With November coming to an end, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the wonderful memories, moments of gratitude, and share some wine highlights with you. We saw an increase in the amount of wine we consumed this month with the holidays in full swing. But hey, that’s what The Social Grapes is all about – sharing fantastic wines with close friends and family – even if that means popping a few extra corks. This sentiment aligns with that of Murphy-Goode Wines, which is why I’m beyond excited to dive into their wonderful lineup of wines and share more about their #GoodeFriendsgiving campaign. This acclaimed winery launched it’s first #GoodeFriendsgiving sweepstakes across the nation this month. Every week in November, the brand has encouraged fans to share their favorite memories using the hashtag for a chance to win a hosting kit that includes all the wine goodies one could need! Every week a new winner was announced on their social media page. This campaign was the perfect way to share their mantra with wine lovers from all over the country which is this: Murphy-Goode wines were made to be enjoyed alongside friends. If you’re reading this before the end of November, there’s still time to play and I highly recommend you do because the grand prize is rather… well… grand! One final (and very lucky) winner will get their next hometown Friendsgiving hosted by winemaker David Ready Jr. I always say the best way to learn about wine is to go to the source. If you can’t, tasting with the winemaker in your hometown is the next best thing! Click here to check out more information on how to win this exciting grand prize for you and five friends.
Let’s Discuss Goode Terroir
Murphy-Goode was founded on friendship in Sonoma County’s hottest AVA, Alexander Valley. Tim Murphy, Dale Goode, and Dave Ready pooled their talents and passion for wine together to establish their very own winery. Murphy-Goode is a serious, acclaimed winery in Sonoma with a fun-loving side. The trio have pioneered Sonoma winemaking and winegrowing in a few ways. Tim Murphy is often referred to as the Father of Sonoma Sauv Blanc. On the growing side, they brought wire-trellising to the AV area. Alexander Valley is truly something special and one of my favorite AVAs in Sonoma County. It’s located along the Russian River in the northeast corner of Sonoma County, north of Healdsburg and south of Mendocino. The proximity to the river creates cool pockets which gives the wine a nice cool climate style of wine. The climate coupled with alluvial soil atop gravel, which is comparable to what’s in Bordeaux, results in elegant Cabernet Sauvignon with soft tannins. While Cabernet makes up about 50% of the vineyard plantings, Alexander Valley has a little something for everyone. Merlot and Zin thrive here as well. For white wine drinkers, you can expect some refreshing and crisp Sauvignon Blanc or juicy Chardonnay. I had the privilege of tasting my way through four of Murphy-Goode’s wines and there was a consistent theme to each: approachability meets finesse. Let’s dive in!
Best Seller: Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
In my research I found that this wine comes from two prominent AV vineyard sites – Peline Ranch and Alden Ranch. I don’t often find great Cabs for under $20 but this one fits the bill, and I will recommend this for years to come. Another thing I love about cooler temps is that it can result in a lower abv, which is something that just sits really well with me. This one comes in at around 13.5% which is more in line with wines from Bordeaux. It’s giving flavors of black cherry, licorice, and baking spice. Oak is peaking through with notes of vanilla and coco on the finish. I can see this pairing really well with smores or bbq foods like grilled burgers or ribs.
Next up, California Pinot Noir
This beauty truly represents all that California has to offer throughout the coast. Fruit is sourced from coastal regions starting with Sonoma down to Santa Barbara. This captures the essence of cool climates and marine influence in that you get dense fruit but elevated acidity. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a Pinot in the sub $15 range – which is tough to come by! I can see this being a great companion to any Thanksgiving food!
Chardonnay Time
This one is easy on the palate and that’s exactly what I want from Chardonnay these days. It’s clean, refreshing, straight forward, and balanced. It’s aged in 67% oak, 33% stainless steel which adds just a touch of richness to balance out the wine. I can see this one being enjoyed on its own or with spicy pad Thai or coconut curry.
This Rosé is Bae
We love finding new Rosé wines for under $20 and this was a pleasant surprise. Rosé is one of those wines that often gets associated with summer, and for good reason. But, I have and always will advocate for Rosé to be consumed year round – this is a great example why! Rosé is more than just a pretty hued wine, it’s complex and robust. It can pair with a wide range of foods and hold up. This one was round and juicy, fruit-forward yet approachable. I think this is a great option for Turkey, veggies, and even cranberry sauce with its bright berry flavors and bright acidity.
There you have it – our take on Murphy-Goode. The verdict: we’re all about it and give this winery our social grapes stamp of approval!
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