Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to announce my first winery installment of the year! Blue Rock Vineyard in Alexander Valley has become one of Spec’s premier wineries! Owner, Kenny Kahn has graciously decided to come host an event for us on Thursday, March 7th from 6:30-8:00PM at Vault and Vino in Houston. His wines are still reasonably priced and really over deliver for the price point. So, join me to see this Alexander Valley icon’s passion for wine!

RSVP: Jamesbarlow@specsonline.com

WHAT: An evening with Blue Rock Vineyards

WHO: Blue Rock Vineyards owner, Kenny Kahn

WHEN: Thursday, March 7th from 6:30-8:00PM

WHERE: Vault & Vino 2512 Genesee Street, Houston TX 77006

COST: $40 Per Person

WINES TO BE POURED:

1. Blue Rock ‘Baby Blue’ Sauvignon Blanc 2022
2. Blue Rock ‘Baby Blue’ Chardonnay 2018
3. Blue Rock ‘Baby Blue’ Cabernet Based Red Blend 2021
4. Blue Rock ‘Baby Blue’ Pinot Noir 2020
5. Blue Rock Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
6. Blue Rock BEST BARRELS Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

BLUE ROCK VINEYARDS STORY:

Blue Rock is a historic winery nestled in the heart of Sonoma County wine country.
Rooted in the rich legacy of the 1880s, the winery, vineyard, and gardens were originally
established by Italian immigrants. Initially named Villa Maria, the winery faced the
challenges of Prohibition and, unfortunately, did not endure. In the late 1980s, despite
attempts by other families to cultivate the land, the property fell into foreclosure.

In 1987, Kenny and Cheryl Kahn breathed new life into the dilapidated estate, captivated
by the allure of its hillside location in Alexander Valley. Over the past three decades, the
couple has dedicated themselves to the meticulous task of replanting vineyards,
restoring the original winery, and crafting state-of-the-art winemaking and production
facilities. The Winery, guesthouse, and gardens have undergone a transformation to
meet the highest luxury standards, reflecting a singular vision of establishing a worldclass wine estate in the European tradition.

The name “Blue Rock” finds its origin in the soil adorned with blue pebbles, rocks, and
boulders of serpentine. This unique geological feature significantly influences the flavor
and aromatic profile of the wines produced from the vineyard. Encompassing 100 acres,
the certified sustainable vineyard hosts the five Bordeaux varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon,
Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Malbec. In 1993, an additional two acres were
dedicated to Syrah, planted on an extreme hillside. Blue Rock takes pride in being
Family-owned, Family-farmed, and Certified Sustainable.

A new vineyard site was purchased in 2015 in the Petaluma Gap AVA. With gorgeous
black volcanic soils and shouldered between two mountain ranges, the Gap receives fog
and cold air from the Pacific Ocean in the morning followed by a temperature spike in
the afternoon for only a few hours, which then gives way to cold night temperatures. As
a result, the grapes take a long time to ripen, but this extra hang time on the vine also
leads to complex wines with great aromatics and detailed flavors. It’s also the perfect
climate for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Blue Rock’s commitment to quality is reflected in its hands-on approach to vineyard
work and harvest, which are meticulously carried out by a dedicated team. The team
maintains a year-round relationship with the vines, ensuring the highest quality in every
bottle.
All winemaking activities and production occur onsite, overseen by, Aaron Piotter,
whose 30+ years of expertise shine through in every glass of Blue Rock wine

See you there!

James C. Barlow, CWE, CSS

Spec’s Fine Wine Buyer