Chateau Julien – 8
Monday, February 7th, 2005
Chateau Julien is the first and undoubtedly the largest winery open to the public at the beginning of the Carmel Valley wine trail in Monterey. It was also the very first winery I had ever visited in Monterey. Inasmuch, I know practically nothing about the area’s various appellations or wine styles. Having a Napa-trained palate, I am confident it will require me visiting the area and conducting extensive tastings to learn and educate myself in Monterey styles.
Upon arriving to Chateau Julien, one must be made very aware of the grandeur due to the size of the grounds and buildings. I was interested in the fact that although they indicate they are family owned, their website provides no information about them which is sadly surprising. The tasting room is expansive and chock full of *things* to look at and purchase; t-shirts, cigars, books, decorative glasses, etc… The folks that pour are pleasant and receptive to questions. I liked that they didn’t have a formal bar that is the norm, but set up their pourings on a table in the center of the room. I guess better for you to peruse the merchandise…
2002 Pinot Grigio – Crisp and citrusy, a tad acidic but I imagine a light wine of this style would be fabulous on a hot, shummer afternoon, instead of a cold, January day. $18.00
2003 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay – A bit green around the edges — in the mouth, not the actual color. Definite tropical fruits and extensive oak. $12.00
2000 Barrel Aged Merlot – Again, even though this is an older Merlot, I found it green with youth. There were some lovely aromas of plum and toffee but the mouth paled a bit with vegetation. $12.00
1999 Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon – A lighter red tone in color than I expencted for an estate Cab. Chewy with smoke and chocolate but I was looking for fruit. $22.00
NV Julien Port – Unfiltered. A huge chunk of cork (at least I was hoping it was cork!) floating in the glass. Cloudy and syrupy. $28.00