Our travel commitments forced us to miss the most recent Darcie Kent wine club release party. We love our relatives, and missing a Darcie Kent party to be with them should prove that point beyond question. So we did the next best thing: we invited some family members over to the house and tasted our way through the Mixed Palette release. Good times were had!
Our setup was simple and focused: the wine, some lovely snacks (including the ever-popular Beef Dip), and lots of glassware. We braced ourselves and popped the corks (oh, yes, and unscrewed one cap).
We started with the 2013 Central Coast Chardonnay (with the aforementioned screw cap). We immediately appreciated the aroma of orange blossom and kiwis. A new-style Chardonnay, we enjoyed the light oak and less butter on the tongue. We decided that a nice appetizer plate of sharp cheeses and prosciutto-wrapped melon would be perfect with this young Chardonnay.
Next up was the 2011 Crown Block Red. This is a blend of 74% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc and 4% Malbec. We credit the Malbec for the dusty nose and the Cabernet Franc for the cherry and plum notes. A great, fruit-forward blend, this is perfect for watching the sun set with a cigar, wrapped in a vintage smoking jacket.
Last but not least was the 2012 Pinot Noir. Made from Monterey grapes, this wine did not immediately develop a fan base among us. Once it had a chance to breath, though, it drew us in. Floral, with a hint of oak and plum and just a dash of pepper, this will be a world-class Pinot Noir in a year or two. Until then it is very drinkable, just allow time to decant. Once it opened up for us, we all decided that it was time to light the barbeque and get our tri-tip going!
Although we regretted missing the release party, our humble re-creation did afford us a chance to sip, savor and celebrate the newest additions to the Darcie Kent catalog. That said, you can believe that we will do everything in our power to be in the neighborhood on November 23rd. As you might have guessed, that is the date for their next release party.
Until then, cheers!
About the Author: John grills a mean steak and is always in the market for another wine fridge. Believes that if a winery has more than 10 employees, it's probably too big. Buys wine faster than he drinks it, but who cares?
