Viniou Reviews
Etude’s 2018 Temblor Vineyard Cuvée, hailing from the Los Carneros AVA in California, is a prime example of what this renowned region can produce in terms of complex and elegant red wines. Crafted in a dry style, this red blends classic varietals typically associated with Carneros, most notably Pinot Noir, though Merlot and other Bordeaux or Burgundian varieties sometimes find their way into cuvées from this area. The 2018 vintage in Carneros was shaped by a long, temperate growing season; the resulting wine is structured and expressive, displaying notes of ripe cherry, cranberry, subtle baking spices, and delicate earthiness, layered with refined tannins and a lingering finish. Etude, an estate celebrated for meticulous vineyard management and minimal-intervention winemaking, carefully guides the grapes from their Temblor Vineyard—a site known for its stony, well-drained soils and gentle slopes—towards their fullest expression.
The Los Carneros AVA straddles Napa and Sonoma counties, and is defined by its cool, foggy climate courtesy of its proximity to San Pablo Bay. Daily maritime breezes temper the heat, making Carneros especially suitable for grape varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, both of which benefit from the long ripening period and well-draining clay-loam soils with gravelly substrata. Historically, Carneros has played a pivotal role in California’s wine narrative, pioneering cool-climate winegrowing and helping elevate American Pinot Noir on the world stage.
For food pairing, the freshness and finesse of this wine complement dishes that bridge richness and delicate flavors. Traditional Californian cuisine, like grilled salmon or roasted duck with a cherry compote, will echo the wine’s vibrant red fruit, while wild mushroom risotto highlights its earthy undertones. Regional pairings such as Sonoma lamb chops or roast quail with figs also work beautifully, as do French classics like coq au vin or herb-roasted chicken.
To appreciate Etude’s 2018 Temblor Vineyard Cuvée at its best, serve it slightly cool, around 16-18°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes helps the wine open up and reveal its bouquet of nuanced fruit and spice. This wine will continue to evolve gracefully with several more years in the cellar.
