Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/53193
Wine, after all, is at the center of our civilization." — Jean-Charles Boisset sonas also include General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, whose history was inexorably linked with Haraszthy's when their children married), the winery will play host to Shakespearian theater and performing-art events as part of a one-of-a-kind consumer education program. "We're also envisioning a more in-depth educational program designed specifically for the industry that will incorporate demonstrations of Sonoma's terroir, a museum of histori- cal winemaking tools, a culinary center, and much more," continues Boisset. With plans already underway for seismic retrofitting of the original stone winery building, an overhaul of the cellar, replanting of estate vineyards and restoration of the riparian habitat, the property is well on its way to being returned to a state of nobility. It may be a serendipitous, passionate vision that drives Boisset's acquisi- tions in California, but he sees Buena Vista as "a window into the history of California wine" and believes that Sonoma's history will play a valuable role in educating future generations of wine consumers. Not unlike Haraszthy and the ex-patriot Europeans who defined the industry's earliest years, Boisset is writing a new chapter in the annals of California's wine history. Deborah Parker Wong's Tasting Notes on Buena Vista's Sonoma Series "The Count" 2008 ($20) Distinctive field blend with aromas of dark red fruits and graphite followed by deeper flavors of black cherry, vanilla, pencil shavings supported by creamy, mid-palate tannins. Bright, sweet fruit marks a soft finish. Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 ($16) Perfumed red fruit and cedar aromas deepen to classic Sonoma red-fruit flavors that are concentrated on a medium-weight mid palate with complex star anise and brown spice on a crisp, extended finish. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Zinfandel 2010 ($16) Ripe blackberry and cranberry aromas with dark berry flavors and well-integrated oak tannins giving structure to a medium-bodied mid palate. Leaner fruit and toast carry the finish. 100% Zinandel. january/february 2012 / the tasting panel / 59