About Bonterra
Bonterra’s name literally means "good earth" and the winemakers at Bonterra agree that when the vineyards are healthy and full of life, the grapes are just naturally more flavorful. An award-winning wine, Bonterra’s grapes offer a quality of fruit and vibrancy of taste that are unparalleled in the world of ordinary wines.
The first vintage of Bonterra was released in 1993, and Bonterra has been a pioneer in biodiversity and sustainable practices ever since. Bonterra is proud to be the world’s leading producer of wines made from certified organically grown grapes and its wine-makers are diligent in their organic grape farming practices which include:
Natural Pest Control: Birdhouses are placed strategically around the ranch to attract bluebirds and swallows which consume unwanted insects. Free-range chickens also play a role in devouring cutworms and insect pests in the vineyards. The chickens are released in between the rows of vines to eat the "bad bugs" and also fertilize the soil as they roam. Nectar-rich plants like red clover and echinacea, attract beneficial insects that protect Bonterra’s vineyards from pest infestation.
Soil Management: Cultivation is practiced to regulate competition for nutrients and relieve soil compaction from normal farming operations. As an organic product, Bonterra does not use any artificial fertilizers or synthetic chemicals.
Biodiversity: Bonterra ranch’s amazing diversity is an important contributor to the quality of its organically grown wines. You’ll find more than grapes on Bonterra’s ranch from chickens and sheep grazing on the vineyards grass to lavender plants and wildflowers, Bonterra’s winemakers believe that a wide array of diversity creates a web of natural balance where all elements can thrive.
Cover Crops: Yellow mustard is one of many cover crops grown and plowed into the rich soil of Bonterra ranch. Cover crops help in pest management and also enrich the soil, providing excellent root health for the vines.
Composting: The typically heavy clay soil of the region is lightened with compost created at Bonterra ranch.
Packaging: Bonterra uses recycled glass, a hemp label and soy ink on its package.
Bonterra Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 - Organic, Biodynamic
Bonterra's Cabernet Sauvignon blends Merlot and Syrah with traces of complementary varietals to expand its flavor and texture. Aged 18 months in French and American Oak, the wine offers hints of pepper, cedar and fragrant vanilla spice to complement its lush and fruit-centered personality. Contains 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Syrah, 6% Petite Sirah and 2% Merlot. Biodynamic fruit from estate McNab and Butler ranches are featured.
Winemaker's Notes - This Cabernet offers aromas of Bing cherry, currant, raspberry with spicy notes of cedar, dried cranberry and vanilla. In the glass, you will find juicy red berry flavors and a very approachable, rich and full mouth with a lingering and thoughtful finish. Good structure and polished, yet soft tannins promise an ever more pleasing wine to come, with lively acidity and subtle spice. This is a Cabernet which will continue to evolve and remain enjoyable for quite some time to come.
Our review - We paired this wine with wild caught Steelhead trout topped with organic sundried tomatoes, wild capers, olives, lemon, and garlic sauteed in olive oil and finished with fresh parsley. This pairing was pleasing to the palate pronouncing the lively acidity, subtle spices, heartiness, and cedary scent. A very enjoyable wine, at a very affordable price!
Bonterra, made in Mendocino County, California, has several varietals including: Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Viognier which retail for approximately $15. For more information, visit bonterra.com.
Source: Bonterra
