I went to Sbragia for an odd reason. Its name has come up several times through my wine travels. Finally I get invited in the most unique way - Twitter. While I was checking into a restaurant that was nearby, Andrew (marketing guru from Sbragia) sent me a tweet inviting me to stop by. So I stepped up to the challenge. Made the short drive to just shy of Lake Sonoma, where you will find Sbragia perched on the hillside.
Making the drive out there I noticed there were clusters of deep red dirt and some beige dirt. I'd only seen one or two other areas with such diverse variance in soils. This is indicative of the uniqueness of the Dry Creek Valley. I'm always intrigued to see the red dirt found in volcanic areas like Lake County and the nearby Rockpile AVA.
The winery is luxurious, has an amazing view down the entire valley. Outdoor seating is trendy, wicker pillow top sofa's for enjoying the view and some wine. There are also bistro tables to enjoy your picnic lunch or a snack from the local selection of nibbles. There is indoor/outdoor music and had a nice run of R&B.
Walking in I felt like the "Man". Had Al Green playing, cool air conditioning, nice artwork, eclectic tables and chairs made of barrels, and, of course, a fine selection of Dry Creek's finest wines.
This winery specializes in making delicious Chardonnay's, Zinfandel's and kick-ass Cabs. Did I say kick ass cabs? Yes I did.
Fortunately I was there to visit only one lady today, Zinfandel. I had two Zinfandels, Gino's Vineyard and La Promessa. Both were very good. From both I got a toasted marshmallow caramel taste that I love and don't come across too often from a Zinfandel. I've had Pinots that had this character, but this was a first for a Zin. The Gino's Vineyard was more dark berry, white pepper, soft vanilla, soft spice, and good to have with a little BBQ. La Promessa is from same property the wine is produced on, at the warmer end of the valley and higher in elevation. This changed the Zin completely. La Promessa gave me her kiss of beeswax, with some sweet pipe tobacco. I got more red berry, currant, peach pit, white pepper, but with soft tannins and a supple mouthfeel. That's a mouthful, I know. But I took the time to savor, as I ordered a glass of each and enjoyed slowly on the patio.
There is something very amazing about sitting there, tasting the wine, seeing the very vineyard the grapes came from, smelling the soil, appreciating the work that went in from the soil to my glass. It is a wonderful experience and one I speak of often in my blog.
All in all, it is a great experience. While leaving I got to meet with Andrew and some of the staff. We discussed the history of the property and found out the Russian River Brewing company started out there. Interesting piece of history to leave you with.
Make a day of Dry Creek Valley. Start at Sbragia and work your way home. You will not be disappointed. And bring some lunch.
