John Benedetti is a shining star in the world of fine wines. He never fails to produce wines on the cutting edge—such as his splendid Pinot Noir 2018 ($49). Pinot Noir fans will love its tantalizing aromas of blood orange, dried herbs, tobacco leaf, strawberries and raspberries. Touches of rhubarb, licorice and dust lead to delectable earthy flavors and silky textures.
“It explodes with Earth and amaro-accented red berries and flavors,” says Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, which bestowed 94 points on this voluptuous Pinot. Grapes from Lester Family’s renowned vineyards in Aptos, along with aging 10 months in 16% new French oak, add layers of depth and structure to this superb wine. And don’t miss Benedetti’s splendid Chardonnays and a delicious Rosé of Pinot that’s perfect for summer.
Sante Arcangeli’s tasting room is located in the vibrant Aptos Village complex—complete with the newly opened Penny Ice Creamery, David Kinch’s restaurant Mentone, New Leaf Market, Cat and Cloud Coffee, Ser Winery, and the Sockshop and Shoe Company adjoining Sante Arcangeli’s tasting room. As Benedetti says, you can shop for shoes with a glass of Chardonnay! Sockshop owners Ellen and Eric Gil, along with other businesses, including Cantine Winepub, came together to support Benedetti when his wife Melanie passed away of lung cancer in July 2019, leaving their then 6-year-old son Lucca. Thank goodness for all these caring folk in Aptos and beyond.
Check the website for curbside pickup rules. Sante Arcangeli’s other tasting room in the heart of Pescadero is closed due to Covid-19.
Sante Arcangeli Family Wines, 154 Aptos Village Way, Unit C1, Aptos. 831-207-6048, santewinery.com.
Gourmet To Go Culinary Services
Some additional information was missing from a little piece I wrote about Elizabeth Bourget of Gourmet to Go Culinary Services in my Vine and Dine column of July 22. Bourget is also president of the Bay Area Chapter of the United States Personal Chef Organization. Visit bayareapersonalchefs.com for more information. For details on Bourget’s culinary services, visit the Gourmet To Go Culinary Services website at gourmettogoculinary.com.
