Etude Winemaker at The Tasting Room-Uptown

The Tasting Room-Uptown hosted an Etude wine tasting with winemaker, Jon Priest, on Thursday. Event goers had the opportunity to taste eight offerings from the Etude Wines portfolio. Wines included two whites- 2007 Chardonnay and 2009 Pinot Gris, four Pinot Noir- 2007 Carneros, 2006 Temblor, 2006 Deer Camp, 2007 Heirloom and two Cabernets- 2005 Napa Valley and the 2006 Oakville.
Jon's philosphy is that wine "is grown, not made." He believes in using quality grapes from superior vineyards with as little intervention as possible from the winemaker. This quality is clearly evident throughout the product line.

I enjoyed all the selections; the whites were both fresh and crisp with pronounced fruit, the Pinot Noirs were each unique- clearly representing their different terroir and the Cabernets gave everything that you expect and want from a Napa Cab. I would rate the complete line from very good to outstanding.

Specific tasting notes will be presented at a later date as I enjoy each bottle again.

Comments

Nocera - A Native Grape from Sicily

Nocera is a native grape from Sicily. It comes from the Messina province which is located in the northeast. Nocera is a quality red wine grape that is most known as a blender in the red wines of the Faro DOC. I had the opportunity to taste some pure versions (which according to Wine Searcher are rare) this week at a trade tasting held at Roma Restaurant in Houston. Wine production in the region dates back to the 14th Century BC, however, phylloxera decimated the vineyard area in 1881 leaving it at a fraction of its original size. The area boasts a Mediterranean climate with sunny days and coastal breezes, moderate rainfall, and mild winters, all ideal for grape growing. The Nocera grape is a bluish/black color and has a thick skin which allows for the production of structured wines with prominent tannins which are balanced by good acidity. High alcohol is common. Red wines produced from the grapes are an intense ruby color with purple highlights and aromas and flavors of dark fruits a

The Ultimate Zinfandel Experience - ZinEX

In the September issue of Galveston Monthly, I'm celebrating California Wine Month with the Golden State's signature grape, Zinfandel. I am also sharing information on the ultimate experience for Zinfandel lovers, ZinEX, get more information on that event at https://zinfandelexperience.com/

The New Sub-Regions of Willamette Valley

In the June 2022 issue of Galveston Monthly magazine, I explore the new sub AVAs and what makes each unique.

Wine Life - Houston

Search This Blog