Monterey Wines and Experiencing Terroir
Many of us think of terroir as something nebulous. Wine aficionados love throw the word around saying things like, "This wine is a perfect product of the Piedmont terroir." What does that mean and does it make a difference to the casual drinker? I would argue probably not. BUT I do think that an understanding of the potential effects of terroir can be a fun learning experience.
First, we must realize that books, magazines and TV shows are no substitute for the tongue. And sipping one wine with dinner does not expose you to the "eureka" moment of a terroir tasting. So go to your trusted wine merchant and get them to suggest four wines whose taste profiles demonstrate the effects of terroir. Same grape, same price point, different conditions. Let me go further and say Monterey Pinots are just the ticket.
In the long history of winemaking California is still an upstart. Europe has had hundreds of years to figure out exactly which grape responds best to which geographical conditions. California is still in the process of working it out. Luckily, in this instant gratification world, we won't have to wait 200 hundred years to reap the benefits. So watch out Europe! Terroir is not just for France anymore!
I was fortunate enough to attend such a comparison tasting of four Monterey Pinot Noirs. (to get an in depth look at American Viticultural Areas and the production of wine in Monterey, see our blog by clicking here) What I have provided is my interpretation of that difference through the ViniCode™.
*If you are new to the ViniCode™, these categories were established for both reds and whites. The numbers denote corresponding intensity, but not quality. A wine with lower fruit and earth may be more subtle and elegant whereas a higher fruit and earth wine may be bold and powerful. An acidic wine can be mouthwatering and well defined and a great food wine while a round wine might be the perfect sipper. (For a complete look at the ViniCode™ click here.)
Click on the ViniCode™ image above to expand.
The ViniCode™ is about impression. The effect of wine in the mouth is not quantifiable. Each of us has our own sensitivities and preferences. And with these wines, we are all in luck. There is something for everyone. All of the wines were on the dry side, with the Morgan selection having less perceived sweetness. But just by a taste bud. Three of the wines leaned toward the acidic, with the Ventana Pinot being the roundest. It was also the fullest (perception of alcohol) of the wines. (Remember, alcohol has a sweetness to it that can moderate acidity). Paraiso was all about the fruit and the Pinot Noir from Morgan emphasized the oak. One grape, one region, four distinctive styles.
I have my favorite style and I encourage you to use the ViniCode™ and determine yours. To give you an example, I know exactly which one of these I would take to my friend Marianne's house. However, I know Clare would prefer a different style!
Once you have tasted your way through your four wines, you must verbalize your likes and dislikes. Look at your ViniCodes™ and try to pinpoint what about each wine you preferred. Now you are well on your way to freeing yourself from those ridiculous ratings, and your dependency on someone else's tongue when choosing a wine.
For more on Monterey Wine Country click here.
