Cline, Cline, Everywhere Some Cline

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When it comes to consistency and quality, few wineries can be thought more reliable than Cline Cellars from California.  Recently, we got a visit from old friend Keith Morris, VP of National Sales for the brand, and Todd and I ran the gamut of their wares.

For those who don’t know Cline, this sustainably-farmed, family-owned winery has been operating since 1982, headed by winemaker Charlie Tsegeletos and assistant winemaker Tom Gendell.  The wines, coming from Sonoma County and Contra Costa County in California, are some of the best values you can find.  They are also known for their Jacuzzi wines, which are going through a bit of a redesign, focusing on Italian varietals as an homage to owner Fred Cline’s maternal grandfather, Valeriano Jacuzzi.

Jacuzzi Prosecco DOC.  A nice, crisp sparkling wine from the Prosecco DOC in Veneto. 

Cline Mourvedre Rosé 2016.  One of my favorite rosés, this is bright, vibrant and singing the praises of Spring with its resonant pomegranate and cherry notes.

Cline Chardonnay 2015.  This Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is light and crisp, buoyed with creamy vanilla and crème brûlée notes.  Pretty spectacular value for Sonoma Chardonnay.

Cline Pinot Noir 2015.  Nice notes of cocoa, black cherry and white pepper notes in this Sonoma Pinot Noir.  Pretty impressive value.

Cashmere Red Blend 2015.  Rhone-style red blend of Mourvedre, Syrah and Grenache.  Sweet-fruited with spicy pepper and dried herb nuances.

Cashmere Black Magic Dark Red Blend 2015.  Petite Sirah leads the charge here in this take on the Southern Rhone red style.
 
Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2015.  Real old vine Zinfandel, with the youngest vines being around 60+ years old.  A bit leaner than the typical Zin, this is still fruit-driven, but with great balance.

Cline Big Break Grenache 2013.  Eucalyptus leaps from the glass, leading you down a primrose path with blueberry and strawberry notes, hints of baking spice and touches of dried herbs.

Cline Meadowbrook Ranch Zinfandel 2012.  A stunning offering here; blueberry, baking spice and cocoa nibs here, with a bold, dense presence on the palate.

Cline Big Break Zinfandel 2013.  Mint leaves and eucalyptus give way to blueberry and plum, with a touch of mesquite, mineral and pepper.