White Oak Winery, Alexander Valley

It is now winter in the Wine Country!   With the cold weather coming we all need lots of good Vino to get that warm and fuzzy feeling.  And speaking of excellent wineries to visit, our featured winery today is White Oak Winery in Geyserville, Alexander Valley in Sonoma County.
Founded in 1981 by Bill Meyers, White Oak began making quality Chardonnay, Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc. They own over 750 acres of prime vineyards in Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, and Napa Valley. A small production winery of 22,000 cases, White Oak sells 90% of their grape harvest to well known prestige wineries.

The winery sits among the Estate Vineyard of Old Vine Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc vines. The Mediterranean style building houses the Winery and tasting room. On the 3rd floor there is a dining room and deck which have a great panoramic view of the Alexander Valley and surrounding mountains.

Highest marks and kudos to John Fisher and the entire hospitality staff as they are always warm, friendly and knowledgeable. They always make a visit to White Oak Winery a memorable experience. Now onto their wines, made by Winemaker Bill Parker:

1) 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley  $16/bottle  -   Beautiful nose with hints of apples and pineapple. Flavors of pear, grapefruit and lemon grass make this a very appealing wine.

2) 2008 Chardonnay Russian River Valley $24/bottle 8,000 cases  -  Classic chardonnay with pear and tropical fruit on the nose. Great balance of oak and fruit lead to a long, creamy finish.

3) 2005 Syrah Napa Valley $26/bottle - This is a Lou fave!! Aromas of cranberry and coffee, this full bodied Syrah has nicely balanced pepper, chocolate and earthy tones.  Drinks well now and up to 2015 or so.

4) 2005 Merlot Napa Valley $26/bottle - This classic Merlot is very complex for such a drinkable wine. I got cherry, vanilla hints with a slight chocolate finish.

5) 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley  $30/bottle  -  Taste this one for yourself. It is a very good Napa Valley Cab FOR THIRTY BUCKS!!!  A bargain say I.

6) 2007 Zinfandel Alexander Valley $40/bottle 400 cases  -  This is a rich, spicy Zin with flavors of cherry, chocolate and spice and a long satisfying finish. A little pricey for a Zin, but a darn good wine.

7) 2005 Reserve Alexander Valley $50/bottle 400 cases  -  This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc is a bold tasty wine with a long finish. I would hold this 3 - 5 years and then drink to realize its potential.

8) 2005 Reserve Napa Valley $50/bottle 400 cases  -  This 50/50 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is lush and velvety. Ready to drink now but should hold for 5+ years.

To sum it all up, White Oak makes some great wines and decent prices and give you a great experience when you visit. I highly reccomend you stop by when in Northern Sonoma.

Till Next Time   -  Lou