One could easily imagine being in the heart of Tuscany or in the hills of the Languedoc when driving through Dry Creek Valley. The scenery along the 16 mile long valley floor is absolutely stunning and reminiscent of the Mediterranean countryside. The undulating forested hills and thick vineyards are steeped in history dating back to the 1860’s when the first Italian immigrants settled there, planting the first Zinfandel vines.
Fast forward to 2018 where Zinfandel is still King here, although many other mediterranean varietals are now grown in this fertile valley ~ just ask Mick Unti, winemaker at Unti Vineyards. Unti is a little gem of a winery hidden off Dry Creek Road, slightly past the historic Dry Creek General Store. The tasting room is small and understated, however, the wines are stellar.
The warm dry climate in Dry Creek Valley is ideal for growing Mediterranean varietals. Unti Vineyards was founded by George and Linda Unti in the late 1990’s. Given George’s family roots from Lucca, Tuscany, and his passion for wines from Southern France, Spain and Italy, it is no wonder 17 grape varietals are planted to their 60 acre vineyards.
Unti‘s tasting lineup is quite interesting, featuring estate Verdicchio, Vermentino, Segromigno, Grenache, Zinfandel and Syrah.
Not to be missed, I highly recommend trying the Grenache Blanc, Barbera and Sangiovese.
Grab a few sandwiches from The Dry Creek General Store deli and a bottle of Sangio and enjoy your picnic overlooking the vineyards.