It has been a long stressful week dealing with Hurricane Ian.  The anticipation and preparation for the storm and then watching it shift and destroy so much in its path was hard to see.  As happy as I am that the storm shifted its path, I am just as sad for those that ended up in its destructive path.   I hope that all those effected are safe and can rebuild quickly.  

Now on a lighter note, when you are stuck at home waiting a storm out, there is not much to do besides eat and drink.  We went through quite a few bottles of wine this week, so that means it is time to refill that wine rack!

I was super excited for this week's wine when we got it in a couple weeks ago.  Martin Ray Winery produces such amazing value wines.  I had the opportunity to visit the winery when I was in California and got to meet with the owner Courtney Benham.  Mr. Benham purchased the Martin Ray label in 1990.  Martin Ray was a pioneer, dedicated to crafting single varietal, region specific wine from 1943 through 1972 in Saratoga, in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Mentored by Paul Masson, he took a Burgundian approach to his winemaking, and developed what is now one of the most historical properties in California, known as Mount Eden.

The 2020 Martin Ray Santa Cruz Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is not only an amazing value Cabernet, but it has also been given a 94-point score from big Jim Suckling.  "This has crushed stones, iodine and dried thyme on the nose. Vanilla, praline and cinnamon, too. Lovely texture with seamless tannins. Medium-bodied. So polished and succulent. Excellent drinkability. Drink or hold."

Although this region is a cooler climate area, more suitable for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the Cabernet that is grown here result in rich varietal character and firm, structured acidity.  Typically, wines from the Mountainous wine regions cost a pretty penny.  This is due to the fact that they are much harder to farm and there is a lot less area to grow fruit.  However, this wine comes in at under $30!

So, if you are in need of refilling your wine rack with not only good value wines, but also wines that have the ability to age, the Martin Ray Santa Cruz Cabernet is a great option!

And again, our thoughts and prayers go out to those effected by Hurricane Ian.

Martin Ray Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

-Patrick Mulrooney