25 Sep Please The Palate Wine of the Week: Solminer 2018 Blaufrankisch, deLanda Vineyard, Los Olivos District

When we think about the grapes grown in the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara Wine Country, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah are likely what come to mind. Other French grapes, such as Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc are also grown. There are also Italian varieties, such as Nebbiolo, Dolcetto and Barbera planted. But Austrian varieties? Yes, Gruner Veltliner is starting to gain popularity in the area. But this weekend I enjoyed the Solminer 2018 Blaufrankisch, deLanda Vineyard, Los Olivos District and it is the Please The Palate Wine of the Week.

Solminer, a name inspired by the idea of mining the “sun”, tending the soil and nourishing the soul, was founded by Anna and David deLaski. They purchased their vineyard and farmhouse in Los Olivos in 2012 and named it deLanda, after their first and last names. The vineyard is planted to Rhone varieties Syrah and Grenache and Austrian varieties Gruner Veltliner and Blaufrankisch.

Gruner Veltliner and Blaufrankisch are not commonly planted in Santa Barbara County. In fact, there is only one acre of Blaufrankisch planted in Santa Barbara County and it is in the deLanda Vineyard. As Anna’s heritage is Austrian, David planted those grapes for her.

A biodynamically certified vineyard, the Solminer 2018 Blaufrankisch, deLanda Vineyard, Los Olivos District is made with minimal intervention. Blaufrankisch means “the blue french-like grape” and is a beautiful aromatic wine. The wine has aromas of passion fruit, boysenberry, blueberry, pineapple, papaya must, lavender and allspice. On the palate, the wine is bright with medium-body tannins and a long finish from the lingering acidity.

Only seven barrels of this wine, which can be enjoyed with chicken, lamb and other meats, is produced and it retails for $44.