2191 Laguna Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95401

Website: https://www.martinraywinery.com/

 

Martin Ray is in the heart of the Russian River Valley.  As one would expect from this region, the winery produces exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.  In addition, they produce Cabernet Sauvignon.  The distinguishing landmark for this winery is a water tower that stands behind the winery.  Martin Ray’s wines have often been highly rated in wine magazines.

Founder Martin Ray is a pioneer in the history of California wine for producing 100% varietal wines.  He made wines under his own name from 1943 through 1972.  The winery was purchased by the current owner Courtney Behnam in 1990 who has upheld the tradition of 100% varietal wines. The winemakers seek out high quality grapes from other appellations outside of the Russian River Valley, like the Santa Cruz Mountains, Napa Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Sonoma Coast.

 

I had a very pleasant experience at this winery.  Looking back, it makes me think about family reunions when I was younger where we would all gather at a park during the summer for a picnic.  However, my family picnics didn’t include a vineyard.  When we arrived we parked right beside the vineyard.  There were a few colorful Adirondack chairs and a small table next to the vineyard for guests.  We walked across the driveway to the cobblestone path leading to the tasting room.  The exterior looks like a large home with columns out front. To the right of tasting room is another building with huge oak barrels outside. In between the two buildings is a lawn with bushes and colorful flowers that add to the homey feel.  There are a few picnic tables as well. 

Inside the tasting room is cozy with white walls and beams that are contrasted by the dark wood tables, shelves, and tasting bar.  There are a number of gift items available too. 

We had our tasting outside at a picnic table amongst the garden looking out at the vineyards Guests are welcome to bring a picnic lunch or can arrange in advance for Martin Ray to provide one.  There are a few different types of tastings that include samples of the wines from each of the appellations.  The winery also offers a tour and tasting or a more elegant experience inside their barrel room.  Our server came out to the picnic table every few minutes to check on us and pour a new wine.  She moved at our pace and we felt like she was catering to us.  I was impressed that she used a Coravin to pour the wine (a new device that allows you to pour by the class without ever taking the cork out of the bottle, thereby preserving the wine from oxidation).  I really liked that we had a varied selection of wines to try from different varietals and areas.  Along with the Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon that they are so well known for, we tried a Malbec and Merlot.  The Synthesis Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley is exquisite, but I was most surprised by the Merlot.  I am not often intrigued by Merlot, but this one really wowed me with its smoothness and taste of deep cherry and brown spices.

This was one of the most peaceful tastings I’ve had.  My husband and I were impressed with all of the wines and left smiling after joining the wine club.