I never got around to posting this, but it seems fitting to catch up on it on Berserker Day eve. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon in Fall at Cantine Wine Pub in Aptos, with just a couple other parties present for a tasting with RobB. Rob was very generous with both his time and wine. As you see upthread, he is a great storyteller, and has the diverse background that makes for interesting conversation.
Rob poured us a mini-vertical of his Bruzzone Chardonnay, 2018 vs 2019. The former is a dead ringer for Chablis. It is flinty, mineral, bordering on austere. Great acidity, should be fantastic with oysters. 2019 is a more Californian interpretation, same great foundation but more open and giving in terms of fruit. Next in line was the 2019 Bald Mountain that prompted this thread - more floral with oak here on the nose, and stone fruit on the palate, otherwise a similar experience. Definitely feels Burgundian.
2018 vs. 2019 Mindego Ridge Pinot formed another mini-vertical, spontaneously when our food arrived. The former shows as a serious wine, typical varietal nose, balanced red fruit on the palate. I really enjoyed the slightly bitter whole cluster undertones. These bass notes made for a great combo with duck confit. The just-released 2019 seemed a bit immature - very pretty, but not as profound yet as its predecessor. I’m sure it’ll get there. 2018 Bates Ranch was the grand finale. This is the epitome of Santa Cruz Mountains cab for me. Bates ranch is distinctive and captivating, a classically styled mountain cab. Rob expertly pays hommage to this hallowed site.
As you may have already guessed, Rob is truly a rising star winemaker. He not only shines a bright light on underrated sites in the Santa Cruz Mountains, but California’s potential as a whole.