Idle Hour, Carmel Valley ...wines with a dramatic twist

Idle Hour Tasting Room in Carmel Valley is tucked in a cozy area of shops, just a street back from West Carmel Valley Road. The Winery, main tasting room, and Kitchen are located in Oakhurst, Ca, a bit south of the Yosemite National Park entrance. Winemaker Anna Marie dos Remedios typically is producing wine up North, but does pop into the Carmel Valley tasting room on occasion.

The day I visited the Carmel Tasting Room, one of her knowledgeable staff was pouring. He poured and shared about Idle Hour wines at a comfortable pace, giving us time to taste and soak in the details. I'm always intrigued by wine labels. A good friend of mine is an artist and designs wine bottle labels. Idle Hour's labels reflect the dark, inky wine they craft. They are quite creative, imaginative, and magical.

When you visit, you can look forward to tasting varietals such as: Tempranillo, Syrah, Pinot Noir, and softening things up with a Rose'. While the tasting room is snug, you can find a niche in the area to have a picnic or dine at one of the quaint local dining spots.