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April 01, 2006
Better Local Wines Through Feng Shui?
Dozens of California wineries claim to grow their grapes organically or according to the even more rigorous biodynamic system. Pipestone Vineyards in Paso Robles is the first winery I’ve run across that claims to have laid out its vineyard based on feng shui, a philosophy that emphasizes arranging spaces to harness life energy and be in harmony with the environment.
I don’t know how much of the credit goes to feng shui, but most of the Pipestone wines are worth a try. The winery specializes in Rhone varieties, although, this being Paso, there’s a zinfandel, too. The lone white is a 2004 viognier ($22) that has pretty peach, peach blossom and honey nuances, with just a trace of alcoholic heat on the finish.
Among the reds, the 2003 grenache ($24) is also a very pretty wine, with strawberry flavors accented by nice spice. The 2003 Vin Rouge Mediterranean ($25), a blend of nearly equal parts syrah, grenache and zinfandel, is packed with lively, juicy berry flavors. It’s not a wine you have to think about too much, but it sure is tasty.
The 2002 estate syrah ($25) is a lovely example of this grape, smoky and a little spicy, with ripe, concentrated blackberry fruit and a long finish. And the 2003 zinfandel ($26) is ripe without being over the top, with flavors of blackberry, white pepper and just a bare hint of tobacco. Both the syrah and zin would pair nicely with hearty grilled fare.
Source: “Local Wines; Better wines through feng shui?,” Laurie Daniel, The Tribune, March 29, 2006.
Posted by fortna at April 1, 2006 08:29 AM
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