Having traveled to California wine country many times over the course of my career, I’ve always enjoyed crossing the Oakville Grade and ending my trips in Sonoma County. The region is a cultural departure from Napa Valley, and offers a beautifully scenic backdrop for the many laid back wineries scattered throughout its 17 appellations. With a diversity of styles to choose from, Sonoma is a great place to spend a few days of relaxation and get to know some of the local winemakers. I was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to taste from a few small family properties.
– Steve Pollack, National Sales Director
Donelan Two Brothers Pinot Noir Sonoma County 2014
Pleasant aromas of wet earth, plum and cherry. The palate offers roasted berry, pepper, wild strawberry with hints of crushed flowers. The finish is concentrated and balanced with polished, velvety tannin.
Suggested Retail: $55
Score: 94 Points
Donelan Syrah Obsidian Estate 2015
Slate and blackberry aromas open up to dusty earth, dark plum, lavender, ripe cherry and hints of cinnamon stick. This wine is a muscular powerhouse that will age forever. For the best possible experience, I recommend decanting.
Suggested Retail: $105
Score: 95+ Points
Donelan Chardonnay Nancie 2015
Pleasant aromas of stone fruit and minerals rise from the glass. In the mouth this chardonnay is pure and elegant, filled with white peach, apple, guava, citrus and dried melon flavors. The finish is refreshing, with some acidity and a hint of cold stick butter.
Suggested Retail: $48
Score: 95 Points
ACORN Dolcetto Alegria Vineyards RRV 2015
Floral aromas open up to strawberry, dark cherry, white plum, spiced herbs and hints of tomato paste. The finish is bright with an aged balsamic and dusty tannin. Overall, this wine is muscular and quite appealing.
Suggested Retail: $38
Score: 92 Points
ACORN Sangiovese Alegria Vineyards RRV 2015
This wine opens with perfumed aromas of wild herbs and tea leaf. The palate offers plum, cherry and violet flavors, finishing with velvety full tannin and impeccable acid balance. Should age very well over the next 5-7 years.
Suggested Retail: $35
Score: 92+ Points
ACORN Heritage Vines Zinfandel Alegria Vineyards RRV 2015
Aromas of warm cranberry sauce and dusted cocoa. The palate is bright and zesty with plum, cherry, raspberry and kola nut flavors. This wine offers a pure and balanced finish, with ripe velvety tannin.
Suggested Retail: $50
Score: 93 Points
ACORN Cabernet Franc Alegria Vineyard Russian River Valley 2015
Aromas of blueberry, minerals and wet slate. The palate is dusty and filled with ripe cherry, blackberry, blueberry and dried olive flavors . This is an outstanding Cabernet Franc and finishes with ripe berry, flowers and cocoa powder all wrapped around a core of full velvety tannin.
Score: 94 Points