Some wine tastings are about the bottles. Others are about the people. This one, at Tira Nanza Winery in Carmel Valley, was both—and it felt like stepping back into a chapter of life we didn’t realize we’d been missing.
Michelle and I were joined by some of our favorite friends, the Andersons, for a day that had all the makings of an adventure. To get to the winery, we hopped on an ATV that climbed through winding trails, the kind of ride that shakes you awake in the best way. At the top, a breathtaking view of Carmel Valley opened up—a patchwork of rolling hills, vineyards, and golden summer light.
The Winery: A New Chapter in Winemaking
Tira Nanza is a name that deserves attention. Founded during the challenges of the pandemic, this relatively new winery is proof that creativity and passion can thrive even in uncertain times. Their winemaking philosophy focuses on producing wines that are both elegant and deeply expressive of their Carmel Valley roots.
One standout for me was their Rosé of Grenache—bright, crisp, and layered with fresh notes of wild strawberries, melon, and a hint of citrus. It was the kind of rosé that pairs perfectly with a warm afternoon and good conversation, and I’m already looking forward to opening another bottle.
Wine, Friends, and Views That Last
But what I’ll remember most from that day isn’t just the wine. It’s the way we lingered at the edge of the hill, glasses in hand, with the valley stretching endlessly below. The laughter, the conversations, the way the sun dipped just enough to warm our shoulders without burning—it all felt perfectly, effortlessly right.
Being there with the Andersons reminded Michelle and me of “The Winetastic Weekend” days back in Napa during our twenties. Back then, it was about chasing new wines and finding the most scenic spots. Now, it’s about savoring those moments, letting them sink in, and appreciating how much richer the experience feels with friends like these.
Final Thoughts
Tira Nanza gave us more than a tasting; it gave us a memory—a mix of adventure, beauty, and connection that we’ll talk about for years to come. If you find yourself in Carmel Valley, go. Ride the ATV. Look out over that view. Pour a glass and just take it all in.
Cheers!
Alex, Founder of Wine Scholars
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