Wine Enthusiast

This bottling, from the vineyard high up on Atlas Peak, is establishing itself as a real benchmark. The ’07 is smooth and rich and vast in flavor, offering waves of blackberries, cherry pie, cassis and blackstrap molasses, with a delicious coating of sweet, smoky oak. It’s impressive in youth, but so balanced, it should easily negotiate the years.

Winery Notes:

My favorite vintage of the decade for Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. We were graced with outstanding growing conditions that gave way to a wine with pure, focused flavors black cherry, currant, and tobacco, while a mid palate of spice vanilla and mocha linger in layers, all framed with velvet-like, dusty tannins.

Winery Notes:

In 2003 Krutz Family Cellars was born, weighing in at about 60 cases total between three separate varietals: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and a Grenache/Syrah blend. “Boutique” or “Small” doesn’t even come close to describing that first year’s production; microscopic would be more accurate. That was some of the most fun I’ve ever had … at work nonetheless! I thought, “Damn, if I can have this much fun at work, I’m in!” In 2004 I produced 170 cases total (Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon) and from then through the years I have increased production to today’s annual 1,200 cases. Production continues to grow as the demand for Krutz Family Cellars is growing. Still, at this level, I would say that KFC has microscopic production as compared to other wineries’ production. To make wines of varietal and vineyard character, and do so in small lots from single vineyards, is what I envisioned in 2003 - and still hold as my foremost mission. To be able to know what each and every barrel is up to at all times is also something that I hold of the utmost importance. It is for this reason that our goal is to make somewhere around 1,500-2,000 cases total to stick with the founding principles. Finally, wine is about sharing with family and friends alike. It is for this reason I named my winery “Krutz Family Cellars.” Anyone who has a glass or bottle is now a part of the Krutz Family. I hope you enjoy my wines as much as I did in crafting them. -- Patrick Krutz, Owner/Winemaker