According to JP Pawloski, winemaker and owner of the boutique winery River Run Vintners, located on the rural outskirts of Watsonville, “a Rogue blend appears when the vintage years are taste-wise diametric, and a blend of several Cuvées synergistically creates a better wine than the components, a wine that can be appreciated daily and have the capacity to be appreciated for several years.”
Having said all that, what we have here is an inexpensive red table wine full of spicy aromatics and notes of black currant, mulberry, oak and eucalyptus which wrap around the palate. Its soft tannins and bright acidity pair well with food. I found this wine at the Capitola New Leaf for only $9.99—a steal for such a well-made blend.
Pawloski has gained an excellent reputation for his winemaking skills over the years, but his website always seems a bit elusive, as not a single wine is listed there. He certainly welcomes visitors to his twice-a-year open house, but you need to sign up for the mailing list to be invited.
Pawloski handcrafts his wines and carefully sources his fruit, producing Syrah, Zinfandel, Viognier, Carignane, Riesling and other varietals.
The good news is that you are sure to find plenty of River Run wines at local supermarkets and liquor stores, and you won’t be disappointed when you get some.
River Run Vintners, 65 Rogge Lane, Watsonville, 726-3112. riverrunwines.com.
Sail on the ‘Chardonnay II’
Seasonal charter sails are now taking place until the end of October on the Chardonnay II, featuring Akira Sushi and Pono Hawaiian Grill—two local favorites. If you love sushi, then you’ll enjoy a variety of vegetarian and sushi rolls provided out on the briny by Akira Sushi. If Hawaiian-style pupus are your thing, then pick a sailing date when Pono Hawaiian Grill is serving their food. White and red wine are available along with cold beer on tap and soft drinks. Akira also serves sake, of course! Cost is $63 before tax, and $30.50 for children 14 or younger. The Chardonnay II also features local wineries on Fridays through the summer. For sailing dates and more info visit chardonnay.com.
