We had Kelly Peterson from Switchback Ridge in over the weekend. I was floored by the great quality of her wines. Made by Bob Foley you can tell that these wines have a very distinctive touch to them. My favorite of the lineup was the 2009 Merlot but the 2010 wines were showing very well for a tough, wet, and cold growing season.
2009 Switchback Ridge Merlot – A rich bottle of Merlot that is well structured and showing many complex layers of black cherry, allspice, and ripe black fruits. The finish is lovely with loads of spice and a soft tannic structure.
2010 Switchback Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon – Bing cherry-like fruit introduces a harmony of perfectly ripe black fruit aromas. The initial rush of fruit on the palate gives way to gentle tannins and lingering notes of berries, chocolate and coffee beans.
2010 Switchback Ridge Petite Sirah – Surprisingly soft for Petite Sirah and very approachable. Inky dark in color with ripe berry pie and briar aromas and flavors. The mid palate is very mouth-coating, and the wine finishes with surprisingly gentle, soft tannins.