Steven Kent – 124
Monday, July 25th, 2005
Steven Kent winery shares its entrance with Tamás (which will be blogged next). Steven Kent’s facility is in the front and the far more grandiose of the two. On the day of my visit, there was a private wine-club party in the Kent facility, but Tamás was generously pouring Kent’s wine in their tasting room (which made it a tad crowded).
While I was simultaneously tasting Kent wines and Tamás wines, one of the young Kent workers noticed I was taking copious notes and when I indicated I was a wine writer, invited me over to the private event to taste the new releases.
Delighted at the prospect, I was able to take a few interior shots where their wine tasting room normally sits, however due to the crowds, I was unable to get the "Kent story" to relate here and their website is somewhat lacking in any background information.
There was a nice gentlemen pouring some of the select wine, but I was unable to get his name or affiliation with the property. Ultimately, all I can tell you about is the wine that I tasted and that the folks I met were extremely friendly and helpful.
2003 Merrillie Chardonnay, DeMayo Vineyard – 100% malo in 100% French oak. Butterscotch and lemon predominate the nose, balanced entry that shows considerable minerality. A wine-club offering only.
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Livermore – Intense tones of Bing cherry, dark chocolate, and a whisp of eucalyptus in this dark, ruby red wine. Rich, smooth entry which blossoms to continue the dark fruit and a spicy finish. $45.00
2002 Radius, Home Ranch, Merrillie Vineyards – 60% Syrah, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Barbera. Sweet aromas of smoky bacon and thick soy sauce. Rich spices including nutmeg, cardamom, and cedar. Rich, well-integrated flavors that sweetens on the end. $32.00 for wine club members.
Steven Kent ~ 5443 Tesla Road ~ Livermore ~ CA ~ 925-456-2380