Ross Andrew Winery

Unedited

Ross Andrew Mickel must have learned a thing or two as an assistant winemaker for Betz Family Winery. At least that was my thought as I tasted his utterly juicy oh-so-delicious Boushey Syrah. With its penetrating black fruits and hints of smoke plus a dash of tar to make it more interesting, this little syrah had legs. I was thinking of splurging and buying both the Ross Andrew Syrah and his lovely white blend named Meadow when it struck me that I was the only one in the tasting room. How could this be, I thought. These wines are lovely as I reached for my wallet.

The fact that Ross Andrew’s tasting room is sandwiched between Mark Ryan Cellars and Pepper Bridge might have something to do with the fact that the Ross Andrew name isn't mentioned too often. That’s too bad I thought. On the other hand, it provided me a quiet respite from the madding crowd to smooze with the tasting room pourer and really savor their wines.

This almost-eponymous winery has everything going for it but a cult-like following. Perhaps Ross isn’t actively involved in the Twitter-sphere or lacks the self-importance exuded by certain winemakers who will remain anonymous here. However, if you like nice winemakers devoid of arrogance who just happen to opine the contrite phrase that “it all starts in the vineyard” and their job is not to screw it up, then I suggest without reservation that you give Ross Andrew a swirl.