Viognier 2010—Sweet Smell of Success
A trip to Loma Prieta Winery is well worth a visit. Situated at about 2,600 feet in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it is like being on top of the world—and the view of the Monterey Bay is spectacular. Loma Prieta’s wines are pretty spectacular, too, which makes it even more worthwhile to take a jaunt to their tasting room.
The first sip I had of the 2010 Viognier, Amorosa Vineyard, Lodi, was at the Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group’s Gourmet Grazing on the Green in Aptos Village Park in September. I was immediately smitten with this sensual nectar and all its gorgeous nuances of tropical fruit. And touches of golden pear, guava and fresh coconut also add some delicious sweetness. The wine’s soft golden hue and vivacious aromatics tempt one to take that first sip—and then to experience the joy of a beautifully made wine.
And then at the last of the Farm to Table dinners at Chaminade at the beginning of October, I had this delectable Viognier again. Matched with Chef Beverlie Terra’s exquisite food, it was the perfect wine for a warm evening in a stunning setting.
The Viognier can be bought only at the winery, and the good news is that it’s on sale—it is usually $24 a bottle, but right now it’s only $20. Take my advice and head straight to Loma Prieta.
As well as the Viognier, Loma Prieta makes Pinot Noir, Syrah, Pinotage, Petit Sirah and Chardonnay—and they have now added a sparkling wine and a port to their list as well, both of which I can’t wait to try.
Loma Prieta participates in the Passport program (see below) and will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 17. They advise that you check their website for directions to their tasting room to be sure you take the right road. Some superb wine awaits you once you get there!
Loma Prieta Winery, 26985 Loma Prieta Way, Los Gatos. (408) 353-2950. Open Saturday and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. lomaprietawinery.com.
Passport Day: Saturday, Nov. 17
Passport Day comes around every three months, and it’s a good opportunity to go wine tasting. This is the day when you can visit wineries belonging to the Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association (SCMWA), providing you have a Passport, which will cost you $45 and can be purchased at any winery. When you visit each winery, you get your Passport stamped (it doesn’t expire)—and with close to 80 wineries belonging to SCMWA, it will take you a very long time to fill it up. Passport Day takes place four times a year on the third Saturday of January, April, July and November. Info: 685-8464, or scmwa.com or in**@sc***.com .
