Kenwood Vineyards: Wines for a Change of Seasons

I usually spend September in denial about the end of summertime. By the time October rolls around I’ve come to terms with fall and actually look forward to a change of seasons. Thanks to Kenwood Vineyards that transition has been especially easy, and delicious, this year. We received a group of wines as tasting samples that perfectly bridged the change of seasons.

2018 Kenwood Vineyards Rosé of Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast — pale copper in the glass with generous aromas of white flowers and ripe berries. Flavors of red cherries, raspberries and ripe strawberries are bright and concentrated with nice acidity and a just off-dry finish. Easy sipping. 13.5% abv. SRP $22

I admit to having a soft spot for rosé of Pinot Noir. This rosé is no exception. It’s flavorful, bright and just off-dry. It’s easy sipping and just the thing to sip on a warm afternoon or when you’re missing the warmth of summer.

2016 Kenwood Vineyards Single Vineyard Green Valley Chardonnay, Russian River Valley — medium yellow in the glass with aromas of stone fruit and green apples. Flavors lead with peach, pear and ripe melon backed by a grating of citrus zest and toasty notes in the background. The wine is a bit round in the mouth with a clean, bright finish that is moderate in length. 13.9% abv. SRP $34

This is a serious Chardonnay that is seriously delicious. It is a single vineyard, 100% Chardonnay made in a very small volume (less than 100 cases.) The layered fruit flavors are perfectly balanced with a bit of oak influence, but not so much that it interferes with the luscious fruit flavors of Chardonnay. Pair this lovely wine with roasted fish, chicken or pasta.

2016 Kenwood Vineyards Six Ridges Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley — medium ruby in the glass with aromas of plums and dried herbs. Ripe dark and red fruit, cedar, earth and dried herbs combine for a complex flavor profile. Tannins are smooth in a medium body with a medium length finish. 14.8% abv. SRP $35

Now we’re talking about a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon for in front of the fireplace on a rainy evening or for sipping by the fire pit outside on a cool evening. This Cabernet is pleasing on its own and will pair with most anything with roasted or braised meat. Once again, this is a small-lot bottling.

Over the past year we have had the opportunity to reacquaint ourselves with Kenwood Vineyards. We’ve enjoyed their wines over the years, but hadn’t tasted any recent wines until last fall. What we have discovered is a portfolio of balanced, delicious wines worthy of any gathering any time of year at very reasonable prices. A winery to remember.

Cheers!