It has been fun for me to watch the progression and growth of Medlock Ames over the years. Located in the Alexander Valley of Sonoma County, the winery was started in 1998 by Chris Medlock James and Ames Morison. I first visited the tasting room in 2011. The winery has since expanded the tasting room, but still maintains a friendly and intimate feel. I always bring Lord Indy with me, so I sit outside next to their garden or on the covered patio. My most recent trip to Medlock Ames was in April of 2019, on a surprisingly warm afternoon. In the early days you could just walk up to the patio, but on my most recent visit the room was so busy we struggled to find a place to sit even in the garden! That’s just a sign of how good the wines are! Even with the large crowd, the staff was friendly and happy to accommodate our desire to taste and sit outside.
Medlock Ames are mostly known for their Cabs, which are typically big bold and full of amazing dark fruit flavor. The grapes are organically farmed and 80% of their land is not farmed but is left for wildlife to enjoy, which is a point of provide for the winery. Some of my favorites are their Small Lot Collection wines which come from microblocks (very very small single sections of the vines). All of these wines are 100% estate-grown, organic, and limited in their release. One that stands out in my mind is Fifty Tons (91 pts Robert Parker). The name of this wine comes from the fact that the wine maker and two others moved BY HAND 50 tons of rock in order to restore natural terraces for the vines rows. That kind of dedication gives you just a bit of a glimpse into the love and passion that is poured into their wines. The only issue with that kind of dedication is the price. Fifty tons is currently around $450 dollars per bottle (ouch!).
Medlock Ames is a enjoyable stop if you happen to be in the Alexander Valley.
The Ratings
Ambiance – 🍷🍷🍷
Friendliness of Staff – 🍷🍷🍷🍷
Knowledge of Staff – 🍷🍷🍷
Quality of Wines – 🍷🍷🍷🍷
Cost of Tasting – 🍷🍷🍷
Overall Experience – 🍷🍷🍷
The Details
Types of Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Reserve Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a Red Bordeaux Blend
Average Cost of Wine: $35 – $70
Cost of Tasting: $15 – $25
Reservations Required: No, but it is recommended. Especially if you want to do the cheese pairing
Food Pairing or Food Available: Yes
Lord Indy Friendly: Yes
View: Kind of, their little garden is cute but there is not a view of the vines.
Kid/Family Friendly: You can bring your kids, but there isn’t anything for them to do.
