Saturday, January 31, 2009

Nevada Gewurztraminer?


I had a make a day trip to the biggest little city in America (Reno) last week for work. I looked up an old friend who lives in Antelope Valley, just north of town. I immediately noticed he had 10-12 grape vines in his yard. WTF? Pure sand soil, no water and grapes?


Cal told me it was his pet project and was just doing it for the challenge. He has tried dozens of varietals, clones and root stocks thanks to Sonoma State. The only three to take are a Zin, a Chard and Gewurztraminer. He replaced the top 12-inches of soil with rock and a small amount of organic material. I guess that provides just enough stress and food for the roots.

Nevada's Vineyard King

With this pending drought he may be onto something we all may be doing in the future...Go Figure!

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Washington Syrah Barrel Samples

Aaron drove thru the arctic northwest to spend the holidays in Olympia. He brought back barrel samples of the 07 and 08 Wahluke Syrahs. we celebrated his double quinceanera (plus 9) and enjoyed the samples and a few other items. note: MSR riesling spatlese pairs well with pink donuts at midnight.


the 07 is super balanced but not the least bit boring. it's got some barrel oak in it and the fruit is far in the back. earth, olives, and currents. the smell is killer. reminds me of a st joseph.

the 08 is still pre MLF and the acids are there. the nose is beautiful. floral perfume. more fruit than the 07. more like a Côte-Rôtie.


happy birthday aaron!