Now that the dust has settled after the holidays, it’s time to take a breather and relax with a nice glass of wine. And that would be Wargin Wines’ 2018 Sagrantino Reserve ($30).
Wargin Wines owner and winemaker Mikael Wargin doesn’t just stick to favorite varietals such as Chardonnay and Zinfandel; he churns out exciting wines such as this vigorous 2018 Sagrantino. A fundraiser at El Vaquero Winery and adjoining Alladin Nursery in Corralitos introduced wine lovers to a bastion of local wineries pouring their elixirs—including Wargin Wines.
The dry, inky-purple Sagrantino grape is high in tannin, twice the level of Cabernet Sauvignon or Nebbiolo, and has an almost-black center. Aromas of red currants, fennel, white pepper and rose hips delight the olfactory senses. Dried strawberry, rhubarb, dried thyme, dark caramel and light vanilla bean flavors add to the intrigue of this dry red wine.
Grapes are from Siletto Family Vineyards in San Benito County—ideal for sun-seeking Sagrantino.
“We make small-lot, handcrafted wines that speak to the palate and pair brilliantly with food, mood and maybe a little mayhem,” Wargin says. “Wines to pair with everyday meals and memories.”
Wargin Wines’ Soquel tasting room is open Wednesday through Sunday.
Wargin Wines, 5015 Soquel Drive, Soquel; 831-708-9463. warginwines.com.
Seacliff Inn’s Grand Opening
The Seacliff Inn in Aptos, under the Best Western umbrella, is now part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton. And it was all stops out for their grand opening in mid-fall. Food and beverages were comped—cocktails, beer and wine flowing all evening. Oak Ridge Winery from Lodi poured their flavorful Zinfandel—with the dulcet sounds of Santa Cruz band Soulwise in the background. Seacliff Inn’s rooms and dining areas have been beautifully renovated with an entirely new look.
Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Ct., Aptos; 831-688-8987. seacliffinn.com.
