Bill and Betsy Nachbaur purchased Alegria Vineyard in 1990. Situated in the Russian River Valley, Alegría Vineyards has 26 acres planted with Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Dolcetto, Petite Sirah, Alicante Bouschet, and many lesser-known varieties. The oldest part of the vineyard dates back to the 1890’s. For the first many years Bill farmed the vineyard and the grapes were sold. ACORN Winery was founded in 1994 and the first release was a Sangiovese in 1996. Clay Mauritson is the consulting winemaker.
I recently had the opportunity to try some of the wineries new releases.
2011 ACORN Winery Axiom Syrah – Purple in color. 13.5% ABV. 98% Syrah and 2% Viognier. Black fruits, game, cassis and mocha on the nose. Medium body and moderate acidity. Tart blackberry, black cherry and mint on the palate. This wine is young and it shows. Check back in on this bottle in 3-5 years. $34 at the winery and retail. My rating: 91 points.
2012 ACORN Winery Sangiovese – Light ruby red in color. 14.1% ABV. These grapes trace back to Sangiovese planted in the 1950’s by A. Rafanelli! How cool is that? Super nose of black fruits and tobacco. Light in body and light acidity. Plums, black cherry, cocoa powder and minerals on the palate. Healthy tannins on a lean finish. This wine screams for food like pizza or barbeque. Drink over the next 2-4 years. $30 at the winery and retail. My rating: 88 points.
2011 ACORN Winery Cabernet Franc – Ruby red in color. 13% ABV. 88% Cabernet Franc blended with Merlot, Petit Verdot and a few other varieties. Bordeaux like nose of red fruits, leather, tobacco and cedar. Plums, currants, cherries and vanilla on the palate. Supple but present tannins. Drink over the next 3-5 years. $34 at the winery and retail. My rating: 90 points.
These reviews were based on samples provided by the winery.
ACORN Winery is open for sales and tasting by appointment only. I look forward to visiting on my next trip to the Russian River Valley.
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