Having survived the successful initial Winelympics at the Old Sugar Mill in Clarksburg (benefiting the Make a Wish Foundation), I now trek back to the Foothills for my first report on the "emerging varietals" of this "emerging region." As growers in the Foothills become more experienced with the vagaries of the soils and climate of this region, many are shifting their plantings to grapes with a Mediterranean origin. One grape beginning to garner a great deal of attention (and critical acclaim) is Tempranillo.
The Tempranillo grape has its origin in Spain, where the name translates to "Little Early One" - a reference to its relatively early maturation during the growing season. Felt to be at it best when grown in the high altitude and cool climate of the Ribera del Duelo in the Spanish Rioja, Tempranillo in the Foothills enjoys a similar altitude and climate - as well as superb quality and flavors.
And what could be more appropriate than having the "noble red" grape of Spain gain a foothold in the state with the strongest Spanish heritage?
Foothills Tempranillos tend to be somewhat more fruit-forward than their Spanish counterparts, but are also more all-around flavorful. There are at least five excellent Tempranillos available from wineries in and around Murphys. In addition to the Calaveras-grown, award-winning Garsa Tempranillo from my winery (Solomon), there are also excellent offerings from Twisted Oak, Stevenot, and Hatcher (all produced from Calaveras fruit) - as well as an award-winning El Dorado Tempranillo produced by Frog's Tooth.
You will find all five to be quite distinctive (despite the fact that four are produced from the same Calaveras vineyard!) So plan a weekend "Tempranillo Tour" to Murphys and Calaveras County and see what fun you can have just focusing on one varietal.