March winners Darlene and Rick Lamb
Janie Farnsworth
Tuesday, March 15, brought good friends together at the home of Janie Farnsworth. Napa and Sonoma wines were featured. Those bringing wine could bring their favorite from that region.
We all know Paula Saunders was out of town since John brought a Pinot Noir from Santa Barbara. This particular wine placed fifth. Not sure if it was because all the others were cabernets, and our taste buds were geared for that.
In the glass look for pure-fruited aromas of wild berries, briar fruit, violets and a touch of cinnamon from light oak aging. On the palate, you’ll find velvety tannins and persistent flavors of strawberry, blackberry, all-spice and mocha. Smooth enough to enjoy on its own, The Mission will also pair wonderfully with meaty fish, roasted poultry and much more.
Fourth place was brought by Chuck and Diane Miller. It was an Oak Grove Cabernet Sauvignon 2013. Beautifully balanced, Oak Grove Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon yields zesty spice notes and rich, ripe flavors of dark cherry, plum and currants against a backdrop of mild tannins. Pair with full-flavored roasts or a slow-braised lamb shank to enjoy this wine today or cellar it and savor the benefits of aging.
Tom and Vickie Moses brought the third place wine. This particular wine was well liked by most. Fashioned in a fruit-forward, easy to drink style that reveals complexity and length, this wine has a deep garnet hue and aromas of lush cherry, cassis and plum. The rich cherry and plum flavors are layered with hints of vanilla and creamy oak that linger on the palate.
The second place wine was brought by Mike and Sue Miloser. It was a Joel Gott Cabernet Sauvignon 2013. The Joel Gott 815 Cabernet Sauvignon has aromatics of roasted blue fruit, sweet blackberry and cherry cola with hints of graham cracker and vanilla. The wine enters with dark, concentrated fruit on the palate, velvety tannins on the mid-palate, followed by a long, vibrant finish. Enjoy Joel Gott Cabernet Sauvignon Blend No 815 with grilled flank steak, BBQ ribs, grilled vegetables and cheeses.
And our winner was a Louise M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 brought by Darlene and Rick Lamb. The Louis M. Martini Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of the unique characteristics from several vineyards, creating a superbly balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine has ripe flavors of black plum jam and black currant, a reflection of the warmer vintage. Hints of oak and a touch of baking spice support the fruit. This wine, I believe, was served last and everyone seemed to really enjoy it.