Jeff Runquist – 2009 Barbera

This wine was light and smooth right out of the bottle without decanting.  It is fairly dark with faint legs.  The flavor is quite fruit forward as a result of the rich soil and warm climate of Amador County.  While I didn’t try it, I suspect this wine would go great with BBQ ribs.

What they say: “The 2010 Amador Barbera has a deep garnet purple color with a carmine edge to the hue. The aromas show plenty of black raspberry and dark cherry fruit. The bouquet features toasty oak with notes of mocha and milk chocolate. On the palate this wine has the unique character of being both bright and zesty and also rich and creamy. Fourteen months in small oak barrels has provided the wine with a full texture yet it remains loaded with plenty of red/black fruit flavors. In keeping with our ‘house style’ the tannins are mature and well integrated. The finish is long and harmonious with a toasty oak nuance that lingers long after the wine is gone.” – The following statements were said about the 2010 Barbera of the same vineyard. 

Aerator Used: VinOair

Appellation: Shenandoah Valley, Amador County, CA

Alcohol Content: 14.7%

Cost: $24

http://www.jeffrunquistwines.com/

Villa Toscano - 2009 Barbera

With its long legs and very seep red color.  This Amador red has an earthy scent.  Being an 09, it needs decanting or save it for a while.  Simple aeration won't do the trick this early on.
What they say: "The ruby hued 2009 Barbera has a bouquet full of fresh fruit. Soft, but with a nice structure, which allows the acidic tones Barbera is known for to display on the palate. Packed with dried dark cherry at the front palate with a deep, earthy complexity and lingering finish."


Aerator Used: Houdini


Appellation: Shenandoah Valley, CA

Alcohol Content: 15.4%

Cost: $28


https://villatoscano.com

Villa Toscano – 2008 Old Vine Zinfandel

This was a nice everyday OVZ.  It was a little dry and slightly smoky.  I rate it up there with some of the mid-tier Lodi old vine zins but feel that overall Lodi does better on average with these.  Rather, I tend to look at Shenandoah Valley for smooth Barberas.

The tasting room in Amador is fantastic.  The buildings have nice décor, the barrel room is huge.  The gardens are manicured beautifully…a great place to take photos.  They offer a small place where visitors can buy food.  Inside the tasting room they offer several barrel tastings (even to non-members).  They have an assortment of jams, mustards, olive oils, etc. and often have a few open to try.  The staff is very friendly and welcoming.

Aerator Used: VinOair


Alcohol Content: 15.4%

Cost:  The price was right!  I got a case of 12 bottles for $99 while it was on sale.  Can’t be that and another reason it’s a good everyday drinking wine.  Plenty of bottles to play with.


https://villatoscano.com/