. Jeff Bundschu a sixth generation vintner poured some of his wines from Sonoma. We met Jeff who explained that this was the 146th harvest at his vineyard. That is an amazing feat ! The first wine we tried was his Gundlach-Bundschu Chardonnay, Rhinefarm Vineyard 2004 Sonoma Valley. These grapes came from 15 acres comprised primarily of vines aged over 30 years. In the glass this wine showed medium to heavy and gold in color. On the nose there was a burst of French Oak that gave way to lemon and pineapple. The palate produced notes of mineral and butter as well as lemon and pineapple that finished balanced with excellent acidity.
We moved on to the Gewurztraminer, Rhinefarm Vineyard 2005 Sonoma Valley. These vines were planted in 1969 on about 20 acres. This vineyard is located only 6 miles from San Pablo Bay thus allowing the cooling influence from the flog to impact the grapes. In the glass it showed light to medium body with a straw like color. On the nose my immediate impression was how it reminded me of an Alsatian style. There were the classic hints of lychee and almonds. On the palate the typical spice came through with a nice lemon-lime finish.
We also enjoyed the “Block 13″ Pinot Nior 2005 Sonoma Coast. These grapes were sourced primarily from vineyards around Sonoma County, including Russain River Valley, Sonoma Coast and even Monterey County. In the glass this wine had a beautiful burgundy color and a medium body. On the nose there were aromas of cherry and spice at the front. These give way to a hint of smoke. On the palate , the cherrys and spice combine with the smoke for a very long and well balanced finish.
It was a real pleasure to meet Jeff Bundschu who is very personable and even taught people a special dance to remember how to pronounce the winery.