A friend came over for wine and munchies—a good opportunity to open up a nice bottle of wine. Pelican Ranch’s 2020 Pinot Noir on a cool evening was perfect. In fact, we enjoyed the whole bottle!
Grapes for this gorgeous 2020 Pinot Noir ($65) are from Peake Ranch Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills, a highly-rated spot for growing the sensitive Pinot fruit. This wine was made from cloning 667 grapes.
“The tradition at Pelican Ranch of making a rich, multi-layered Pinot Noir from the famed Santa Rita Hills AVA began in 2004,” says winemaker Phil Crews. “The flavor synergy includes red raspberries, strawberries, cherries and hints of sassafras—and the full-bodied mouthfeel is capped with a hedonistically silky texture.”
Phil and his wife Peggy run Pelican Ranch and their delightful tasting room is off the windy Bean Creek Road. It’s well worth a visit, especially to taste this exciting new Pinot.
Pelican Ranch Winery, 2364 Bean Creek Road, Scotts Valley. 831-332-5359. pelicanranch.com
Wine Walk in Aptos Village: Taste of the Mountains
Looking for a fun afternoon of wine tasting? Then head to Aptos Village for the next Wine Walk organized by Wines of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Nearly 20 local wineries will be participating, pouring wine at various shops and businesses in Aptos Village, all within walking distance. At check-in, you’ll receive a glass and a map of the pouring locations.
Saturday, Feb.26, 1-4pm. $40 online/$50. winesofthesantacruzmountains.com.
Priest Ranch Grenache Blanc
2019 Priest Ranch Grenache Blanc ($24) is a terrific wine with good acidity and minerality combined with a touch of tannin. Dancing with spices such as sage and rosemary, this crisp white wine pairs well with triple-cream cheese.
6490 Washington St., Yountville. 707-944-8200. priestranchwines.com. Shipping available at wine.com.
