These wines could just be the most value-driven wines you drink all year.
Parducci Wines’s journey started back in 1912 with a 16-year-old stowaway from Italy. Early efforts were tough going, constructing the winery with no electricity or tractors- everything was done by hand. Their early ‘bottling plant’ consisted of hoses and corks pounded in with mallets. The winery (then called Parducci Cellars) was founded in 1932 and is the longest-running winery in Mendocino County.
The family’s commitment to tradition and sustainability is first and foremost on their minds every single day of the year. A legacy was born, which continues today with their True Grit Reserve wines.
I should tell you that all their wines spend time in 100+-year-old redwood wine tanks and display an elegance about them that defies their price point.
I could carry on about how John Parducci sold grapes at 14 years old during probation or how he was inducted into the C.I.A.- The Culinary Institute of America, or the Vintner’s Hall of Fame in 2012- all interesting stuff, but, seriously, let us get to the wines.
Small Lot Pinot Noir- Mendocino County 2022
Loads of red fruits on the nose with raspberries, dark cherries, and plums dominating.
The palate is smooth and inviting, soft tannins frame layers of cherries, pomegranate, and plum with secondary notes of strawberries and just a hint of citrus. Impressive balance and nice length on the finish.
Should cellar out to 2028 with signs of improvement.
I would pair it with Salmon, lighter chicken dishes, Chicken Salad with a raspberry or strawberry dressing, and Vegetarian Pizzas. Turkey dishes should not be ruled out, it would be an ideal Thanksgiving wine.
Small Lot Petite Sirah- Mendocino County 2021
This was originally a French grape varietal called Durif- it is the product of crossing Syrah and Peloursin, a local French varietal.
The nose is dominated by ripe blackberries, plums, and spices not unlike Shiraz, just softer and more approachable for those just beginning their wine journey.
The palate is soft, approachable, and sumptuous in its mouthfeel. Loads of blackberries and blueberries with hints of
plum, dark chocolate, pepper, and spices, tobacco (think of Nth Barossa Shiraz), and cigar box.
Should cellar out to 2028 with signs of improvement.
Pairings should include your favorite red meat dishes, Lasagna, and Pepperoni Pizza.
Small Lot Cabernet- Mendocino County 2022
Delightful notes of fresh dark cherries and dark raspberries are balanced by stewed rhubarb and spices. Makes for an enticing invitation.
Bright ripe cherries dominate the palate with generous side servings of raspberries, plums, and spices with just a hint of dark chocolate, cigar box, and vanilla to round things out.
This Cabernet is on the lighter side making it more ‘pairable’ with a diverse range of dishes with a plush mouthfeel and soft tannins.
Drink in the next 3 – 5 years.
Pairings are wide open due to the character of the wine. Pick something you love and open a bottle.
Vine to Table 