Tuscany in Tehachapi

 

Wine Tasting in Tehachapi

Most of our wine trips happen to be spontaneous fly by the seat of our pants ideas and today happened to be one of them. We couldn’t go very far because Karl had to be at work in the evening so we decided to just take a quick 40 minute trip to Tehachapi to check out two wineries that we came across last month but happened to be closed………………it was a Monday and a holiday.

We first came across Triassic Legacy Vineyard, a very interesting name for a winery I know, but it stirred our curiosity and as we drove down the dirt road…. I’m not going to lie I was wondering if I was going to see one of those little raptors run across the road but, all I saw were cute, furry squirrels scatter by.  Once we opened the doors to the winery we were quite taken back by the beauty of the place and a warm greeting by the owner, Chuck McCollough.

He shared with us about the making of the wine and how the winery got its name. Mr. McCullough a geologist recognized the characteristics of the terrain and soil as stemming from the Triassic Geologic Period.   He realized that it would be terrific for growing wine grapes, combined with Tehachapi's perfect climate for just this purpose and it worked!!! ……..and believe me, it certainly does.  From the Chardonnay to the Viognier, the Zin  to their mixed blend Syrah – Viognier blend there was never a disappointment. My taste buds were in love…………………..but wait!! I can’t forget the yummiest one of all! Their Port wine, now most Ports can be overly powerful but one little sip of the Port would make you crave a hot fudge sundae!! As I put a little bit of dark chocolate in my mouth just in that instant the Port just popped!! and I was in heaven!! ……..that is why it’s the treasure of the week!

The next winery we went to is Souza Family Vineyards. The view is just remarkable and the feeling that you get when you walk in is that you are part of their ever so growing wine family!! Bob and Patty Souza smiling from ear to ear welcomed us in to enjoy their wines and conversation! 13 choice wines to pick from …where should we start!!  From reds….to wines….to a Sangria….ohhhh the Sangria brought visions of me in the backyard swinging on the back porch sipping on this refreshing wine. We couldn’t leave without taking home Zin Del Sol a smooth red wine with a hint of a peppery finish which would pair so well with one of Karls steaks!