Uncorked

Murphy clan creates an oasis at Presqu'ile

My passion for wine begins with people. I may be a little sentimental in admitting it, but it's truly how I connect to wine. When I know the story, the place and, more importantly, the people behind the wine, I genuinely appreciate it more.

I have been an ambassador for California's Presqu'ile (press-KEEL) winery since its inception. The Murphy family (with roots in Arkansas) has created an oasis with a true sense of place. At Presqu'ile, the Murphys convey their heritage and pursuit of excellence and live their motto: "If we aren't having fun, why bother?"

The winery is a beautiful state-of-the-art-retreat, from the barrel-lined cellar to the relaxing teak chairs on the decks offering astounding views of the vineyards and the Santa Maria region. At the heart of Presqu'ile are two generations of family -- Matt, Amanda, Jonathan, Lindsey, Anna, Madison and Suzanne -- bringing their family dedication to the wines they produce.

The wines also have a true sense of place. Those at Pres-qu'ile approach producing wine -- from the vines to the bottle -- with a philosophy of minimal interference. This allows the wines they create to have a true identity from the vineyards, soils and cool climate of the Santa Maria region.

The Presqu'ile story is not complete without mentioning winemaker Dieter Cronje. One morning while walking the cellars, I heard a distinct sound of a skateboard on concrete. It was Cronje using his preferred form of transportation around the winery. Matt Murphy and Cronje met while working for Ambullneo Vineyards in the mid-2000s.

Great family, good people, stellar wines and breathtaking views of Santa Maria Valley make for a lovely reflection as I open my next bottle of Pres-qu'ile.

THE VALUE

2012 Presqu'ile Rose, California (about $20 retail)

THE SPLURGES

2012 Presqu'ile Sauvignon Blanc, California (about $24 retail)

2012 Presqu'ile Chardonnay, California (about $38 retail)

2011 Presqu'ile Pinot Noir, California (about $49 retail)

Lorri Hambuchen is a member of London's Institute of Wines and Spirits. Contact her at the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, P.O. Box 2221, Little Rock, Ark. 72203, or email:

[email protected]

Food on 07/30/2014

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