Upon arrival at SFO, we were awarded with a complimentary upgrade in our rental car from the el cheapo Jeep Compass to the ever slightly better Dodge Journey. Down US 101 we trekked to our first stop, Carmel.
1. Bernardus - We did the same tasting with the same steward pouring as last year. We revisited most of the same wines with a more recent vintage. Unfortunately, the earlier Ingrid's Chardonnay is no longer available. The 2007 is very good so we bought it along with the 2003 Marinus.
2. Talbott - We opted for the reserve tasting since there were some offerings off the regular menu due to an earlier visit to the winery by undisclosed high-rollers. We drank up what was left of the big dollar selections including Case and Diamond T Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Big big Pinots here. Purchased the 2008 Logan Pinot Noir and the 2007 Cuvee Carlotta Chardonnay. Also got an advanced taste on the not-yet released 2008 Kali Hart Pinot Noir. All I can say is look for this soon!
3. Parsonage - A true gem! Small winery producing 3000 cases total per year. Great selection including a Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Bordeaux blend, Merlot/Petit Verdot, and (2) very nice Syrahs. Bill Parsons, the wine maker, gave us a great lecture on wine making, bottling and climate/terroir of the Carmel Valley. Purchased the Merlot (yes, the Merlot) and the Estate Syrah. Big big wines here for a very nice price.
We are checked in at one of the local hotels in Paso Robles for the night. We begin two days of hedonistic tastes around here which will include Justin, Turley, and Eberle along with many others.
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