Finally! Our follow up post to Family Wine Makers Tasting!

What a fantastic event! A show not to miss! Why? Here you get to meet and talk with the people who actually make (vint?) the wines. These are small business owners (real people!) following their dreams and passions to produce world class wines. You get their stories and the insight on their wines as you taste.

We did learn a few things at this event. One key learning is to plan for this event. We allocated a half day for the event and barely got through a 1/4 of the offerings. A strategy we often follow is to look for those winemakers who have something unique to offer. Next year we will plan our tastings and plan more time at the event.

The tasting for 2014 is scheduled for August 17th in San Mateo. Mark your calendars and get your tickets early. This is event worth your time and money!

Here are our favorites from this years show:

Double Thumbs Up!

Bien Nacido - Santa Maria Valley - 2011 - Chardonnay

Dutton-Goldfield Ranch Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2011

Eonian - Napa Valley Red 2010

Fort Ross Chardonnay 2005

Fritz Estate Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2011

Grgich Hills Napa Valley Chardonnay 2010

Jax Cold Creek Ranch Carneros Chardonnay 2011

Mi Sueno Los Carneros Chardonnay 2009

Darms Lane Chardonnay 2011