Friday, February 4, 2011

Broman Cellars A Great Family Wine


Imagine my excitement to have an opportunity tasting and writing about a small production winery located in beautiful St Helena California Broman Cellars. Striking up a conversation with daughter Lisa, I found the history of family and winemaker very interesting. Great time to share a story and drink wonderful wine.

The winery has a family flair with daughter Lisa being the only "paid" employee. Guess that means Bob and Deborah are in the business for the sheer joy! No just kidding, Bob has been a winemaker all his adult life and and a darn good one. His first job and his "break" in the wine business started as a cellar worker at Martini. Other well known wineries Concannon, Stags Leap, Guenoc and St Supery have been graced by Bob's wine creations. Even stints in France, Republic of Georgia, Italy and Chile have added tremendously to his wine knowledge and skill.

Meeting Deborah a realtor by trade for the first time something sparked for Bob. One twilight picnic in the vineyards later..... that's where we are today. Production of Broman Cellars wine is 1400 cases with a goal to increase slowly while still maintaining that personal touch. Winery permit in hand, plans are being drawn up to build the winery on their 11 1/2 acres in Deer Park. Can't wait to visit. Now how was the wine you ask? Drop dead good Cabenet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah.


First up the 2005 Boman Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon. Grapes for this wine were picked from 2 vineyards Dr. Crane in Saint Helena and Georges III in Rutherford. When I initally poured the wine the black cherry and currant were dominate aromas. As the wine opened up the blackberry came to the front with a splash of what I swear is cola/currant. What a nose! The flavor so good. Ripe fruit, perfectly balanced juicy long finish. I loved the black cherry/blackberry combination and the wine was so smooth. Slight spice on the end. Only 626 cases produced so hurry before they sell out this outstanding Cabernet.


Second wine was the 09 Broman Cellars Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley. These grapes were harvested from the Beckstoffer property Melrose Vineyard in Rutherford. Excellent crisp refreshing wine. Aromas of lemongrass and lime zest hit my nose first. Swirl 2 finished with a slight hint of grapefruit. Very pleasing to the nose. Enjoyed this wine tremendously. The white peach starts out your taste followed by fresh apricot. Citrus balance is wonderful and the crispness of the wine so good. Only 397 cases produced and one of the best Sauv Blanc I have tasted.


The final wine was the 05 Broman Napa Valley Syrah. The grapes were picked from Page Nord Vineyard in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley and aged in French oak for 28 months. No wimpy wine here folks but a full bodied syrah. Once in the glass the aromas of fresh blueberries and blackberries fill the nose finally finshing with a hint of earthy leather. The wine was very warming and the blueberry/blackberry combo absolutely perfect. Deep rich color and taste. The finish long and the slight hint of earthiness pleases the palate. 229 cases produced of this gem.

There you have it folks your and my introduction to Broman Cellars hand crafted wines. Each bottle showcases the family passion for creating delicious wine. Lisa a big thanks to you for introducing me to your family and their wines. Bob you have a wonderful gift and both my palate and I thank you. Please visit their website by clicking the link Broman Cellars to place your wine order!

Cheers
Dan

1 comment:

Grace Hoffman--The Cellarmistress said...

I love these guys! Lisa is a good friend and the Sauv Blanc rocks! I haven't had the others but hope to soon! Nice post!