The entire postcard photographer’s association was out trying to capture the magnificent day. Koala was out getting his tasting on! As you drive along the beautiful Silverado trail in Napa Valley California there are many many worthwhile stops for wine tasting.
One of which is Chimney Rock.
The interesting Cape-Dutch style (their words) facility was established in 1990 and has a very nice warm feeling tasting environment. The first 75 acres of vines were planted in 1980 and the first released vintage in 1984. From 1991 -1997 the vine’s were replanted after phylloxera visits the vineyard. The new vineyards are planted with the knowledge of what was and what was needed to make it better. In 2000, the Terlato family joined forces with the Wilsons. In 2004 The Terlato family assume full ownership. Being there and tasting the wines it is easy to see why Chimney Rock has been named Estate Winery of the Year a couple of times.
The staff was engaging and knowledgeable and gave a lot of background on the wine’s, vineyards and the winery. A very pleasant stop with some very good wines. The tastings were offered in a variety of flights and Tom made sure Koala was sipping to his heart’s content. The selection of the day for Koala was the 2009 Galaxy, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon Napa County, 35% Syrah Sonoma County and 15% Merlot from Napa County. Approachable full mouth feel with layers of dark berry fruit, with touches of mocha and soft tannins. A lovely drinking wine that Koala gives a 7 plus and **.
One of which is Chimney Rock.
The interesting Cape-Dutch style (their words) facility was established in 1990 and has a very nice warm feeling tasting environment. The first 75 acres of vines were planted in 1980 and the first released vintage in 1984. From 1991 -1997 the vine’s were replanted after phylloxera visits the vineyard. The new vineyards are planted with the knowledge of what was and what was needed to make it better. In 2000, the Terlato family joined forces with the Wilsons. In 2004 The Terlato family assume full ownership. Being there and tasting the wines it is easy to see why Chimney Rock has been named Estate Winery of the Year a couple of times.
The staff was engaging and knowledgeable and gave a lot of background on the wine’s, vineyards and the winery. A very pleasant stop with some very good wines. The tastings were offered in a variety of flights and Tom made sure Koala was sipping to his heart’s content. The selection of the day for Koala was the 2009 Galaxy, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon Napa County, 35% Syrah Sonoma County and 15% Merlot from Napa County. Approachable full mouth feel with layers of dark berry fruit, with touches of mocha and soft tannins. A lovely drinking wine that Koala gives a 7 plus and **.
Tasting Room is open seven days a week from 10:00am until 5:00pm with the exception of some holidays (New Year's Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day).
If Kiwi promises to behave, Koala is bringing him here. Nice place, good wines with a variety of price points, with friendly knowledgeable staff. It was a pleasure tasting there and Koala gives them a 'recommend'!
To happy tasting!
Cheers,
WineWalkabout
Kiwi & Koala
We will have to try this place next time we are in Napa, sounds good.
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