Pinotage 2009
If you want to taste something totally smooth and sexy that’s going to knock your socks off, then try Loma Prieta’s Pinotage. The 2009 Amorosa Vineyard ($45) is so impressive that you just keep coming back for more. It’s not surprising, then, that this gorgeous wine, aged in the finest oak, has won numerous gold medal awards—two of the most notable being a double gold at the 2011 Indy International Wine Competition, and Best of Class at the 2011 California State Fair Commercial Wine Competition.
Winemaker Paul Kemp has every reason to be proud of this very special Pinotage. He describes it as “a riot of wild cherry, sassafras, raspberry and caramel that proves that Pinotage is indeed the darker, more dangerous side of Pinot Noir,” and he’s right. With its chocolaty dark fruit aromas and incredible flavors, this very earthy, fruit-forward wine is like nectar for the gods.
Loma Prieta Winery is a stunning place to visit. Situated at about 2,300 feet in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the views of the Monterey Bay are spectacular. A picnic area and a bocce ball court are available on a first-come, first-serve basis so it’s a good idea to go up there and spend some time. Loma Prieta also makes Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Viognier, Chardonnay, and Port—their first dessert wine. Take my advice and head to the tasting room pronto to try their earth-shaking wines.
And last but not least, there is a Pinotage-only wine club at Loma Prieta. The next pick-up party will be on Dec. 3 and 4 from noon to 5 p.m. Sounds like it’s going to be a whole lot of fun for the Pinotage-inclined.
Loma Prieta Winery, 26985 Loma Prieta Way, Los Gatos. (408) 353-2950. Open Saturday and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. lomaprietawinery.com.
Wine Events
Copious Winery’s Release Party
Copious Winery will be celebrating the release of five new wines on Sunday, Sept. 25 from noon to 6 p.m. Appetizers will be served from 1:30-3 p.m. and a good time is sure to be had by all.
Copious Winery, 427 Swift St., A, Santa Cruz. RSVP by phone or email: 425-WINE (9463).
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Chaminade Farm to Table Dinner
The last of the Farm to Table dinners for the summer takes place on Friday, Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. and features the splendid wines of Poetic Cellars. Food is carefully sourced from local farms and vendors, all of which is enjoyed outside on Chaminade’s lovely patio. Cost is $75 per person. Call 475-5600 for reservations.
Chaminade Resort & Spa, One Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz. chaminade.com.
