LOCATION:
MoniClaire winery is located on the bench land of the Dry Creek Valley near Healdsburg, California.
WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL:
Winemaking has been a source of pride and livelihood for Peter and Mary Beth Smiderle's family for over 100 years. Beginning in Italy with his grandfather and continuing today, they are now four generations that have enjoyed the rigors and pleasure of grape growing and winemaking. They are small and strive to create hand crafted wines that express both the characteristics of their land, as well as their stylistic preferences.
I was fortunate to meet Peter and Mary Beth during a recent trip to Livermore, California. They tasted me on the wines listed below (their first commercial offerings). I find them absolutely wonderful. Although MoniClaire wines are not yet available in Washington State, they are well worth the time it takes to visit their website and order.
Enjoy the Winemaker's Reviews
RED WINES 2006 Zinfandel
Big, bold and powerful, exhibiting the unique flavors and textures typical of the Lytton Springs area in the Dry Creek Valley. A wine reminiscent of blackberries and smoky chocolate mingled with a moderate touch of vanilla and toast. This wine has the intensity, structure and depth to last for 10 years or more and will continue to unveil its rich complexities with proper aging. Only 150 cases produced. Harvested 10/13/06 and aged in 100 percent French oak barrels.
2005 Zinfandel
Lovely bouquet and a rich, long finish, this full-bodied wine is deep yet elegant with earthy expressions of raspberries, cocoa, plum and blueberry. Very representative of the flavors and textures of the Lytton Springs bench but with a unique chocolaty palate sensation. Pacini, Hambrecht and Old Vine clones. Only 150 cases produced. Harvested 10/01/05. Agen in French and American oak; 15 percent new barrels.
2005 Petite Sirah
A deep, dark, brooding, mouth filling expression of the Petite Sirah variety. Opaque in the glass, the nose explodes with hints of violet, blueberry, olive and oak; for those who enjoy a big voluptuous wine. Somewhat less tannic than many Petite Sirah with an approachable fruit component. All of our Petite Sirah vines are planted on hillsides. Only 50 cases produced. Harvested 10/01/05. Aged in 100 percent French oak, 1 year old barrels.
WHITE WINE 2006 Sauvignon Blanc
This wine was made in a fresh, non-malolactic style. Crisp and floral with distinct grapefruit and lime overtones. The Musque clone delivers the characteristics typical of fine, old world Sauvignon Blanc. Nice acidity makes this wine perfect for oysters, smoked salmon, grilled chicken or just sipping by the pool.
YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 21 YEARS OF AGE TO VISIT
THE CELLAR WINE SHOPPE
