Freemark Abbey Winery
Tasting the Freemark Abbey Wines

Freemark Abbey had the honor of being the only winery which had a red and white wine poured at the historic 1976 Paris Tasting. It was also the oldest winery present that day. We enjoyed tasting at Freemark Abbey greatly, and Bob, our pourer, did a great job of answering all questions we asked.

2001 Freemark Napa Valley Chardonnay
At 13.8% alcohol, this chardonnay has a lush mouth feel with banana, marshmallow, pear and spice flavors. Very rich and flavorful. This would have been the Chardonnay style poured at the 1976 tasting.

2000 Carpy Ranch Viognier
This is only their 3rd release of viognier, one of my favorite wine varietals. It has fruity flavors of peach, pear, and citrus with a light, clean finish. Available only at the winery.

1999 Sangiovese
Medium body with a cherry, caramel, dark chocolate flavor with hints of mint and banana. Quite tasty, but unfortunately available only at the winery.

1998 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
This was the cab style poured at the 1976 tasting. We found it velvety, with complex flavors of cherry, cinnamon, cedar, plum, and dark cherry. Very rich and juicy.

1998 Bosche Cabernet
Freemark Abbey has been making a single-vineyard cab from Bosche Vineyards (by Grgich Hills) since 1970. It has rich flavors of dark chocolate, cedar, toasted marshmallow, and rich fruits.

1999 Cabernet Franc
Earthy and organic, with flavors of tobacco, licorice, and vanilla.

1997 Edelwein Gold
This late harvest Johannisberg Riesling goes for around $40/half bottle and is well worth it. 25% residual sugars, with rich flavors of clover honey, orange marmalade, peaches, bananas and a spicy finish. I'm a huge ice wine fan and I really enjoyed this.

1999 Edelwein Gold
At only 17.4% residual sugar, this newer version of the Edelwein is much lighter and less sweet than the 97. It has light flavors of banana.

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Wines from Freemark Abbey

Paris Ranking: 6th, Chardonnay; 10th, Cabernet
GPS Location: N 38 31.502 W 122 29.856
Website: FreemarkAbbey.com

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