Lancaster Estate: The Winery.
Photo Credit: Avis Mandel.
Winemaker Jennifer Higgins collaborates with viticulturist Daniel Roberts, Ph.D. ("Dr. Dirt") and consultant winemaker David Ramey.
Lancaster Estate wines are aged in up to eight different types of French oak barrels with varying levels of toast.
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The Lion that Roared
Lancaster Estate
January 28, 2009
Having a lion's image symbolize boutique Lancaster Estate winery seems apropos. After all, 97 points and a #2, Top 100 wines by Wine Enthusiast for their 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon is something to roar about. It is one of many highly regarded Bordeaux-style wines crafted by winemaker Jennifer Higgins.
Proprietor Ted Simpkins' winery, located in Alexander Valley, is a Sonoma sophisticate worth a special trip. There are 53 acres of vineyards dedicated exclusively to the classic Bordeaux varietals. On the tour, you see first hand how Mother Nature keeps Lancaster Estate's cache aging at the perfect temperature and humidity thanks to more than 9,000 square feet of caves dug deep into No Name hill. We sampled four current releases in the striking milieu of the caves. Medieval arches and soft candlelight intermingle with modern wine racks, rich leather chairs and polished wooden tables.
Lancaster Estate focuses on great wines and serious winemaking. Visits are by appointment only. We found no crowds, no shop, no nonsense and no charge (until March 2, 2009). This gem is an intriguing and intimate experience.
Lancaster Estate
15001 Chalk Hill Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
Phone: 707 433-8178
www.Lancaster-Estate.com
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