Sneaking An Idea Through The Alley

​Back in 2001, wine sales guy Matt Licklider and Spago wine director Kevin O’Connor had an idea for a wine, and unlike most off-the-hip ideas in back alleys, this one took and LIOCO was born.  Fast-forward to today and Matt along with his wife, Sara, run LIOCO, a winery born of great vineyards and great varietals.

We met recently with Sarah Harshaw, the National Sales Director for LIOCO, and tasted some of their latest releases:

LIOCO Chardonnay Anderson Valley Demuth Vineyard 2014.  Elegant, graceful Chardonnay with hints of lemon, stone fruit and crushed stones.  Think this was Todd’s favorite.

LIOCO Chardonnay Sonoma County Hanzell Vineyard 2014.  A little more voluptuous than the Demuth, this full-bodied number is all baked apple pie, hints of lemon curd and crème brûlée.

LIOCO Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains La Marisma Vineyard 2014.  More tropical yet nonetheless voluminous than the Hanzell, this is a pretty amazing Chardonnay that’d give Ridge and Mount Eden a run for their money.

LIOCO Pinot Noir Sonoma County Laguna 2014.  Gorgeous, medium-bodied Pinot Noir with bright red fruits, savory herbs and hints of Oolong tea.

LIOCO Pinot Noir Anderson Valley Cerise Vineyard 2014.  Pretty, vibrant red with hints of baked cherries, pomegranate, bitter chocolate and dried herbs.
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LIOCO Carignan Mendocino County Sativa 2015.  What once was the lion’s share of the old Indica red, this Carignan is bright, vibrant and full of red and black fruit aromas and flavors.