Cornerstone Cellars has been making quality wines in Napa Valley for over twenty vintages. It has been a pleasure to have been able to taste their fantastic Cabernet Sauvignon as well as their Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot blends. The beauty of their wines reflects the passion of their winemaking. If one meaning of “cornerstone” is “foundation”, then wine lovers should consider the passion of Managing Partner Craig Camp, Winemaker Jeff Keene, founder Michael Dragutsky, and other partners as the cornerstone upon which their delicious wines are created.
Does anyone besides me think that wine should be fun? Of course! And so do those at Stepping Stone who created the Rocks! label!! The premise is simple and creative: produce a wine unique to each year blended from the most interesting varieties which express the special qualities of vineyards along the North Coast. Taste, blend, taste some more, and when it’s right…they know it and can bring it to us!
The following new releases, two from the Rocks! label and another from Stepping Stone, were sent to me as samples which I shared with family members and friends. My tasting notes and their feedback may help guide you to some terrific wines at a very nice price.
**2011 Stepping Stone by Cornerstone North Coast White Rocks! – A blend of Chardonnay and Gewurtztraminer, this may give those Millenials a great alternative to their beloved Moscato! The aromas were intense and the pear notes with spice led to tastes of tropical fruit, melon and more of that sweet spice (but not too much!). Full bodied and balanced with a lingering finish, this wine was perfect with our appetizers. Cost is $18.00. Comments?
- “When I inhale these aromas, I want to drink it!”
- “Not overpowering”
- “I love the Rocks! name…definitely marketing to a younger demographic, too!”
- “Good value – a wine which I will buy.”
- “You can drink it and enjoy the aromas, too!”
- “Delicious!”
**2010 Stepping Stone by Cornerstone North Coast Red Rocks! – This was a wonderful blend of Zinfandel from Lake County, Syrah from Sonoma, and Merlot from Napa Carneros. The strong aromas of blackberry and red berry jam and some sweet spice were enticing. On the palate, the smooth tannins, just-right acidity, and tastes of deep fruit, earth, and spice were truly satisfying…and so was its refreshing finish. Cost is $18.00. Comments?
- “This will be a perfect wine for Sangria!”
- “You can drink this wine with anything!”
- “I love the smooth tannins.”
- “Definitely a red wine to have with dinner.”
**Stepping Stone by Cornerstone 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley – Consisting of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Merlot, the grapes were sourced from four outstanding and unique vineyard sites. Bold aromas of rich berries and a bit of spice paired with tastes of more berries and herbs were more gentle than I thought since the alcohol content is 13.9%. This Cab was very good and may be even better cellared for a few more years! Cost is $35.00. Comments?
- “This will taste delicious with a steak or pork barbeque.”
- “Smooth finish”
- “Cellar for a few more years, but still good to have with food now.”
- “Bold and deep yet relaxed…”
Everyone appreciates delicious wine offered at an affordable price! Those at Stepping Stone by Cornerstone have created a foundation by following their passion with these wines…let’s follow the path for more!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
