Tamber Bey Winery is on a winning streak

Two years ago, I was sad to see the bookstore on Adams Street close. That being said, what opened in its spot, Tamber Bey Winery's tasting room, is a breath of fresh air in downtown St. Helena. I visited the tasting room for the first time in March of last year, and haven't stopped raving about the wines since.

Owner Barry Waitte owns horses that he races professionally. The name "Tamber Bey" was derived from the names of his first two horses - Tamborina and Bayamo, which were nicknamed Tamber and Bey. In keeping with the horse theme, Barry changed the name of the vineyard he purchased in Yountville in 1999 from "Two Rivers" to "Deux Cheveux" (or "two horses" in French).

The tasting room in St. Helena has a chic equestrian feel to it, too. I usually opt for one of the deep chestnut leather sofas under the flat-screen TV; a video comprised of images of the estate in Yountville, Barry's horses and his chocolate lab Hershey, and photographs from wine events tell the story of Tamber Bey. On the opposite side of the room, there is a large farmer's table by the window with room for up to 8 guests. In the middle of the room is a horseshoe shaped bar with a copper counter top and comfortable bar chairs. I like the doors to the offices, which are fashioned after rustic stable doors.

If you're interested in seeing the estate and vineyards with your own eyes, you'll need to make an appointment. Located off Yount Mill Road in Yountville, the estate is gorgeous. Last week, on a very unusually warm January afternoon, I sat on the terrace with Barry and tasted the 2009 vintage wines.

Unfortunately for consumers, the Deux Cheveux Chardonnay is sold out--it is an incredible medium-bodied wine with subtle oak nuances, citrus, pear and spice. Having access to this wine is worth joining the wine club!

Of the red wines, the Deux Cheveux Cabernet Sauvignon is always my favorite (but the Merlot was a close second!). It is luscious yet refined; flavors of black and blue fruits comingle with notes of sweet oak and baking spice. With smooth tannins, this is an easy-drinking Cab that has the potential to age beautifully, but it is ready to drink now.

I'm not the only one bragging about how great the Tamber Bey wines are. The winery has been getting a lot of great press and the 2009 Merlot was recently featured in the Wine Spectator. My bet is on their continued success!