Although we are not out of a drought by a long shot, things have definitely improved over the past month. Up to 10 inches of rain fell last week in the hilly areas of Sonoma County, and more is on the way, with heavy rain predicted through this weekend. A “Miracle March,” like one we had several years ago, would go a long way in addressing the needs of our farmers, fishermen and general population. Here’s to a very soggy month!
The month starts off with the annual Wine Road Barrel Tasting, with over 100 wineries in the Russian River, Dry Creek and Alexander Valleys pouring young wines still in barrel. We have a special treat this year, as we will offer tastes of 2013 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir and 2013 Russian River Valley Petit Meunier. Known for its ability to thrive in cool climates and its high levels of fruit and acidity, Petit Meunier (muh-NYAY) is the most widely planted grape in the Champagne region of France, though very little is grown here in California. It will be fun to compare the wine next to its relative – Pinot Noir.
To help celebrate the event, we will put our 2012 Russian River Valley Pinot Gris on sale. Normally $18/bottle, 6 bottles of the wine will go for $60, 12 bottles for $96. In addition, we will introduce our new 2013 Russian River Valley Rose of Pinot Noir, complete with our new Tasting Room Only label. Barrel Tasting runs Friday through Sunday, February 28th – March 2nd; and March 7th – 9th.
In the cellar the bottling line is chugging right along filling our wines as well as wines of our custom crush clients. Bottling will continue until preparation for the 2014 harvest begins in August.
Our busy season will soon be upon us, so now is an especially good time to get that extra special attention here at the Tasting Room. We have new releases, wines available only at the Tasting Room, and our friendly staff is ready to make your visit a memorable one. Come see us soon!
Cheers!
Mike Tierney
President, Taft Street Winery