Crinella 'Russian River Valley' Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, As Tasty as their Recipes

I did not notice their wine on display in a wine store, I discovered this wonderful family winery from Russian River Valley while looking up wine and food pairings.

They caught my eye because of the incredible number and variety of recipes they shared.

I wrote about it in Venisson stew, Duck and Goose Gizzards and Hearts, Recipes from Crinella Winery and got a warm thank you note from them.

Ramona was very kind to offer since I had not tasted any of their production to send me a couple bottles.

She followed through and a couple weeks later they landed in my mail box (so to speak).

After this coast to coast trip, the wines needed to rest.

I put a do not disturb sign on them.

I had to wait a bit longer than I planned to get acquainted as I suffered from a cold and my taste buds were off.

I started with the Sauvignon Blanc (2006) from their Marino Vineyard which I actually carries "two Sauvignon Blanc clones, approximately 50 percent each: Sauvignon Blanc Clone 01 and Sauvignon Musqué. The Clone 01 produces grapes with classic citrus and fruit flavors, while the Musqué results in grapes with more floral and spicy notes."



The marriage of the two grapes explains why the citrus flavor is more restrained than in other Sauvignon Blancs.

The wine is elegant and with enough subtlety that you'll need to let it grow on you.



As for the Pinot Noir 'Estate Vineyard' Russian River Vallley 2006 (see map of vineyards above), grapes from different plots are harvested and fermented individually and what I tasted they share is the result of a carefully crafted blend of 7 clones by winemaker Rod Berglund.

Medium bodies, not Tutti Frutti like too many Pinot Noirs from California but a well structured red, a work of patience.
One of their food pairing suggestions is Grilled Lamb Chops.

Inviting friends who share your love of food and wine for dinner, if you happen to find either of these 'Russian River Valley' treats or both, get it and surprise them with this discovery.

Life would be boring if we always tasted the same wines, don't you agree?

Sante!