Twisted Roots Wine Tasting Room in Carmel Valley

Located in the lovely Carmel Valley, the Twisted Roots wine tasting room is a great spot to stop into and enjoy some of California’s great wines.  Not only does the wine room offer their delicious reds and whites, but you can enjoy a glass as you stroll in the adjacent LyonsHead art gallery or outside on the charming patio while listening to the calming fountains.

We were welcomed by owner and winemaker Josh Ruiz and he gave us the history of Twisted Roots.  Married into the Schmied family, Josh tells us that they’ve been grape growers since 1918 in the center of the Lodi appellation it wasn’t until 2005 when they began making their own wine in neutral barrels, a nod to sustainable wine making.  As “Green Growers” they use sustainable farming practices throughout the entire wine making process including attention to soil nutrient balance in the vineyard, to their barrel-fermentation, and small production each year.A farmer bred in nearby Salinas, California, we appreciated Josh’s passion and pride in his family’s wine and bringing it to the Carmel Valley.  He’s partnered with the Vendange Carmel Inn and Suites in their unique wine themed rooms where his sponsored and decorated room includes photographs of the vineyard, a photo book for guests to enjoy, as well as all of their wines available for purchase during the guest’s stay.  Also if you become a member of the Twisted Roots wine club, your stay at Vendange Carmel is discounted!

We started off our tasting with the 2012 Chardonnay.  A clean and simple chablis-style, not buttery, not oakey due to the natural barrels, nice with a great $20 price point!  Josh mentioned that they’ll be introducing a sparkling Chardonnay in 2014, giving us good reason to return this year!

The next two reds were the 2010 Cabernet and the 2010 Petite Syrah.  The Cabernet was nice, not too heavy, lighter than a typical Cab you’d find in Napa with a nice body like a Pinot Noir that I enjoy! The Petite Syrah was bolder and would pair nicely with BBQ steak or burgers!  Both are $25 each per bottle.

The first varietal planted on the ranch was the 1918 Old Vine Zin.  I think this is possibly my favorite red wine I’ve ever tasted!  Fruity with a touch of spice, this wine started the Twisted Roots story and I immediately asked Josh to pack one of these for me! The 1918 Old Vine Zin has a price point of $35. (My birthday is next month, I’ve got plans for that one!)

Lastly, because I mentioned my love for sweet whites, we were treated to a bonus glass of their limited release of 2012 Albarino!  Tropical of melons and apricot, it’s crisp cool sip was just like dessert on my tongue! Delighted he had one for me to add to my purchase (only $20!).

If you are in Carmel Valley you should make one of your stops the Twisted Roots wine room!  Once you enjoy the great art, fall in love with their wines, and join the wine club, then head over and stay at Vendange Carmel with their discount!  See, sounds like the perfect weekend!  To learn more, visit http://www.twistedrootsvineyard.com/.

We were treated to a complimentary wine tasting for two, purchases were made on our own.