Situated in the heart of Los Olivos, Stolpman Vineyards offers a unique tasting experience that embodies the vision of its founders and the craftsmanship of their dedicated team. During a recent visit to their charming tasting room, I had the pleasure of exploring a selection of their wines, each with its own story and reflection of the land from which it came.
Stolpman Vineyards is a testament to the pioneering spirit of Tom Stolpman, who over 20 years ago identified the limestone-rich hills of California’s Central Coast as a prime viticultural site. This land, naturally suited to grow Syrah and Roussanne, forms the backbone of their sustainable farming and winemaking practices. The estate’s location in Ballard Canyon AVA is ideal for producing vibrant, site-specific wines, thanks to its unique combination of limestone soils, cool winds, and abundant sunlight.
The tasting began with the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, a lively wine with crisp acidity and a bouquet of tropical fruits. The cool, windy conditions of Ballard Canyon enhance the freshness and vibrancy of this wine, making it a delightful start to our journey.
Next, we sampled the 2022 Uni Chardonnay/Roussanne Blend. This wine showcased a harmonious balance of the rich, textured Roussanne with the bright acidity of Chardonnay. The limestone soils impart a distinct minerality, adding complexity to the wine’s floral and citrus notes.
The 2022 Para Maria is more than just a wine; it’s a tribute to Maria Solorzano, a key figure at Stolpman Vineyards. The proceeds from this wine are shared 50/50 with the Solorzano family, enhancing the community ethos that defines Stolpman. This wine, with its rich berry notes and smooth finish, reflects the dedication and care that Maria and her family invest in the vineyard.
Continuing with the 2022 La Cuadrilla, we celebrated the vineyard workers who are the heart of Stolpman Vineyards. This wine, a blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Sangiovese, offers a robust profile with spicy and earthy undertones. The profits from La Cuadrilla are shared with the vineyard crew, reinforcing Stolpman’s commitment to sustainable employment and community support.
The 2021 Sangiovese was a standout, with its vibrant cherry flavors and hints of leather and spice. The meticulous handcrafting by La Cuadrilla, Stolpman’s dedicated vineyard team, ensures the purity and intensity of this wine, highlighting the estate’s unique terroir.
Finally, we concluded with the 2022 Angeli Syrah, a powerful expression of Ballard Canyon’s potential. This wine, with its deep plum and blackberry notes, is a testament to Stolpman’s meticulous craftsmanship, aged to perfection to reveal layers of complexity and elegance.
Stolpman Vineyards is more than a winery; it’s a community dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of its land and crafting wines that tell its story. Each bottle is a reflection of the vision, land, and people that make Stolpman a beacon of sustainable winemaking in the heart of Los Olivos. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious traveler, a visit to Stolpman Vineyards promises a memorable exploration of passion, craft, and community.
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