Modesto wine columnist zooms into biodynamics
Yes, I did it! I connected my computer to Zoom without the help of my favorite granddaughter for a virtual tasting led by Chris Benziger, representing the Benziger Family Winery.
He gave a short history of the family’s move to Sonoma, the development of their first winery and explained why the decision was made to transition from conventional to biodynamic farming in 1995. In 2000, they were officially certified as a biodynamic farm by the Demeter Association. The virtual tasting was in celebration of its 20th year. All of Benziger wines are third-party certified sustainable, organic or biodynamic. The four wines we tasted were excellent. When life returns to normal, we plan to visit and take the vineyard tour. It was voted the the Best Winery Tour by Wine Spectator, USA Today and the Sonoma People’s Choice Award. For more information go to their beautiful website www.benziger.com. Cheers!
You need wine? They have wine
During these hunker-down days, the best wine deals are online. Cardella Winery, that little Tuscan village between Interstate 5 and Mendota, has amazing discounts and free shipping. I ordered a mixed case of Italian varietals and UPS did the rest. Included in my case was the Best of Class 2018 Sangiovese Rose, the Double Gold 2014 Sangiovese and the Gold 2014 Barbera, all SF Chronicle winners. It’s a miracle, my cabin fever is almost back to normal.
The Calaveras Winegrape Alliance is hosting an eight-week video series, “History of the Calaveras Wine Region.” If you’re a fan of the 23 tasting rooms in Murphys, check out this weekly video and then order some of its discounted wine at calaveraswines.org.
The Anderson Valley producers, in lieu of the yearly Pinot Noir Festival, are taking its celebration online with promotions and exclusive events. A free Zoom seminar on the Anderson Valley, shipping discounts and special Pinot Noir pricing can be found weekly at avwines.com/pinot-month.
What’s on our table
The Steal: The 2017 Challis Lane Merlot was a Double Gold Medal Winner at the Chronicle Tasting. It’s sold only at BevMo for $9.95. It is always included in their 5-Cent Sale, so that’s 2 for $10 and a steal!
The Deal: The 2016 Benziger Family Winery Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon, certified sustainable, is a rich full-bodied wine with flavors of berries, mocha and spice. The SRP is $20. It is sale priced around $17.
The Splurge: The 2018 Laetitia Estate Arroyo Grande Valley Pinot Noir is a well-balanced elegant wine and SIP Certified. It lists for $27 but is sale priced near $24 and readily available. Cheers!
Questions? Comments? Find me on Facebook or at rgwinton@yahoo.com.