The mystical element guiding the adventurous drivers on Redwood Retreat Road may be the call of the oak barrels inside the gorgeously designed winery of Martin Ranch near the end of the lane. Last Saturday afternoon, Thèrese and Dan Martin hosted a wine tasting and barbecue on the patio of the barrel room overlooking the California-style change-in-season colors of the withering vines. The harvest is over and the press of juice on the cap is near complete; time to celebrate and clink the glasses of previous year’s product.
The Martin’s have something to celebrate after winning a review and a rating of 91 on their 2003 Santa Cruz Mountains Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon in Wine & Spirits, which brought prestige to the winery and to Gilroy’s Santa Cruz Mountain appellation.
Heading out the door – as I entered – was Celeste Zamzow, a Gilroy resident since 1937. Mrs. Zamzow congratulated Dan on the success of the winery and bid adieu. The well-cultured Rob Fladeboe, television reporter for KRON 4 and the Martin’s neighbor, stopped by to sample the food and spirits taking a break from riding the tractor through his own vineyard. Fladeboe shares in the enthusiasm for Martin Ranch Winery as his own grapes contribute to the label as a growing partner.
Fladeboe flinched when I handed him my card stating he possesses a weariness of media-types. Fladeboe’s card read, “reporter.” Hmmm. Rob changed his mind when the discussion turned to Super Tuscans and the eonophile reporter finally warmed up to the columnist. Growing Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Cabernet, Semillon and some Chardonnay, Fladeboe is passionate about blends hence the fascination with ST’s.
Fascinating conversation continued with the Martin’s other neighbors Alex Rubin and Lisa Stein.
“Where do you live?” I asked.
Alex swung around and pointed to the other side of the canyon and explained, “That house up there. The one cemented to the mountain.”
Alex and Lisa have the most beautiful view of the Redwood Retreat enclave but we’ll save that for an upcoming column. We have an invitation to visit their botanical gardens and peek at Lisa’s couture designs.
Ciao for now and have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. Cheers!
