In the old days, one heard about “items” falling off a truck, that day we did a tasting in the back of a truck.  We were informed that the new tasting room was not completed, but we were going to do a special tasting.  A small step ladder was provided and we climbed up into the back of the truck, each of us with a glass.  We then moved some cases of wine around and made seats for all of us to relax on.  Then slowly but surely different cases were opened, a bottle removed from each case and opened for us to try.  What a unique experience.

We started first with the Migration series of wines, of which there was a red and a white.  The Migration collection we were told was a blending of different grape varieties and different contract and owner properties that were not being used for other wines that we would taste.  Our host went on to explain that the term Migration was used, because every year the blend of grapes and different vineyards may change, but it was the final result that was the concern.

Next we tried the Paraduxx which was their homage to the classic grape of California, the Zinfandel, but it was blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.  Not being a Zin fan, I was a little concerned, but when I sampled it, I was won over, and realized that I have to curb my earlier biases and be more open to trying something new.

We then tried some of their hallmark wines that are single variety wines that they were very proud of.   I do have to mention that the two white wines that we tried were carried out with us to the truck, because they had been chilled.   We started with a Sauvignon Blanc which was very crisp and light, a classic interpretation.  We then had a Cabernet Sauvignon which was full and robust.  I remember having to walk to the end of the truck to look at each wine in the glass, in full sunlight to study the colors.

We then proceeded to try the Merlot wine offerings; this is the grape that the Duckhorn family had fully embraced from the beginning.   We started with a basic Merlot, then the Estate Grown Merlot, and finally the Howell Mountain Merlot.  Each bottle surpassed the earlier one.  Our host regaled us with stories about each bottle in this quiet setting and we felt like royalty.

After the tasting session was completed we then proceeded to make our purchases.   We had to decide on what wines to purchase, and we finally made our decision.   We ended up getting some of the ’97 Merlot, ’95 Howell Mountain Merlot, ’96 Estate Grown Merlot, ’96 Cabernet Sauvignon, ’97 Paraduxx, and the ’97 Migration in both the red and the white.  They also had a product that we didn’t try, but we had to get was King Eider vermouth.  I enjoy vermouth, prior to a great dinner.  The last time I checked their website this is not being produced, so I am glad that I have some still to enjoy.

Since our trip, the Duckhorn Vineyards have added other products, which I will discuss at some point, but they do not belong here and what we experienced that day.