A visit to the Kuumbwa Jazz Club recently to see Ukrainian singers DakhaBrakha turned into a magical evening. Not only was the group’s performance mesmerizing, but the wine we shared—a Trout Gulch Vineyards Pinot Noir 2013—also added a ton of flavor to the whole experience.
Expertly made by Gerry Turgeon, whose late father Bernie Turgeon was a pioneer in the wine industry, this Pinot is bursting with bold flavors. In fact, it was Bernie who planted the Pinot Noir grapes in the early 1980s on the now-famous Trout Gulch Vineyards in the Aptos foothills.
Grapes for the 2013 Pinot Noir La Source—so named because of the “source” of natural artesian springs that issue from the estate—were night-harvested in early October, yielding 226 cases. Enticing aromas of plums, berries and spices add to the lingering fruity finish of this intense Pinot (around $38).
Turgeon suggests pairing it with hearty fare such as game, chicken, roast pork, wild salmon, curry dishes, and grilled eggplant. Or, try it with some of the excellent fare offered at Kuumbwa.
For info on where to buy locally visit troutgulchvineyards.com or call 588-9639.
Route 1 Farms Dinners
There are three dinners lined up for the summer at Route 1 Farms—July 17, Aug. 14 and Sept. 25. Although the July dinner with Chef Brad Briske of La Balena in Carmel is sold out, there is a waiting list you can add your name to. As of this writing, tickets are still available for Aug. 14 with Chef Damani Thomas of Oswald in Santa Cruz and wines by Sones Cellars; and Sept. 25 with Chef Carlos Espinas of Assembly and Kendra Baker of the Glass Jar with wines by Odonata. Tickets are $120, all inclusive. For more info visit route1farms.com.
Redwood Hill Farm
Goat-milk yogurt is not just for kids! I really enjoyed sampling Redwood Hill’s flavors in New Leaf recently. The company also makes a variety of other goat-milk produce, including cheeses and kefir. Based in Sebastopol, the farm offers tours and milking demonstrations—and you can even visit their baby goats. Next time you’re in New Leaf, pick up some of this delicious yogurt. Visit redwoodhill.com for more information.
