LaMontagne Winery 2014 Marshall Vineyard Malvasia & 2013 Kessler-Haak Theron Pinot Noir

Hello Friends,

Today’s Quick Sip features two wines from LaMontagne Winery. I was introduced to this winery through a virtual tasting put on by Protocol Wine Studio. The tasting highlighted small-production Santa Barbara producers for the entire month of February. You can join Protocol Wine Studio’s wine themed conversation every Tuesday at 9PM EST by following #winestudio on Twitter.

LaMontagne Winery was founded by foodie and wine lover, Kimberly Smith. Over the years, Kimberly had become quite fond of Pinot Noir, charmingly referred to as “the heartbreak grape,” for its temperament, fickleness, and delicacy. In 2006, that devotion led to college courses, hands-on-work at the highly-regarded Close Pepe Vineyard, and aspirants to become a winemaker. Her first vintage, which she says was an excellent growing season, would go into barrel in 2010.

"May each sip bring you joy!” ~ Kimberly Smith

Today, along with her son Alec, the winery produces small lots of single-vineyard, single varietal Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Sta. Rita Hills; Syrah from Ballard Canyon; and Tempranillo, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Merlot, and Primitivo from Paso Robles. Their Malvasia comes from Kern County (Bakersfield). Wine production is low; therefore, Kimberly sells directly to the consumer. With a passion for crafting wines of exceptional quality, there is no wonder why her motto is, “May each sip bring you joy!” I recommend visiting the winery’s website and joining their mailing list. For further information and where you can find these wines, please see my tasting notes below.

LaMontagne Winery 2014 Marshall Vineyard Malvasia

LaMontagne Winery 2014 Marshall Vineyard Malvasia (SRP $30): This is a lovely example of Malvasia. The aromas are simply intoxicating; suggesting hibiscus, chamomile, honey, bruised pear, and citrus peel, along with a delicate mineral underpinning. The aromas extend to the palate with a pleasing, rounded texture that’s lifted by a zesty beam of balancing acidity. This wine has good depth and length and becomes more charming as it warms in the glass; 60°F is ideal. Only 100 cases of this wine were produced so get it while the getting is good! Region: Kern County, California. Other info: ABV 12.9%, cork enclosure. Click here to find this wine. 

La Montagne 2013 Kessler-Haak Sta. Rita Hills Theron Pinot Noir

La Montagne 2013 Kessler-Haak Sta. Rita Hills Theron Pinot Noir (SRP: $65) This expressive Pinot Noir opens with an inviting burst of raspberry, kirsch, warm brown spices, and a very pretty floral perfume. It is beautifully ripe and fruit forward, with waves of fresh red berry fruit flavors that are supported by a firm acid spine and refined tannins. The mid-palate has a nice, streamlined texture that continues into a medium-long, fruit-driven finish. This is a delicious wine that will hold your interest until the very last sip. Only 75 case of this wine were produced. Region: Sta. Rita Hills, California. Other info: ABV 13.5%, cork enclosure. Click here to find this wine.

Have a question about this post? Feel free to drop me an e-mail at myvinespot@yahoo.com or hit me up on Facebook or Twitter. Stay tuned ...more to come. Happy Sipping, my friends! Disclosure: These wines were provided for review. Thoughts are my own.

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