The unique Californian microclimate holds the secrets to its wines.
With vineyards stretching along its coasts, sea mists roll inland to rest the vines overnight and then burn off with the morning sun, allowing the vines to warm up — ideal growing conditions.
Try this selection to get the flavour of this famous wine-producing area.
The Californian mixed case costs £81 and includes three bottles each of the following four wines.
Ironstone Viognier 2005, Sierra Foothills: The Sierra Foothills are where gold was first discovered and were once the home of Californian winemaking. Here, this example of the viognier grape shows classic honeysuckle with rich ripe fruit flavours and is a good match for Indian foods such as chicken korma as well as lobster and scallops.
Hayes Ranch ‘Night Harvest’ Pinot Grigio 2005, Monterey: Pinot Grigio is nearly as popular in the States as it is here. This excellent example is made from grapes picked at night which helps preserve the fruit’s natural freshness. A wonderfully crisp style with an apple and citrus fruit character that is enjoyable with or without food.
Winston Hill Zinfandel 2006, Lodi: Classic juicy woodland berry fruit abounds in this fruit filled example of California’s famous grape variety which is in fact the Primitivo variety from Puglia in Italy – good soft, creamy wine.
Hayes Ranch ‘Hats Off’ Shiraz 2003, San Francisco Bay: Made by master winemaker Carl Wente, this shiraz shows delightful mature aromatic spice and leather notes with very clean fresh fruit. A perfect match with roasted meat, and lamb in particular.
The Oxford Times Wine Club is run in association with The Oxford Wine Company. Free delivery of your wine is available within 30 miles of Oxford. Please allow up to ten working days for delivery of your wine. If you have any questions about your order, contact The Oxford Wine Company on 01865 301144 quoting The Oxford Times Wine Club or email: info@oxfordwine.co.uk
If you would like to buy unmixed or mixed cases of wines that you have particularly liked from The Oxford Times Wine Club at the same special discounted prices, please contact Theo Sloot at The Oxford Wine Company on 01865 301144 or email theo@oxfordwine.co.uk
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