Jordan winery is located in Alexander Valley appellation of Sonoma Valley and it was the first winery tour we scheduled when planning our Sonoma trip. Jordan’s Cabernet Sauvignon has become our family tradition to celebrate special occasions and our Jordan visit did not disappoint.

Jordan estate tours are “appointment only” and there are several options with a fee. Tom Jordan, a Denver oil tycoon, purchased 1,200 acres of natural habitat in 1974 and completed the construction of chateau/winery in 1979. Most acreage remains natural with only 112 acres of vineyards and 18 acres of olives. The reception area displays letters from Presidents Regan and Bush for serving Jordan wines at state functions. Today, Jordan wines are not as prestigious but still maintain a stellar reputation.

On the chateau’s veranda we sampled the current vintage Chardonnay paired with seafood appetizer prepared by Jordan’s resident chef. Jordan’s annual production of 120,000 cases (80% Cabernet Sauvignon) is not small unless compared to major producers making millions of cases.

I was surprised to learn that Jordan produces only two wines – Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Russian River Chardonnay. Cab is sourced from the estate and neighboring vineyards; Chardonnay is from long-term contracts with Russian River vineyards.

In the winery we saw large oak tanks where blending and aging occurs.  Each vintage of Jordan Cabernet has a slightly different Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. The blend is determined by the original winemaker, Rob Davis, who joined Jordan in 1976 upon graduating from UC Davis.

Our tour concluded with a library tasting in the “secret room” (behind hidden door) in the chateau. 2006 and 2010 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon was served paired with local cheeses and the tasting concluded with Jordan Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Bordeaux blend – 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec. 12 months aging in French and American oak.

Burgundian (Old World) in style unlike other California Chards. Crisp and fresh with touch of oak.

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