After a South African wine tasting at Sunfish Cellers we left hungry. We were going find a new wine bar located south of down town. We plugged in the address and off we went. We were pretty close to the location and now it was time to find a parking spot. People who know me know I have little patience with parking. Unfortunately this area did not have much for parking. After a couple of loops around the area we finally found a spot. Our iPhone was navigating us and not doing a good job. We could not find the wine bar. I finally said let’s go! I was running out of patience standing out in the cold freezing. We were almost to our car when Chris looked up and said “There it is”. Well, the sign was made of a sheet of paper. looking in it was not what we were hoping and both decided to leave. I think Chris would have stayed… Or found some other place in the neighborhood.
It was time for me to come up with plan B. Chris was not happy, I had to find a place she enjoyed. I drove us to one of her favorites Bar La Grassa. Besides excellent food they have valet parking. The cost was $7.00, well worth it. Drive in and drive out when you are done.
We had a great meal and I pared the food with a bottle of 2012 Ridge Vineyards Three Rivers red wine.
Sight
Medium color depth with a purple hue.
Smell
Moderate young-fruity with aromas of red fruit, cherry, and spice.
Taste
Dry, medium-bodied, balanced acidity. Tannins are medium. Slightly astringent flavors felt on the rough of my mouth withe a medium length finish.
abv: 14.2%
How much: $23.00 online.
Region/Appellation: Sonoma County
Blend: 79% Zinfandel, 12% Carignane, 8% Petite Sirah, 1% Alicante Bouschet
I did apologize to Chris. She would have stayed in the area and visited some other restaurant. I think Bar La Grassa saved me that night.
I rated the 2012 Ridge Vineyards Three Rivers three glasses. If you are looking for an inexpensive go to wine this has been my choice.
Life is too short to drink crappy wine! Expand your palate and keep trying.
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