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.
2013 ACORN Medley – Crimson in color. 14.1% ABV. A field blend of sixteen varieties including Syrah, Sangiovese and Zinfandel. Super nose of black fruits, lavender and pepper. Medium to full bodies with lots of acidity. Rich and lush on the palate. Flavors of blackberry, raspberry, spice and graphite. Supple tannins on a very long finish. Really pretty wine. Drink over the next 3-5 years. $48 at the winery. My rating: 92 points.
2013 ACORN Axiom Syrah – Purple in color. 14.2% ABV. 98% Syrah and 2% Viognier. Black fruits, flowers and black olives on the nose. Medium body with strong acidity. Rich and mouth coating on the palate. Flavors of blackberries, plums, dark chocolate and pepper. The wine has healthy tannins on a long finish. Drink over the next 2-4 years. $36 at the winery. My rating: 90 points.
2013 ACORN Sangiovese – Ruby red in color. 14.1% ABV. 98% Sangiovese, 1% Canaiolo Nero and 1% Mammolo Toscano. Subtle aromas of cherry, iron and sage. Light body with medium acidity. Rich and charming on the palate. Flavors of cherry, cranberry and blood on the palate. The finish is long and tangy. This wine captures the essence of Old World Sangiovese despite being grown in the Russian River Valley. Nicely done. Drink over the next 2-4 years. $30 at the winery. My rating: 91 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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