Bottoms Up

Chip Ferguson posted a great request in the comment section asking for recommendations for Sunday’s Grand Tasting at Rhone Rangers. Good point, Chip! With 130 wineries, how are you supposed to know what to prioritize?

Personally, I’ll be exploring who in California is going out of their way to bring white single Rhone varietals like Marsanne and Roussane to our eager palates. Chip’s focusing on Syrah and Petite Sirah. There are so many noteworthy producers on the list, but these are the ones you should try if you haven’t, Chip!

Foppiano Vineyards: This 100 year old, small, by appointment Russian River Valley property makes 100 percent estate Petite Sirah that is concentrated without being overly extracted. If you like blue and purple fruits with exotic spices in your PS, try this. The current vintage is only $23.

Bella Vineyards and Wine Caves: I’ve gushed long enough about Dashe Cellars. Now it’s time to gush about Mike Dashe’s other project, Dry Creek Valley’s Bella, where he acts as consulting winemaker. Try the Hillside Cuvee, a blend of Syrah, old vine Grenache and old vine Zinfandel that will transport you to the Rhone Valley.

Curtis Winery: This Santa Barbara County winery churns out big, gorgeous Syrahs more on the California side of the grape than the Rhone side. A few vintages ago, the Ambassador Vineyards Syrah had the most alluring nose of pure bacon fat. Since, the wine has followed a fruitier path of black cherries and blueberries. It is still a winner, even at a whopping 16 percent alcohol.