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Buying grapes in Napa next week, could use some help.

Heading out to California next week to place orders for grapes in Napa, any suggestions?

I'm not going to repeat last year's zoo. This year we are just buying for a designated few and are trying to get the best quality grapes possible. We brought in 8 trailers to Tampa Bay last year, but I'm just looking for the highest quality grapes this year, especially reds.

If there actually is anyone on this newsgroup that make "real" wine and could suggest growers in Napa that sell direct I would be grateful for the info. Email me direct if you like.

SG Brix

Reply to
sgbrix
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I assume you're looking for Cabernet primarily - otherwise why Napa?

If it's Cab you want, you can't do better than Napa - especially Oakville and Rutherford. OTOH, if you're looking for Zin, Syrah or Pinot Noir (just to name a few) there are other areas that are as good or better than Napa. If you're looking for good Chardonnay I'd rank Napa about my 5th choice - behind Santa Barbara County, Santa Cruz, Monterey and Russian River (going from South to North).

We could debate this ad nauseum, but the bottom line is that you'll pay a lot more for non-Cabernet fruit in Napa and very possibly not get as good quality as elsewhere.

Tom S

P.S. - My runner up choices for Cabernet are Alexander Valley and Paso Robles.

Reply to
Tom S

I just got back from a California vacation and visited Napa valley - it was de-VINE! wonderful to see all these vineyards, wineries, etc....made me jealous I didn't have access to such grapes so readily here in Michigan.... although I suppose I could go to traverse orSt. Joe's area, but once I asked in the Fennville area and they said they had NO grapes to spare for sale....

Best wishes in your purchases Rick

Reply to
Rick Vanderwal

wine country weekly classifieds. Good source for grapes.

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Reply to
Patrick Heron

Can't help you, I only make "fake" wine. LOL Darlene

Reply to
Dar V

I also am a wine heretic. I don't use grapes at all. Apples, honey, cherries yes. Grapes, who nneds it? You can buy good grape wine any day of the week.

Reply to
Oberon Rex

---snip

Yea, that and some zin. Got a tip for a grower that supply V Satui and hope to make contact. It is not that easy to get growers to pack for LTL even how much you pay them.

Last year we had free picking at one grower after harvest. But this year nobody here can go and spend the time.

SG Brix

Reply to
sgbrix

I am in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County (next to Napa County). I specialize in sales to home winemakers but I am nearly sold out for this year. All is sold locally and unfortunately I don't ship. I have had people come up from L A as well as other parts of Calif but mostly buyers from the Bay Area. Maybe someday I'll figure out how to shi longer distances but I pretty much sell out without shipping. I agree with Tom S that outstanding (and very expensive) Cab comes from Napa, but most other varieties are equal or better from Sonoma County. And other parts of Calif grow very good grapes at a much more reasonable price. I have some Cab and Syrah uncommitted if you feel like making the drive. Check website by searching Bennett Ridge Vineyard.

Bob Bennett

Reply to
BENNETT9

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