I have to admit, Arroyo Grande in the Central Coast near San Luis Obispo, produces some mighty fine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The close proximity of the ocean brings the fog inland enough to cool the vines making it an ideal climate for these two varietals.
The Talley family bought the fertile Arroyo Grande farmland in 1974, which included the El Rincon Adobe pictured above. The adobe was built by Ramon Branch, one of the original settlers in the valley in the 1860’s.
El Rincon was renovated in 1998 and served as the estate wine tasting room for Talley Vineyards until completion of the new tasting room in 2002.
An inspiration to the Talley family, El RIncon adobe graces every wine bottle as the Talley Vineyards logo.
Talley Vineyards‘ wine tasting menu is extensive and Chardonnay lovers have five Chardonnay to taste. While all are aged in new oak, none are overpowered by the oak and all exude bright acidity on the finish. My favorite, the 2011 RIncon VIneyard Chardonnay is lively with aromas of fresh citrus and melon.
I was drawn to the 2011 Talley Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir just by the tasting menu description — a medium-bodied wine with a bouquet of raspberry, cherry, rose petal and cola. And, the 2010 Bishop’s Peak Rincon Syrah has spicy sweet aromas of cranberry, licorice, clove and white pepper. Could almost inhale this one all day long!
The 2011 Bishop’s Peak Cabernet Sauvignon, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Malbec is exquisite. These particular grape varietals hail from Paso Robles where the temperature swings are intense ~ a deep garnet color and vibrant aromas of boysenberry, blackberry, pepper and eucalyptus.
Talley Vineyards is a definite must when visiting San Luis Obispo Wine Country. The grounds are beautifully manicured and perfect for a picnic with a bottle of Chardonnay! www.talleyvineyards.com