Making it up Sage Canyon Road to Kuleto's

For months now, I've been trying to make it up to Pat Kuleto's Estate Winery out on Sage Canyon Road, which is a very windy eastbound route that leads deep into Chiles Valley (between Napa and Sacramento). Finally, we made the appointment and the drive wasn't too bad--I was lucky enough to be the passenger, so I could thoroughly enjoy the views of Lake Hennessey to the right and lush green forests on the right.

Well, it was definitely worth the drive. Our tour guide, Rick, was just as excited to tell us about the property as we were to hear about it. After pouring us generous glasses of Rosato (enough to last us the length of the tour), Rick showed us around.

Every inch of the estate has been taken into consideration, from the man-made lake at the bottom of the ravine that supplies all of their water, to the vegetable garden and chicken coop, to the numerous benches (to enjoy the views) and the 19 pizza ovens (for all the special events at the winery).

The tasting room reminds me of an old friend's living room--it's both rustic and cozy (think Tuscany meets New Mexico), with plush leather couches and lots of candles. But because it wasn't too hot, we opted to sit outside on the terrace.

We tasted the 2006 Chardonnay, the 2007 Zinfandel, the 2006 Syrah, and the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon. They were all delicious--I liked them all (even the Chardonnay). We bought a bottle of the brand-new Sangiovese out of curiosity, and we are seriously considering joining the Wine Club, aptly dubbed the "Kingfish" Club--for people who like to eat like a king and drink like a fish. (I think it would be worth it to join the club just for the party invitations!).

Our drive up Sage Canyon Road would not have been complete without a visit to Neyers Vineyards and Chappellet Winery. Tune in tomorrow to hear more....