2018 California Rose 2015 Sonoma County Chardonnay
In 1983, Nancy and Ray Coursen arrived in California from Cape Cod to fulfill Ray’s dream of making wine and Nancy’s taste for adventure. After working harvest at Mt. Eden Winery in Saratoga, they moved to Napa Valley and became innkeepers for a bed and breakfast. Ray then spent productive time at Tonella Vineyard Management, where he gained practical knowledge and perspective working in the vineyards. Ray’s 9-year tenure at Whitehall Lane Winery under the tutelage of Art Finkelstein, beginning as a cellar worker and then as head winemaker, honed his skills in the art of blending and was the inspiration for Ray’s winemaking style. The year 1986 saw the arrival of a daughter, Elyse Sarah.
Elyse Winery also have a couple of “Wine Clubs” and additionally offering some “Library Wines” which provide a tremendous insight on how their wines develop year to year. I recommend to check out their availability, click this link “WineClubLink” to go to their site and join a club! If you find your travels to Napa, I recommend a make an appointment to visit their Napa location and Sip their portfolio of Fine Wines.
Keep checking back with SippingFineWine.com as I recently made a trip to Napa during 2019 harvest, visited several wineries, tasted some great wines, and met some outstanding individuals. I’ll continue to report on my discoveries.
Elyse 2018 California Rose
A blend of 60% Mourvèdre, 20% Syrah & 20% Grenache. Light salmon color with aromas of fresh berry fruits, floral and subtle spices. On the palate, this Provence style Rose, shows flavors of strawberry and raspberry, crisp with lively acidity. Soft drying tannins, light body ending with a mineral character. Tasting Sample!
Elyse 2015 Sonoma County Chardonnay
A blend of 96% Chardonnay and 4% Pinot Blanc (a return to very old Burgundian style where a small amount of Pinot Blanc was added to Chardonnay), a practice Elyse started in 2013. Pale lemon with aromas of stone and citrus fruits with notes of biscuit, blossom and cedar, sur lie aged for 16 months on 33% new French oak. On the palate crisp flavors of apple, pear and creamy lemon curd, lively acidity, well balanced, great mouthfeel. Medium+ finish with ending with a slight toasty nutty caramel and mineral character. Very nice! Tasting Sample.
Cheers!