Wednesday, July 2, 2008

A Winding Drive Through Anderson Valley

On our way to the Mendocino coast for a recent weekend getaway, my husband and I braved the winding road that leads from Cloverdale to the coast, passing through Boonville, Anderson Valley and the Navarro Redwoods. I never mind the drive because the trip always means passing through one of my favorite wine regions, Anderson Valley.

Not more than fifteen miles long, Anderson Valley hosts a great collection of wineries that are making outstanding Burgundian and Alsatian style wines like Pinot Noir, Riesling and Gewürztraminer (prounounced guh-verts-trah-mee-ner). The rolling hills and cool, coastal climate make it a prime location for these varietals and the wines that come from the region speak for themselves.

A few of my favorites…

Lazy Creek Gewürztraminer: Josh and Mary Beth Chandler started making wine in Anderson Valley in 1999 and acquired some old Gewurztraminer vines with their property, some of the oldest in the valley. They now make one of my favorite Gewurztraminer’s in California. Try it with an appetizer of gorgonzola stuffed grilled figs. $24

Handley Cellars Riesling: Winemaker and owner Milla Handley makes a variety of wines at her Anderson Valley winery. Her dry Riesling caught my attention, with a mouthful of ripe peaches and a rich, luscious finish. Try it with spicy tuna rolls. $19

Husch Pinot Noir: Husch was the first to plant Pinot Noir in Anderson Valley almost 40 years ago. Their Pinot smells like ripe strawberries and cherries and the flavor bursts in your mouth. This wine pairs with a wide variety of foods, making it the perfect wine to bring to any dinner party. $23

Written by Linzi

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