Spending some time in the tasting room this weekend? The long list of wines available to sample can be daunting, and you certainly don’t want to miss the best the winery has to offer.
Our solve? We’re sharing with you two recommendations from each property – one Critics’ Pick that you’re probably already aware of (but is totally worth the hype), and another lesser-known offering that has somehow slipped under the radar; we’re dubbing it a Sleeper Pick.
Did we miss a wine you love? Tweet us your suggestions at @FFWSociety!
LANCASTER ESTATE | 15001 CHALK HILL RD, HEALDSBURG, CA
Critics’ Pick: 2015 Lancaster Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley (93+pts, Wine Advocate)
“Medium to deep garnet-purple, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate reveals notes of warm blackcurrants, black cherry compote and blueberry preserves with touches of cedar, mocha, new leather and sandalwood plus a waft of bay leaves. Full-bodied and giving a taut frame of chewy tannins, it has loads of muscular fruit and a long cedar-laced finish.” – Wine Advocate
Sleeper Pick: 2016 Lancaster Estate Winemaker’s Cuvée, Alexander Valley (94 points, Wine Advocate)
You might be thinking: how does a 94-point wine qualify as a “sleeper” pick? Despite its accolades, Lancaster’s 2016 Winemaker’s Cuvée is not as well-known as some of their other varietals – this Cabernet/Merlot blend was built specifically for high-end restaurants, but the tasting room was allocated about 100 cases for special tastings. They’ll be pouring it for a very limited time, so run – don’t walk – to try this super-friendly, elegant wine that tends to appeal to all red wine drinkers.
Learn More & Shop Lancaster Estate Wines
THE FOUR GRACES | 9605 NE FOX FARM RD, DUNDEE, OR
Critics’ Pick: 2017 The Four Graces Chardonnay, Willamette Valley
In its inaugural release of their 2017 Willamette Valley Chardonnay, The Four Graces is already turning heads. In a region more commonly known for its world-class Pinot Noir, the Chardonnay is impressive with beautiful, bright aromas of fresh pear, lemon zest and coconut. The palate has a lively entry full of citrus notes that transition into a creamy mid palate. The finish is soft with a lingering minerality.
Sleeper Pick: 2014 The Four Graces Foley Family Estate Pinot Noir
A good indication of a great wine is seeing what the winery staff is loving. Currently, the favorite of the tasting room manager is the 2014 Foley Family Estate Pinot Noir. It’s a very Burgundian-style Pinot Noir and is made from the eight best barrels from the Foley Family vineyard from 2014. You’ll have to visit The Four Graces to try this one – it’s not available for purchase online.
Learn More & Shop The Four Graces Wines
LINCOURT VINEYARDS | 1711 ALAMO PINTADO RD, SOLVANG, CA
Critics’ Pick: 2015 Lincourt Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez Valley
Lincourt’s 2015 Santa Ynez Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautifully understated wine with depth and nuance. Elegant aromas of dark plum and blackberry transform on the palate. Flavors of black olive, charred oak and dried cassis evolve into pomegranate and graphite on the mouth. The flavors are further enhanced by smooth tannins on the lingering finish. Next time you’re prepping a peppered skirt steak, consider picking up a bottle – this wine’s medium body and juicy mouthfeel make it a perfect pairing.
Sleeper Pick: 2016 Lincourt Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley
This 2016 Sauvignon Blanc begins with tropical aromatics of guava nectar and lemon fruit. The palate is fresh and bright with kiwi, nectarine and white peach flavors. The lush mouthfeel is nicely wrapped up by a crisp acidity, making it a great option for pairing with oysters on the half shell. And a huge bonus – Lincourt is currently offering 30% off all on-site purchases of the Sauvignon Blanc! Be sure to call them at 805-688-8554 for details.
Learn More & Shop Lincourt Vineyard Wines
Want to read about more of our critic and sleeper picks? Read another edition of What to Taste This Weekend featuring wines from Eos Winery, Sebastiani, and The Four Graces.
