Bella Grace Vineyards is situated in Plymouth, California in the heart of Amador of wine country. The winery was founded in the mid 2000’s by Michael and Charlie Havill. Michael is the winemaker and Charlie handles the day-to-day vineyard management. Bella Grace Vineyards grows 20 acres of grapes through sustainable vineyard practices.
I was fortunate to try a few of the wineries new releases.
2013 Bella Grace Vineyards Zinfandel – Crimson in color. 14.3% ABV. Savory nose of red fruits, iron and pepper. Claret style Zinfandel. Medium body with light acidity. Brambly raspberries, strawberries and black pepper on the palate. The finish is long and clean. Simple, delicious and easy to drink. Best over the next 1-2 years. $20 at the winery and retail. My rating: 89 points.
2013 Bella Grace Vineyards Montagnaro – Magenta in color. 14.5% ABV. Equal parts Zinfandel and Barbera. Super nose of black fruits, grilled meats and tar. Medium body with medium acidity. Lush and fresh on the palate. Flavors of blackberries, black cherries and currants. The finish is tremendous. Unique and exciting wine. Drink over the next 2-3 years. $23 at the winery and retail. My rating: 91 points.
2013 Bella Grace Vineyards Old Vine Zinfandel – Violet in color. 14.5% ABV. Super nose of red fruits, plums and cinnamon. Lush and elegant. Medium body with ample acidity. Raspberries, black cherries and black pepper on the palate. The finish is long and spicy. Really pretty Zinfandel that speaks to the potential of this variety in Amador. Drink over the next 2-4 years. $28 at the winery and retail. My rating: 93 points.
Bella Grace has a tasting room in Sutter Creek that is open 7 days a week. Definitely worth a visit on your next visit to the Sierra Foothills.
This was my first opportunity to taste wines from Bella Grace Vineyards. I’ll look forward to following Bella Grace over the years to come.
Reviews based on samples provided by the winery.
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