Wines Sonoma Coast Rodney Strong - Sonoma Vineyards Red Wine Blend - 2015

The 2015 Rodney Strong Sonoma Vineyards Red Wine Blend from the Sonoma Coast is a captivating representation of California’s commitment to crafting expressive red blends. Composed from select grapes—most commonly Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and sometimes Syrah or Zinfandel—this wine offers both structure and approachability. The 2015 vintage presents a beautiful ripeness due to the mild, dry season, allowing the fruit to reach ideal maturity without excessive heat stress. Vinification at Rodney Strong emphasizes gentle extraction and aging in French and American oak barrels, which imparts nuanced oak spice and retains the blend’s vibrant fruit character. Expect aromas of ripe blackberry, plum, and black cherry, underscored by notes of vanilla, baking spices, and a subtle earthiness. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a lingering, harmonious finish.

The Sonoma Coast AVA is celebrated for its cool, maritime influence from the nearby Pacific Ocean. Morning fog and afternoon breezes moderate temperatures, extending the growing season and promoting gradual grape maturation. The soils here are predominantly well-drained, with compositions of shale, sandstone, and gravel, which contribute complexity and minerality to the finished wines. Rodney Strong is one of Sonoma’s pioneering estates, with a longstanding reputation for innovation and sustainability, shaping the region since the 1950s.

This blend pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Classic American fare like grilled ribeye or barbecued short ribs is an excellent companion, as the wine’s robust tannins and juicy fruit complement the richness of grilled meats. You might also consider local pairings such as Sonoma duck breast or a wild mushroom risotto. Aged cheddar or Gouda will also highlight the wine’s balance of fruit and savory spice.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly below room temperature, ideally at 16-18°C. Decant for 30 minutes before tasting to allow the aromatics and structure to fully express themselves. This wine has the potential to evolve further in bottle but can be enjoyed now for its vibrancy and layered complexity.