johnk's blog

johnk's blog

The History of Cabernet Sauvignon

Thu, 10/31/2024 - 11:46 -- johnk

Cabernet Sauvignon Clusters

A Journey Through Time: The Development of Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Grape

taste, wine, tasting

Cabernet Sauvignon, the monarch of red wine grapes, has earned its place as a staple in vineyards across the globe. Its rich history intertwines with the evolution of winemaking itself, spanning centuries of cultivation, refinement, and global migration. From its humble beginnings to its current reign as one of the world's most revered varietals, the story of Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring allure of the red wine grape.

This article is one of several articles that will feature grapes most known for being grown in California, Cabernet sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel.

grapes, vines, grapevines

Origins of Cabernet Sauvignon: Bordeaux France

road, nature, vineyards

Orange County’s Wine Landscape a Hidden Gem: Laguna Canyon Winery

Tue, 10/29/2024 - 20:08 -- johnk


 

Just a short distance from the art-strewn streets of Laguna Beach and the urban pulse of Orange County, Laguna Canyon Winery stands as a unique expression of passion, craftsmanship, and innovation in California’s wine scene. Founded by award-winning vintner J.J. Huber, this boutique winery defies expectations by blending urban winery traditions with world-class grapes sourced from Napa and Sonoma Valley. With a nod to both Canadian and Italian winemaking techniques, Laguna Canyon Winery has crafted an identity that sets it apart from the typical California vineyard experience.

The Origins: From Canada to California

J.J. Huber’s journey into winemaking is far from conventional. Hailing from Canada, Huber was immersed in the world of urban wineries, which thrive in metropolitan areas rather than in sprawling vineyard estates. It was this quintessence that inspired him to bring the concept to Southern California, where wine lovers could enjoy high-quality wines without venturing far from the coast. Laguna Canyon Winery reflects this philosophy—a place where the beauty of wine meets the energy of city life.

California Chardonnay: Exploring this Iconic Wine Grape

Tue, 07/23/2024 - 16:24 -- johnk

 

Exploring the Versatility of Chardonnay Wine Grapes

glass and bottle of wine - Chardonnay

The Jewel of White Wine Grapes: Chardonnay

Chardonnay, hailed as the "queen of white wine grapes," has long captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide with its versatility and expressive character. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, Chardonnay has long found a second home in the Santa Lucia Highlands, where its grapes thrive in the region's cool climate and well-drained soils.

Areil view of Santa Lucia Mountains and vineyards

Sonoma Chardonnay's

Simi Chardonnay and a Caprese Salad

Sonoma County wineries and wines provide an authentic taste of Northern California Wine Country, renowned for their genuine and delicious offerings. With over 425 wineries, there's an estate and vintage for every palate.

Rudy Zuidema : Crafting Excellence in Every Bottle

Mon, 07/22/2024 - 21:12 -- johnk

A few years back while judging wines in Copperopolis, CA Rudy gifted each of the judges a bottle of his 2017 Grenache. Today I opened and enjoyed this wine of Rudy's along with grilled meat and veggies.

Rudy and Amy in Barrel Room

Rudy Zuidema Winemaker

Rudy Zuidema is a name synonymous with innovation, dedication, and exceptional craftsmanship in the world of winemaking. With a career spanning over three decades, Rudy's journey has seen him collaborate with some of the most prestigious wineries in Napa Valley, leading to the creation of his own brand and numerous consulting ventures. His influence in the industry is profound, marked by a relentless pursuit of quality and a passion for the art of winemaking.

Early Career and Influences

Rudy's journey began with his work at renowned wineries such as Honig, Robert Craig, and Ehlers Estate.

At Honig Vineyard & Winery, Rudy honed his skills in sustainable viticulture, embracing practices that would later become hallmarks of his approach to winemaking.

His tenure at Robert Craig Winery allowed him to delve into the complexities of crafting high-elevation wines, while Ehlers Estate provided him with the opportunity to blend traditional methods with innovative techniques.

The History of Pinot Noir

Mon, 07/22/2024 - 14:37 -- johnk

Tale of Elegance: The History and Legacy of Pinot Noir Wine Grape in California

Origins of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir's origins can be traced back to the Burgundy region of France, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Known for its thin skin, delicate flavors, and susceptibility to terroir, Pinot Noir is a grape of unparalleled complexity and finesse. In California, Pinot Noir thrives in cool coastal regions, where maritime influence and diverse soils lend a unique character to the wines. Common descriptors for California Pinot Noir include bright red berry fruit, earthy undertones, silky textures, and vibrant acidity.

Pinot Noir is one of the oldest grape varieties in the world, with origins dating back over 1,000 years before the emergence of Cabernet Sauvignon. This grape was a favorite in Roman times, alongside other now-extinct varieties. Columella, a Roman writer, described Pinot Noir in the 1st century CE in Burgundy, France, although its cultivation extended as far north as Belgium.

Pinot Noir is highly prone to mutations, leading to hundreds of unique variations globally. Over 50 of these are officially recognized in France. The finest quality grapes are typically found in France and Oregon, USA.

Santa Lucia Highlands Vineyards

Sat, 07/20/2024 - 09:50 -- johnk

Santa Lucia Highlands - Santa Lucia Mountain Range

Positioned within the breathtaking landscapes of California’s Monterey County lies the Santa Lucia Highlands, a region renowned for producing some of the finest Chardonnay wines in the world. Here, amidst rolling hills and cool coastal breezes, a cadre of esteemed wineries craft exceptional wines that embody the essence of this unique terroir. In this article, we explore the allure of Chardonnay wine grapes and the celebrated wineries of the Santa Lucia Highlands that bring them to life.

The Unmatched Chardonnay Vines of Santa Lucia Highlands

Chardonnay, hailed as the queen of white wine grapes has captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide with its versatility and expressive character. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, Chardonnay has found a second home in the Santa Lucia Highlands, where its grapes thrive in the region's cool climate and well-drained soils. Chardonnay wines crafted from Santa Lucia Highlands grapes are celebrated for their vibrant acidity, lush texture, and complex flavor profile. From crisp green apple and citrus zest to tropical fruits and subtle hints of vanilla and oak, these wines offer a sensory journey that reflects the unique terroir of the region.

Santa Lucia Highlands Vineyards

Bottle of SHL Wine on a nicely set table

San Antonio Winery in Los Angeles, a Hidden Gem

Sun, 06/23/2024 - 18:36 -- johnk

 

Riboli Family greeting you with wine

 

San Antonio Winery: A Historic Gem in Los Angeles

Riboli Family - A Rich History

Santos Stefano barrel tasting

Established in 1917 the winery has weathered the storms of Prohibition, the Great Depression, and countless other challenges to become a beloved institution. Its roots trace back to a time when Los Angeles was dotted with vineyards, making it a key player in the region’s winemaking heritage.

The winery was named after Saint Anthony, the patron saint of lost causes and Santo Cambianica patron saint, hoping for divine protection and success in his new venture. Cambianica’s foresight and determination paid off, and the winery thrived, even during Prohibition, by producing sacramental wines for the Church. This strategic pivot not only kept the business afloat but also laid the foundation for its future growth.

San Simeon Wines

San Antonio Winery boasts an impressive portfolio of wines, catering to a diverse array of palates and preferences. The winery produces a variety of varietals, including of reds, whites, sparkling wines, and dessert wines, displaying the rich viticultural diversity of California, Italy and beyond. Some of their most popular lines include:

Your Guide to Livermore Valley Wines and Wineries

Mon, 06/03/2024 - 18:00 -- johnk

The History of Winemaking in Historic Livermore Valley Wine Country

Founded on April 1, 1876, Livermore is known to be California's oldest wine region. Livermore has been making and selling wine since 1849, the first winery was owned by Robert Livermore, after whom the town was named. Since then, Livermore has been a popular stopping point to visit. 

While I was traveling back to the San Francisco Bay Area after a business appointment in Tracy, CA, I stopped in at a couple of wineries, and on a napkin, I started my blog at one of the tastings. I did some wine tasting at a few wineries on that Friday afternoon seeking out some award-winning wines, and I found them. Join me on a visit to a family-owned winery or two and a little virtual visit.

This valley has become home to many award-winning wineries, Livermore is famous for making and producing wine and their farmlands. Station in the heart of the Bay Area Livermore is the ideal place to be when you want to find a place to do some wine-tasting and search for that next perfect wine that captures your attention. There are so many family-owned wineries That being said, I will be sure to author another article about Livermore Valley and its wines and wineries in a future article that will address: where to stay, what to do, get around Livermore Wine Country, where to eat, and of course the most popular wineries here.

Your Guide to Paso Robles Wine Country

Thu, 03/28/2024 - 10:14 -- johnk

Paso Robles Wine Country

California's central coast offers a lot to do for wine lovers. Let's spend a few minutes to take a look at Paso Robles wine country. Paso Robles wineries have much to offer like other California wine regions. Paso Robles wine country is about a 3-and-a-half-hour drive from San Francisco and 3 and half hours from Los Angeles.

Finding the Perfect Winery

Finding the perfect winery for your wine-tasting adventure can be overwhelming whether it be in Napa Valley or any of the many wine regions of California. Paso Robles and Paso wine present a similar challenge. Where to start, who makes what types of wine, where to eat? Do you enjoy Rhône style wines, a good Cabernet Sauvignon, or perhaps a Cabernet Franc. Don't worry; we've got you covered! View Wineries Discover Paso Hotels & Lodging Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a bed and breakfast, lodging in Paso Robles wine country.

While you could easily spend your time hopping around the 20+ tasting rooms downtown, like the boutique Herman Story Wines, for a hip, urban tasting experience, head south to Tin City, an industrial community of young, creative wineries and eateries. Check out Dispreda Winery at their tasting room for unique whites and edgy reds, Levo Wine for Rhône varietals highlighting fruit from Paso as well as Santa Barbara County, ONX tasting room for rich and complex red blends, and Giornata Winery is a good start for your Paso Robles wine country experience.

Have you tried Award Winning Papagni 2019 Montepulciano Wine?"

Thu, 03/28/2024 - 08:50 -- johnk

A Story of Montepulciano Wine from Vine to Glass

Amidst the sun-drenched vineyards of Madera County, the story of a flavorful wine. Montepulciano wines continued to unfold, a testament to the enduring legacy of family, tradition, and the boundless possibilities of winemaking. Montepulciano wines originate from Italy, primarily from the region of Abruzzo, although they are also produced in other parts of central and southern Italy. The wine is made predominantly from the Montepulciano grape variety, known for its thick skin and deep color.

Montepulciano wines are typically medium to full-bodied with moderate acidity and soft tannins, a flavorful wine. They often exhibit flavors of dark berries, cherries, plums, and sometimes hints of spices or herbs. The wine can vary in style depending on winemaking techniques, aging process, and terroir.

In Italy, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is one of the most well-known and widely produced examples of this wine. It is often enjoyed when young, displaying vibrant fruit flavors and a smooth texture. However, some producers also make more complex and age-worthy versions that benefit from aging in oak barrels.

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