Cucamonga Valley, South Coast

Monte De Oro

Temecula Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Monte De Oro seems to be finally dialing in their Cabernet. The bottle says 80% Cabernet, 10% Petit Verdot and 10% Malbec. Barrel aged 40 months. On opening it was so very drinkable with layers of complex flavors. The tannins were surprisingly smooth and slightly on the sweeter side with spice, raspberry and strawberry with maybe some dark cherry and chocolate - and it was medium to full bodied without being dense. The finish was smooth. Three days later it transformed into a mellow earthy - almost mossy texture of an old world Italian Sangiovese or Nebbiolo.- based wine. Fun bottle. — 15 days ago

Hamilton Russell Vineyards

Hemel-En-Aarde Valley Pinot Noir

This is a BIG Pinot. Big, fruit dominated nose, with a little herbal spice on the back end, with hints of black olive and rose permeating throughout. Big palate and body, with an herbal, hay or thyme palate, tannic, with a salinity that’s prominent, with black olive, some tar, and even a smokiness hitting the end, with dark cherry, plum, and a peppery spice showing up loud on the palate. Really good entry to South African Pinot. — 8 months ago

Monte De Oro

Simplexity Red Wine 2017

Another delightful year of their Meritage style blend. This year it’s made of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Lovely nose with complex fruit and spice flavors, mouth watering acidity, and smoothness throughout with just enough tannins for a pop and a pleasant lingering finish. — 3 years ago

South Coast Winery

Ruby Cuvée Syrah

Fun sparkling Syrah. Their “thanksgiving wine” — 2 months ago

Monte De Oro

Merlot 2019

Very nice and drinkable from opening and into day 2. Medium bodied with earthy dark fruits and a hint of holiday spice/clove. Smooth finish. Just seemed to miss some of the ‘pop’ of prior vintages. — 5 months ago

A Tribute to Grace Wines

Hofer Vineyard Grenache 2019

What can I say I love anything Angela makes, and the new Tribute to Grace tasting room in Los Alamos is a gem. My Dad declared this was his favorite wine ever and my mom is from nearby Cucamonga, so let’s just say everyone was happy. For that reason, wine of our trip out west after not seeing the folks for 18 months. As always, just incredibly elegant Grenache, light on its feet, but not without its nuanced power — 3 years ago

Ira, Erik and 2 others liked this
Kamall

Kamall Premium Badge

Thanks! I’m in Los Olivos right now and was wondering whether I should go there! Will wander up later today…
Ben Lehman

Ben Lehman

@Kamall That’s awesome! Well worth the stop! And bell’s restaurant down the road is very good

Monte De Oro

Owner's Blend Synergy 65 Temecula Valley Syrah Blend 2011

Delicious. Still great.Tannins and acidity still there. — 3 months ago

Monte De Oro

Cuvée de Oro Red Blend 2010

47% Syrah 29.5% Grenache 23.5% Cinsault. Yummy. — 7 months ago

Monte De Oro

Deportola Vineyard Viognier 2021

Better and more complex than prior years. Amber color. Floral notes. Juicy acidity and somewhat dry. Grapefruit and mineral dominant on opening but after 30 min balanced with pear, honeydew, grapefruit, and slightly Chardonnay-like buttery oak softness. — a year ago

Monte De Oro

Congruity Red Blend 2015

Bold thick complex and smooth. Long smooth finish. — 4 years ago