Wine making is in the genes or in my own mind it must be. Jon Phillips owner/winemaker of Inspiration Vineyards who's family long ago owned vineyards in San Martin, is another success story in California's wine industry. A passion to do something he loved, a desire to succeed in his heart and make people feel good....here is his story.
Flash back to 1999 as he and wife Barbara were producing wine for family and friends in their home. The first barrel Contra Costa Zinfandel which was a huge hit among them. Prior to this day Jon knew he wanted to to make wine and with the blessing of Barbara and her nudge to have Jon develop a business plan, well the rest is in the bottle.
Medals and accolades followed and now it was time to move the wine operation from home to a facility allowing them to sell commercially. 2001 saw the purchase of 6 acres in Sonoma County with an already planted vineyard of 4.5 acres. The dreaded process of obtaining permits and waiting period in 2002 they contracted with another facility in order to start producing their wines.
2003 the first release of 500 cases was both exciting and rewarding. Over the years the operation grew both in size and popularity with 2009 bringing a 2000 case production. To expand even further, 2010 brought a move to Pinecreek Business Park where along with many other wineries, a tasting room and winery facility was erected. Open for tastings and tours without an appointment Thursday through Monday 11am to 4:30 located at 3360 Coffey Lane, Suite E, Santa Rosa, CA 95403. Great wines and a wonderful story behind them.
Today's wine was a purchase and featured a couple weeks ago on Cellar Angels Check out the clip Video Clip Inspiration Vineyards The nose on this chardonnay is so pleasing and takes me back to my younger days as the apple trees would blossom in grandmas backyard. Warm vanilla with hints of creamy butterscotch and lightly toasted oak. A faint hint of baking spice as the wine opens up. Soft elegant aromas makes this wine royal.
Wonderful mouth with ripe green apple, baking spice, a touch of sweet juicy pear, creamy vanilla and butterscotch. The wine is so crisp and the flavors last long into the taste. Beautifully balanced fruit and acidity. My first Inspiration Vineyards wine but definitely not my last. Jon I really enjoyed each glass and you will be interested that I paired this with margherita pizza topped with smoked chicken. Excellent pairing.
I rate this chardonnay A+. Stop by the tasting room and taste the award winning wines of Inspiration Vineyards.
Cheers
Dan
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