The Italian word for “redhead” is testarossa. Years ago, when Rob Jensen was a university student in Italy, he had very red hair and was given the nickname “testarossa.” When he co-founded a winery with his wife Diana Jensen, the name was an obvious choice.
Although Jensen’s degree is in electrical engineering, a minor in the Italian language and culture led him to Assisi, a hill town perched on Mount Subasio in central Italy. An interest in winemaking was even more heightened by experiencing the wonderful wines of Italy.
It’s hard to fault wines made by Testarossa’s longtime winemaker Bill Brosseau—and on a recent trip to their tasting room I was particularly impressed with the 2014 Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay ($38), with its lovely scents of fig, apricot, and lemon, and flavors of apricot and honey. “There is a soulful and engaging element to the finish of the wine,” says Brosseau, “which keeps the taster coming back for more.”
Testarossa Vineyards, 300-A College Ave., Los Gatos. 408-354-6150. testarossa.com
Skov Winery’s Grand Reopening
Remember the lovely boutique Skov Winery in Scotts Valley? After a break of a few years to concentrate on raising teenage daughters and having a house built on their property, owners David and Annette Hunt will have a grand re-opening—and all are welcome. I was glad for the opportunity to visit their new tasting room recently, which has been impressively remodeled—including a brand new deck—and is now spacious, bright and airy. Skov, which is Danish for “forest,” is an appropriate name, as the bucolic property is down a tree-lined road and surrounded by redwoods. Wines are priced reasonably, between $15-$18 a bottle, and Skov will soon offer bottle-your-own events. Skov will be open every Saturday following the re-opening, which is noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 24. Tickets are $10, which includes a wine tasting and some small bites, and music by the Aquacats. Skov Winery is at 2364 Bean Creek Road, Scotts Valley. Visit skovwinery.com or call 854-7384. You can also contact Annette Hunt at An*****@Sk********.com.
