The acafe society Sonoma / Napa Valley Wine Country Experience

When it comes to some of the best fresh produce, gourmet food and extraordinary wines in the world, I’ve learned that sometimes we need not look any further than our own backyard, California! Where the stars shine bright and the grapes grow ripe.  Home of award winning wineries and some of the most sought after wines in the world.

We invite you to follow along on our Food & Wine Excursion as we explore California’s Central Coast with our guide the masterful Bruce Barrett – kiWW Global Wine Sommelier.  We’ve been invited to experience, learn, and of course taste some of the California’s top wines from 6 extraordinary wineries; Franciscan Estate, Grgich Hills Estate , Ravenswood Winery, Rodney Strong, Robert Mondavi Winery, and Simi Winery

Check back on kathyireland.com acafe “what’s cook’n” as we meet with the wines makers, attend tastings, and sample the cuisine from world renowned chefs.

Did you know that:
According to the California Wine Institute, California makes 90% of all U.S. wine and is the world’s 4th leading wine producer after France, Italy and Spain. California also ranks first in wine consumption in the U.S. Currently there are approx 3, 400 registered wineries and 4,600 winegrape growers in California.

Recommended Summer Wines:

 

 

 

 

Simi Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc
A stylish balance of vibrancy and creamy elegance, our Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc exhibits grassy notes, citrus, melon and fig with spice, mineral notes and snappy acidity.

Robert Mondavi Fume BLANC
The Original Fumé Blanc. Robert Mondavi created the term in 1966 to distinguish his dry Sauvignon Blanc from the sweeter-styled Sauvignon Blanc wines made at the time.

2009 Chardonnay, Estate Vineyards, Chalk Hill
Barrel fermentation in new and seasoned French oak added toasty vanilla and spice complexities, and during 10 months of barrel ageing, we regularly stirred the “lees” in barrel, which gives a certain fullness and creamy texture on the palate. Encouraging malolactic fermentation added additional character, and in the glass the wine is both creamy and crisp, with abundant fruit character, mineral, and toasty oak flavors.

2007 Napa Valley Old Vine Zinfandel
The Napa Valley is known for producing voluptuous, elegant wines, and the 2007 Ravenswood Napa Valley Old Vine Zinfandel is no exception. Grapes were sourced from notable vineyards throughout the valley. With a cool and dry growing season, the grape had ample time to flourish and develop on the vine. A full-bodied, robust wine with expressive aromas of ripe red plum, blackberry and sweet cedar on the nose precedes juicy, mouthwatering flavors of plum and currants. The wine finishes with well-focused balance and acidity. Try it now or in the next seven years.

2007 Chardonnay, Napa Valley 
Crafted from grapes that were certified organic and Biodynamic, our Chardonnay did not undergo malolactic fermentation, creating a wine that is alive with delicious acidity. This aromatic wine is rich with aromas of ripe peach, mango and tropical flowers, plus a note of minerality. Showcase this Chardonnay’s elegance with fresh seafood, roasted chicken, grilled pork, or creamy cheeses.

Franciscan Estate Sauvignon Blanc
Fresh, full, and lively with vibrant layers of lemongrass and citrus, hints of melon, and a long mineral finish with grapefruit and bright lime flavors.