Last month was devastating for Sonoma County. In particular, we have experienced tremendous heartbreak with the loss of Soda Rock Winery, the winery that you may have seen tragically burning on national television. Soda Rock was the only winery that was destroyed by the fire. Their thoughts are with all of those who have lost residences and businesses and who were evacuated without access to power. Their gratitude to the first responder is immeasurable.
What they hold onto in these trying times are the safety of their staff, wine club members, and the wider community. They hold on to the still-standing Soda Rock barn and the resilient Lord Snort sculpture. Quite a bit of Soda Rock's wine storage is offsite, so there was little damage to inventory.
Most importantly, they have been lifted up by the amazing outpouring of positive thoughts, photos, memories and words of support–it truly means the world to their employees and Mayacama Vintner Members Ken and Diane Wilson.
One recurring question: “What can we do to help?” As mentioned, thankfully, all of their staff is safe, all of their staff homes are safe, but the impact to business with having all of their wineries closed as they try to support the displaced Soda Rock staff, is real. The number one thing we can do to help support team Soda Rock is to keep enjoying their wines, and to come back and visit other Wilson Artisan Wineries.
Yesterday, I attended a tasting and barn sale at the winery and was able to survey the damage. It was unbelievable. I showed my support by purchasing many of their wines for my personal cellar and will continue to show support through this wine offer. |
2018 Chardonnay, Alexander Valley
Alluring aromas fill the nose with butterscotch, pear, tropical fruit and a trace of wet stone. With the first sip, vibrant acidity fills the palate with a delicious blend of juicy pear, Honeycrisp apple and perfectly ripe melon. The luscious flavors and round mouthfeel balance the crisp, refreshing texture, making this an ideal sipping wine.
2017 Primitivo, Los Amigos, Chalk Hill
The nose bursts with juicy, ripe red raspberry and traces of white pepper. A silken entry offers a delicious blend of fresh-picked blackberry and raspberry fused with traces of zesty fresh-ground pepper. Vibrant acidity and a spicy texture balance the rich jammy flavors and provide a bright, lengthy finish to this irresistible wine.
2017 Zinfandel, Postmaster Reserve
Enticing, deep brambly blackberry aromas, along with a dash of white pepper, fill the nose. A rich, juicy entry exposes vibrant flavors of black raspberry and Rainer cherry layered with hints of black pepper, light citrus and cocoa. The lovely blend of flavors offers a refined Zin that lingers just long enough to take that next sip.
2016 Cab/Merlot Blend, Lord Snort, Alexander Valley
"Snort" the full complement of enticing aromatics as you dive into this wine. The nose offers a blend of ripe red and dark berries, the spiciness of forest floor and a hint of eucalyptus. The fresh entry opens to a smooth mouthfeel that releases delicious bright flavors--fresh-picked blackberry, blueberry and cherry--against a background of creamy mocha, toasty oak and dark chocolate. Warm brown spices accent the palate, while supple tannins and gentle oak balance the lush flavors.
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley
The nose offers subtle dark fruit aromas with inviting traces of toasty oak and cigar box. A silken entry flows into a juicy blend of boysenberry, dark cherry and just a touch of strawberry. Spicy cedar, supple tannins and gentle oak notes add layers and depth. This easy sipping, deliciously balanced wine has all the hallmarks of a high-end Cabernet without the "serious edges" that require years of bottle aging to tame. Be sure to stock up for you'll find yourself wanting more.
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Twisted Rail, Alexander Valley
Dark cherry, cassis and pomegranate with a touch of floral join the rich black raspberry core mid-palate. As the wine opens, the solid tannin and oak structure settles into a supporting role, leaving the delicious flavors to take center stage. If opened before 2019, decanting is recommended.
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2018 Chardonnay, Alexander Valley - $32
2017 Primitivo, Los Amigos, Chalk Hill - $36
2017 Zinfandel, Postmaster Reserve - $42
2016 Cab/Merlot Blend, Lord Snort, Alexander Valley - $29
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley - $41
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Twisted Rail, Alexander Valley - $48
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