After over thirty years heading up the Los Angeles Dodgers, Tommy Lasorda is leading a new venture: wine. Baseball fans and wine enthusiasts can now enjoy Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon and Monterey Chardonnay made by Lasorda Family Wines.
While Lasorda Family Wines was borne just last year, Lasorda’s ties to wine run all the way back to his upbringing in an Italian family. His father immigrated from the Abruzzo region of Italy, and would often make wine for friends and family. Today, Lasorda is continuing the tradition with frequent family gatherings and a wine of his own.
To produce the wines, Lasorda teamed up with winemaker Terry Culton. Terry has worked with several acclaimed wineries, including Calera Wines and Adelaida Cellars, prior to his current venture, Culton Wine Co.
We had the opportunity to experience the latest vintage of Lasorda Wines, and were impressed. The wines are vivacious, expressive, and filled with personality — like Lasorda himself. Even without Lasorda’s name, they merit attention on their own as handcrafted wines. Here’s a closer look:
2016 Lasorda Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon
The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon might be young, but it’s no rookie when it comes to flavor. It delivers a powerful first hit of bright, juicy black cherry, black plum, and blackberry, which is nicely rounded out by mint, warm earth, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. With its firm-yet-velvety tannins and mouthwatering acidity, this is a wonderfully refreshing and food-friendly red. The succulent nature of this wine made it perfect for seared rosemary lamb chops.
2016 Lasorda Monterey Chardonnay
With its vibrant lemongrass and citrus notes, this Chardonnay paired perfectly with a dish of seared scallops. The wine retains a refreshing acidity — a testament to the cooling Monterey fog — balanced by a silky, supple body. It’s no wonder this sold-out vintage received 88 points from Wine Enthusiast.
We’re excited by the potential that Lasorda Family Wines has to offer, and look forward to future vintages and varietals. Can’t make it to the Dodgers Stadium? You can also get a hold of Lasorda Family Wines online. Learn more or purchase at lasordawines.com.