State Rocks and Amazing Wines
A purple cork event isn’t just a lesson in wine—it’s a lesson in trivia! Do you know, what’s your state rock? It’s okay, you can Google it now, we’ll wait...
Spoiler alert: here in California, it’s the beautiful blue serpentine rock! This shiny green and blue rock became the state rock in 1965. Serpentine also inspired the name of our partner Blue Rock Vineyard & Winery, as it can be found sprinkled all over the vineyard and estate. Serpentine rock has a special role in California’s plant life, and its soil aids in the growth of around 10 percent of the state’s native plants.
So, what does this have to do with wine? This state rock has its own effect on the soil and therefore the growth of vines.
Struggling Vines = Amazing Wines
Let’s nerd out for a moment: the chemical effect that serpentine rock has on the soil can harm the production of grapevines. Magnesium silicate found in the soil from this rock can lead to stunted growth, and wineries around Sonoma county have to be careful when planting vines to make sure this state rock won’t negatively affect their vines. The serpentine soil is low in moisture and nutritional content, which can cause the vines to struggle. It might sound counterintuitive, but this is a good thing! Why? It can also produce grapes with extraordinary aromatics and fruit flavor. Blue Rock has overcome the challenges of having serpentine rock around their 100-acre estate vineyard, and have committed to hard work and sustainable practices that help them produce premium wines.
“The blue rocks pose a little bit of a challenge, but make for some really stellar wines.”
Tasting Notes
Let’s get to the fun part: wine tasting! The rock not only affects the soil that the winery's grapes are grown in, but it also has an impact on the delicious wines that Blue Rock crafts year after year. The different aromas that come from having the state rock so close include blueberry, and exotic things like rose petals. Kenny Kahn, the owner of Blue Rock, said “these are aromas and flavors that you normally don’t get out of a new world vineyard.” Right on, Kenny.
If you’re interested in learning more about Blue Rock and California’s state rock (or your own!), schedule your tasting with purple cork today.