My March Wine of the Month

Dutcher Crossing
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cooney Vineyard
Alexander Valley
2010

The Winery – Owner Debra Mathy and I have something in common; we’re both originally from Wisconsin.  That may be what first intrigued me about Dutcher Crossing Winery, but it’s certainly not the reason I go back every time I’m in Sonoma Valley.  No, I keep heading back because of the lovely wines!!!  Winemaker Kerry Damskey does a bang up job with Dutcher Crossing’s wines, and although I’ve chosen the 2010 Cooney Vineyard Cab as my “Wine of the Month”, I could have used any of the wines I tasted in their tasting room when I visited last month.  Why?  Because I pretty much love them all!!!

The Wine – The Cooney Valley Cabernet is dark ruby colored with prune, cassis, blackberry and some smoke and cedar aromas.  On the palate are the prune, cassis and blackberry, along with some black olive, earthiness and leather.  This Cab is drinking very nicely now, but will undoubtedly continue to improve for a few years.

My Experience Visiting the Winery – I’ve always had pleasant experiences visiting Dutcher Crossing’s tasting room.  This past visit was no exception.  I usually visit with just my husband or another couple, but this time I brought a group of ten people.  Mario’s approach was fabulous with our large group.  He didn’t rush us, but guided us gently and was always there when we were ready for the next wine.  He was also very knowledgeable and likeable!

The tasting room is very cozy with a lovely sitting area just off of the tasting bar.  They also have a lovely outdoor area for those sunny days that beg for a glass, or a bottle, while enjoying the lovely view of their vineyards and surrounding hillside.  They even encourage guests to bring picnic supplies to enjoy with their wines on their charming garden patio!

The Journey – The Dutcher Crossing tasting room is not far from the adorable town of Healdsburg, perhaps my favorite city in all of California’s wine country.  The entrance is on Dry Creek Road and, although it is near many other famous Dry Creek Valley wineries, it feels as if it’s in a world of its own!

You can find out more about Dutcher Crossing Winery and their wines here: http://www.dutchercrossingwinery.com/