So happy to be able to enjoy Lawrence Dunham Vineyards wines right here in the Valley of the Sun (rather than trekking 3 1/2 hours south of here). Their new LDV Wine Gallery in Scottsdale is charming and perfectly suits their wines. The patio is lovely and will be a great springtime hangout for Sunday Funday.
I'm especially a fan of the Sky Island Viognier and the Signature Petite Sirah. Yes, I am partial to these varietals, but I'm not biased in saying the un-oaked viognier is fantastically aromatic and a great summer wine. Love noshing on some strong goat cheese when I'm sipping this beauty.
The Petite is my favorite deep shade or purple (almost black) with just a hint of spice and a velvety finish. I like to pair it with a well-marbled rib eye or lamb tenderloin. Of course, I'm also liable to pair it whatever I have in the fridge. It happens.
This is a small production, family-owned winery. Everything is estate grown. Their wines are priced in the mid $20-$40 range because their volume is small and their quality is high. These are first press wines. (If you want to pay less, then go get a bottle of some second press no-name label at the grocery store.) Trust me, LDV wines will not disappoint. Cheers!