Thomas Coyne - Livermore Valley

Just down the road from Fenestra is another gem, Thomas Coyne. I have purchased Petite Sirah from them in the past, and I really, really like that wine. Today they were pouring their bordeaux varietals, and we enjoyed them quite a bit.

The facility is simple, with one picnic table and little else. Again, it's all about the tasting room. They really are not geared up for crowds, in contrast to Fenestra. There was only one gal pouring, and she was clearly overwhelmed.

We tried three Merlots, and the best of the bunch was the El Dorado Merlot, only $12.50. We also really liked the 2002 Confluence, which is a blend of Cab Franc, Cab Sauvignon, Petite Verdot and Merlot. Very nice, and a bargain at $20.

The Cab and Petit Verdot are also worth picking up. Unfortunately for Thomas Coyne, we were a bit in shock after our spending spree at Fenestra, and we walked out without purchasing anything today. Besides, we knew we were going to drop some coin at Steven Kent, which is my next post...

Joel