The Hills Are Alive!
Sacramentans have great choices today as the Foothill wineries east of Sacramento continue to evolve. The federal government has designated four distinct AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) in the Foothills: Sierra Foothills AVA, El Dorado AVA, Fair Play AVA, and Shenandoah AVA. Growth is abundant in these areas. For example, Amador County, which is found in the Sierra Foothills AVA, has over 40 wineries. There is much to choose from and much to explore. The journey here has only just begun.
Wines from these areas are making great strides in being recognized for the value and quality that they offer for everyday drinking pleasure. Let me share with you some recent examples of wines that have garnered ratings from Wine Spectator of 90 points and above:
Andis Zinfandel, Amador County 2010, 90 points, $28
Easton Zinfandel, Amador County 2011, 90 points, $18
Domaine de la Terra Rouge Vin Gris d’Amador, Sierra Foothills 2011, 92 points, $16
Skinner Mourvedre, El Dorado Estate 2010, 94 points, $32
Skinner Eighteen Sixty-One, El Dorado County 2010, 93 points, $30
Pruett Lucky Lauren Red, Sierra Foothills 2011, 92 points, $29
Pruett Syrah, Sierra Foothills CSP 2011, 92 points, $36
Miraflores Zinfandel, El Dorado 2010, 91 points, $27
Miraflores Viognier, El Dorado 2012, 90 points, $20
The scores are indicative of the quality that is taking shape in the wines and the recognition of what is possible out of the Sierra Foothills. Great soils with lots of sun and cool nights can all contribute to quality grapes.
Obviously, the vineyard needs a great deal of attention and care to produce great harvests. As mentioned in an earlier blog, there is one vineyard, in particular, that has garnered great respect. That is Shake Ridge in Amador. Ann Kraemer is the vineyard “master” whose grapes are sought after by some of the best winemakers in Napa. Shake Ridge provides grapes to Andy Erickson and Anne Favia for their wine labeled Favia, to Rosemary Cakebread who makes a Rhone Blend under her label of Gallica called Suzuri, and to Helen Keplinger who makes Lithic and Sumo, which both carry her name. There is much demand for these grapes grown on Shake Ridge under the intent and watchful eye of Ann.
One of the most remarkable facts about Shake Ridge is that it was only planted in 2003. These are all young vines. It takes at least two years of growth for a grape vine to produce clusters. In Europe, if the winemaker wants the wine to receive the French certification called AOC, which stands for “appellation d’origine contrôlée,” he or she can’t even use grapes from vines less than four years old. So what does this mean? The Shake Ridge vineyard is just starting to mature, and the grapes will only develop more intense flavors with the coming years. The best is yet to come, and that is why there is such demand.
What is happening at Shake Ridge is taking place throughout the Foothills, as you can see from the scores. This is an area where the intensity of vineyard management and winemaking practices are improving the results. The outcome is enjoyable wine at great prices for all. Come, visit, and taste.
Enjoy!
