Mardi Gras was originally started in medieval Europe and came to New Orleans in 1718. It’s a carnival celebration of magic, romance and festivity. The Divining Rod wine was started by Marc Mondavi as an ode to his intuitive water divining skills that honor an unknown ‘energy’ that allows him to find water underground. What better pairing than a celebration like Mardi Gras with a wine created around such an extraordinary force?!
The quality of the vineyards shine through The Divining Rod wines. In the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (SRP: $17.99), Marc Mondavi uses new French oak, in both medium and medium-plus toast, to provide the proper framework and subtle, toasty notes without eclipsing the ripeness and vibrancy of the fruit. Learning from the lessons perfected in Bordeaux, they included some Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec into the blend, adding balance, complexity and softness.
The 2013 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has a bouquet of ripe, dark berries, anise, juicy plum and a touch of cedar-box aromas are layered with subtle notes of leather and graphite. Light flavors of Baker’s chocolate and cola complement the luscious blackberry and deep cherry flavors. A rich mouthfeel, texture and weight from medium-toasted French oak enhance this vintage. The finish is complex and layered.
The 2014 Divining Rod Chardonnay (SRP: $14.99) is a divinely balanced, fresh wine that captures the essence of Santa Lucia Highlands’ fruit.
Opening a bottle of their Chardonnay releases a bouquet of golden delicious apples and citrus. The aromas mingle with flavors of baked apples, pears and French oak that highlight the wine’s refreshing acidity and long finish.
The Chardonnay, with its rich, ripe aromas and flavors, pairs invitingly with chicken and fish dishes, fresh spring salads with goat cheese and dishes with a little Asian or Latin spiciness.
Winemaker – Marc Mondavi
Marc Mondavi grew up in the Napa Valley learning about vineyards and winemaking. Being born into America’s foremost family associated with exceptional quality wines led some to assume they knew the path Marc would take in life. But no one predicted that he’s possess an unexpected, mysterious talent – the ability to locate underground water using diving rods.
We invite you to learn more online about Marc’s amazing gift and discover how it helps Marc create wines that aren’t just natural, they’re supernatural!
TheDiviningRod.com
twitter.com/TheDivingRod // @TheDeviningRod
facebook.com/TheDiviningRod
pinterest.com/TheDiviningRod
instagram.com/TheDiviningRod
*I received samples of The Divining Rod wines for the purposes of this post.
Tammy Litke is a Dallas blogger, blogging since 2008. She loves to watch movies, play video games, spend time in the kitchen, and travel. Between recipes and reviews you’ll find many helpful and some just plain funny posts on her blog. Welcome, pull up a chair and stay for a while!