A few weeks ago, Temecula Wine Country opened its doors to enthusiastic crowds, there to see and sip this years’ Harvest Wine Celebration. 21 participating wineries generously opened their best bottles and paired them with gourmet food at each location. If you haven’t been to an event in this appellation, mark your calendars now for the next: the Winter Barrel Celebration on Saturday and Sunday, January 26 and 27.
I first met the fascinating owners of the newest winery in Temecula, Briar Rose, a few months back at the Temecula Wine Classic. Dorian and Les Linkogle were so enthusiastic about their wines that I couldn’t help but be drawn to their offerings: an estate Zinfandel 2005, and an estate Viognier 2005. Both had been anointed with medals in tough competition this year. The Zin captured Gold and it’s easy to understand why. First of all, it’s California’s wine…a beautifully crafted, lush concentrated mouth-feel, with currant and blackcherry accents and a gentle powerful finish. At $24., it’s royalty in a bottle.
But there is more to behold than just wine at Briar Rose. After a careful navigation that led me to the winery at an out-of-the-way Calle Cabrillo location, I was awe-struck by the cottage atmosphere of the buildings. Come to find out, the hideaway was designed by the Disney architect who drew up the plans for Snow White’ cottage in Fantasyland. If you let your fantasy run, you feel a sense of the lovely murals and cottages of Bavaria in old Germany. This winery has played host to some of the biggest names in Tv and movies who come by invitation and spend quiet moments in the intimate Briar Rose Tasting Room, talking wine with Dorian and Les. You see, this winery is different, and like the European model, it is available to the wine consumer only by invitation and reservation.
Briar Rose is a boutique family owned winery, dedicated to producing small lot, limited production wines made from intensely flavored grapes…about 2,400 cases per year. Other varietals are Cabernet, Sauvignon Blanc, Estate Riesling, Chardonnay, Orange Muscat, Sherry and Special reserve Aleatico Port.
Dorian, (2nd from left, shown in photo, with Les and employees Tiffany Mclain and Terrie Griffitts) welcomes guests to enjoy the wines, explore the atmosphere of early European tradition, wander the gardens and savor the enchantment. The oohs and aahs will will just add to the enjoyment of the wines. It’s like no other winery I have ever seen in California. Phone 925-984-1179 or access their website at http://www.briarrosewinery.com
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