Mom Reigns with Wines from Castello di Amorosa

As you may expect, Mother’s Day is traditionally set aside as the day during which all mothers are honored, lauded and considered the Queen of Everything. When my own daughters were small, they knew that this day was considered “family time.” This meant, among other things, that this mama avoided all daily duties and stayed out of the kitchen except to choose the wine(s)!

A few weeks ago, I was sent, as samples, two wines from Castello di Amorosa located in Napa Valley. I knew that each would be a beautiful way to celebrate every special wine-loving Queen Mom. From the crown emblem on the bottle of 2018 Rosato Cresta D’Oro Vineyard to the raised crest on the bottle of 2017 Chardonnay Reserve Napa Valley, these wines exude royalty with every sip. And, in the spirit of research, I opened both bottles and tasted with a good friend so that you may be enticed to share them with your favorite matriarch, too.

Castello di Amorosa

Although I’ve visited Napa wineries, I’ve never had to opportunity to taste on-site at Castello di Amorosa. I have heard plenty of buzz about this state-of-the art winemaking facility that produces premium Napa Valley wines and its distinctive Tuscan-inspired 13th century exterior. From the photos I’ve seen, it’s a stunning place to relax with a lovely glass of wine, learn about its fascinating story and tour the grounds. Opened in April 2007, Castello di Amorosa was a dream of Napa Valley vintner and 4th generation Italian-American, Dario Sattui. Now, it “seamlessly blends modern winemaking technology with ancient building techniques” and I look forward to returning to Napa Valley to see Sattui’s dream-come-true in real life. You should, too, if you haven’t already. Be mindful, however – the winery produces about 30,000 cases per year and wines are only sold at the winery or through their website.

So, what did we taste that will prompt mom to carefully place that dazzling tiara on her head? Our first was the 2018 Rosato Cresta D’Oro Vineyard ($39), a sophisticated and elegant rosé of Pinot Noir from estate vineyards in Green Valley of the Russian River Valley. Located only 15 miles from the Pacific Ocean, grapes in these vineyards enjoy a climate of cool, foggy mornings, warm afternoons and cool nights that boast a gentle breeze… it’s no wonder Pinot Noir thrives. The name “Cresta D’Oro” means “gold ridge” in Italian and pays homage to the goldridge sandy loam soils of the region.

On the nose, I discovered aromas of fresh rose petals, sweet spice, cloves, juicy red berries and brilliant minerality. Bright acidity, concentrated notes of strawberries, raspberries and red florals were intense on the palate. The fruit and mineral driven finish lingered and was incredibly satisfying. Mom will love you even more when you treat her to a glass or two of this stunning rosé paired with sushi, pasta dishes with a light sauce or her favorite crab cake dish.

Full bodied and bursting with elements of oak, having spent 10 months sur lie in 100% new Burgundian French oak barrels, the 2017 Chardonnay Reserve Napa Valley ($58) is the wine for any dear mama who loves a buttery, rich Chardonnay. The vineyard in which the grapes were cultivated is located at the southern end of Napa Valley where its close location to the San Pablo Bay and the cool air flow from the Pacific Ocean along the Petaluma Gap is optimal for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, typical Burgundian varieties.

Gold in the glass, intense aromas of Black-eyed Susans (really!), honey, beeswax, dried apricots and overripe peaches were prevalent. Flavors of juicy lemon, vanilla extract, sweet spice, grilled pineapple, orange peel, bananas flambé, crème brûlée and oak were as exceptional as the finish, lingering and focused. Queen Mom will crave each sip after bites of honey glazed ham, rich baked or grilled vegetables or a big hug.

Your mother has done so much for you… it’s time to give her the royal treatment. Share a few selections from Castello di Amorosa and pour each with love.

Cheers! ~ Cindy