While visiting the Temecula Valley, Norm and I visited Briar Rose Winery and experienced exceptional wines produced by Les Linkogle.

Les and his wife Dorian do things their way, and it works. In addition to the aroma and flavor being outstanding, it was evident you were experience some of the best wine ever.

In the tasting room, there were ribbons upon ribbons. Les Linkogle was asked which three wines lead the way for its many accolades in 2009.

Les and Dorian choose the following:

2007 Katrina Estate Zinfandel

Double Gold –
$92.00
This amazing wine won Best of Appellation in
Fall 2009. Made in the
Old World style it is 100% Zinfandel and displays deep aromas of ripe black cherries and plumb laced with raisin, shadowed by spicy toasted oak notes that carry into a long luscious finish.
Co-owner Dorian Linkogle says she is , “T

hrilled and honored to be recognized by the Nape Appellation board.”

2004 Petit Verdot Private Collection

Gold Medal
$105.00 / From the “Private Collection”
The 2004 Petit Verdot is a show stopper. It won the Chairman’s Award at the Riverside International Wine Competition in the

Fall 2009.

This Petit Verdot displays wonderful aromas. It is jet black and dense with an enormous core of white pepper and spice. Aromas of blackberry and truffle are found just below the surface. The palate is filled with blackberries, clove and plum. The tannins are soft and round producing an incredibly long finish.

This wine is typically a blending grape. According to winemaker/co-owner Les Linkogle, “Few wineries are producing a single variety Petit Verdot, however Briar Rose has produced a Petit Verdot that received a unanimous Gold Medal from every Judge in the competition. Again, we are honored. “

2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
$58.00
Awarded the Gold Medal Best of Class award at the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition
Fall, 2009, this

2004 Cabernet Sauvignon is rich and deeply concentrated with aromas and flavors of blackberry, currant and cassis, accented by nuances of sweet oak and spice. The wine has depth and complexity with a velvety finish.

The 2004 Cab also won Best Red single variety at the Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival and is one of Briar Rose’s most popular wines. “We are so very proud of the Hand Crafted World Class wines produced at Briar Rose Winery and are always honored to be awarded such prestigious medals from such creditable International Wine Competitions,” shares the owners Les & Dorian Linkogle.

For us, Briar Rose is a special occasion choice we thoroughly enjoy. Wine tastings are by reservation only.

Briar Rose Winery
41720 Calle Cabrillo, Temecula, CA
951 308 1098

* 951-308-109

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Maralyn
Author: Maralyn

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.