Think fresh-picked wild strawberry, pomegranate and raspberry jam layers, combined with the savory flavors of white pepper, iodine, sage, and a hint of briny ocean air. This describes the particularly great showing for Patz & Hall's new Jenkins Ranch Pinot Noir. And we can't wait to have our first sip!
A Little Background on Jenkins Ranch:
Jenkins Ranch in Sonoma County is the old family homestead for Nancy Jenkins and her two daughters who form the popular country music trio, The Jenkins. The family began working with viticulture expert Charlie Chenoweth in 2001 and their property has since emerged as an exceptional Pinot Noir vineyard.
Fast-forward four years, and Patz & Hall Winemaker James Hall starts making his Pinots from that very vineyard. Though the site itself features cool coastal influences, there's just one series of hills separating it from the Petaluma Gap that offers a certain degree of shelter and warmth for the grapes – the perfect conditions for perfect Pinot Noir.
This eagerly anticipated 2012 Jenkins Ranch collaboration is recently available at the Sonoma House at Patz & Hall, but it sells out quickly every year. We'd suggest making plans to visit and stocking up on a few bottles immediately. With this weather, you really have no excuse.
Time to Taste:
• Private Tasting: Who doesn't appreciate a little food with their wine pour? Patz & Hall offers seated, hour-long private tastings by appointment Wednesday through Sunday; six Chardonnay and Pinot Noir single-vineyard-designate wines are paired with a seasonally inspired selection of four savory panna cottas, catered by Chef Natalie Niksa of La Saison. Choose from three seating times at 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Cost is $50 per person.
• Tasting Bar: Looking for a more casual tasting experience? Savor four Patz & Hall wines at the tasting bar with your whole group. Tastings are Wednesday through Sunday and begin on the hour starting at 10 a.m., with the last tasting at 4 p.m. Cost is $25, and appointments are required.
