ABOUT: The story about Storybook Vineyards is really the tale about Californian wine. This incredible piece of land, situated on the eastern slopes of the Mayacamas mountains, was originally purchased and planted to vines in 1883 by the Grimm brothers, who started Grimm Vineyards and Wine Vault. The business boomed big time before prohibition but then, like so many, the vineyard fell fallow and the winery eventually burned to the ground. No love left and only the underground caves remained. The love returned when in the late 70’s Jerry and Sigrid Seps bought 90 wild acres surrounding the original winery site and planted vines. It wouldn’t be a California story without Andre Tchelistcheff walkin’ through the door, which he did and advised them to plant Zinfandel on the slopes of red clay. 1983 was their first vintage and they’ve been winning awards and accolades ever since. The farming is 100% organic and they’ve got their daughter Colleen and her husband Rick involved in expanding the legacy that they’ve created. Not only are the wines amazing but to visit is truly a special thing, get to it!
TASTE: Some kinds words about the 2018 Mayacamas Range Zinfandel: "Jerry Seps's widest selection from his hillside estate northwest of Calistoga, Mayacamas Range is meant to be enjoyed in its youth. The wine has grace and energy, delivering dark-sherry roundness directly into the tannins and their bone-broth savor. Those tannins combine blueberry-skin freshness and a hint of bitter almond in a lasting, supple impression. Heady and beautiful." 94 points Wine & Spirits Magazine
PAIR:Roasted black bean chilaquiles, oven roasted potatoes and fennel, sweet and sour tofu, tomato egg bake with dry jack cheese, Turkish pide with mushrooms and olives, and a vegetable pot pie.