New Releases from ACORN Winery

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. 

2012 ACORN Medley – Rust colored. 14.3% ABV. A co-fermented field blend with 35% Syrah, 35% Zinfandel and a host of other grapes. Black and red fruits, plum and a trace of pepper on the nose. Medium body with light to medium acidity and healthy tannins. Dried cherries, blackberries, cocoa powder, pepper and earth on the palate. The finish is long and satisfying. Drink over the next 3-5 years. $48 at the winery and retail. My rating: 90 points.

2012 ACORN Dolcetto – Purple in color. 13.8% ABV. 92% Dolcetto, 5% Barbera and 3% Freisa. Black fruits, flowers, bacon fat and olives on the nose. Medium body with medium acidity. Cherries, strawberries, game and olive brine on the palate. Mouth coating tannins on a very long finish. Drink over the next 2-4 years. $35 at the winery. My rating: 90 points. 

2012 ACORN Axiom Syrah – Inky purple in color. 14.5% ABV. Black fruits, grilled meats and flowers on the nose. Full bodied with nice acidity. Dark and brooding. Jammy blackberries, black cherries, bacon fat and minerals on the palate. Delicious wine. Drink over the next 4-6 years. $35 at the winery. My rating: 92 points. 

These reviews were based on samples provided by the winery.

The wines from ACORN tend to be more rustic in style and lend themselves favorably to hearty foods like pasta and grilled meats.

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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