Rob Davis,winemaker for Jordan Winery in Sonoma CA, is a cool character-- And not just because he fought torrential rain, dealt with a geographically challenged cab driver, and lugged a number of bottles to my house-- but a genuine guy, who spent 19 years working with André Tchelistcheff, arguably America's most influential winemaker. With more than 32 years of experience at Jordan, I think he may have been wondering how did he wind up here (Dirty South Wine HQ).
Before going too far, I owe Rob and Jordan an apology. My primary video file got warped beyond repair. All that was salvageable were a few minutes of behind the scenes type stuff. After a new hard drive, hours on the phone w/ Apple support, and endless moments where I felt like this... I've pieced together the best thing I could.
Along with the Chardonnay, we tried a trio of Cabs. The 2000 Sonoma County, the 2002 Alexander Valley, and the 2005 Alexander Valley.
2002 and 2005 were blockbuster vintages for Sonoma Cabernet. They produced big, ripe, intense and structured wines-- The 2000 vintage was much more difficult. Though 2-5 years older, the 2000 was really the Cabernet I preferred most. It's depth was quiet, accessible, and subtle. The 2002 is filled with ripe stuffing and intensity (and so was its little brother the 2005). I enjoyed both, but kept going back to the 2000. I need to remind people about my quirky palate- I usually lean on the side of restraint and sometime the austere-- I would assume most of the world would prefer the blend of depth and intensity found in the 2002.
This was a great morning. I enjoyed the interview, trying his wines, and Rob's willingness to share his time.
