This week our tastings led us to Carneros and Sonoma for a visit to Gundlach Bundschu and Artesa Winery.
Gundlach Bundschu - Sonoma Valley
If you are seeking an off-the-beaten path, family-owned winery in Sonoma with lots of history and a great friendly atmosphere, then visit Gundlach Bundschu (Gun Bun for short). This charming winery is now celebrating its 150th year, making it the oldest family-owned winery in California. Six generations of the same family have grown up on this land and produced fine wine from their Estate vineyards.
As you enter into the tasting room with high wood-beamed ceilings, you can almost taste the history. And once you are offered a wine selection, you actually can.
The highlight of our tasting was the 2004 Vintage Reserve Cabernet Savignon, with a rich and elegant texture, and a lovely finish. We would also recommend their 2007 Gewurtrzminer, a great addition to a picnic lunch on a warm summer day.
The staff at Gundlach Bundschu is friendly and knowledgeable, and it is definitely not a stuffy winery. It is a no-frills winery that does not distract from their mission and passion for making good wine—and it shows.
Gundlach Bundschu also uses sustainable wine growing methods such as eliminating pesticides, using cover crops to increase nutrients in the soil, and using organic compounds and practices whenever possible.
Wines to Try
*Favorite* 2004 Vintage Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon- $90.00. Elegant and rich textures combine with fruit flavors with a beautiful rounded finish.
2007 Gewürztraminer- $25.00. Aromas of apple blossom, a taste of honeysuckle and spicy floral.
2007 Tempranillo Rose- $22.00. Flavors of orange and strawberry, with notes of rose and brown spice.
2006 Chardonnay- $25.00. Fresh flavors of tropical fruit combine with vanilla and toasted almond.
2005 Merlot- $30.00. Spicy black cherry and dark plum.
Artesa Winery - Carneros
Now on quite the opposite side of the vineyard fence, but not far from Gundlach Bundschu, there lies Artesea. Driving up the long entryway that passes richly manicured landscaping and dramatically modern architecture, this winery is anything but subdued. It paints a bold contrast from the scenic country views below. Although a bit over-the-top with its showy nature, one cannot help but marvel at the impressive views framed by extensive water features and modern art pieces. The tasting bar is surprisingly down-to-earth and friendly.
Tempranillo was the highlight of our tasting here at Artesa. Although not well known in the states it is the great red wine grape of Spain. Artesa grows this grape in their Alexander Valley vineyards, and then allows it to rest for 18 months in French oak barrels. The result is a rich and fruity wine with a well-rounded full texture. Pair it with steak or pork.
Wines to Try
*Favorite* 2005 Tempranillo, Alexander Valley- $25.00. Blackberry and cherry fruit combine with a smoky, peppery and a smooth finish.
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon- $25.00. This spicy cab has hints of blackberry and current. It would go well with a variety of dishes and red meat.
2006 Chardonnay, Carneros- $20.00. A great versatile wine with a light floral bouquet and a hint of melon.
Written by Karen
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