Big Basin Vineyards was one of the few Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot producers to show their wares at the 10th annual World of Pinot Noir, held at The Cliffs Resort in Shell Beach, CA. The weather was as fickle as malolactic fermentation in a cold cellar, and it did pour buckets, and the chilly temps made the excellent food at the event taste better than ever. This is a diehard crowd of Pinot lovers, and they know what they like. Attendees were treated to delightful Pinots from Santa Cruz producers, including Alfaro, Big Basin Vineyards, Clos la Chance , David Bruce and Heart-of-the-Mountain. This two-day event draws producers and pilgrims from all over the world to a series of seminars, gala dinners and grand tastings.

Many attendees came prepared with a list of wineries they wanted to visit: Hig Basin apparently made that list for a lot of visitors, as they sought out the renowned producer of Syrah to check out the Pinot offerings. They were not disappointed, and in fact, many told their fellow Pinot lovers about the brilliantly approachable and bright raspberry fruit-filled 2007 Big Basin Vineyards Alfaro Vineyard designate. This was one of the few wines I saw people actually drinking, rather than spitting! Those who could discern the stuffing of a well-made, complex and gorgeously textured wine made from heritage clones, enjoyed the 2008 Woodruff Viineyard designate, which won’t be released until the fall. Fortunately, the Alfaro is now available, and will only get better with age – probably another year will really let it shine. although it can certainly be cellared for up to 12 years.

Bradley’s 2007 Bald Mountan and Alfaro Vineyards Pinots, both rated 91 by Stephen Tanzer, will be open for tasting at Big Basin’s Spring Release Open House celebration on April 3 & 4 at the winery on the way to Big Basin Park in Boulder Creek.

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