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| First Glimpse of Ackerman |
From the first sip, I knew that
Ackerman's cabernet sauvignon was something special. It stood out above the rest during an amazing Napa tasting event and I knew that I needed to: 1) Get my hands on more 2) Visit the winery 3) Understand what made this such an exceptional cabernet. I can say that,
finally, I have completed all three!
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| Alex Making Friends |
Upon driving up to the winery, farm, and family home of the Ackerman's, we were warmly greeted by Julie Webster, the hospitality and events manager. She handed us our first sips of the delicious
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, and we were off to begin our tour. We strolled around the property, petting horses, meeting dogs, and avoiding several cats (
since I am extremely allergic). We looked at the vines and noticed that they were structured differently from other vineyards that we had seen. Julie explained how this practice was to allow the appropriate amount of sunlight needed for the grapes. The vineyard produces a very small production, at only 400 cases, of very high quality, cellar worthy, cabernet sauvignon. The Ackerman family is very involved in every step of the wine making process. Bob and Lauren originally purchased the winery to support their passion for horses and their love for Napa Valley. You will taste their dedication and labor of love, as it is reflected in their perfect bordeaux style cabernets.
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| Close Up View of the Vines |
After touring the property, we were seated in the Carriage House for a vertical tasting of the 2005, 2007, and 2008 vintages of their prized cabernet sauvignon, the single offering of the vineyard. Each vintage was produced similarly year after year, allowing the taster to discover subtle differences in the growing seasons, but with the same grapes and the same wine making methodologies. The wines were accompanied by delicious cheeses, fruits, crackers, and wonderful conversation with Julie!
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| The 2008 Vintage |
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| Japanese Artwork in the Tasting Room |
This winery is a perfect visit for the cult cabernet collector looking for their next new treasures. All of the cabernets were amazing, and with a price point under
$100 for each vintage, they were also an exceptional value for such a
high quality, limited production wine. I can't wait to open my 2004 bottle of Ackerman this Valentine's day with my love!
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| Sipping Wine Near the Arena |
Tips - Ackerman Family Vineyards:
- Ackerman offers three tasting experiences: The Carriage House Tasting, for up to a party of 8 which includes a tour, tasting of 3 cabernets, and small bites for $45/person, another great offering is the Picnic Experience, including a full gourmet lunch in the vineyard and a tasting of 3 cabernets for up to a party of 4 for $60/person, the final, most unique tasting experience is the Poolside Vista Experience, allowing a private party up to 12 to enjoy a 3 course meal, passed appetizers, and four selections of Ackerman vintages for $125-$250/person.
- All experiences are by appointment only, please call 855-AFV-WINE or email wineconcierge@ackermanfamilyvineyards.com, to schedule your tasting appointment.
- Expect to spend 1.5 to 2 hours at the vineyard, and plan extra time for the drive.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and plan to come on a nice day, the tour is outdoors and you will LOVE the views!
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