Jerry Fiore has always enjoyed wine, but when he moved to the Santa Ynez Valley back in 2004, he could never have predicted the changes that were coming. Once immersed in the “Valley culture”, he soon discovered numerous artisan boutique wineries crafting delicious unique wines. Having been a member of over twenty notable California wine clubs, Jerry wondered why he was not tasting these types of gems. Instead of waiting for an answer, he started his own wine club, Sogno del Fiore – dream of the flower. As an ambassador for the wineries, his mission is as clear as the day he started – a wine club that showcases premium, elegant California wines of excellent quality, from small boutique wineries, that are the up and coming stars. Below are three “gems” that Jerry would like to share with you, your family and friends that feel like family. Enjoy!
HEARST RANCH WINERY • 2009 MALBEC
The Hearst Ranch Winery is a partnership between Stephen T. Hearst and Jim Saunders. As accomplished businessmen they utilized their collective skills and resources to create a winery with the historical signature of the Hearst tradition. Aromatically, “Babicora” is layered with rich black fruits laden with tropical notes such as passion fruit and lychee nut. “Babicora” is stylistically similar to Argentinian Malbecs, with a flavor profile driven by front end blackberry jam flavors. The mid-palate is dominated by game and cherry flavors that transition to a raspberry and French oak tannin driven finish that is reminiscent of sweet cassis.
Aging – 11 months, 20% French Oak
Varietals – 77% Malbec, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot, 4% Petite Sirah
Alcohol – 14.1% • Ph – 3.69
Cases Produced – 360
R2 WINE COMPANY • 2010 PINOT NOIR
Roger Roessler, formerly Roessler Cellars, along with his brother Richard applied their winemaking experiences and created the R2 Wine Company. With the assistance of winemaker Byron Kosuge they began producing a lineup of Pinot Noirs, Chardonnay and Rhone Blends. The results have been very impressive in all of the varietals. Deep ruby color; deep, complex earthy aromas with cherry and herbal notes; complex, earthy and rich cherry and plum flavors with some sage and anise notes; sweet oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Complex, many layered Pinot that really needs some time in the glass and in the bottle to open up; perfect paired with a grilled steak or slow-cooked short ribs. PR 94 pts.
Aging – 11 months in 50% New French Oak
Varietals – Variety of Pinot Clones
Alcohol – 14.2% • Ph – 3.84
Cases Produced – 98
RUA • 2009 RED BLEND
Walt Averill and Máire Murphy, husband and wife, who have been involved in the wine industry for a number of years decided to make wine approximately ten years ago. Sound familiar? This release represents the second vintage of a blend of Merlot and Cab Franc from the Carneros Region in the Napa Sonoma area, and will allow you to enjoy the full rich flavors of their blend. A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this wine is soft, rich and delicious. Although it’s completely dry, it’s enormously sweet in cherries, red currants, dark chocolate, anise and cedar. Aromas of plum, sweet black cherry, oak, tobacco, vanilla and earth. Ripe dark fruits, cocoa, spicy oak and subtle dried herbs fill the mouth with a long finish. The tannins are furry and firm, making you wonder if it’s worth cellaring. The best guess is that it’s best now, with decanting, and over the next four years. WS 90 pts. WE 93 pts.
Aging -20 months, 100% French Oak
Varietals – 100% Merlot and Cabernet Franc
Alcohol – 14.5% • Ph – 3.68
Cases Produced – 400