Though Livermore Valley has a long and enviable wine history dating back to the 1840s when grapevines went into the ground, it nonetheless has been overshadowed by its northern neighbors. That oversight is being corrected with a slew of exceptional wines.
Murrieta’s Well traces its heritage back to 1884, and though The Spur was only created as a blend in 2010, it shows what this Valley can produce. A blend of 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 22% Petite Sirah, 9% Petite Verdot, with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Malbec, this shows the quality fruit coming out of Livermore. There is the deep rich cassis, black and Bing cherry, blackberry, huckleberry and boysenberry, along with noticeable cedar, cinnamon-cranberry and cigar box. It’s an easy drinking wine, an alternative to higher priced regions that holds its own. Aged 24 months in 40% new French oak, along with 40% “second use” barrels and 20% “third use” barrels, The Spur will draw you back to Livermore.
Score: 90 Points
What’s Its SRP? $35/ 750ML
What Can I Pair it With? Pan seared Mahi Mahi with basil-butter sauce; Grilled duck breast with fig reduction; Chanterelle mushroom risotto.
10,325 cases
