Pierce Ranch Vineyards, Monterey ...a welcome change

Pierce Ranch Vineyards' tasting room is within slingshot distance to Cannery Row and
bucket list hotels right on the Monterey Bay.

I've had the chance to taste there a few times, but was eager to pick up some wines again.
The Iberian varietals are a welcome change from the California rinse-and-repeat varietals you often see. These wines are terrific on their own or with food.
Anticipate personality!

Just before the SIP, I messaged Josh and let him know I was in the area and
hoping to come by for a tasting.
He pinged me, and fast forward, there was a glass of Pierce Ranch wine in my hand
as my husband and I were chatting it up with his amazing staff.

Owner, Josh Pierce, is often sharing and pouring his wines at
Monterey County Vintners & Growers events, such as: trade tastings, winemaker tastings, and more.

His tasting room is a relaxing place to savor the wines and enjoy a leisurely chat with a friend.
While I've featured Josh's wines a way back, I do love the chance to taste current vintages.

Here's a look at my tastings.

• 2018 Albarino. If you crave a change in your white wine line up, then try the Albarino. Soft stone fruit, appealing citrus, and the salinity (which I love) makes this wine refreshing on its own, with fish, or an arugula salad with apples and pecans.

• 2017 Tinto Cao. This red is lite in body and a great walk-around wine. Ideal for meandering in and out of the house to the yard, or for small bites and visiting with friends. Pairs well with cured meats and hard cheeses or grilled fish.

 

• 2017 Touriga 100%. Smooth, while offering nice acidity to tannins, the palate of dark berry/floral/spice balance this red wine.
  

• 2017 Zinfandel. The cool, coastal growing influence on this Zinfandel fruit makes for a non-jammy wine. This Zin offers the classic flavor profiles of dark berry fruit and spice, but it also offers terrific acidity (yet it's not as acidic or sharp as Italian wines can often be.)

 

• 2014 Petite Sirah. The nose on this wine makes me so happy! Hints of chocolate and chalk, a smooth mouth-feel, and just enough tannins to leave a slight pucker in the mouth make for a lovely pour. Try something new and enjoy this with seasoned grilled ribs (skip the jar of BBQ sauce) or with baked brie cheese with apricot jam in phyllo dough.
  

 

• Also look for: 100% Malbec, GSP, Claret, Graciano, Tempranillo, and a Vinho Doce.

While we're waiting to get back to the tasting rooms, Pierce Ranch Vineyards (Link) can be found online, with available curb-side pick up.
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Health to you and yours!
Shondra Savadkohi

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