It’s not surprising that this superb Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 from Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard was Wine Enthusiast’s 93-point “Cellar Selection.” Winemaker Jeff Emery deserves such awards and accolades for his outstanding wines.
The 2013 Luchessi Vineyard Cab is a gorgeous mouthful of intense berries and “complexities of bittersweet chocolate, briar and earth.” Emery says it’s a rustic mountain Cab “with a finish that goes on and on.” A bit of a “rustic mountain” man himself, he must know what he’s talking about.
This 2013 Cab ($42) was harvested from a steep, dry-farmed vineyard in the hills above Cupertino, planted in 1981, where the “rugged mountain-grown grapes create great depth of character and intensity.” With its distinctive black currant, tobacco and coffee notes—along with a touch of cedar and toast—this wine delights the senses. And its aromas of dark fruit, including blueberries, black plums and black currants, add to its intensity and allure.
If you’re wondering what to do for your mater on Mother’s Day, then take her wine tasting and buy her her favorite special wine.
Emery’s other label, Quinta Cruz, focuses on Portuguese and Spanish varietals such as Tempranillo, Rabelo, Graciano, Touriga, and Verdelho. All are incredibly well made, flavorful and reasonably priced—starting at around $20.
Another reason to visit Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard’s tasting room is to try Emery’s Osocalis brandy. You’ll certainly have many choices to delight your taste buds.
Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard and Quinta Cruz, 334-A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 426-6209. santacruzmountainvineyard.com and osocalis.com.
Pop-Up Breakfasts
Add these breakfasts to your calendar at two local farmers markets: June 3, Westside Market—Chef Erin Lampel of Companion Bakeshop; July 8, Scotts Valley Market—Chef Brad Briske of Home Restaurant; Aug. 5, Westside Market, Chef Katherine Stern of La Posta; Aug. 26, Westside Market, Chefs Kendra Baker and Jessica Yarr of the Penny Ice Creamery, Picnic Basket and Assembly. Get your tickets while they last. Email ed*******@sa********************.org or call 454-0566 for more information.