate as it develops slowly to it’s full showy potential with soft tannins and deep rich lasting flavor. Braised short ribs or a simple charcuterie plate of salami with creamy rich cheeses such as truffle sheep or goat cheese would make a fine pairing.

This was first published on Along the Wine Road here.

Malbec: Varietal of the Month

When we think of Malbec the first thing that may come to mind is Argentina. But the variety actually originated in the Cahors region of France and is one of the building blocks of Boudreaux blends. But Malbec from the Mendoza region of Argentina is where the grape developed it’s following and found it’s place in the foothills of the Andes and high elevations sub regions of Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley. If you like Cab Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon you will most like enjoy Malbec as well. Inky and dark in color, Malbec ranges from medium to full body and pairs well with bold flavor forward foods like saucy meat dishes and strong chesses, and of course it is a delight as well all on its own.

Here are capsule reviews of some of the many Malbec wines you may find along the Wine Road.

Amphora 2013 Malbec Dry Creek Valley, Belvill-Hart Vineyard
Deep purple in color with a bluish halo on the edges as you tilt the glass toward the light.  Intense aromas of blueberries, black currant and ripe dark fruits. Great depth of flavor with full yet supple body delivers flavors of licorice, sour cherry, black oolong tea and a prominent cherry cola vibe. A bright note of maraschino cherry and mocha develops on the mid palate and lingers to the end. Pair with savory and spicy meat dishes like lamb kebabs or Moroccan beef stew.

Dry Creek Vineyard 2017 Malbec
Initially elusive, this Dry Creek Vineyard Malbec develops slowly like a Polaroid photo—faint at first, the aromas and flavors gently come forward then deepen into a full spectrum of dark fruit flavors and vibrant expression of the grape. Rich and complex, it’s bursting with bright spice notes including white pepper and allspice along with lush ripe black fruits, particularly plum and boysenberry. Delicious and satisfying it offers great balance with firm yet silky tannins. You might as well take a picture, because it will surely last longer than the bottle once you open it.

Fritz 2016 Malbec Dry Creek Valley  
Bright clear ruby color with aromas of all spice, candied ginger and plums. Rich and full-bodied it’s constantly changing in the glass as it opens and develops to its full expression. Balanced and buoyant flavors of mocha, fig jam and fresh blackberries dominate on the mid palate. Long graceful tannins glide like velvet to a pleasing finish.

Hanna 2015 Malbec, Alexander Valley, Red Ranch  
Dark purple to garnet in color with a nose of blackberries, brambles and maple sugar. On the palate a full flavored rush of blueberry, black cherry, tart cranberry, and cherry cola. Tightly wound at first but settles down quickly. Each sip builds on the last, delivering a nuanced and delicious take on chocolate covered cherries. And I’m not talking about your grandma’s chocolate covered cherries, circa Forest Gump, nope—I’m talking about truly awesome chocolate covered cherry cordials made from the finest, juiciest cherries enrobed in the highest quality chocolate. That’s what this Malbec is reminiscent of—pure joy.

Kelley & Young 2016 Malbec, Alexander Valley, Robert Young Vineyard
Kelley &Young 2016 Malbec offers bright vibrancy with great depth grounded in dark fruits. Aromas of black plum, sage, vanilla, and spicy carnation open up in the glass. Abundant black currant, dark cherry, blueberry, raspberry and sweet tobacco are revealed on the mid-palate with a pleasing through line of anise. Deep, dark, and intense the long persistent tannins linger with a fine silky, powdery texture. Enjoy with braised meats or a simple charcuterie board of smoked meats and hard cheesees.

Longboard 2016 Mystos Malbec
Named after a secret surf spot, the Mystos Malbec is ripe, robust and fragrant with flavors of dark fruits, juicy Santa Rosa plums, blueberries, and hint of Cuban cigar. Full of texture, the silky smooth tannins are like a portrait of Elvis on black velvet: exciting and slightly irreverent, but classic in all regards. Surf the wave of flavor in this Malbec and pair with Korean BBQ or Memphis pot roast.

Peterson 2015 Malbec Estate Grown Dry Creek Valley, Bradford Mt. Vineyard  
Malbec loves a high elevation and Bradford Mountain, at 1260 feet, is an optimal location for growing wines that are expressive and reflective of their place—aka terroir. A few sips of this Malbec and you’ll be wondering—was this made by a winemaker or a wizard? It’s as if the wood sprites came out at night and secretly created a magical elixir. Aromas of crushed violets, brambles, dark fruits, cedar and a touch of spicy wild carnation mingle in the glass. Tremendous structure and balance support the plush flavors of licorice, mocha, dark cherry, boysenberry and a sassy top note of pomegranate. The supple tannins offer a steady backbeat to the thrum of texture and depth all the way through the finish.

Rodney Strong 2014 Reserve Sonoma County
Sourced from individual lots on hillside vineyards, this Malbec is rich, lush, full bodied and age worthy. Aroma of violets, vanilla and coco puffs open into an opulent mouthful of blackberry and cola, with baking spice and a tinge of nutmeg. Long finish with lasting supple tannins. Pair with lamb couscous or enjoy on it’s own with a good book and a kind-hearted dog by your side.

Robert Young Estate Winery 2014 Alexander Valley, Sonoma
Dark garnet in the glass this lovely Malbec delivers aromas of black cherry with notes of plum, French vanilla and sweet and tobacco. Opens beautifully into a cascade of flavors featuring juicy ripe raspberry, wild sage, ginseng, tealeaf and a dusting of cocoa. Fine to powdery tannins with long undulating finish that rolls across the palate in satisfying waves of flavor.

Selby 2015 Malbec, Dry Creek Valley
Eighteen months in French oak give this Malbec a rich and complex structure with dominant flavors of red plum, blueberry, cocoa, and crushed violets. Medium tannins with a dollop of sugarplum smooth out the finish. Pair with Mac and Cheese made with the sharpest cheddar you can find. Or create a cheese board of semi soft and hard cheeses that will complement and harmonize with the cherry cola notes of the wine.

Williamson Wines 2014 Tango Malbec, Atlas Peak, Napa Valley
Big and beautiful, the Tango Malbec is a tailored power suit of flavor with a lacy camisole beneath. Tango, like it’s name implies is intense and fiery, a dance of inherent tension between lush fruit flavor and subtle tannins. Dark and seductive, it opens strong but settles into a delicate pas de deux of fleshy Bing cherry, wild violets, all spice, cigar box, caramel, and sage. Soft velvety tannins sidle quietly into the night. Best paired with someone you love.

This post was first published on Along the Wine Road here.

Sparkling Wine Along the Wine Road

Nothing makes an occasion more festive than Sparkling Wine. The pop of the cork, the rise of tiny bubbles and the gentle whoosh of foam in the glass—it’s romantic and special. But sparkling wines are not just for holidays and celebrations, they are also a fine choice for everyday meals and pair exceptionally well with a variety of foods.

Sparkling wine hails from the Champagne region of France and wines grown and produced there are labeled Champagne. In the United States we call our bubbles Sparkling Wine and they are made in a variety of methods. The traditional method called Méthode Champenoise, and the tank method called Charmat. The many styles include Blanc de Blanc–made entirely of white grapes, Blanc de Noir, and Rosé. Sparkling wines come in a range of sweetness levels from sugar called dosage that is added to the wine before corking the bottle. The most popular style is Brut with less than half a gram of sugar per glass. Extra Brut and Brut Nature have even less sugar resulting in a bone-dry wine.

Here are capsule reviews of some great sparkling wines you may find along the Wine Road.

Amista Sparkling Syrah Dry Creek Valley Morningsong Vineyards
Simply gorgeous deep ruby-cranberry color, with a fine bead and soft strawberry mousse nose.  Luscious yet lithe on the palate with citrus and berry notes that float towards a delicate quince and orange finish that is zesty, balanced and alive with flavor. Pair with crab cakes or fresh fruit and cheese.

Balletto 2013 Brut Rosé
Unflappable and delicious this is a crowd pleaser in every way. Pale pink and bright with persistent bubbles. Notes of apple and spice and piecrust on the nose. Effervescent and fresh with juicy red fruit flavors and a deep long finish of that contains a hint of lavender and plums. Pair with everything!

Dashe Sparkling Wine
100% Chenin Blanc from the Heringer Vineyard in Clarksburg, California, this sparkler is pale gold in color with a creamy, toasty, croissant like nose. Tiny persistent bead of bubbles race to the top of the glass. Light, crisp, and floral with flavors of peach and apricot and a taught minerality make this eminently pairable with a variety of foods.
Iron Horse Sparkling wineIron Horse Winter’s Cuvée

Iron Horse 2013 Winter’s Cuvée
Elegant and refined the Winter’s Cuvée is a classic sparkling wine offering great structure and supple body. The nose is a crush of red berries and hazelnuts with bright citrus and apple. Tubes fans will get it when I say this has a distinct scent of Buddha’s hand (citrus) holding an apple. Really! Flavors of lime and stone fruit predominate, with a hint of jasmine and orange blossom. A versatile wine, it can pair well with everything from oysters to tamales.
Korbel Sparkling winesKorbel Blanc de Noirs and Le Premier

Korbel 2015 Blanc de Noirs, Sonoma County
Dry and light with an almond nose with tart red apple and savory notes of spiced nuts and honey. Great body and bright finish. Pair with truffle popcorn or pork tacos

Korbel 2015 Le Premier, Sonoma County
Lovely bead of bubbles suspended in a glow of golden yellow. Fresh baked bread on the nose. Dry and effervescent on the palate with notes of caramel, honey and toasted hazelnut with medium bubbles and long creamy finish with a tinge of nutmeg.

Portalupi 2018 Arrossire di Barnera, Pauli Ranch Vineyard
You don’t see much Sparking Wines made from Barbera, it’s rather rare, so try and get a bottle of this while you can. Deep magenta color full of rose on the nose, it opens into a delicious mélange of strawberries and cream on the palate. Velvety and balanced, it glides to the finish with fresh juicy finesse and effervescent style.

Woodenhead 2015 Brut Rose Russian River Valley
Blushing pink with frothy, creamy mousse that delivers a wonderful nose full of raspberry and Rainier cherry. Fine bead of bubbles stream up the glass with juicy red fruit flavors and a balance of acid and ginger spice on the finish.

Woodenhead 2013 Blanc de Blanc Russian River Valley Buena Tierra Vineyard
100% Chardonnay Sparkling Wine full of crisp apple, lemon mousse and creamy brioche on the nose. Tropical flavors of pineapple and mandarin and a delightful butterscotch note weaves in to the mix at mid palate with a pleasant flinty finish. Pair with mac and cheese.

This post was first published on Along the Wine Road here.

Bells Up Winery: Small Lots Made with Heart

When I was twelve I was asked a life-changing question: “What instrument would you like to play?” I had just enrolled in the summer music program and I clearly said I wanted to play the French Horn.

But through some confusion and what I now see as a coup finagled by my mother and the music teacher—“Oh but a French Horn will be so heavy and awkward to carry around. Perhaps something smaller –maybe the English Horn?" (Which gentle reader I assure you, the English horn is nothing close to the French horn and in fact is a reed instrument- a double reed instrument!!) So in my naivety, I said “Okay, English Horn”. But it turned out the music department did not have any English Horns. And so, through this trickery --I ended up playing the oboe! And nobody in his or her right mind chooses the oboe! Trust me on this.

So what does this have to do with wine you may ask? Well, years later, wine is the balm I use to soothe that memory of never getting to play the French horn. And this brings us to the wonderful world of David and Sara Specter and their winery, Bells Up. David was a French horn player and thus the logo and name are a nod to the symphony life. Anyone who’s ever played in a band or orchestra will know “bells up” is the command to get ready, lift up your horn and give it your all.

And David truly embodies a “bells up” life in every way.  When I met David he seemed positively giddy talking about how the winery came to be and his enthusiasm was infectious. I felt at ease immediately upon meeting him.

David showing the compact winery space.

David and his wife Sara did what many of us only dream about. They took the ultimate leap of faith and went all in on starting a winery. They left their secure and comfortable life in Cincinnati, Ohio to chase a dream of wine. What started as a hobby for David became a full time obsession and led them to buy a former Christmas tree farm in Newberg Oregon. Here they toiled to clear the land and plant their first vines. And now instead of playing only the French horn David is a virtual one-man-band performing all the winemaking tasks and running the winery while Sara handles the marketing and business end of the baton.

I was lucky to get the chance to meet with David this past August along with some fellow wine writers to learn about his venture and taste the wines.

Small Lots Made with Heart

Bells Up makes very small quantities, of micro-boutique wines, and what they refer to as “un-domaine” wines.  Most of the allotments are earmarked for wine club members and those who visit the winery. So do yourself a favor and seek them out when you are in the area.

2018 Helios 
Estate Seyval Blanc, Chehalem Mountains AVA

You don’t see much Seyval Blanc in fact Bells Up is only the second vineyard in Oregon to grow it. But this was the varietal by which David won the national amateur winemaking competition prior to relocating to Oregon from Cincinnati, Ohio. One might say David is a bit of a Seyval Blanc whisperer, coaxing the grape to its full glory and expression. Grown in volcanic Jory soils, the grapes were aged sur lie for 6 months in stainless steel –delivering a gorgeous lean mouthful full of acidity with bright citrus and crisp apple flavors and a touch of pineapple and papaya on the finish.

2018 Rhapsody
Pinot Blanc Willamette Valley AVA

Light and bright the Rhapsody Pinot Blanc had a delicious peachy nose with flavors of and lemon zest and a slight nutty almond flavor on the finish along with a surprising yet enjoyable through line of salinity.

2018 Prelude
Estate Rose of Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains AVA

Yow! What a beast of flavor. The color is deep with nose of crushed rose petals and a full and savory mouth full of red currants and cranberries and a hint of mint. Great ratio of acid to fruit, with the body and structure to pair well with hearty foods.

2016 Titan
Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

A blend of 35% Pommard (Chehalem Mountains), 34% 115 (Yamhill-Carlton) and 31% 777 (Yamhill-Carlton) clones. Exhibiting highly enjoyable quaffability now with great aging potential. Medium body with notes of clove and violets on the nose. Good balance with fruit forward freshness and a layering of flavors tempered by long deep earthy tannins.

2017 Candide
Nemarniki Vineyard, Reserve Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains AVA

A blend of 71% Wadenswil and 29% Pommard clones both from Chehalem Mountains AVA and grown in Loess soils. Elegant and lyrical everything you seek in a Pinot Noir is here. Bright tart berries with a powerful undercurrent of clove, white pepper, and dark plums.

2017 Villanelle
Tonnelier Vineyard Reserve Pinot Noir, Yahmill –Carlton AVA

Although this lovely pinot was named after a duet for French horn and piano—
I like to imagine it was named for my favorite assassin—Villanelle, from the TV show Killing Eve. This wine is dark and brooding revealing deep and dark fruit flavors with great balance. It’s beautiful and intense with a killer finish.

Killing Eve’s Villanelle contemplating the Villanelle Pinot

2017 Firebird
Summit View Vineyard, Walla Walla Valley Syrah

Sourced from the Oregon side of Walla Walla in the high elevations of the Milton-Freewater area. I love Walla Walla Syrah and the Firebird rings true with many characteristics from the region. Bells Up makes the Firebird Syrah in a style that echoes their Pinot methodology, giving it a lighter palate, but lush concentrated flavors and vibrating with spicy acidity.

Plan a Visit

Tastings are by appointment only as the winery is small and David himself will guide you through the wines. So plan ahead a make a visit to Bells Up. You will not be disappointed. And don’t be surprised if David’s enthusiasm doesn’t make you consider taking a leap towards a dream of your own.

Many thanks to Carl Giavanti of Giavanti PR and Consulting for arranging all the logistics and hosting a wonderful day trip in Willamette Valley.

Bells Up Winery
27895 NE Bell Road
Newberg, Oregon
503-537-1328