Wines Sonoma Valley Audelssa - 2006

Viniou Reviews

The 2006 Audelssa from Sonoma Valley AVA is a compelling representation of California’s red wine tradition. Crafted predominantly from classic Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this vintage draws on meticulously farmed hillside vineyards, on soils of volcanic origin with excellent drainage. The 2006 season in Sonoma brought moderate temperatures, allowing for a long growing period where grapes reached optimal ripeness while retaining freshness and structure. Following hand-harvesting, the vinification process emphasized gentle extraction and aging in French oak barrels, resulting in a wine with layered complexity, refined tannins, and an elegant balance between fruit, acidity, and oak influence.

Sonoma Valley has earned a distinguished reputation in the Californian wine scene thanks to its unique terroir. Sheltered from Pacific fog by the Sonoma Mountains, the region enjoys sunny, warm afternoons and cool evenings, supporting slow, even grape maturation. Its soils, marked by a mixture of volcanic ash and well-draining loams, contribute intense aromatics and vibrant minerality to the wines. Sonoma’s viticultural history dates back to the 19th century and is deeply rooted in family traditions, with wineries like Audelssa helping to define the area’s particular style—wines that combine New World generosity with Old World finesse and structure.

This 2006 Audelssa red is robust yet polished, perfect for pairing with dishes that highlight its depth and nuance. Classic accompaniments include grilled ribeye, roasted rack of lamb, or a hearty beef short rib stew. For a regional touch, try it with slow-cooked Sonoma duck or mushroom risotto made with local produce. Its expressive fruit also stands up beautifully to aged cheeses like Manchego or mild blue cheeses.

For the best tasting experience, decant the wine 1-2 hours before serving to fully release its bouquet and complexity. Enjoy it at a temperature of 16-18°C to appreciate its harmonious structure and the interplay between ripe fruit, savory notes, and gentle oak. This wine is also at a lovely stage of development, showing maturity and integration, but can continue to evolve gracefully over the next few years.