Pelerin Wines

Chris Weidemann hasn't quit his day job as the cellar master and consultant at Paraiso Winery in Soledad. This enables him and his wife Cathy to utilize the Paraiso facility and run their own business Pelerin (2002). The minute 2,300 case production is some of the best hand-made wine in Monterey--but not without the countless hours of hardwork. The Weidemann family handles everything themselves: accounting, blending, sales management... Below are a couple of their products, that shouldn't be over-looked.

2007 Pelerin Sangiovese "Mesa Del Sol Vineyard", Arroyo Seco - 14.5% alcohol, $20 at Star Market in Salinas - If this were a person, it'd be the sophisticated one at the party acting mellow. There were many nuances co-existing harmoniously. Expect aromas of red Twizzlers, black licorice and dust.

2007 Pelerin (50% Zinfandel, 50% Syrah) "RTW", Monterey County - 14.8% alcohol, $15 AT Grove Market in Pacific Grove - If this were a person, it would be the big, loud guy at the party that everyone has to love. Its blueberry and black pepper characteristics come through because of the Syrah added. It gets its plummy, fruit-forward quaffability from the dose of Zinfandel. To learn more, visit: www.pelerinwines.com