The view from Loma Prieta’s tasting room is not the only reason to go there—their wines are spectacular. At 2,600 feet, the elevation offers a breathtaking panorama of the Monterey Bay.
Although Loma Prieta makes around a dozen different wines, it is known far and wide for its Pinotage. Pinotage is a rare wine in California, so it’s exciting to find plentiful quantities at Loma Prieta. Not only do they have their own estate vineyard of Pinotage, but they also get Pinotage grapes from wherever they find a good source. Fruit for the 2014 Pinotage ($45) was harvested in Amorosa Vineyard in Lodi, an ideal area for growing the warm-weather-loving Pinotage grape.
Smoky plum and grilled lamb aromas greet the nose, with touches of clove and caraway. On the palate, a wide array of flavors, including soy and tamari, grilled ripe plums, blueberries, sage, marionberry pie, and strong tea, give unique complexity to this interesting wine.
The winery suggests you enjoy it with grilled sausages and hot dogs with spicy mustard, or a salami and provolone sub with peppers, oregano and olive oil.
Loma Prieta Winery is a beautiful place to visit. It has picnic tables, a bocce ball court, giant chess/checker board, and a telescope—all available to the customer.
I end this article on a very sad note: Owner and winemaker Paul Kemp passed away on July 1 due to complications following surgery. I’m sure he would love you to toast him with a glass of his Pinotage.
Loma Prieta Wiinery, 26985 Loma Prieta Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-2950. lomaprietawinery.com. Visit the website for accurate directions to their tasting room.
Chaminade Farm-to-Table Dinner
Looking for something fun and fabulous to do on the weekend? Then head to Chaminade Resort for their next farm-to-table dinner, which will feature Summit to Sea wineries—Burrell School, Loma Prieta and Wrights Station.
The al fresco evening kicks off with passed hors d’oeuvres at 6 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m.—with plentiful wine from three wonderful wineries. The event is Friday, Aug. 10 and tickets are $110 all inclusive.
Visit Chaminade.com for reservations.
