Lobo Wines at The Caves at Soda Canyon

Lobo is a boutique family owned winery that is very small production.   If you have not been up Soda Canyon, it is about 10 minutes off the Silverado Trail - the views are extraordinary from there (try to get out to the back terrace - it is officially not open yet, but the views from there are spectacular!). The Caves at Soda Canyon are shared by four wineries and they are currently expanding the caves to include a professional entertainment kitchen and tasting area. For now, the tasting experience takes place inside the cave. Lobo produces only a few varietals: light rosé that is their “porch wine” at $28 a bottle, a barrel-fermented chardonnay that has a light and buttery flavor but not overly heavy. The red blend, called “Howl” is beautiful blend of cab, merlot and syrah - this was the standout wine for me on our visit. Lobo is one of the few wineries producing a pinot varietal that is not from Carneros, though how much longer they will be able to produce pinot in the ever-warming seasons, is certainly a consideration. Their pinot is rich and velvety on the tongue - I like it better than some of the lighter Carneros pinots and at $50 its a good alternative to a more pricey cab. Their Atlas Peak Cab Sauv, is their “Big Dog” and will certainly please the most discerning cab lover, and at an affordable $80 per bottle its a smart purchase! I recommend this for wine collectors who want something special and a bit off the beaten track. Tastings by appointment only and cost $45 but this is waived with a 3 bottle purchase.