This award winning winery is warm, friendly, with fantastic wines.
Livermore, California has been famous for its science labratories. It was only natural that the scientists would turn their skills to wine. Earl and Linda Ault are physicists who have a passion for wine. For many years the Aults were part time wine makers and full time scientists. Now they have retired from the labs to turn their full atention to their winery, Cedar Mountain.
In addition to 4,000 cases of wine produced each year, the Aults have a small olive oil business. They make about 50 gallons a year of olive oil. As with most wineries in the area, there is space for parties and community gatherings. Each St. Patrick's day there is a party with corned beef and Cabernet Sauvignon.
But what of the wines? Cedar Mountain crafts award-winning wines. Wine Enthusiast magazine's American Wine Competition has selected Cedar Mountain Winery as one of "America's Great Cabernet Sauvignon Producers," an honor given for "consistent quality over the past five years."
2004 Sauvignon Blanc
This is a new addition to the Cedar Mountain winery. They have been producing Sauvignon Blanc for two years and have been pleased with the gold medal recognition. This medium bodied wine brings with it the aromas and flavors of tropical fruits and lemon. There is a nice mineral flavor. The acidity makes it great for pairing with seafood. $12.
Estate Chardonnay
This wine features classic flavors of green apple, honey, and tropical fruits. It has a nice honey oak flavor. $18.
Chardonnay del Sol Port
One quarter of Cedar Mountain's production is port. This white port is the dessert wine! It has lush tropical fruit flavors that pairs perfectly with dessert cheeses. Gold Medal Orange County Fair and San Francisco Bay Wine Competition. $18.75.
1998 Port Royale
A blend of Vintage Port and Cabernet Royale Port that was aged for three years in four-year old French Oak barrels. Oh my! Oh my! This is almost too good to be true. There are flavors of dried fruit, toasting, wood, and spices. This port is so smooth that you immediately think of velvet smoking jackets, a warm fire, and an excellent book. $24.50.
The Cedar Mountain Winery is located on the Livermore Wine Trail, 7000 Tesla Road, Livermore, CA. The winery is open seven days a week for tastings.
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