Home Winemakers Classic 2016.

I have only ever had a wine made from the Sagrantino grape just once before (Jacuzzi Family Vineyards), and I remember quite enjoying it.  So imagine my surprise when I spotted a homemade version at the 33rd annual Home Winemakers Classic which was held yesterday at the Charles Krug Winery.  Made from grapes grown in the Dunnigan Hills AVA, it was very nice wine (I believe it won best of show).  I also like the label.  Well, the 'Friendly Lion' on the label.
There were a couple of other reds I liked; a Nathan Cellars, 2013 'Beth' (Napa Valley AVA) and a Bunnell Family Vineyards, 2013 Cuvée (Atlas Peak AVA).  The white wines were all pretty dreadful.
As is our wont, Vinomaker and I bid on a wine-lot in the silent auction (which is always a feature of the event.  All proceeds go to the Dry Creek-Lokoya VFD).  We limited ourselves to just one lot, and we won it; four 750ml bottles of Pott, 2013 '20M3' Stagecoach Vineyard, Viognier (Napa Valley AVA).  Haven't tried it yet - that's a future post, perhaps.

Home Winemakers Classic 2011.

Today, Vinomaker and I attended the 29th annual Home Winemakers Classic, this year hosted at Charles Krug - a vast improvement over last years venue. This is one of my favourite wine events of the year and I really look forward to it. It was even more fun this year, as many good, wine-loving friends also showed up, including Sky King, The St. Helena Grape Growers, and the Zin Guy. (The Zin Guy has not previously been featured on Vinsanity, but is the person solely responsible for keeping Vinomaker and me stocked up with a particular Zinfandel - a must have in the cooler months for pairing with my chili con carne.)

As always, this event is a great opportunity to see what local home winemakers are up to, as well as a chance to hang out with friends, network, raise money for the Dry Creek-Lokya VFD, and just generally spend a relaxing wine-themed Saturday afternoon.

Pictured is one of my favourite wines. The group of winemakers that make the Leap of Faith wine (and a delicious port also), consistently turn out a product that I would actually drink, if it was commercially available that is - and I love their label, one of the more professional looking labels adorning the plethora of homemade wines available to taste. It is nice to meet people who are passionate about making wine, who in this case are not in the winemaking game for profit, but simply for the love of the grape.