The Cormorant 2021 Preston Vineyard wine blend is a medium-bodied Rhône-style wine made primarily of 64 percent Grenache Blanc and the rest Marsanne. These grapes are sourced from the certified organic Preston Vineyard located at the far end of Dry Creek Valley, which is approximately 25 miles to the north of the Russian River Valley AVA. Charlie Gilmore, a UC-Davis graduate and experienced winemaker, initiated the Cormorant Cellars project in 2018 and introduced this blend in 2021. Gilmore focuses on utilizing low-intervention methods, such as ambient yeast and no filtering or fining, to allow the natural fruit flavors to stand out and shine through. The wine is co-fermented in a combination of seven-year-old once-used barrels, showcasing an old-school, Old World approach.
The Cormorant 2021 Preston Vineyard wine blend stands out for its nuanced and distinctive flavor profile rather than flashy characteristics. It offers a combination of tart green and yellow fruits, including yellow cherry and plum, along with notes of cooked Meyer lemon and a hint of savory herbs. Gilmore mentions his appreciation for the whites of the Rhône Valley, which inspired him to create a wine with good structure and bright freshness. He highlights the importance of picking Grenache Blanc at the right moment to avoid a heavy or bitter mouthfeel, a goal he successfully achieved with this blend. The label of the wine features pacific crested cormorants, coastal birds that hold sentimental value for Gilmore, as they remind him of childhood trips to the Monterey coast with his father.
To enhance the experience of enjoying the Cormorant 2021 Preston Vineyard wine blend, a perfect pairing suggestion is a roasted sweet corn risotto with shrimp and steamed asparagus on the side. This combination complements the wine’s flavor profile and adds to the overall dining experience. To prepare the dish, start by making your favorite risotto recipe, incorporating garlic and shallots for added flavor. Roast shallots and corn kernels in olive oil until they brown slightly. Prepare the shrimp separately by sautéing them with white wine and garlic, or roast them in the same pan as the corn. Steam the asparagus and finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and lemon before serving on the side.
The Cormorant 2021 Preston Vineyard wine blend offers a unique and well-balanced taste experience, crafted with a focus on showcasing the natural beauty of the grapes. The blend of Grenache Blanc and Marsanne creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both refreshing and complex. Pairing this wine with a roasted sweet corn risotto with shrimp and asparagus enhances the dining experience and brings out the best in both the wine and the dish. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a thoughtfully prepared meal, the Cormorant 2021 Preston Vineyard wine blend is sure to delight wine enthusiasts looking for something special and distinctive.
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