In the course of the evening I learned that Mr. Baseler considers each of the wineries in his collection a priceless pearl in a string of pearls, each one unique. From the way he spoke about Conn Creek and wine in general, I sensed a protective, almost curatorial approach to the wineries in the collection.
Winemaker Mike McGrath was present to speak about the wines we would have during the multi-course dinner prepared by New Orleans-born chef Jan Birnbaum of San Francisco's Epic Roadhouse. The wines included the 2006 Cabernet Franc (with the Stone Fruit Salad (the wine paired excellently with the blackberry and black pepper truffle vinaigrette), and the 2005 Anthology and 2004 Rutherford AVA “Hozhoni Vineyard” Cabernet Sauvignon, which we would have with the main course of grilled lamb loin t-bone.
According to winemaker McGrath, the 2005 Anthology is expressive and complex, opening with an alluring aroma of ripe black plum, warm berry pie, and caramel. Supple and elegantly structured, the flavors build on the black fruit and silky spice core.
Dinner was held in Conn ‘s new, unique AVA Room, where fans of Conn Creek can book an appointment-only tasting, blending and bottling experience and taste the various appellations of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon in one stop, from Carneros to Calistoga and Spring Mountain to Howell Mountain.
The dream of creating the Conn Creek Napa Valley AVA room began when the winery was searching for grapes for its flagship Anthology wine. That led to the basis for the Conn Creek Napa Valley AVA Program. The next step was to showcase the wines in one room, providing consumers a rare opportunity to learn, taste, and blend wines from many distinctive regions that make up Napa Valley.
During dinner, it was such an incredible experience to talk to winemaker McGrath and hear the story of the grapes, as well as the diversity of Conn Creek terroir. Next year will be the 30th year of Auction Napa Valley (ANV), so check your calendars and begin to make plans to attend.
Article comments
1 - Joanne Huspek
Conn Creek is one of my favorite wineries to visit, in fact, we were just there two weeks ago. Thanks for the article on their charity work.
2 - Bliffle
It's always a pleasure to read your wine articles.