I had a chance to meet and taste wine with Erik Miller, the Winemaker and Owner of Kokomo Winery when he visited me at Avalon Golf and Country Club. Miller is one of the young rising stars in Sonoma County. He has established an impressive portfolio of wines that he made for other wineries over the years and started Kokomo as the first project he owns.

The results are quite impressive from Miller's passionate pursuit of producing high quality wines that are quintessentially Sonoma County. Miller has risen to acclaim from Midwest roots. He was born and raised in Kokomo, Indiana and graduated from Purdue University. Millers seems to enjoy coming back to the Midwest to promote his wines.

Here is what we tasted together:

2013 Kokomo Timber Crest Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley

This Sauvignon Blanc has depth of palate with loads of complexity that you typically do not see from the varietal. With aromas of pear, apricot, guava and a hint of tangerine, the palate showcases rich and round notes of citrus finishing with vibrant balanced acidity.

2012 Kokomo Chardonnay, Peter’s Vineyard, Russian River Valley

This Sauvignon Blanc has depth of palate with loads of complexity that you typically do not see from the varietal. With aromas of pear, apricot, guava and a hint of tangerine, the palate showcases rich and round notes of citrus finishing with vibrant balanced acidity.

2012 Kokomo Cuvee’, Sonoma County

This blend is primarily made up of fruit that is grown by our 4th generation grower and partner, Randy Peters. The Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec are all meticulously farmed right here in Dry Creek Valley. The Grenache and Petite Sirah vines are certified organic and 100% dry farmed to showcase the true essence of the varietal. This Bordeaux/Rhone blend was made to showcase the complexity of this world class growing region. The main goal for this blend was to make a beautiful food wine that is complex, balanced, and easy to drink.

2012 Kokomo Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley

A beautiful display of ruby red color leads to a bouquet of blackberry, cocoa and baking spices. The palate offers delightful blackberry and plum with refined tannins, a full body and finish that lasts from front to finish.

2012 Kokomo Ruth’s Vineyard Cabernet, Alexander Valley

The 2012 vintage was a banner year in Northern California, with a bountiful yet high quality yield. Subtle notes of smoke tobacco leaf and mineral, underscore the plum, dried rosemary and dark cherry flavors in this balanced wine. This wine calls out for a piece of grilled meat and will certainly age gracefully for the next 12 to 15 years.

You can enjoy the opportunity to taste all the Kokomo wines at a local event. Wine Academy: An Evening with Kokomo Winery is Thursday May 21st, 7PM, at Avalon Golf and Country Club at Squaw Creek. You can make a reservation by logging on to www.myvalleyvino.com