Martha Stoumen | Mendocino Benchlands

Martha Stoumen’s Mendocino Benchlands is a thoughtfully crafted red wine from California’s Mendocino County, reflecting the unique terroir of the area and Stoumen’s commitment to natural winemaking. Known for her minimalist approach and dedication to showcasing California’s lesser-known grape varieties, Martha Stoumen produces wines that are balanced, complex, and expressive of place. The Mendocino Benchlands blend offers a beautifully nuanced and approachable red, perfect for those who appreciate vibrant, food-friendly wines.

Winemaker & Philosophy: Martha Stoumen emphasizes sustainable, organic, and dry-farmed practices, with a hands-off approach in the cellar to allow the vineyard to speak through the wine. Her winemaking philosophy centers on using native yeasts, minimal sulfur, and low intervention. This style results in wines that are full of character and distinctly Californian, yet show Old World sensibility in their structure and balance.

Grape Variety & Terroir: Mendocino Benchlands is a field blend that varies slightly by vintage, often incorporating varieties such as Carignan, Zinfandel, and Grenache. The vineyards in the Mendocino Benchlands benefit from well-draining soils and a warm, Mediterranean climate, which allows for full ripeness while preserving acidity. The dry-farming techniques used also lend concentration and depth to the wine, while the diverse grape varieties contribute to a layered, balanced profile.

Flavor Profile: This wine offers aromas of fresh red and dark fruits, including blackberry, plum, and cherry, accented by floral notes of violet and a touch of dried herbs. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a smooth texture, featuring flavors of juicy blackberries, ripe raspberry, and a hint of earthy minerality. The acidity is lively, keeping the wine fresh and balanced, while gentle tannins provide structure and a long, clean finish.

Pairings: Mendocino Benchlands pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, including roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and hearty pastas. It’s also a great match for Mediterranean-inspired fare, such as lamb skewers, ratatouille, or spiced eggplant dishes. Its balance and fruit-forward nature make it a versatile choice for both casual meals and more formal dinners.

Key Details:

• Grape Variety: Typically a blend of Carignan, Zinfandel, and Grenache
• Region: Mendocino County, California, USA
• Farming Practices: Organic, dry-farmed, sustainable
• Body: Medium-bodied
• Aging: Aged in neutral oak barrels to maintain purity of fruit
• Alcohol Content: Approximately 13.5% ABV
• Aging Potential: 3–5 years

Martha Stoumen’s Mendocino Benchlands is a beautifully balanced red blend, showcasing the warmth and vibrancy of Mendocino’s terroir with an emphasis on freshness, complexity, and drinkability.