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Vina Castellano Winery
4590 Bell Rd
Auburn, CA 95602
Uber
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Wines
Spanish style wines, grown and produced in the Placer County AVA of the Sierra Foothills of California
Wines - Red
A Little Piece of Spain (and France) in the Sierra Foothills
Tempranillo 2016
$35.00
• Aged in American and French oak 30 months • Hints of Dark berry fruit, mellow, enjoyable tannins • Aroma of Vanilla, toast & Spices • Pairs well with duck, lamb, sausages both savory and spiced, better with savory, herbed dishes than acidic • Cheese – Colby, Gouda, Cabra Al Vino, Iberico, Brie, Camembert, Monterey Jack, Toscano. Triple Crème
Monastrell (Mourvedre) 2015
$35.00
• 30 months in Oak – 9 months bottle aged • Intensely flavored fruit that is not overly jammy or herbaceous. • Slight blackberry fruit. • Extra bottle aging to control the tannic tendency of Monastrell and to calm its intensity • Pairs well with hearty foods, turkey dinners, roast pork with vegetables and game.
2015 La Borracha
$29.00
• Aged in neutral American and French oak 30 months • Notes red plum, dried herb, hint of black pepper, Spice, hint of Vanilla • Pairs well with Spanish Cheese & Meats, • Cheese - Manchego, Iberico, Cabra al Vino, Goat cheese
Cabernet Franc 2016
$35.00
• Aged in neutral French oak 30 months • Lighter laid-back version of it love-child with Cabernet Sauvignon & Sauvignon Blanc • Notes of Raspberry, cherry, hint of mineral. Additional complexity of slightly green vegi. Aroma: herb & berry • Pairs well with vegetarian dishes and tomato sauces. Tastes great slightly chilled
2015 Abuelita
$30.00
• 80% Cabernet Franc 20% Syrah • Aged in American and French oak 30 months • Notes red plum, dried cherry, dried herb, hint of black pepper, spice • Earthy, mineral notes • Eating Pizza? You need this. Green vegetables, with tomato sauce? Yep. Canadian Bacon and Pineapple pizza is also on the list • Cheeses: Camembert, Feta, Fontina, Brie, Cheddar
2015 Syrah
$35.00
• Aged in French oak 30 months • Notes cassis, dark fruit, blackberry. Restrained tannins; silky - they coat your mouth • Good color, depth and complexity • Pairs well with: Grilled lamb, Gyros. Play with your spice rack to get some great flavors. Slow roasted BBQ pork. Cumin works with this wine. • Cheeses: Smoked Gouda, Toscano soaked in Syrah (Trader Joes!!!)
Wines - White & Rosado
Spanish Styled Wines to be Chilled
2018 Verdejo
$28.00
• Aged in stainless steel • Light and Crisp excellent level of acidity • Notes of lemon, citrus and minerality ages with hints of honey and almond • Pairs well with composed salads, savory dishes with herbs, frittatas, seafood pastas, pesto, risotto, vegetables • Cheese - provolone, triple crème, Manchego, Mozzarella, Gouda, Colby, Monterey Jack
2018 Rosado
$28.00
• A wine with a bright light pink color • An intense raspberry and strawberry fruit nose and some hints of flower blossom. Fresh, balanced, mouth-feel and a finish packed with pleasant, crisp, sharp fruit sensations • Pairs well fish, shellfish, pasta and rice dishes • Cheese – all goat & Sheep cheeses – Manchego, Cabra Al Vino, Feta, Gruyere, Mahon,
We Also have Sangria by the glass or bottle - served in the tasting cave
Valentines Flamenco in the Cave Feb 14, 2020
Date: February 14, 2020. Author: Teena.
Valentines Flamenco in the Cave
Treat your Valentine to Placer County's most unique and romantic Valentines celebration. Vina Castellano will host their annual "Flamenco in the Cave" February 14th. (Friday) Valentines Day, on President's Day Weekend. Gopal Slavonic and his troupe – Flamenco del Oro will again treat guests to their traditional Flamenco showcasing amazing artists in a unique and authentically Spanish stone cave. The Flamenco show at Vina Castellano will highlight the instrumental, vocal and dance talents of Flamenco del Oro. The evening will also feature an authentic meal representing the Mendez Family's Castilian heritage. The $125 ($100 wine club) per person – ticket price includes the meal, a bottle of wine for each couple and of course the one-of-a-kind performance.
What You Should Know
This Valentines Event is limited to 40 people. It is extremely popular so reserve your space now.
Doors open at 6pm for a glass of Cava and light Tapas reception (no host wine at reception)
Dinner will be served at 7:00pm
The show will begin at approximately 8:00 pm. The performers will do two sets.
Dessert will be served during the break.
Couples will receive a bottle of our newly released 2015 Tempranillo or two glasses of wine per guest.
Additional wine and Cava by the bottle is available for purchase. (Cava by the bottle must be reserved $35).
This popular event is limited to only 50 Guests. This allows for guests to get the authentic, passionate and intimate experience of the Flamenco.
RSVP name, phone number, and number in party.
Respond to this email or leave message at 530-889-2855. We will call to confirm. Complete Menu will be announced February 5th. Prepayment required. For tickets and to reserve space please email: teena.vinacastellano@gmail.com or purchase on eventbrite: Tickets.
About the Performers
About the Performers
Gopal Slavonic trained at the prestigious 'Fundacion de Arte Flamenco Cristina Heeren' in Sevilla, Spain where he studied intensively with leading flamenco guitarists. In his 20 years of dedication to flamenco guitar, Gopal has returned to Spain to further his studies several times, most frequently to Jerez de la Frontera. He has performed with some of the most renowned flamenco performers and is the featured guitarist for Northern California's Flamenco del Oro. Leta Gibney, and Roger Aiton are local favorites in Nevada County and Flamenco del Oro regulars. Leta, very talented singer will be delighting us with her melodies and deep and passionate voice. Roger, will be providing percussion, essential to the true experience. Drea Pacot has been dancing Flamenco for 20 years. She studied in Spain with Concha Vargas, Jose Galvan, Belen Amaya, Raphael Campallo and Concha Jareno. She studied years under San Francisco's Yaelisa. Drea has worked hard as performer and teacher in the Sacramento and Nevada County area. In 2007 Drea received a grant from the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission to showcase her students.
Events with Vina Castellano July 2019
Date: March 13-24, 2019. Author: Teena.
REI Detox/Retox: SUP Yoga & Wine Tasting
Thursday, July 18 – Sunday, July 21, August 8, September 5; About this Event: Experience the peace and tranquility of the water, the calm energy of yoga, and relaxation of a wine tasting with food pairing during REI's unique SUP Yoga and Wine Tasting class. Join us as our guides introduce you to the best of each experience with a short introduction to Stand Up Paddleboarding followed by a series of a mindful movements in a spirited sequence geared towards connecting your body with your breath in the most peaceful of locations, a calm pond amidst a beautiful vineyard. We keep the flow going with a variety of wine tastings (10 in total) and a tapas platter of your choice (traditional or vegetarian option). The combination of Stand up Paddleboard Yoga and a Wine Tasting is truly where the mind, body and palette meet. No Stand Up Paddleboarding experience is necessary. Must be 21 years old to participate. I.D. is required. 3 July sessions to choose from. Other dates available August thru September. For more Information Scroll down and hit "View All Events" for detailed information and links for tickets or REI/VINA SUP YOGA & WINE TASTING.
Winemaker's Dinner in the Cave – JULY 12 6-9PM
Convivial coursed-dinner and wine pairing in our Stone Cave Bistro, will emphasize a menu rich in locally-raised and seasonal delights. About this Event: Our Wine team is once again joining forces with Laura Kenny to bring you a perfectly paired 5 course Spanish/Latin inspired culinary experience! During this welcoming dinner in our Stone Cave Bistro, classically trained Chef Laura, will emphasize a menu rich in locally-raised and seasonal delights. You will begin your evening with a glass of Cava and light tapas as the opener. Courses 2- 4 will each be paired with 2 oz of Vina Castellano wine selected by the winemaker. (Additional wine available for purchase after the pairings). Before relocating from San Francisco, Chef Laura proved her meddle in renowned "foodie" restaurants Blvd and Laurel. Chef Laura moved to Placer County and opened Real Food Catering which specializes in cooking fresh, local and seasonal food. Together, with local farm-to-fork legand and Farmer's Market founder, Joanne Neft, these two created the perfect cookbook, Placer County Real Food, and its sequel, The Art of Real Food to celebrate and explore the wonderful culinary adventures at Placer's Farmers' Markets. Along with Chef Laura, Viña Castellano's Owner/Winemaker, Teena Wilkins will share with you her insight into the wines in her down-to-earth and slightly comedic way, as well as the thoughts behind the selected pairings. Your sense of smell and taste will of course be delighted throughout the meal, however, as with all events at Viña Castellano, this is designed to be "A little piece of Spain" in the Sierra Foothills. In other words, a convivial night of food, wine, conversation and of course the unique extraordinary ambiance of a candlelit stone cave. Whether you are looking for the unique and perfect date night, a night out with friends, or to simply relive a quaint European styled evening from the past, this is the evening for you. Club Members Discount Code contact Tasting Room 530-889-2855 Thurs-Sun 12 to 5 or email teena.vinacastellano@gmail.com.
Grape Days of Summer on the Placer Wine Trail
By Placer County Vintners Association. Grape Days Tickets. Join us for Grape Days of Summer on Saturday and Sunday, July 20-21, 2019! Time: 12:00pm to 5:00pm; VIP Hour starts at 11:00am. Some locations are open later, check with the individual wineries. Where: Placer Wine Trail – Auburn, Granite Bay, Lincoln, Loomis, Newcastle, Meadow Vista, and Rocklin.
Tickets
- Early Bird (per day) $30.00
- After July 6th (per day) $40.00
- Early Bird Weekend Pass $35.00
- Weekend Pass After July 6th $45.00
VIP Pass
$10 Add-on. VIP Pass includes early admission and specials at participating wineries. Check https://placerwine.com/plan-your-visit/events/grape-days-of-summer/ for up to date VIP details.
Designated Driver
$10.00
Grape Days of Summer is an annual Placer Wine Trail 2-day open-house event hosted by Placer County Vintners Association (PCVA). Enjoy wine tasting and food at every winery, music (at some locations), and educational experiences at participating wineries along the trail. Guests can learn about local agriculture and winemaking, combined with a unique and educational experience. Learn about winemaking techniques, equipment, grapes, farming, and more!
Participating Wineries
Bear River, Bonitata, Cante Ao Vinho, Casque, Ciotti, Dono dal Cielo, Fawnridge, Lone Buffalo, Mount Saint Joseph, Mt. Vernon, PaZa, Pescatore, Rancho Roble, Rock Hill, Secret Ravine, Viña Castellano, and Wise Villa.
Activities Summary
With a paid ticket, enjoy wine tastings, food at each winery, and special educational activities celebrating winemaking and local agriculture – including items such as Vineyard Tours, Cork Presentations, Oak Flavors in Wine, Blending Seminars, Placer County Wine History, Vertical Tastings, and/or Barrel Aging and Sampling.
Activities List
Stay updated on www.placerwine.com.
Ticket Details
Includes admission to each participating winery, small bites to eat, and a souvenir wine glass. When purchasing your tickets, you will asked what winery starting location will be your starting point. This is where you will get checked in, your glass and wristband for tasting. Each winery has a limited number of tickets for participants to start so that we are able to spread guests out along the Trail. In rare instances, you may not be able to start at your preferred location (will say SOLD OUT), but you can always visit them later. You are obligated to begin your tour at the location on your ticket where you will pick up your glass and wrist band. Once you have received your glass, you can visit the wineries in any order.
Galentine's Day Wine Blending Party
Galentine's Day Wine Blending Party
$50.00
Friday, February 15th (6-9pm). Author: Teena. Women, as mothers, sisters, aunts and friends, make our lives richer and fuller. Most women know there are few things as relaxing as spending a few hours with a group of girlfriends. It's also invigorating and reviving. Nothing puts us in a better mood than hanging out with our ladies! Come enjoy this interactive evening where you will learn the art of blending and bring home a bottle of wine you design with a custom label of you and your friends. Tapas plate and your bottle of wine, and two custom blended glasses of wine included.
Cava & Candy in The Cave
Valentine's Cava & Candy
$15.00
Thursday, February 14th (12-6:630pm). Author: Teena. We will be offering sparkling Cava by the glass paired with three delicious chocolate bites for $15 per person. We will stay open a bit later on Valentine's Day so that you can treat your date to a pre-dinner tasting or a simple little treat before your romantic night-on-the town. If you would like to reserve a table for this tasting you can call 530-889-2855. Reservations are not required, there will be tasting at the bar and tables on a first come first served basis without reservation.
Rei Detox/Retox Paddleboard Yoga on the Pond
Rei Detox/Retox Paddleboard Yoga on the Pond
Date: June 24 - August 25 2018. Author Teena. Experience the peace and tranquility of the water, the calm energy of yoga, and relaxation of a wine tasting with food pairing during REI's unique SUP Yoga and Wine Tasting class. Join us as our guides introduce you to the best of each experience with a short introduction to Stand Up Paddleboarding followed by a series of a mindful movements in a spirited sequence geared towards connecting your body with your breath in the most peaceful of locations, a calm pond amidst a beautiful vineyard. We keep the flow going with a variety of wine tastings (10 in total) and a tapas platter of your choice (traditional or vegetarian option). The combination of Stand up Paddleboard Yoga and a Wine Tasting is truly where the mind, body and palette meet. No Stand Up Paddleboarding experience is necessary. Must be 21 years old to participate. I.D. is required. 6 sessions to choose from: Thurs Jul 18 6:00-8:00pm; Sun July 21 10:00am – 12:00pm; Sun July 21 12:30pm-2:30pm; Thurs August 8 6:00pm – 8:00pm; Thur Sep 5 6:00pm – 8:00pm. Reservations: https://www.rei.com/events/68905/detox-retox-sup-yoga-wine-tasting.
Party at The Pond
Party at the Pond
Date: August 4, 2018; Author Teena. Saturday, Evening August 4th, 3-9pm. Join us for our annual Party at the Pond – the new Summertime opportunity for an evening event at the Vineyard. We will keep the island bar open for this evening summer party. We will again offer food, sangria, beer, wine, sodas No Outside Beverages. We will have a limited amount of Italian sausage sandwiches for sale. Guests may bring their own picnics this year or can order from Foodjet from local restaurants for delivery. Where: Pond at Vina 4590 Bell Road Auburn RSVP: For Italian Sausage sandwiches and Pre-Order Sangria Pitchers.
Save the Dates: Screen-On-The Green: Big Fish
Movie Nights at Vina Castellano Winery. Date: July 20, 2018 & August 24, 2018. Author: Teena.
Big Fish
What: Big Fish - A marvelous comedy/drama starring Ewan McGregor. The story of a braggart and exaggerator, Edward Bloom, and his son, William, who–after a long estrangement–returns home only to learn his father is dying of cancer. Desperate to know the complicated man before it's too late, William sets out, trying to unravel fact from fiction. When: Friday, August 24th Gates open at 7:00 Movie starts between 8:15 & 8:30pm.
Rating: PG-13 (for a fight scene, some images of nudity and a suggestive reference)
Runtime: 125 minutes
Awesome movie that gets better everytime you see it!
Details
RSVP to teena.vinacastellano@gmail.com or call 530-889-2855. This helps us to regulate employee need and crowd.
Guests may bring Blankets and low profile chairs. Sweaters suggested it can get a bit chilly after dark. Pillows make it comfy. slight slope in the lawn allows for good views
Guests may order from Foodjet
Winery will sell Italian Sausage Sandwhich with Chips at the winery. (MUST RSVP)
Pre-Order Sangria Available: Mango Verdejo, Cranberry Bliss Rose, Traditional Blackberry (MUST RSVP)
No Outside Beverages
Snack bar with Candy and snack
Wine Bar open at pond until 8:45
Cave Closes at 8pm
News
The Porrón
Date: May 4, 2019. Author: Teena. A Porrón is a traditional glass wine pitcher, which holds 3/4 of a liter of wine or about 25 ounces which is about the equivalent of a bottle of wine. Porróns are found at bars, eating establishments and in the homes of many Spanish families throughout the country in modern day Spain, much like the better know Bota Bag, however it was originally from Catalonia and is still more typically seen in there as well as in Aragon and the Valencia a. The porrón is designed specifically to allow multiple people to drink from the same vessel without it touching their lips. Its very convivial in nature and is fact designed so that while an intimate group is casually breaking bread together they can also enjoy communal drinking and the sharing of a bottle of wine. In Spain sharing the porrón is almost always in accompaniment with food. It requires skill and practice to guarantee that the wine actually makes it into a one's mouth and to keep it from spilling onto clothing. At Vina Castellano we keep lobster bibs on hand for those who are less confident in their skills. The top of the bottle is narrow and can be sealed off with a cork. Stemming upwards from the bottom of the pitcher is a spout that gradually tapers off to a small opening. It is shaped such that the wine stored inside it will have minimal contact with the air, while being ready to be used at all times. I have read that while it was once very common in Spanish homes, the tradition is now slowly being lost. The idea is said to have originated as a replacement to Bota bags, which were traditionally lined with goat bladders to prevent liquids from seeping through (though modern Bota bags have plastic liners and a plastic nozzle). Both Botas and porróns alike are generally filled with regular wines, white or red, but are also used to drink Cava, and a smaller version filled with a sweet, dessert wine (typically Garnacha) is also common in Catalan restaurants. The lack of touch with the lips allows a group of people to convivially share the same bottle of wine without using multiple glasses and also without offending people's sense of hygiene.
The Grolla - "The Friendly Pot"
Date: January 20, 2017. Author: Teena. For the Health and Welfare of your Friendships. Grolla is a traditional northern Italian drink which is served warm in a hand carved "friendship pot". It is meant to be shared and enjoyed amongst friends. Craig and I first discovered the Grolla on a ski trip in the Italian Alps whilst stranded with friends and family in a small town in a quaint pub where we had to wait out a blizzard. The owner of the pub brought out a beautiful handcarved wooden pot called the "Grolla" The not-so-tasty beverage is served throughout the Northern Alps. The orginal Italian drink is served hot and is made with instant coffee, Grappa, mulling spices and sugar. Thoe host lights the drink on fire and it is then passed around the group until it is finished. Grolla Pots come with several different spouts to accomodate different group sizes. That day the Wilkins family shared a 12-spout pot. The tradition is that you may not set the pot down until it is finished. If you do this, it is said to add to the health and prospertity of the friendships of all who share it. At Vina, we have perfected our own Grolla recipe for the winter: Ours is a hot wassail like concoction that combines citrus and berry juices with cinnamon and light cloves spice. It has become very popular in the cold winter months and it is a group experience that is mutually as good for your mental, physical, and friendship health. We also have different sized pots, which we purchased in Ortisei, Italy when we returned with our children in 2014. Large groups may reserve our original pot that we bought 15 years ago in Cortina, after our fateful day in the pub during the Blizzard. Please call to reserve a pot for you and your friends. we charge $5 per person, and it makes a winter trip to the cave enchanting. 530-889-2855.
Detox/Retox: Sup Yoga & Wine Tasting
Date: July 7, 2017. Author: Teena. Detox/Retox: SUP Yoga & Wine Tasting. Experience the peace and tranquility of the water, the calm energy of yoga, and relaxation of a wine tasting with food pairing during REI's unique Stand up Paddleboard Yoga and Wine Tasting class. The combination of SUP Yoga and a Wine Tasting is truly where the mind, body, and palette meet. More details & to Sign up: https://www.rei.com/events/detoxretox-sup-yoga-wine-tasting/auburn/178783. Vina Castellano Winery 7/22/2017, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM. 3 spots available.
- Member $44.00
- Nonmember $49.00
Rei & Vina: Detox/retox Yoga Programs
Date: August 15, 2016. Author: Teena.
Detox/Retox: SUP Yoga & Wine Tasting
Saturday, August, 20; 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM. Experience the peace and tranquility of the water, the calm energy of yoga, and relaxation of a wine tasting with food pairing during REI's unique Stand up Paddleboard Yoga and Wine Tasting class. The combination of SUP Yoga and a Wine Tasting is truly where the mind, body, and palette meet. Vina Castellano Winery; Fitness level: (1) Relaxed; Skill level: (1) Beginner; Minimum age: 21; Group size: 12.
- Member $45.00
- Nonmember $50.00
This event includes Tapas & Wine Tasting after SUP
https://www.rei.com/events/detoxretox-sup-yoga-wine-tasting/auburn/146228.
Detox/Retox: SUP Yoga & Wine Tasting
Sunday, August 28, 2016; 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM. Vina Castellano Winery. https://www.rei.com/events/detoxretox-sup-yoga-wine-tasting/auburn/149585.
- Member $45.00
- Non-Member $50.00
Detox/Retox: SUP Yoga & Wine Tasting
Saturday, September 24, 2016; 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM. Vina Castellano Winery. https://www.rei.com/events/detoxretox-sup-yoga-wine-tasting/auburn/151752.
- Member $45.00
- Non-Member $50.00
White Wines of Placer: Ahead of The Curve in Mediterranean Varietals
White wine varietals comprise only 10 percent of the the varietals planted and produced in the entire Sierra Foothill AVA
In Placer County, it is less than 10%, however in the past five years we are seeing the numbers of plantings and production of white varietals increase, as we learn what grows consistently well and with ease in our Mediterranean-like climate. The expansion is largely due local winemakers answering the demand of local consumers, as well as an increased willingness and eagerness to experiment and explore the opportunities of Placer's unique terroir as it applies to white estate produced grapes and wines.
Over the years, Placer County growers have successfully experimented with Mediterranean varietals such as Verdleho, Albarino, and the Italian Vermentino.
Even more popular are the white Rhône varietals, Viognier and Rousanne. Teena Wilkins at Viña Castellano explains that after years of waiting for others to take the leap, her father, Gabe Mendez, a Spaniard, decided to bite-the-bullet and in 2008, they were the first to commercially plant the Spanish white clone – Verdejo. The slightly better known Portuguese varietal, Verdelho, sounds similar but in fact is distinctly different and unrelated. Verdelho, and the even more widely planted Rhone varietal Viognier, have been produced in the foothills for over 10 years, though they are still-fairly exclusive. The former Hyatt-Baumbach winery was growing and producing the Italian white, Vermentino, even before the now thriving Placer County once again became legitimate growing destination. After the Gold rush, wine production in Placer County slowed, and it came to a commercial standstill after prohibition. Today, however, it is a little known fact that Placer County has been ahead of the curve in the production of these emerging white varietals – some were even planted in Placer before they were considered "emerging".
It was four years ago at Foothill Grape Day 2012
(A rotating annual event in various sections of the Sierra Foothill Region put on by the UC Davis Cooperative Extension) where I first heard white wine varietals discussed as a serious option in the Sierra Foothills. According to UC Davis viticulture specialist, Dr. Jim Wolpert at that time, 10 varieties comprised 80% of the entire varietal wine business in California. I do not know how significantly that percentage has changed in California as a whole, but I know that in Placer County we have long embraced the need for regionally grown whites of excellence. According to Wolpert, back in 2012 the increased availability of Mediterranean Whites varieties and clones through the Foundation of Plant Services (FPS) at UC Davis, offered new opportunities to foothill growers.
Chardonnay
Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio are the most well-known white wines, and although, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grow decently in foothill soils, there are also a bounty of Rhone-native grapes, from Grenache Blanc to Viognier, and Mediterranean varietals, such as Albariño, Verdelho and Verdejo that flourish in the higher altitudes. When farmed appropriately and harvested at the right time, many white varietals do their best work in the Sierra Foothills, sometimes even better than wines produced in their countries of origin.
All that considered it is the consumer that holds the future of estate-grown white wine in the Sierra Foothills.
White wine drinkers are amongst the most ferociously loyal to single varietals. Particularly when it comes to the most widely planted wine varietal in California: Chardonnay. One of the tag lines heard most frequently at local tasting counters is "I'm a Chard gal", (or person). No surprise, there are 95,000 acres of Chardonnay planted in California. The red varietal, Cabernet Sauvignon, comes in second 15,000 behind, at 80,000 acres.
Some wine drinkers are so varietal loyal that they scoff when offered substitution wines made from different grapes, but none more than the Chardonnay consumer.
Offer a loyal Chardonnay drinker a Mediterranean or Rhone white and the look you get back is likely that of shock and awe. In a way, it is a kind of brand loyalty. Having said that, it is seemingly more intense than just preference. For instance, let us take soda pop for example. When it comes to that beverage, many prefer Coke to Pepsi but rarely do they feel insulted when offered the alternative. This is often not the case in the white wine world.
Why are white wine drinkers, and in particular, Chardonnay drinkers so much more ferociously loyal?
Likely because Chardonnay wines are often fuller in body and smoother than their counterparts in the dry white category, which is why they are considered to have a wider audience. In the wine world, we say they are more "approachable". Chardonnays, which are frequently fermented in new oak barrels vs. the stainless vats used for most whites, can have a "buttery" tone that lends a creaminess. This softer acidity combined with fruit flavors makes it highly drinkable for the masses. This is partially the reason that many foothill wineries still produce Chardonnay as well as Sauvignon Blanc alongside the Rhone and Mediterranean varietals, which are more easily grown in the region.
So how do we and how should we handle white wine in the Sierra Foothills where Chardonnay is more challenging to grow?
First, we need to address the fact that Chardonnay is very adaptable and excellent wines of that variety are produced in every region of California, including Placer County. Napa and Sonoma growers will often say that the coastal influence is what makes their region better suited for Chardonnays and that the day to nighttime cool down, makes their area superior. While that gives them a certain advantage, the reality is it that it simply makes their regions easier for growing certain varieties, not impossible for the rest of us. Likewise, their conditions lend themselves to the typical buttery and less tropical forms of Chardonnay. However, the real reason that Chardonnay is a more difficult fit for foothills growers has less to do with our warm summers then it does with our cold winters. The day to nighttime temperature change in many of the microclimates of the sierra foothills is similar to that of Napa and Sonoma. Contrary to popular belief, the temperature drops significantly enough in many foothill locations to provide enough cool down at night to delay and lengthen the ripening and give us plenty of hang-time to get the fruit where we need it. Most of the vineyards reside between 1,500 to 3,000 feet where elevation creates a true four-season climate. The shallow, mountainside soils create moderate stress on the vines, producing low to moderate yields and high quality. The stress point for growers in the foothills is the winter and the threat of an early spring followed by a random late frost. This does not affect quality: it affects production.
Chardonnay is an early budding vine.
It requires aggressive pruning just prior to bud break in all regions, but in the Sierra Foothills it is extremely important to shock the vine and delay bud break until consistently warmer weather can arrive. To grow Chardonnay requires additional cultural practices and close attention to detail in the Sierra Foothills, but many growers go through the pain-staking details to achieve this. A fair amount of local winemakers take the less costly route and take advantage of their ability to contract grapes and produce wines from non-estate sources outside of their district or even outside the Sierra Foothill region.
Both of those options are great ways to offer the consumer what they are craving
But the third and increasingly more popular route is through experimentation and consumer education. Other white varietals can be made stylistically similar in body and mouthfeel to Chardonnay, lending to the approachability that sells many oenophiles on white wine. These varietals are grown more reliably and with less risk to the farmer. So, if you are a white wine drinker, Chardonnay or otherwise, I challenge you to get out on the trail and see if you can't find a local solution to your solve your white wine affection.
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General Info
Cuisine
Bar
Hours
Monday:
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Tuesday:
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Wednesday:
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Thursday:
12:00pm - 5:00pm
Friday:
12:00pm - 5:00pm
Saturday:
12:00pm - 5:00pm
Sunday:
12:00pm - 5:00pm
About Us
At Viña Castellano the philosophy is that wine-making should be the perfect combination of old-world traditions and leading-edge technology. It is this uncompromising philosophy that dictates the precision with which the farm and estate vineyards, are farmed. Viña Castellano was one of the first estate vineyards re-planted in Placer county since prohibition and the first to use 100% of their own grapes to create their wines.