Why You Should Try Two Shepherds Wines

Woman on Wine with Amy Reiley

“Micro winery” is a phrase belonging to the social media age. It is a precious-sounding term for a class of wineries that could only exist on a grand scale in a time of instant, global sharing of information. Two Shepherds may be the perfect example of a micro winery. Founded by William Allen, a wine enthusiast turned blogger turned winemaker, Two Shepherds truly represents the American Dream in the technology age. (The winery even raised funds on Kickstarter in 2012.) Two Shepherds focuses on Rhone varietals and, like most micro wineries, primarily sells direct to consumers. The wines may not be quite ready to rival France’s finest but absolutely embody what micro winemaking should: a unique, fresh and well-crafted appeal that might not be everyone’s cup of tea (or alcohol) but will quickly become a cult favorite. I recommend checking them out while you still have a chance.

My Two Shepherds Wine Recommendations

2013 Viognier, Saralee’s Vineyard
Pale straw in color, it is restrained yet comfortable—a wine for afternoon drinking. It offers a lovely wildflower bouquet on the nose, ripe peach in the mouth and lingering dried peach on the finish.

2013 Pastoral Blanc, Saralee’s Vineyard
It’s all about texture when you sip this wine. Soft and creamy as it rolls across the tongue, it offers a complexity of flavor that’s exciting on its own and a balance that makes it a nice choice for a meal.

2012 Syrah, Saralee’s Vineyard
I don’t recommend falling in love with this wine, although I think you will. With only 50 cases produced of this elegant, feminine, floral Syrah, you’re going to have to compete to get your hands on a taste.

2012 Mourvedre, Russian River Valley
Two Shepherds’ first attempt at Mourvedre offers a complete departure from the typical Californian treatment of the varietal. At only 12.3% alcohol, this wine offers fresh cherry flavors, a hint of salinity and an easy-to-drink style.