Splurge on a Special Wine this Valentines Day

Extraordinary meals call for extraordinary wines. The 2005 SOMA Cabernet Savignon from the Maritas Vineyard qualifies as the wine in question. This Valentine’s Day, a wine like the SOMA, can express deep affection.

I had the chance to savor this unique vintage during the holidays. The meal took place on Thanksgiving and while turkey and dressing may seem common, the fact that they generally appear only once a year certainly makes this meal rare.

Priced at $89 per bottle, the SOMA demanded respect but once uncorked and poured, the pressure was on the wine to meet expectations Boasting a combination of fruit, e.g. dried currant, plumb, and cranberry, combined with other notes, like vanilla and clove, it was the French oak, in which it fermented, that stepped forward, adding a smokiness that worked well with the turkey. The dark ruby liquid in each glass also brought warmth to the table.

It’s not often that we get to sample wine made by Latino vintners, which made the experience even more special. Marita's Vineyard began with a dream of a father and his two sons to own a vineyard and produce great wine. In 2001, this dream materialized from the work of Bulmaro and Manuel Jr. Armed with their father’s dedication, work ethics, expertise, and skills, the brothers embarked on their wine-making journey.

Part of a production run that came to 230 cases and 30 magnums, the 2005 SOMA Cabernet is not the most common wine, in fact, you can’t buy it at any liquor store. It can only be purchased online or in person at the winery in Napa, California.

For a limited time, the winery is offering a 20 percent discount and free shipping for purchasing online, utilizing two coupon codes. Just go to www.maritasvineyard.com and use promo codes VD2011 and ZS (one after the other).

You eat more slowly with a wine like the SOMA, extending a meal graciously. Its smoky, full-bodied flavor added refinement to an otherwise hearty family meal. Instead of competing, the SOMA’s flavor notes flattered the meal, improving the entire experience.

This Valentine’s Day affords another special holiday to savor the SOMA but with this wine, any day can be like Valentine’s Day (or Thanksgiving for that matter). Made with care and artfulness, you can taste the love.