Driving up Arnolds Drive in Glen Ellen you come across on your left what appears to be a red rustic general store at first glance but soon you realize no it's the king of Struttin Red Eric Ross Winery. It also doesn't hurt when you see this friendly but large steel rooster welcoming you to the winery. Be careful he is always watching you!
Inside is cozy and warming giving you the chance to sip wine in a relaxed atmosphere. Behind the counter pouring is none other than Eric Luse owner and winemaker cracking jokes and talking about his exquisite wines. Originally from the Midwest, Erics family were dairy farmers in the Emmetsburg Iowa area before their move west. I will say his Midwest hospitality has followed him all these years because you will not meet a more down to earth host.
I've basically tasted his entire portfolio of wine from the Struttin Red and White, Albarino, Tempranillo, Pinot Noir, Cabernet but he let me know I'm sure you never tasted the Gout De La Vigne. He was correct the only wine I have not sipped from him (he even signed the bottle).
The 2017 Gout De La Vigne Silver Image is a blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah. The first thing you notice is the light ruby color as you swirl the wine in your glass. The nose showcases red and dark fruit with raspberry, strawberry/cranberry followed by hints of blackberry and spice. The mouth luxurious, silky with red and dark fruit along with a kiss of spice on the lingering finish. Medium bodied yet elegant and not overpowering. Drink while preparing dinner (I always taste the wine to ensure it will pair well) and I will say firsthand this pairs nicely with my homemade vegetable beef soup.
Eric Ross Winery is a must stop on your list of tastings on the Sonoma side of the valley. The trademark "Taste The Vineyard" is truly in every bottle specific to the vineyards the grapes represent and the geographic region in which they are grown. Doesn't hurt that Eric has this winemaking down pretty well.
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