Nothing short of amazing came from our experience at Seghesio. Even though this was my second trip to their winery, they still pulled out some new bottles I didn't even know existed. I hold fond memories when I think of Seghesio Family Vineyards. My first visit to their winery in Healdsburg opened my girlfriend Jen's eyes to world of wine; something I had been trying to do for quite some time. It was that visit that I learned she enjoyed the Italian varietals. Combine the fact that I can acquire many Seghesio wines for under $20 and they sealed the spot for every day wine at our home and table.
They recently had an a highly raving review in Wine Spectator. Needless to say they have been enjoying the publicity and have been selling out of wines as the days continue. One more reason to visit I suppose...
This time around, it was my brother Tim that was about to discover Seghesio for himself. He never could accompany us in the past so I figured he needed to experience them first hand. We arrived shortly after they opened their doors and were one of two groups in that morning so we certainly had the attention of those behind the counter.
The Seghesio tasting room is very unique. The dimly light, high ceiling room offers a backdrop of their cellar packed with barrels quietly aging. The glass windows behind the tasting counter showing off the barrels made us drool with excitement. To walk through and inhale the aromas of the oak doing what it does best to the juice that has us mesmerized would be such a treat. Club members are indiviuals just that lucky apparently too. There are pictures hung around the room that show off their vineyards as well as an old grape vine with it's twisted knots and gnarly branches perched in the corner.
The gentleman behind the counter was exceptionally personable and knowledgeable. He diligently explained each wine as he poured them and was just as eager to explain the wine as we were to listen and learn. We hadn't finished our first tasting of their Pinot Grigio and Tim was already praising them... and he rarely enjoys white wine. I knew he was going to enjoy his visit.
Their wines were incredible as always and Tim was quick to sign up joining their club. To me, Seghesio is a safe bet when choosing wine for every day meals and even fine dining. Their more widely produced wine is not only consistent quality but the price is always right.
I was particularly impressed with the Keyhole Ranch Pinot Noir and their Omaggio Super Tuscan blend. Both were slightly pricier than I like but I can't deny their quality and ultimate agreeability with my palette. I was amazed at how many other small production wines they make that I've never heard of. Most of them are single vineyard Zinfandels that are used in the blending of their more popular Old Vine Zinfandel. The Veragold is one of these bottles and is your classic Russian River style wine. Though, despite all the amazing small lot Zins, the man behind the counter threw me for the biggest loop that day.
As we wrapped up our tasting, he quietly whispers, "...you should try our port."
Seghesio makes a Port?!?!
A friend of mine told me of this bottle but I assured him he was reading his label wrong. I stand corrected. To be honest, I was skeptical about their port. Was this a science experiment they try to keep under wraps because it didn't turn out as well as they hoped? Holy shit, was I wrong. The port was incredible. Twist their arm if you have to but try this port.
We had a great time at Seghesio. Those behind the counter were so easy going and approachable they make you feel like part of the family. One would think that because you're in the notorious wine country of California that you would have to endure wine snobs and crappy attitudes. Not the case in Sonoma and miles from the truth inside the doors of Seghesio. If you can't make to the winery be sure to pick up a bottle at your local wine shop - doesn't matter which one. Just be sure "Seghesio Family Vineyards" is on the label. After that, sit back and enjoy your evening. They make it that simple for you.
