Tasting Notes

Flush with florals, Barra’s clean finishing Pinot Blanc is an aromatic treat. This white sees barely a hint of oak, creating creaminess and acidity. Organically grown in Northern California’s interior Mendocino County, its fresh apple and melon will be a perfect foil for briny mussels or clams. Drink now.

Winery Story

Charlie Barra has been farming in the Mendocino area (about 2 hours north of San Francisco) for more than 50 years and has been an active participant in the region’s development. His wife Martha has been no small help in getting out the word about their organically farmed grapes and wines. They have a large tasting facility, too, that lets visitors and day trippers alike stop to taste their wares.

Barra of Mendocino’s winery is known as Redwood Valley Cellars, since it is one of two wineries whose production is housed inside. It includes their wine making facilities and a large tasting room. It is located a few short minutes north of Ukiah (in northern Mendocino County)—the largest town near their Yucaipa location. The tasting room is quaint, with an unexpected large fountain in the middle of the brick-lined circular building. The place has a casual mish-mash of 1970’s style and outdoorsy charm.

Visitors feel at ease at this rural winery. Guests are hosted either at their generously sized bar or out in the surrounding gardens. The gardens are the most appealing on a cool, autumn day. Wooden picnic tables are available for free—you can bring along deli choices to munch on with a chilled white like our featured Pinot Blanc.