Back to Sonoma County for the latest installment of LWTN. This week we will be discussing Muscardini Cellars in Kenwood. If you enjoy Italian varietals, Michael Muscardini's wines are simply the very best I have tasted in my 20+years in the valleys. I savor a good Super Tuscan, go bananas for Barbera, and, shout out loud for a great Sangiovese.
Michael bought his Sonoma Valley property and started planting grapes in 1997. In the beginning he made wine just for family and friends. Michal planted his savory Sangiovese in 1999. In late 2007 Michael opened his tasting room with another great wine maker Ty Caton (who I will be writing about in a couple of weeks). George and Jennifer man the tasting room and both have extensive wine knowledge and always make a visit To Muscardini/Ty Caton a memorable experience for my wine tour clients. It is no surprise that Muscardin Cellars and won the best Red Micro winery for 2009. Now, onto the Vino!!!
2009 Rosato Di Sangiovese - $22/BTL - 325 Cases produced - New Release. Grapes are from the famed Monte Rosso Vineyard. A bone-dry Rose' with bright strawberry aroma and light grapefruit finish. This is one of only 3 Rose' wines I've ever liked.
2007 Sangiovese - $42/BTL - 396 Cases - Simply the best 100% Sangio I've ever tasted. White pepper on the nose, elegant fruit with a hint of chocolate on the finish. Super smooooooth and has won a boatload of medals.
2008 Barbera - $42/BTL - 298 Cases - Light menthol on the nose, good body with slightly smokey finish. I'm putting my down for 1-2 years as this wine should benefit from additional aging.
2007 Unti Vineyard Syrah - $28/BTL (End of vintage special) - 200 Cases - Peppery nose, with big fruit and full mouth feel. Get it before it is all gone!
2007 Gracie Creek Syrah - $42/BTL-210 Cases - Lush berry fruit flavors with a long silky finish. This wine would go great with a New York Strip medium rare.
2007 Tesoro Super Tuscan - $49/BTL - 454 Cases - Michael's multiple award winning blend of 58% Sangiovese, 21% Syrah, And 21% Ty Caton Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a Super Tuscan at its best. This is Muscardini's flagship wine. And is definitely world class. Well balanced fruit and tannins will allow this wine to age gracefully.
What can I add? The wines are superb and the hospitality staff are excellent. Most days Michael Muscardini or Ty Caton are in the tasting room and always happy to discuss wines or sign bottles for patrons. Not just a great wine, but great people make this a must visit.
LOU 4/15/10
Stacy's Wine tours provides Custom Wine Tours in both Napa & Sonoma Wine Countries. If you really want to experience the wine country first hand, make your reservation with Stacy's Wine Tours by calling 707-266-6168 or you can email us at info@stacyswinetours.com.
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