Stimulate your senses at RRV's Bricoleur Vineyards
Earlier this year while judging the 2020 American Fine Wine Competition, Bricoleur Vineyards hit my radar screen. I was fortunate that their Viognier was among wines I evaluated, and I deemed it Gold worthy. In fact, I noted it to be the best Viognier I had ever tasted, brilliantly crafted.
Shortly after the competition, the Covid-19 pandemic descended upon America, and the shelter-in edict kept me from visiting the property for several months. Thankfully, with mask on and social distancing protocols being strictly adhered to, I had the pleasure of meeting with the Bricoleur team this month at their stunning winery in Sonoma County's Russian River Valley. The impressive estate, people, vineyards, cuisine and wines are now clearly dialed in! Kudos to owners Mark and Elizabeth Hanson and daughter Sarah Hanson Citron, Winemaker Cary Gott, Sales & Hospitality Director Chris Richard, Executive Chef Shane McAnelly, and the entire team.
It is a real treat for the senses to visit Bricoleur Vineyards. Take in the beauty of the vineyards and lakes (one adorned with a pair of gliding black swans) and delightful seating areas outdoors, smell the roses and other floral delights in their well-manicured gardens, feel the gently blowing fall breezes, and taste the incredible cuisine and wines.
Here is a preview of wines:
North Coast "Flying by the Seat of our Pants" Brut Sparkling ($45): This Double Gold/Best of Class winning wine opens with citrus-splashed fresh-picked apples and delicate white flowers on the nose. Bright and lively on the palate with stone fruit joining Granny Smith apples, hints of honeysuckle, and lemon-lime accents. Brisk acidity keeps it well balanced and the tiny bubbles are endless.
2018 Kick Ranch Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc ($30): From the Fountaingrove District AVA at the eastern hills of Sonoma County comes this classy Sauv Blanc, crafted from Musqué and 317 clones. Fragrant scents keep you lingering over the glass, and the palate is equally entrancing. Lemon verbena, honeydew melon and a lime twist interlace harmoniously. The texture is round and smooth as the wine makes its way to a lifted finale.
2018 Kick Ranch Vineyard Viognier ($30): Also from the cool climate Fountaingrove District AVA, the expressive floral aromatic of this supple, Gold Medal winning Viognier is heavenly. Stone fruit, Golden Delicious apples, spicy elements, and a splash of Meyer lemon burst with vibrancy, captivating the palate through the invigorating finish. The lush texture and balancing acidity top off the extraordinary package.
2018 Unoaked Chardonnay ($30): Reminiscent of a French Chablis, this finely tuned Russian River Valley Chardonnay displays a pleasing citrus blossom aroma. On the palate it blasts a fireworks display of lemon and lime, green plums, crunchy green apples and minerality, with a subtle accent of crushed herbs. Well balanced and enlivening from start to zesty finish.
2018 Estate Chardonnay ($35): This exotic Chardonnay is composed of Wente and Musqué clones rooted in their estate Russian River Valley vineyard. The appealing tree fruit and butterscotch aroma shouts out Chardonnay. Broadening on the palate are layers of poached pears, Sweetie apples, orange zest, baking spices, and pleasing oak notes from aging in 40% new and 60% neutral French oak for ten months. Deeply flavored and complex, with a lingering finish.
2019 Estate Pinot Noir Rosé ($30): A heady perfumed nose is the perfect intro for this snappy and dry Pinot Noir Rosé. Rainier cherries and raspberries at the core are accented by fresh clementines and a touch of spice. Bracing acidity complements the juicy fruit, and keeps the wine ever so lively on the palate. Elegant and refreshing, ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up, or pre-dinner sipper, yet will also pair very well with fresh salads and delicate fish entrees.
2017 Estate Pinot Noir ($45) This Double Gold winning Pinot Noir (GG honors are bestowed upon a wine in which every member of the panel scores it a Gold Medal) is exquisite. Tantalizing aromas of cherries and spice lead to a silky smooth mouthful of Bing cherries, pomegranate seeds, vanilla, fresh red raspberries, and exotic spice. Well defined and precise in balance with refined tannins and a dazzling finish.
2018 Alexander Valley Estate Zinfandel ($42): Here's a rich and spicy Zinfandel that is chock full of berry goodness. Fresh blackberries, sweet and slightly tart mulberries, and boysenberry jam join freshly ground multi-colored peppercorns, and well-integrated spicy oak (from 18 months of 90% neutral French oak barrel aging). Full bodied, stylish and simply delicious.
If you have not had the delightful opportunity to visit Bricoleur, now's the time. They are open Thursday through Monday 10 am to 5 pm by appointment for tastings. There are also evening events planned regularly, including family friendly wine and pizza nights, and first class wine pairing dinners. For further information call the winery at 707 857-5700 visit their website, www.bricoleurvineyards.com.
