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Copyright
2006 Evans-Walls
Ken
Soni, Lion's Peak proprietor
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During
our visit to Solvang, California, we made a list of several tasting
rooms that we should visit and, originally, Lion's Peak was not on
the list. Perhaps it was because it wasn't prominently displayed on
the standard tourist pamphlets that we seem to be beholden to when we
are in an unfamiliar area. But while walking the quaint streets of
Solvang we came across Lion's Peak, owned by Ken and Jennifer Soni,
and were immediately attracted to the sophisticated architecture and
beautiful tasting room. We soon learned that we were destined to
experience Lion's Peak wines and meet Ken Soni, who educated us on
his offerings as he poured his finest wines while Motown and Philly
International music serenaded us in the background. We happened upon
what we would later learn was an undeniable jewel of the Central
Coast. We were forever changed by our experience and have the newly
minted "Lion's Peak Family" Wine Club membership to prove it!
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Copyright
2006 Evans-Walls
Ken
Soni, Proprietor
Copyright
2006 Evans-Walls
Tonya
in front of Lion's Peak tasting room
Copyright
2006 Evans-Walls
Russ
tasting Lion's Peak wines
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A
BIT OF HISTORY
Lions
Peak, one of the oldest vineyards in the Central Coast, is set in
the very heart of the Historic San Miguel Region. The Estate has been
the Soni family home since 1992 and consists of 120 acres. The rustic
Victorian Manor House overlooks the vineyard, and evenings are often
spent on the veranda viewing the beautiful valleys and surrounding vineyards.
Lion's
Peak produces premium quality wines that are artistic and singularly
unique. That artistry is also manifested in the magnificent wine
labels that grace the bottles. Ken boasts at his website that
"[e]ach label tells a story with an expression of artistic
design that epitomizes the philosophy of the marriage of fine wine
and art."
The
Vines at Lions Peak Vineyards were first planted in 1971. The mature
old vines on their own varietal rootstock produce wines with
remarkable depth of character and complexity.
TASTING
EXPERIENCE
We
tasted 10 wines and enthusiastically enjoyed both the whites and the
reds. Lion's Peak has a $10 tasting fee that comes with an exquisite
Riedel logo glass. But the best part of this tasting was getting to
know Ken Soni, and taking in his charm, humor, and extensive
knowledge of wine and food. We even received a personal note from him
inviting us to share a meal with him when we visit Solvang again.
The
tasting included:
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2004
Viognier
- 2005
The Sisters (Marsanne/Grenache/Viognier blend)
- 2005
Marsanne
- 2003
Chardonnay
- NV
Cuvee Blanc
- 2005
Zinfandel
- 2001
Bon Courage
- 2000
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
- 2001
Cabernet Franc
- 2003
Petite Syrah
Not
available for tasting, but for sale:
MUST-BUY
WINES
Run,
do not walk, to Lion's Peak or the nearest point of purchase to buy
the following exceptional offerings from Lion's Peak:
-
2004
Viognier - $20
- 2005
The Sisters - $20
- 2000
Zinfandel - $20
- 2003
Petit Syrah - $28
The
complete wine list and online purchasing is available at LionsPeakWine.com. |
