Medlock Ames

On yet another spectacular sunny day, we explored Medlock Ames, a small boutique winery in Sonoma AVA. The expansive property was not only beautiful but also close to being a working farm. Beyond the rolling vineyards, they had a large garden as well as mature olive trees where they produce their own olive oil.

On our first stop on the tour we visited the original Merlot vines planted there. The winemaker had planned to rip out the vines but did a DNA test and realized they were a unique Merlot clone dating back to Thomas Jefferson. The reds planted here are primarily Bordeaux varietals with small plantings of Pinot Noir and Syrah. The whites are primarily Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. If the wines are oak aged, they have chosen to use French oak.

Our tasting was outside in a beautiful setting overlooking the vineyards. Each wine was paired along with cheeses and salami that complemented them beautifully. All the wines were wonderfully balanced with good acidity and were not overly tannic. Of all the red blends, Merlot was the primary grape varietal.

Stacy Sheridan was our gracious tour guide and hostess. She was incredibly knowledgeable, engaging and full of life, which added to the whole experience. While this was an out of the way stop, Medlock Ames is a gem of a find!