We were on a mission to have breakfast at a new location we’d heard about in Winters, California called Putah Creek Cafe. After eating, we strolled down the street to a winery and cheese company I’d heard about but had yet to try. The winery of interest was Turkovich Family Wines. As luck would have it, located in the same tasting room was the Winters Cheese Company.
We had a delightful time visiting with the vintner and marketing person for Turkovich Family Wines in their charming tasting room. In fact, we learned the beautiful wooden bar had been created from a cherished old tree that had succumbed to old age and disease.
After selecting a few wines we enjoyed, we meandered over to the cheese shop and tasted some amazing cheeses.
Turkovich Family Wines
In 2007, Chris Turkovich, a third-generation farmer jumped at the opportunity to return to his hometown. He located the Turkovich Family Wines in a rich and diverse agricultural area near Winters, California in the western region of Yolo County, less than five miles from the eastern edge of the Napa Valley Wine region. The site they chose proved to be a hidden gem for growing high-quality wine grapes. The area is next to the Vaca Mountains with great soil, warm days and temperate nights that allow the vines to produce excellent wine. The Winters region, in general, allows for a long, mild growing season.
This endeavor is truly a family affair. In the same space is the Winters Cheese Company founded by Chris Turkovich’s brother, Daniel. Daniel learned the art of cheesemaking while in college at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Daniel’s vision was to bring unique artisan cheeses to the Winters area. It was a natural that the Winters Cheese Company would share the wine tasting room with Turkovich Family Wines. It’s a brilliant partnership that combines wine and cheese all under the same roof.
While there, I found two wines I greatly enjoyed. One was their Malbec along with their signature red wine blend called The Boss.
This is what the Turkovich Family Wines winemaker has to say about these two wines:
Turkovich Family Wines/Malbec
“Dark fruits dominate this full-bodied red. The wine’s inky color alert you to the black fruits about to be enjoyed. Aromas of boysenberry, blackberry, and plum present themselves on the nose while red fruits such as cranberry and cherry dominate the palate. This wine has ample tannins and can hold up to the heartiest of dishes. Drink this wine now with a beef Bourguignon or cellar it to be enjoyed in years to come!”
Turkovich Family Wines/The Boss
“Our signature blend, The Boss, is a rich wine comprised mainly of Petite Sirah. Small parts Syrah, Petite Verdot, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon add fascinating complexity to this powerhouse wine. Try this wine with a rack of BBQ ribs for a meal that is sure to satisfy.”
Turkovich Family Wines can be found on their website or in some wine stores, or fine wine purveyors. Just ask.
The whole experience of good food, great wine, and some awesome cheese made for a memorable day. Winters is a charming town all by itself. We plan on visiting again and often. Besides, there are more wineries to explore in the surrounding area, just saying.
Time for a glass…
If you enjoyed reading about “Turkovich Family Wines,” check out Merlo Winery Blackbird Red Wine Blend, Matchbook Winery Tempranillo, and Boeger Winery Barbera.
P.S.: Check out a few of my favorite wine tools and resources below. 🙂