Matanzas Journey Red Blend and Chardonnay Wine

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 Matanzas Journey Red Blend and Chardonnay wine

 I received three fabulous examples of red wine (as well as the expected Chardonnay, since the AVA is Sonoma) coming from Matanzas Creek Winery the Bennett Valley area in the Sonoma AVA.

Let’s start with the Chardonnay first,

Matanzas Journey Red Blend and Chardonnay

Marcia Torres Forno has been at the helm at the Matanzas winery since 2010.

More than 25 years ago, the 1990 Matanzas Winery Journey Chardonnay was considered one of the highest priced Chardonnay in Sonoma.

At that time, the retail price was $70.

Today the price is just slightly higher.

Yet the quality and especially the quality to value remains high.

Chardonnay grapes are selected from blocks known for their quality.

Blocks are located at different altitudes.

This gives more acidity and complexity to the wine.

The must is transferred and fermented and new and neutral French barrels.

There is a great deal of richness in this wine, yet also vibrant acidity.

2012 Matanzas Winery Red Blend

This is a rich and decadent red Bordeaux blend with a majority of Merlot.

Flavors are intense with blackberry, black currant, and spice.

It offers exotic aromas of black fig, black cherry, and chocolate. Incredible structure and a long length of finish.

The wine has velvet tannin and high acidity, as well as complexity and a long length of finish.

Even at nine years of age the wine is fresh and vibrant.

2015 Matanzas Winery Red Blend

This Merlot-based red Bordeaux blend is barrel aged for 20 months.

The Merlot was sourced from two blocks of the Jackson Park vineyard, planted with the Petrus clone.

Very rich and elegant.

Tours and Tasting Events at Matanzas Creek

You will find an assortment of tours and tastings at the winery to suit your interest and budget.

It is interesting that there is even a “black glass” tasting for “wine geeks” so that you are not influenced by the color of the wine.

As of this writing, this is also a “dog friendly” winery so you can bring your pet (on a leash).

How to Prepare for your Matanzas Journey Red Blend & Chardonnay Visit

1. A hat, especially for sunny days.
2. Sunglasses for the same reason.
3. Sunscreen very necessary in summer.
4. A charger for your device so not to miss once-in-a-lifetime pictures.
5. Your favorite bottled water
6. A cup for expectorating wine in case it is not provided.
7. A small notebook to record details about the wine or vineyards.
8. Comfortable walking shoes for vineyard visits

How to Prepare for Your Picnic

1. A picnic blanket
2. Bottles of water
3. Disposable or real plates
4. Cutlery
5. Trash bags
6. Large sun umbrella
7. Wine glasses
8. Napkins
9. Purchased or Home Made Food

The Picnic Grounds at Matanzas Creek

The unique character and beauty of Matanzas Creek’s winery, vineyards, lavender field and gardens have earned the Estate worldwide recognition as a premier California wine country destination.

Guests can play a game of bocce or enjoy our picnic areas.

In addition to its wines, Matanzas Creek is also famous for their spectacular lavender gardens.

Now I never have cooked with lavender, yet after reading this recipe (made to pair with their Sauvignon Blanc)  I am going to start!

Rock shrimp from Matanzas

Coconut and Lavender Rock Shrimp Ceviche

Serve with Matanzas Creek Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc

INGREDIENTS

• For the lavender poaching liquid:
• 1 qt. water
• 1 C. white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc
• 1 lemon, juiced and sliced
• 1 sprig of fresh thyme
• ½ tsp. culinary lavender
• Kosher salt
• 1 lb. fresh rock shrimp, cleaned and rinsed
• 2 qts. ice
• For the ceviche:
• ½ C. coconut milk
• 1 Tbsp. culinary lavender
• 1 tsp. granulated sugar
• ¾ C. lime juice (approximately 4 limes)
• ½ C. red onion, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
• 1 lb. rock shrimp, cooked in lavender poaching liquid
• Kosher saltYou May Like These Related PostsDominus EstateGable Family Wines