Mendocino: August 2010 Archives

By Courtney Cochran

With smoke-tainted 2008 vintage wines in circulation now, Mendocino winegrowers no doubt are keen on a strong harvest this season. Still, this hardy group from one of Nor Cal's most northerly wine regions is all too familiar with the vagaries of inclement weather - not to mention so-called acts of god (hello, fires!) - which means they're used to holding their breaths come near-harvest-time.  

I caught up with standout Mendo vintner Paul Dolan of Paul Dolan Vineyards to get his take on what's in store for Mendo wines in 2010.

Looking for some great tasting wines from the Mendocino wine region? Check out the latest winners of the recent 34th Annual Mendocino Wine Competition There were 194 entries in 20 categories representing all 12 growing regions in the county.

Five wines were awarded double gold medals:

• Yorkville Cellars 2009 LH Semillon
• Yorkville Cellars 2009 Sweet Malbec
• Bonterra Vineyards 2009 Riesling
• Navarro Vineyards 2009 Muscat Blanc
• Harmonique 2006 Pinot Noir

Since Mendocino is known as "America's Greenest Wine Region", it's only fitting that wineries compete for the "green" award as well. Two wineries tied for first place for this coveted award:

• Husch Vineyards ~ Sauvignon Blanc ~ 2009 La Ribera
• Handley Cellars ~ Pinot Noir Rose ~ 2009 AV Estate

For a complete list of winners, visit www.truemendocinowine.com. You can taste these winning wines at the upcoming Mendocino County Fair in Boonville on Saturday, September 18, 2010. Or you can plan your next wine tasting trip to Mendocino Wine Country!