It’s monarch season! AND a big one because their population has been threatened in recent years. More reason to check out the Monarch Grove Winery tasting room in Grover Beach since it is as lovely and unique as its namesake. The husband-and-wife operation keep it enchanting with interesting stories of their history and deliciously crafted wines.
Monarch Grove Chardonnay
Their chardonnay from Santa Barbara had nice juicy apple fragrance with a hint of lemon curd. A wide mouthfeel followed.
Yes Way, Rose
Next, a Rose of grenache had that earthy quality that went well with vibrant tart fruit. Its body was smooth and crisp with well integrated fruit flavor.
Monarch Grove Zinfandel
But the zinfandel blew me away. It proved how much this grape loves the coast. It began with a lively aroma of ripe berries and cherries with a veil of caramel, vanilla, and smoke. The body opened wide on the palate with plenty of cherry, berry, and plum accentuated by a long finish of anise, tobacco, and mocha that gave it a chewy meatiness. I know, that doesn’t sound like a wine term. But I’m not a typical writer…
What’s a meaty wine? That’s a wine that cajoles, coerces, and screams for you to drink it along side a meaty dish like a succulent steak, rich short ribs, or just a juicy burger.
0 Comments