Full bodied, dark. Would go well with red meat dish. — 4 months ago
One of the best american Rieslings out there. The Riesling was planted in 2007. Kick On Ranch is just a few miles West of Los Alamos (CA) , getting close to the ocean and Vandenberg Air Force Base. 120 cases. 13.5%. Plenty of acidity, 🍯 , botyris? , fresh cut garden hose. Quite herbal. Oregano. Tatomer’s top of the line offer. He learned the trade in Austria 🇦🇹, Wachau region. This 2019 is very very good. Not Mosel just different - and perhaps quintessential Californian. — 5 months ago
occata Classico 2020
Santa Barbara County AVA, California 🇺🇸
Overview
A uniquely Italian-inspired blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and the very rare Piedmontese grape Freisa. Grapes are sourced from Los Alamos Vineyard (66%) and Valley View Vineyard (34%), both within Santa Barbara County. This cuvée reflects the region’s versatility and pays homage to Old World traditions with a distinctly Californian expression. Extremely approachable and crowd-pleasing, it’s a true bridge between Italian heritage and California winemaking.
Aromas & Flavors
On the nose, dark cherry, ripe plum, and dried roses are lifted by subtle baking spices and a hint of tobacco leaf. The palate continues with layers of blackberry, cassis, and a whisper of earthy leather, with Freisa adding a rustic twist of red berries and herbal undertones.
Mouthfeel
Medium-to-full bodied with velvety tannins, balanced acidity, and a polished structure. It feels plush and seamless, finishing long yet inviting, with a touch of savory spice.
Winemaking Notes
A thoughtful blend composition highlighting both classic Bordeaux varieties and the rare Italian Freisa, fermented and aged in French oak to achieve elegance while preserving fruit vibrancy.
Food Pairing
Pairs beautifully with osso buco, Tuscan-style grilled steak, roasted lamb, or rich tomato-based pasta. Also versatile enough for charcuterie and hard cheeses.
Verdict
A standout example of Santa Barbara’s Italian-driven winemaking spirit. Elegant, smooth, and versatile — this blend is both serious and fun, making it perfect for casual gatherings yet polished enough to impress the connoisseur. — a month ago
A real treat at ten years old. Key lime pie and slate — a year ago
Entry-level Chardonnay by the legendary Jim Clendenen - perhaps the most important name in Santa Barbara wine- from three different sites in Santa Barbara County—Bien Nacido, Rancho Vinedo and Los Alamos. Barrel fermented and aged for 8 months in French oak barrels. Clean, pure nose with aromas of lemon zest, minerals (crushed stone, flint) and some vanilla and buttery notes. Fresh, bright, slightly saline, with plenty of acidity and lemony flavors. Great balance. Excellent value ⚡️ — 4 years ago
Malo, butter, minerality, orchard fruit.
Really pretty Burgundian style chard.
Just ripe green fruit. Crisp. Tantalizing. Mineral.
Long finish on the fruit. Would be nice to lay down. — 3 months ago
Might need a little time to wake up — 4 months ago
Gostei, forte — 5 months ago
Wasn’t sure what to expect but Wow!! The nose on this one is strong and classic, think about an English saddle and then double it! Then take a sip, OMG, a red fruit juice bomb with a smokey delicious velvety texture that just won’t stop. It’s big and bold. Can’t wait to share a bottle with friends! — 3 years ago
Katie Dooley
A decent and cheap Chardonnay — a month ago