RECENT TRAVEL'S WITH DON

Having the opportunity to write for a few different publications has forced me to move out of my wine comfort zone....and explore new (to me) wineries, wines and wine regions along the Central Coast.  And THAT....is a very good thing!

The Central Coast is just replete with great areas....from Santa Barbara all the way up to Paso (still my passion, but being challenged)!  Santa Ynez, Santa Maria and the Edna Valley to name a few are producing such vibrant and different wines reflective of their specific climate and terroir.

A few recently visited included the Byron** tasting room in Los Olivos where I was graciously hosted by Pati Wilkinson (Estate Manager) and Lucio Uribe (Tasting Room Associate).  Their line up of Santa Maria Valley Pinots is nothing short of amazing...reflecting the dirt, weather and special conditions of this area. Touting themselves as a "Pinot House," they certainly are!

                                                           

A few weeks later I had the pleasure of interviewing Stephen Ross**, of the winery that bears his name, in his San Luis Obispo tasting room.  Again, a region with a special climate for Pinot and Chardonnay.  Stephen's wine education and experience and travels has brought him to the apex of his small production boutique winery. Single vineyard designated wines, specializing in Pinot Noir....yummmy

Lastly....I have to say SOMETHING about a new discovery in Paso!  Not a "new" winery, but new to me.  CALCAREOUS!  Recently having 4 of their wines named in a winespectator.com article:  "9 powerful reds from Paso Robles"....these 4 wines certainly give you a WOW factor!  Anna (tasting room manager) and John (Hospitality/Sales manager) just exude passion and friendliness when walking through the Calcareous line up. Add the comfort of their modern, beautifully designed tasting room and view and you have a piece of Paso heaven.   The winery and wines are NOT to be missed!

                                               

                                                                     

So....there you have a quick recap of my recent wine experiences!  ** (AND....be certain to pick up a copy of Wine Country this Month, July edition, to read about Stephen Ross, winemaker, and the Byron Tasting room)!

Cheers to more travels and more new (to me) wines coming up.  So much wine and so little time!

ds