Pipestone Vineyards owners and winemakers Jeff and Florence Pipes said this special wine was hand-picked from the rockiest, most difficult growing areas in their 11-acre vineyard. Aged in 100 percent French oak barrels, it shows only in smoky, toasty notes. This well-balanced wine is quite interesting in its layers of delicious flavors. It’s a meld of wild blackberries and tart boysenberries with nuances of sweet spice and white pepper. A good choice for the table with equally powerful foods, try this with roasted meats like herb-crusted leg of lamb, grilled venison, or paella with spicy sausage and escargot. $40 retail and worth it for this special treat. Only available at the tasting room off Hwy. 26 West or online at pipestonevineyards.com.Â
This article appears in Jan 1-8, 2009.