Lambert Bridge – 82
Thursday, May 26th, 2005
Lambert Bridge Winery is a minor anomoly in the Dry Creek appellation — in an area known for peppery, spicy Zinfandels and crisp, fruit-forward Chardonnays, Lambert Bridge’s mission is that of Merlot. They want to make the best Merlot possible.
Named after the historic Lambert trestle bridge which lies nearby, Lambert Bridge was initially started by Gerard Lambert in 1969. Gerard must have considered it divine providence to find such an estate as he was not remotely related to the C.L. Lambert after whom the bridge was named in 1920.
The current building is stunningly beautiful with private gardens and a dark wood-construction that is warm and inviting with its vine-covered entrance. The opening to the tasting room reveals a large, expansive bar set centre-stage in the room marked with vaulted ceilings and elegant darkwood. The tasting room staff are obviously enjoying themselves and their gregarious nature rubs off easily on the guests.
While surprisingly busy (by their account), the feeling of comraderie and ease is prevelant. No stress and no hard sell on the wine – just a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. Adjacent to the main tasting room is the Reserve Wines section, which is also their barrel room. Purposefully darkened, atmospheric candles were lit and placed amongst the barrels which added a touch of elegance.
2003 Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley – Aromatic with florals, some intriguing light citrus, and the faint hint of grass. Crisp entry stays fruit forward to the bright, acidic finish. $16.00
2003 Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley – Medium ruby color produces an easy, balanced Merlot-like fruitiness in the nose. Heightened mid-palate shows more fruit which diminishes to produce herbs on the tail end. $24.00
2002 Old Vine Cuvée, Bacchi Vineyards – 70% Zinfandel and 30% Petite Sirah with vines from 98-year-old vineyards from Limerick Lane in the Russian River Valley. Well-integrated red brambleberry and dried floral qualities predominate. Black pepper shows up in the mid-palate and combines well with red fruit to produce an even, velvety finish. $32.00
2002 Merlot, Sonoma County – I’m curious why the Merlot was poured after the Zinfandel, usually it is the other way around. I was then told this was their flagship, signature wine so it is best to pour last for showing purposes, but I somewhat question that decision. This Merlot shows classic Dry Creek terroir qualities of dried floral aromas, with well-integrated, medium-balanced fruit in the mouth. Slightly elevated tannins produced a dry mid-palate, but all-in-all, an easy drinking wine. $26.00
From The Reserve Room
2002 Syrah, Teldeschi Vineyards – Delightfully aromatic, showing dark, rich jammy fruit with some hints of minerality. Spicy and enticing flavors don’t dissapoint. $30.00
2002 Cabernet Franc, Jones Vineyards – Dark berry and mineral qualities are layered and evenly balanced. Medium in intensity and ripe spice produces a rich offering. $30.00
2001 Crane Creek Cuvée, Dry Creek Valley – A Bordeaux-blend comprised of 70% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% ‘other’ shows nice, integrated aromas of dark spice, brown toast, and then some surprising green bell pepper. The initial flavor was more green than I expected with brighter fruit flavors than the earlier dark aromas indicated. $50.00
Lambert Bridge Winery ~ 4085 West Dry Creek ~ Healdsburg ~ CA ~ 95448 ~ 800-975-0555