Lula Cellars is located on a 22-acre property located in Philo, just a couple of hours north of San Francisco. In the area known as “The Deep End” of Anderson Valley, some of its more famous winery neighbors are Twomey and Navarro Vineyards. We recently tasted four balanced, complex and lovely Lula wines – three Pinot Noirs and a Rosé of Pinot Noir. We enjoyed them all, and so did our friends who shared them with us.
Lula Cellars
With an annual production of about 4,000 cases, Lula’s focus is on Estate and Anderson Valley Pinot Noirs and single vineyard offerings from Mendocino County. Their property features a pet-friendly tasting room with a hand-hewn redwood bar, an outside seating area, a pond and an event area for weddings and other activities. Reservations are required.
Three years ago, Lula Cellars introduced Matt Parish as their new winemaker. Matt is from New Zealand, but he has lived in California for the last 15 years. His experience covers 25 vintages and includes small luxury wineries, NakedWines.com, Treasury Wine Estates (Beringer, Stags’ Leap Winery, Chateau St. Jean and Etude.) and Constellation Wines. He also crafts his own “Matt Parish” brand.
2019 Lula Cellars Rosé of Pinot Noir ($26)
This just-released 2018 Lula Vineyard Pinot Noir already captured Best of Class, Double Gold and 98 points at the Sunset Wine Competition. Rich and complex, this is an inaugural blend of Pinot Clones from Lula Vineyard, with plum and cherry flavors and a touch of chocolate. The nearby Pacific ocean and the clay alluvial soils result in intense flavors, balanced acidity and a full palate. Drink now through 2028.
Another award-winning Pinot Noir, this beauty took home the gold in the prestigious San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. This Pinot pairs well with seafood or turkey, for special occasions or just because you can. The aromatics are duplicated in the intense flavors of plum, blackberry and cherry. Drink now through 2025.
We loved this Pinot Noir. So we were not surprised to find that it also took home the gold in the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Produced from three different clones, the wine exhibits vibrant aromas and flavors of cherries, wild berries and a wee bit of citrus. The palate is focused and pure, with an intensity from start to finish. Somehow it is both bright and rich, and paired beautifully with swordfish grilled on a cedar plank. Enjoy now through 2025.Summary
In conclusion, Lula VIneyards is new to us, and we are thankful to the winery for sending us samples. As mentioned, we shared these wines with friends, and it was unanimous: more bottles will be in our future. If you are a Pinot lover, be sure to try these gorgeous wines.
Cheers!
Margot and Dave