All California Reds On Sale!

Winemaker Description

This signature wine contains only fruit farmed on Howell Mountain. The wine comes in a distinctive bottle that is hand dipped in red wax. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. aged 32 months in 100% new French oak.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2017

Vinous Antonio Galloni 97 Points | The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is sure to make Dunn fans happy. Powerful and ample, it marries the natural intensity of the year with the savoriness that makes Howell Mountain Cabernets so distinctive. Dark blue/purplish fruit, graphite, spice, leather, dried herbs and lavender imbue the 2017 with striking intensity and character. I can't wait to see how it ages. The 2017 is a positively stunning edition of the Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon.  Drinking 2027 - 2047.

Robert Parker Joe Czerwinski 96 Points | Already more open than the 2018 Howell Mountain, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain boasts slightly piney, resinous herb notes—thyme and rosemary—along with classic cassis and blueberry fruit. Yes, there's a cedary coat of oak, but the fruit comes through loud and clear, adding a rich, velvety textural component and mouthwatering berry flavors on the lingering finish.  Drinking 2025 - 2040  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 96+

Wine Spectator James Molesworth 95 Points | Fresh ripe cassis, blackberry and plum fruit flavors course through, carried by tar and apple wood notes that are well-embedded, giving this a muscular but sleek feel. Features a great tug of dark earth and licorice snap on the palate-staining finish. Best from 2023 through 2038. 

Winemaker Description

The Ramsay Pinot Noir California 2023 is a beautiful ruby red that bursts with cherries, raspberries, and a touch of cassis. Medium-bodied with wonderful depth of flavor, fresh fruit joins with soft oak to create a beautifully long and smooth finish that satisfies from first sip to last.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roasted duck, grilled salmon, or herb-roasted chicken.
• Casual: Mushroom risotto, charcuterie boards, or a classic burger.
• Cheese: Brie, Gruyère, or a mild aged Gouda.

Winemaker's Notes

Vibrancy of fruit is the focal point of Unshackled Cabernet Sauvignon. The nose opens with inviting aromas of ripe plum and blackberry with a subtle hint of olive. On the palate, flavors of black stone fruit, clove, and dried herbs unfold against a solid tannin structure — delivering a flavor-forward Cabernet Sauvignon with beautifully balanced acidity and a lingering, satisfying finish.

• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• Tannins: Solid structure, well-balanced
• Style: Flavor-forward, fruit-driven

Producer Notes

Twenty Rows sources fruit from diverse North Coast vineyards to create complexity and rich structure. Mountain fruit provides velvety tannins with aromas and flavors of cherry and black pepper with a hint of herbs. Valley floor fruit complements with cherry, plum, and dark fruit. The result is a well-made, balanced, and textured North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon — fruit-forward, pleasantly rustic, and worthy of savoring.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2022

• Wine Enthusiast 91 pts | Robust and rich with dark berry, plum, tarragon, and maple aromas. Supple blackberry, cassis, orange slices, and dried tobacco on the palate. A classic wine.
• The Tasting Panel 91 pts | Perfumed with savory herbs and spices. Fruit-forward yet pleasantly rustic with rhubarb and cigar box lingering with a hint of smoke. A showcase of classic California Cabernet.
• James Suckling 90 pts | Well-made, balanced, and textured with dark berries, sweet spices, and chocolate wafers. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Mellow, seductive, and generous finish.

Food Pairings

• Grilled ribeye or lamb chops
• BBQ brisket or slow-braised short ribs
• Aged cheddar or smoked gouda
• Hearty pasta or wood-fired pizza

Hahn Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Nicky Hahn California 2024 750ml

Winemaker Description

The Nicky Hahn Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a striking deep ruby color — almost black with vivid crimson highlights — and a beautifully balanced nose of black cherry, anise, olive, and cedar. Rich, ripe, and generous on the palate, it delivers dark fruits, raspberry, and a touch of hard candy, finishing with a whisper of tobacco and firm, well-structured tannins anchored by a bright acid core.

Winemaker Adam LaZarre recommends pairing with a rack of lamb with sundried cherry sauce or beef medallions with cranberry Dijon chutney.

Wine Details

Producer: Hahn Estates
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: California, United States
Vintage: 2024
Closure: Screwcap
Size: 750ml

True Myth Cabernet Sauvignon — Paso Robles 2022

True Myth is one of Paso Robles’ most compelling value propositions — a Cabernet Sauvignon that punches well above its price with genuine complexity, critical acclaim, and the unmistakable warmth of California’s Central Coast. The 2022 vintage is rich, polished, and built to age.

The nose opens with blueberry, cherry, and vanilla, layered with aromas of spice, fennel, and thyme. On the palate, dark red fruits, black currant, and hints of pepper, mocha, and caramelized oak unfold with a structure of dense tannins and refreshing acidity. Rich yet smooth, this wine is approachable now and will continue to develop beautifully for years to come.

The Tasting Panel 93 • Wine Enthusiast 89

• Producer: True Myth Winery, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blueberry, cherry, black currant, pepper, mocha, caramelized oak, fennel
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2028+
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised lamb, aged gouda, mushroom risotto

A critically acclaimed Paso Robles Cab at an everyday price — True Myth lives up to its name.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

James Suckling 92 Points | Ripe dark berries, grilled herbs, licorice, ground cloves and walnuts on the nose. Full-bodied, dense and creamy, with velvety tannins and a fruit-forward, seductive aftertaste. Succulent and concentrated. Drink or hold.

Producer Description

Dark and luscious, the 2023 Diamond Collection Claret showcases flavors of plum, black pepper, and cocoa. Good length, firm tannins, and sophisticated character are enhanced by a full body and long finish.

The term “Claret” is traditionally used to describe a Bordeaux-style red blend, and this wine consistently delivers a rich, smooth, and fruit-forward take on that classic style.

Food Pairings

Serve at 60–65°F. This rich red blend is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Roasted or Grilled Meats: Steak, lamb, beef tenderloin.
• Hard Cheeses: Aged Cheddar or Gouda.
• Savory Dishes: Mushroom risotto or pasta with a meat-based sauce.

• Producer: Francis Ford Coppola Winery
• Appellation: California
• Style: Bordeaux-style Red Blend (Claret)
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml

Opus One was born from an extraordinary partnership — Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild and Robert Mondavi of Napa Valley, united by a single dream: to create one wine of uncompromising quality that would stand among the world's greatest. First produced in 1979, Opus One has spent four decades refining that vision, drawing from four estate vineyards including 100 acres within the legendary To Kalon Vineyard and 70 acres in the Ballestra and River parcels. Winemaker Michael Silacci leads the estate with a rare combination of intuition and technical mastery, guiding both vineyard and cellar with equal care.

The Opus One Oakville Napa Valley 2022 750ml is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 6.5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, and 0.5% Malbec, aged 18 months in French oak. The 2022 vintage presented extreme heat challenges, and the Opus team responded by picking early and decisively — beginning with Merlot on August 24th — to preserve freshness and purity. The result is a wine of great energy and elegance: chocolate, cherry, and rose petal on the nose, with creamy, slightly grippy tannins, juicy concentrated fruit, and a long, pure finish. Decanter calls it "a darling of a wine" — not a blockbuster, but something more refined and alive. Best from 2027–2037.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• Decanter — 97 Points: "Chocolate, cherry and rose petal aromas. Juicy and lively, full of fun — fruity and concentrated. The tannins are just wonderful, creamy and slightly grippy. Long lasting with purity and delicacy. A darling of a wine."
• James Suckling — 96 Points: "Generous, with savory aromas of ripe blackcurrants and fresh black cherries. Graphite, pencil shavings, cocoa and espresso. Full-bodied and well structured. Best from 2028."
• Wine Advocate — 95 Points: "Ripe, extroverted personality. Rosemary and sandalwood notes accent cherries on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, expansive and plush, finishing with ample length and soft tannins."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 94 Points: "Very pretty, elegant, and seamless. Red and black fruits with fresh flowers and baking spices. Fresh, elegant, lively mouthfeel with fine tannins and a great finish."
• Vinous — 92+ Points: "Soft, relatively easygoing with terrific brightness throughout. Tannins are a bit searing at this stage — will be interesting to see how things shake out."
• Wine Spectator — 92 Points: "Lighter-bodied, fresher profile with red currant, damson plum and cherry coulis, tobacco and rose petal. Best from 2027 through 2037."

Wine Details

• 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 6.5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, 0.5% Malbec
• Oakville AVA, Napa Valley, California — To Kalon Vineyard & estate parcels
• Aged 18 months in French oak
• Vintage: 2022 | Drink 2027–2037 | 750ml

Rombauer Vineyards has been one of Napa Valley's most beloved family estates since 1980, celebrated for wines of generosity, precision, and genuine pleasure. While their Chardonnay is iconic, their Zinfandel is a quiet revelation — drawing on old-vine fruit from both Napa and the Sierra Foothills, where 120–130-year-old vines in Plymouth, California add extraordinary depth and concentration.

The Rombauer Zinfandel Napa 2023 750ml is a standout vintage. Aged 14 months in a combination of American and French oak (10% new), it bursts with bright cherry, red plum, and raspberry jam on the nose, layered with vanilla, holiday spices, lavender, and mocha. The 2023 growing season was cool and consistent, with warm September spells that extended hang time and delivered exceptional fruit intensity. On the palate, the wine is soft and creamy at mid-palate, with fine tannins, a zesty thread of acidity, and a long, lush finish. Sustainably farmed, block by block, with NDVI aerial imaging guiding every decision.

Expert Reviews

• Decanter — 92 Points: "Beautifully lifted and red-fruited, showing strawberry and cranberry alongside sweet clove, vanilla, and gentle baking spices. There's wonderful mid-palate concentration, with a freshness factor in 2023 that's off the charts. Just spectacular."
• Wine Enthusiast — 91 Points: "Lush red berries, cassis, sarsaparilla, cocoa, supple vanilla on the nose; the palate is balanced with youthful blackberry, blueberry, cardamom, orange zest, and mouth-watering acidity to finish."

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Cherry, red plum, raspberry jam, vanilla, lavender, and holiday spices
• Palate: Soft and creamy with mocha, clove, white pepper, and fine tannins
• Finish: Long, lush, and lifted with zesty acidity

Wine Details

• Zinfandel — Napa Valley & Sierra Foothills (120–130-year-old vines)
• Aged 14 months in American & French oak (10% new)
• Sustainably farmed | Vintage: 2023
• 750ml

Hartford Court Pinot Noir — Russian River Valley, Sonoma County 2023

Hartford Court is one of the Russian River Valley’s most celebrated Pinot Noir producers, farming estate vineyards across the appellation’s most prized sub-zones — including Green Valley and the Sebastopol Hills — where the deepest fog penetration and coolest temperatures in all of Sonoma County produce Pinot Noir of extraordinary perfume, precision, and elegance. The 2023 Russian River Valley is a barrel selection blending fruit from these premier estate sites, matured for nine months in 28% new French oak. It earned 94 points from Jeb Dunnuck, 93 from James Suckling, and 92 from The Wine Advocate — a triple-score performance that confirms Hartford Court’s place among California’s elite Pinot Noir producers.

The nose is seductive and captivating: fresh leather, ripe cherries, red roses, baking spices, cranberry, pomegranate, tobacco, tea leaves, and forest earth — the classic perfumed character of the Russian River Valley at its most expressive. On the palate, the wine is medium-to-full-bodied with a focused, bright feel — refreshing mouthwatering acidity, ripe grainy tannins, concentrated spicy flavors, and a long, flavorful finish of spice, bitter orange rind, and forest floor. Drink now through 2040.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 — "Seductive perfume with notes of fresh leather, ripe cherries, sweet spices, and forest earth. Focused and bright, with refreshing acidity, ripe tannins, and a gently tapering, spiced finish. Drink 2026–2040." (Vintage 2023). 

James Suckling 93 — "Lush and pleasurable with aromas of red roses and baking spices. Full-bodied with silky tannins, a rich and satisfying finish, and pleasant bitter orange rind at the end." (Vintage 2023). 

Wine Advocate 92 — "Layered aromas of cranberry, pomegranate, graham cracker, tobacco, tea leaves and forest floor. Concentrated, spicy flavors framed by grainy tannins and juicy acidity, with a long, flavorful finish." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Hartford Court, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Russian River Valley AVA
• Vineyards: Estate sites including Green Valley & Sebastopol Hills
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Aging: 9 months, 28% new French oak
• Drinking Window: Now – 2040
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe cherry, red rose, cranberry, pomegranate, baking spice, tobacco, forest floor, bitter orange rind
• Best Paired With: Roasted duck breast with cherry glaze, grilled salmon, wild mushroom risotto, Brie, Camembert

A triple 90-point Russian River Valley Pinot Noir from one of Sonoma’s most celebrated estate producers — Hartford Court 2023 is the benchmark for what Green Valley and Sebastopol Hills fruit, aged in French oak, can deliver.

Napa Zinfandel with Finesse — From One of California’s Iconic Estates

Grgich Hills is one of Napa Valley’s most storied estates, founded by Miljenko “Mike” Grgich — the winemaker behind the legendary 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Their 2019 Napa Valley Zinfandel is a departure from the overblown Zins of the past: elegant, fresh, and certified organic, with lifted acidity and fine-grained tannins that showcase what Zinfandel can do when approached with finesse.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019

• Decanter — 92 pts: “Opulent and lavish nose of menthol, cassis and spice, palate of dark fruit, redcurrant, bramble and spicy oak.”
• Wine Review Online — 92 pts: “A breath of fresh air. An elegant medium ruby with strawberry jam, sweet cherry, vanilla, fine-grained tannins and lifted, fresh acidity. This wine showcases well what Zinfandel can do when approached with finesse.”

Winemaker Notes

Grgich Hills Zinfandel Napa Valley 2019 750ml

Inviting aromas of cherry, raspberry, and blackberry intermixed with hints of cranberry and blood orange. Graceful and soft on the front palate, with mixed red berries and lively tannins adding luscious texture through the mid-palate. Its long finish reveals spicy undertones and superb freshness — built to age beautifully for many years.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Zinfandel
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Grgich Hills Estate
• Vintage: 2019
• Certified: Organic
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A versatile red — excellent with BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, pizza, lamb burgers, aged cheddar, and spiced dishes.

Eight Generations of Farming — Mettler Family’s Lodi Cabernet

The Mettler family has farmed the same land in Lodi for eight generations — one of California’s longest continuous farming legacies. Their 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to that deep-rooted connection to place: elegant, accessible, and built for the long haul. Lodi’s warm days and cool Delta breezes produce Cabernet of exceptional ripeness and balance at an outstanding everyday price.

Winemaker Notes

Mettler Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Lodi 2022 750ml

Deep garnet in color with inviting aromas of dark cherry and nutmeg. Flavors of dark cherry and plum with a hint of vanilla, perfectly paired with balanced acidity and moderate tannins. Elegant and accessible now, with the structure and complexity to age beautifully for many years.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Lodi, California
• Producer: Mettler Family Vineyards
• Vintage: 2022
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A classic California Cab pairing — excellent with grilled ribeye, BBQ brisket, roasted lamb, aged cheddar, and hearty pasta dishes.

The Secret Ingredient Is Dirt — Brendel’s Multi-Vineyard Napa Cabernet

Brendel sources from some of Napa Valley’s most coveted sites — the eastern side of Rutherford, the highest elevations of Howell Mountain, two diverse plots in St. Helena, and a steep parcel in Oak Knoll. Their philosophy is simple: great wine starts with great dirt. The 2021 Cooper’s Reed Cabernet Sauvignon is a fresh, vibrant expression of Napa’s famed grape — harvested under moonlight, fermented cool, and aged 9 months in upright oak casks to preserve bright red and black fruit character.

The Wine Advocate 90 Points | Made by the Heitz team led by winemaker Brittany Sherwood, Brendel's 2021 Cooper's Reed Cabernet Sauvignon now includes a sufficient amount of Sonoma fruit to carry a North Coast AVA on the label—this vintage is approximately two-thirds Napa and one-third Sonoma, and the blend includes 5% Petite Sirah and 1% Merlot. Still made in old oak vats to avoid overt wood influence and just medium-bodied, it's something of a throwback stylistically. Although the fruit is quite obvious upfront, combining black cherries and blackberries, the wine is streamlined and somewhat restrained on the palate, finishing with ample length, hints of star anise and a silky texture. (Vintage 2021). 

As Featured In

San Francisco Chronicle — “Their range of wines are made from some of the best sites in Napa’s most renowned regions. Each vineyard is chosen for its quality and unique aptitude, with soil types ranging from volcanic to clay to bring out the best in each grape. It’s, as they put it, good dirt.”

Winemaker Notes

Brendel Cabernet Sauvignon Cooper’s Reed Napa Valley 2021 750ml

Harvested under moonlight and crushed at cool temperatures, this Cab is thoughtfully monitored throughout fermentation. After 7–10 days, it’s gently pressed to upright oak casks for 9 months of maturation. Fruit sourced from prized Napa and Sonoma vineyards delivers mouthwatering structure with bright red and black fruit throughout.

— Brittany Sherwood, Director of Winemaking

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Key Sites: Rutherford, Howell Mountain, St. Helena, Oak Knoll
• Producer: Brendel
• Vintage: 2021
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural Napa Cab pairing — excellent with grilled ribeye, roasted lamb, mushroom risotto, aged gouda, and hearty pasta.

Expert Review — Vintage 2022

James Suckling 92 Points | Aromas of black currants, plums, mocha, bay leaves and a touch of cedar. The palate is full-bodied with smooth tannins and fresh acidity, giving dark berries, cocoa and a light, earthy finish. Balanced and easy to enjoy. Drink or hold.

Winemaker Description

Folie à Deux Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a pure expression of its region. Concentrated aromas of graphite, boysenberry, dark cherry, a hint of menthol and black olive sit atop clove and brown sugar notes. Rich, round and robust in structure, showcasing ripe, concentrated flavors of dark fruit complemented by chocolate, molasses, tobacco spice, and a balanced finish.

Food Pairings

• Grilled ribeye or lamb chops
• Braised short ribs or beef stew
• Aged cheddar or gouda
• Dark chocolate desserts

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon That Defines Organic Elegance

Grgich Hills Estate has been a Napa Valley icon since Miljenko "Mike" Grgich crafted the legendary Chardonnay that triumphed at the 1976 Paris Tasting. Their Organic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to biodynamic farming and old-world winemaking philosophy — structured, graceful, and built to age. The 2021 vintage delivers the hallmark Grgich precision: bright acidity, fine-grained tannins, and a fruit profile that is both expressive and restrained.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

• Decanter — 94 pts: "Grgich's Napa Cabernet is a bright, energetic, savoury-styled Napa classic. Its effusive black fruits and spearmint aromas give way to a medium to full-bodied red with a dusty tannin backbone framed by almost electric acidity. This impressive, tightly-knit, lovely structured Cabernet will prove a standout of the vintage."
• James Suckling — 90 pts: "Aromas of sweet red and purple berries, dried hibiscus, moss and thyme. Full-bodied with firm tannins. The aromas continue onto the palate, with the sweet fruit as the star of the show. From organically grown grapes."

Winemaker Notes

Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon Organic Napa 2021 750ml

This elegant, graceful wine opens with aromas of blackberries, blueberries, sweet blackcurrant and ripe black cherry, supported by hints of vanilla and sandalwood. The flavors on the palate are of fresh red and black berry fruit accompanied by hints of rosemary and violets. The richness of the fruit is balanced with bright acidity and soft, smooth tannins leading to a long and vibrant finish.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Grgich Hills Estate
• Vintage: 2021
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for the table — exceptional with prime rib, lamb chops, braised short ribs, aged cheeses, mushroom dishes, and hearty pasta with meat sauce.

Joel Gott Blend No. 815 Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2022 — 375ml Half Bottle

Joel Gott is one of California’s most beloved winemakers — a third-generation vintner who built his reputation on the simple idea that great wine should be approachable, consistent, and honestly priced. Blend No. 815 is his signature Cabernet Sauvignon — the number refers to the specific blend Joel crafts each vintage from select vineyards across California, always chasing the same benchmark of ripe fruit, velvety texture, and reliable quality. It has become one of the most recognized everyday Cabernets in the country, and the 2022 earned 90 points from Wine Enthusiast. This 375ml half bottle is the perfect format for a solo dinner, a casual weeknight, or whenever a full bottle feels like too much commitment.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is inviting and expressive: raspberries, blackberries, plum, and mocha, with notes of cinnamon and cedar. On the palate, red fruit leads the way into velvety tannins on the mid-palate, finishing long and textured with notes of black pepper. Approachable, reliable, and built for the table — this is California Cabernet at its most generous.

• Producer: Joel Gott Wines, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Blend: No. 815
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Style: Approachable, velvety, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, blackberry, plum, mocha, cinnamon, cedar, black pepper, velvety tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, burgers, BBQ, lamb chops, pasta with meat sauce, aged cheddar

California’s most reliable everyday Cabernet — in the perfect half-bottle format for any night of the week.

Single-Vineyard Napa Perfection — Nickel & Nickel State Ranch

Nickel & Nickel is Napa Valley's preeminent single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon producer, dedicated exclusively to crafting wines that express the unique character of individual estate vineyards. State Ranch is their Yountville expression — a site that delivers a distinctive combination of power, elegance, and aromatic complexity that sets it apart from other Napa appellations. At $110, this is a serious collector's Cabernet that rewards both immediate enjoyment and medium-term cellaring.

Winemaker Notes

Nickel & Nickel State Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon Yountville Napa Valley 2022 750ml

Powerful and driven, State Ranch captivates the nose with a perfume of mixed wild berries, black cherry, and aromatic herbs. At once juicy and concentrated, layers of black plum, black currant, and clove flavors unfold on the tongue. Polished tannins melt into the palate, beautifully framing the wine from entry to the long, silky finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Yountville, Napa Valley
• Vineyard: State Ranch (single-vineyard)
• Producer: Nickel & Nickel
• Vintage: 2022
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural at the fine dining table — exceptional with dry-aged ribeye, lamb rack with herbs, braised short ribs, wild mushroom risotto, and aged hard cheeses.

Orin Swift EIGHT YEARS In the Desert Zin, Petite Sirah, Syrah Napa Valley 2024 750ml

Winemaker Description

Eight Years in the Desert is the culmination of decades of Orin Swift winemaking — a wine born from an eight-year Zinfandel non-compete agreement entered in 2008 that pushed the team to hone their craft across other varietals, setting the stage for Zinfandel's triumphant return to the lineup.

The 2024 vintage is sourced from vineyards across California, including the historic Monte Rosso vineyard on Sonoma County's Moon Mountain District AVA, as well as Stefani Ranch, Dark Horse, and numerous others. What first catches the eye is the opaque mauve core with a vivid fuchsia rim. The nose opens with aromatics of black plum and boysenberry galette, Tellicherry peppercorn, cedar, and musk. Taut yet supple on entry, the palate delivers wild blackberry, crispy pluot, a hint of fennel, and slate, finishing with soft framing tannins and a close of milk chocolate-covered raspberry.

Expert Review

Wine Advocate 93 Points — Based primarily on Zinfandel (60%, mainly from Sonoma's Dry Creek Valley), with 28% Petite Sirah, 7% Syrah, and 5% other reds. A terrific effort with a perfumed nose of ripe raspberries and hints of stone fruit. Full-bodied (15.4% ABV) and silky-textured, nicely balanced and mouthwatering, with soft tannins on the finish.

Wine Details

Producer: Orin Swift Cellars
Blend: 60% Zinfandel, 28% Petite Sirah, 7% Syrah, 5% other reds
Region: California (Monte Rosso, Dry Creek Valley, and others)
Vintage: 2024
Aging: 8 months in French oak, 32% new
ABV: 15.4%
Size: 750ml

Farmer-First Sonoma Cabernet from an Epic Vintage

Pied à Terre — “foot to earth” — is a philosophy as much as a label. This producer believes the farmer’s footprint is the best fertilizer and the most important sight in a vineyard: when the land is well-trodden, the vine will be well-tended. Their 2018 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon comes from one of California’s great recent vintages — cooler temperatures and a long growing season produced wines of exceptional structure and concentration without overripeness.

Winemaker Notes

Pied a Terre Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County 2018 750ml

2018 was the first “normal” vintage in many years — none of the climatic difficulties that complicated the previous decade. Moderate weather led to a long, smooth growing season, allowing grapes to ripen gracefully. The result: a Cabernet of great structure and concentration, true to Sonoma’s terroir.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Sonoma County, California
• Producer: Pied à Terre
• Vintage: 2018
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A classic Sonoma Cab pairing — excellent with grilled ribeye, lamb chops, roasted mushrooms, aged cheddar, and hearty pasta dishes.

The Pinot Project · Pinot Noir · California Coastal · 2024 · 375ml Half Bottle

The Pinot Project was built on a simple premise: make genuinely good Pinot Noir from California’s best coastal growing regions, without the price tag that usually comes with it. The 2024 draws from a trio of complementary AVAs — Monterey and San Benito on the Central Coast, and Suisun Valley in the north — each contributing its own character to the blend. The diversity of soils and cool-climate conditions across these regions is what gives this wine its remarkable balance and depth. Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and destemmed to preserve bright fruit and freshness. At $9.99 for a 375ml half bottle (compare at $11.99), this is California coastal Pinot Noir that punches well above its price.

Garnet in the glass with a nose of dark cherry, blackberry, pomegranate, and a hint of cacao. On the palate: medium-bodied and smooth, with fine-grained tannins, flavors of ripe strawberry, dark cherry, and cranberry, and a clean, lingering finish. Drink now through 2026.

• Producer: The Pinot Project
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California (Monterey · San Benito · Suisun Valley)
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, blackberry, pomegranate, cacao, ripe strawberry, cranberry, fine-grained tannins, smooth finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2026
• Food Pairings: Salmon, roast chicken, mushroom pasta, charcuterie, soft-ripened cheese

Three California coastal AVAs, one beautifully balanced Pinot — the half bottle that earns a permanent spot in the fridge door.

Faust Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley 2023

Faust is one of Napa Valley’s most compelling Cabernet estates — a project rooted in the belief that great wine speaks distinctly of place. Named for the legendary scholar who pursued knowledge and excellence above all else, Faust channels that same relentless ambition into every vintage. The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 20 months in 25% new French oak — a restrained approach that preserves the purity and minerality of the fruit rather than masking it with wood. The 2023 vintage was a cool year in Napa, and Faust is a cool-climate estate: the combination produced a wine of real nerve, structure, and approachability, with ample aging potential. As Estate Director Jen Beloz puts it: “There is purity, intensity, and a savory minerality to every vintage.”

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is refined and expressive: red and dark fruit, crushed stones, dried herbs, flowers, and a whisper of salt-cured meat — a savory complexity that sets Faust apart from the valley’s more opulent styles. On the palate, it is tightly woven with a silken mouthfeel — earthy red and black fruits, leafy underbrush, tobacco, and chocolate, framed by fine tannins, balanced structure, and a succulent, minerally finish of outstanding length. Medium to full-bodied, structured, and built to age.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling — 96 Points
“Aromas of red and dark fruit, crushed stones, dried herbs, flowers and salt-cured meat. The palate is tightly woven with a silken mouthfeel, fine tannins and a succulent, minerally finish. A wine of real nerve and approachability young, with ample aging potential. A good example of what a cool vintage in a cool appellation can produce.”

Jeb Dunnuck — 91 Points
“Based on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged 20 months in 25% new French oak, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is solid, offering earthy red and black fruits intermixed with leafy underbrush, tobacco, and chocolate. It’s medium to full-bodied, has a balanced mouthfeel, and shows the more structured style of the vintage with outstanding length.”

• Producer: Faust, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: 20 months in 25% new French oak
• Style: Precise, mineral-driven, structured Napa Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red and dark fruit, crushed stones, dried herbs, salt-cured meat, tobacco, chocolate, minerally finish
• Drink Window: Now–2035+
• Best Paired With: Braised short ribs, roast lamb, duck confit, wild mushroom dishes, aged hard cheeses

Napa Cabernet with purity, nerve, and a savory soul — Faust 2023 is the antidote to over-extracted California Cab.

Turnbull Wine Cellars | Napa Valley, California | 2023

Forty years of estate farming distilled into a single bottle. Turnbull's Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is grown, harvested, and crafted entirely on their own land — a commitment to the long view that shows in every sip. The 2023 vintage arrives with deep purple hues and a nose of crème de cassis, graphite, crushed stone, and violets. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied with layered texture, focused structure, and fine tannins that promise a decade or more of graceful aging.

This is estate Napa Cabernet at a remarkable value — a crowd-pleaser with the bones to cellar.

Blend: 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc
Drink: 2025–2038

Tasting Notes

• Crème de cassis, graphite, crushed stone, violets
• Dark plums, blackberries, black currants, cedar, tobacco
• Succulent red cherry, cinnamon, new leather, mocha
• Medium to full body | Fine, layered tannins | Balanced acidity

Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2023 

• 93 pts — Jeb Dunnuck: "Beautifully pure aromatics... layered, fresh, focused mouthfeel... enough tannins to keep it drinking nicely for 10–15 years." Drink 2025–2038.
• 92 pts — James Suckling: "Full-bodied with fine tannins and balanced acidity... textural and fresh. Drink or hold."
• 91 pts — Vinous: "Positively stellar... a stellar value and a crowd-pleaser."

Turnbull. Stay true.

Exceptional Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

Belle Glos Las Alturas Vineyard Pinot Noir 2022 is a stunning expression from one of California's most prestigious wine regions. The vineyard name "Las Alturas" translates to "the heights," reflecting its elevated position on the highest grape-growing benches in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, reaching up to 1,200 feet. This lofty elevation creates a unique microclimate where sunny days meet cool coastal breezes, producing a wine that is robust, expressive, full-bodied, and beautifully balanced by firm acidity.

Expert Reviews & Critical Acclaim - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast - 93 Points: "Deep and dark aromas of black cherry, sandalwood and incense make for a heady nose on this bottling. The palate is big and bold, loaded with ripe black cherry and boysenberry flavors, as peppery, incense-like spices add complexity and the texture stays lusciously creamy."

Artisanal Winemaking Process

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the grapes were harvested in the early morning to preserve vineyard-fresh flavors. After destemming without crushing, the berries underwent a two-week cold soak to soften skins and optimize extraction. Fermentation took place in a combination of closed and open-top stainless steel fermenters, using both punch-downs and pump-overs to extract color, tannins, and maximize flavors. The wine was aged in 100% French oak (60% new) for up to nine months, followed by malolactic fermentation and two rackings before final blending.

Tasting Profile & Sensory Experience

This wine displays a rich crimson color that hints at its depth and complexity. The nose opens with fragrant aromas of Bing cherry, dried fig, black cassis, and hints of rich dark chocolate, complemented by sandalwood and incense notes. On the palate, discover bold and elegant flavors of marionberry pie, boysenberry preserves, dark plum, and subtle mocha, with peppery spices adding layers of complexity. The lusciously creamy texture is balanced by beautiful acidity that carries through to a long, mouthwatering finish.

Perfect Food Pairings

Belle Glos Las Alturas Pinot Noir's versatility makes it an exceptional companion to a wide range of dishes. Pair it with roasted duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto for classic combinations. It also complements lamb chops, beef tenderloin, pork loin, wild game, or aged cheeses beautifully. For vegetarian options, try it with truffle pasta, eggplant parmesan, or roasted root vegetables. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner or a festive celebration, this wine elevates any culinary experience.

Santa Lucia Highlands Terroir

The Las Alturas Vineyard benefits from the exceptional terroir of the Santa Lucia Highlands, where elevation, diverse soil types, and coastal influence combine to create wines of remarkable complexity and depth. The vineyard is meticulously cared for, ensuring only the finest grapes make it into each bottle. This commitment to quality and the unique characteristics of the region result in a Pinot Noir that truly captures the essence of one of California's most celebrated wine-growing areas.

Silverado Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown — Napa Valley 2023

Silverado Vineyards is one of Napa Valley’s most storied estates — founded in 1981 by Ron and Diane Miller and her mother, Lillian Disney, on historic vineyard sites in the Stags Leap District that had been planted to Cabernet as far back as the 1960s. For years, the family sold their fruit to neighboring wineries building global reputations for excellence. Then they decided it was time to make their own wines — their own expressions of the Napa Valley they loved. Today, under the ownership of Foley Family Wines and the leadership of Courtney Foley, Silverado continues that legacy with over 300 acres planted across some of Napa’s most celebrated AVAs: Stags Leap District, Yountville, Coombsville, Carneros, and Napa Valley proper. The Estate Grown Cabernet is their benchmark expression — a wine that has earned over 40 scores of 90 points or higher from the world’s top critics. The 2023 earned 93 points from Wine Spectator.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is soft and supple: black currants, dark chocolate, black olives, potpourri, and graphite — classic Stags Leap District aromatics with elegance and precision. On the palate, it is smooth and textural, with firmly framed tannins, bright acidity, and a long, polished finish. The blend is 81% Cabernet Sauvignon with small amounts of the other four Bordeaux varieties, adding complexity and structure. Drink now or cellar with confidence.

Wine Spectator — 93 Points — “Soft and supple aromas of black currants, dark chocolate, black olives, potpourri and graphite. The palate is smooth and textural, with firmly framed tannins, bright acidity and a long finish. A lovely blend of 81% cabernet sauvignon with small amounts of the other four Bordeaux varieties. Drink or hold.”

• Producer: Silverado Vineyards, Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Blend: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, plus Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec
• Designation: Estate Grown, Produced & Bottled
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Elegant, textural, estate-driven Napa Cabernet
• Tasting Notes: Black currant, dark chocolate, black olive, graphite, potpourri, bright acidity, long finish
• Drink Window: Now–2035+
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roast lamb, duck confit, aged hard cheeses

Four decades of Napa excellence — Silverado Vineyards Estate Grown 2023 is Stags Leap District Cabernet at its most refined.

Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon — Napa Valley 2022

Freemark Abbey is one of Napa Valley’s most historic estates — a winery with roots stretching back to 1886 and a reputation built on classic, terroir-driven Cabernet Sauvignon. Winemaker Kristy Melton sources from a diverse portfolio of estate vineyards and carefully selected purchased fruit across multiple Napa appellations and elevations — including the legendary Bosché Vineyard, Orchard Vineyard, Red Hen Vineyard, Colline, Henrickson, Carpenter, Red Barn Ranch, Castle Rock, and Atalon — to craft a wine that is classic, balanced, and genuinely complex. The 2022 vintage produced approximately 11,000 cases, with a blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and 1% Merlot, aged 20 months in French oak with 47% new barrels. Harvest ran from August 13th through October 14th, 2022. Alcohol: 14.5%. pH: 3.66.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is classic and inviting: dark chocolate, black forest fruits, oak spices, leather, and cedar, with bright aromas of ripe cherries and sunny strawberries adding lift and freshness. On the palate, it is full-bodied and soft — blueberry compote, espresso, olive, dried herbs, and black pepper, with fresh red currants and light baking spices woven through a velvety, well-structured mid-palate. The tannins are integrated and approachable, making it enjoyable now while remaining capable of cellaring well for years to come.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Decanter — 92 Points (Jonathan Cristaldi, Jul 2025)

James Suckling — 92 Points
“Bright aromas, ripe flavors, a full body but rather light tannins give this wine an easy drinkability. Red cherries and sunny strawberries on the nose, then a palate of good acidity with fresh red currants and light baking spices. Drink or hold.”

Wine Advocate — 90 Points
“Cedar and mocha shadings accent ripe cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is soft and velvety. Forward and probably not meant for the cellar, this is still a tasty wine, with just a hint of dried fruit on the finish.”

• Producer: Freemark Abbey, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Vineyards: Bosché, Orchard, Red Hen, Colline, Henrickson, Carpenter, Red Barn Ranch, Castle Rock, Atalon
• Blend: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Merlot
• Aging: 20 months in French oak, 47% new
• Alcohol: 14.5% | pH: 3.66
• Production: ~11,000 cases
• Style: Classic, balanced, multi-vineyard Napa Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, black forest fruit, cedar, blueberry compote, espresso, red currant, integrated tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2032+
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roast lamb, wild mushrooms, aged hard cheeses

One of Napa’s most storied addresses — Freemark Abbey 2022 is classic, balanced, and built for the table.

Hearst Ranch Bunkhouse Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2021 375ml Half Bottle

Discover the rich flavors of Hearst Ranch Bunkhouse Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2021, a remarkable representation of the unique terroir of Paso Robles. This artisanal wine is crafted from grapes grown in the sun-drenched vineyards of Hearst Ranch, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon. With its 375ml half-bottle format, it's perfect for those who appreciate great wine in manageable portions without compromising on flavor.

Exceptional Critical Acclaim - 2021 Vintage

Wine Enthusiast - 93 Points
"Dried cherry, cola and baking-spice aromas make for a clean and well integrated nose on this bottling. Ample tannins frame the ripe fruit, dried meat and graphite flavors, as acidity lingers into the finish."

Vinous - 92 Points
"Violets, lavender and rum-soaked black cherries form an inviting bouquet as the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Bunkhouse opens in the glass. Round and creamy in feel, yet lifted throughout, this impresses further with its sleek red and black fruits, as fine tannins build toward the close. This leaves a peppery flourish to linger through the structured finale, as hints of tart raspberry linger."

James Suckling - 90 Points
"A well-balanced and fruity cabernet sauvignon with cherries, raspberries and cassis on the nose. Medium-bodied with creamy tannins. Mellow and well-rounded, with a pleasant core of berries at the center and some spices in the delicious finish."

Grape Blend

Composition: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc
This classic Bordeaux-style blend showcases Cabernet Sauvignon's structure and complexity, enhanced by complementary varietals that add depth and roundness.

Tasting Profile

Aroma: Inviting bouquet of violets, lavender, rum-soaked black cherries, dried cherry, cola, and baking spices. Cherries, raspberries, and cassis. Clean and well-integrated nose
Palate: Round and creamy in feel, yet lifted throughout. Medium-bodied with sleek red and black fruits. Elegant profile rich and complex with dark fruits like blackberry and plum, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla and spice from oak aging. Ripe fruit, dried meat, and graphite flavors. Creamy tannins. Mellow and well-rounded with pleasant core of berries
Finish: Structured finale with peppery flourish. Hints of tart raspberry linger. Ample tannins frame the finish as acidity lingers. Delicious finish with spices

Paso Robles Terroir

Crafted from grapes grown in the sun-drenched vineyards of Hearst Ranch in Paso Robles, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon. The unique terroir of Paso Robles, with its warm days and cool nights, creates optimal conditions for developing concentrated flavors and balanced acidity.

The Hearst Ranch Legacy

Hearst Ranch is not just known for its exquisite wines; it's also celebrated for its commitment to sustainable practices and preserving the natural landscape. The vineyard employs traditional farming methods that respect the environment while providing an exceptional product. Each bottle reflects the dedication and passion of the Hearst family in crafting wines that honor their heritage. By choosing Hearst Ranch Bunkhouse Cabernet Sauvignon, you are tasting a legacy that spans generations and encapsulates the essence of Paso Robles.

Perfect Half Bottle Format

The 375ml half bottle is perfect for those who appreciate great wine in manageable portions without compromising on flavor. This convenient format offers several advantages:

• Perfect portion for one or two people
• Ideal for intimate dinners and small gatherings
• No leftover wine to worry about
• Great for trying new wines
• Convenient for picnics and outdoor dining
• Elegant presentation for gifting
• Perfect for weeknight enjoyment

2021 Vintage Excellence

The 2021 vintage showcases exceptional quality with multiple 90+ point scores from respected critics. This vintage represents the ideal growing conditions and expert winemaking that define Hearst Ranch's commitment to excellence.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairing Hearst Ranch Bunkhouse Cabernet Sauvignon with food enhances its rich flavors and brings out the best in each component. This wine complements:

• Grilled lamb and hearty beef stews
• Aged cheeses
• Classic Italian pasta dishes
• Dark chocolate desserts
• Robust dishes and red meats
• Barbecue and grilled meats

Versatile for Any Occasion

Its adaptability ensures it shines whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Perfect for both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike, this wine delivers an experience that is both satisfying and memorable.

Sustainable Winemaking

Hearst Ranch's commitment to sustainable practices and traditional farming methods that respect the environment ensures that each bottle represents not only exceptional quality but also environmental stewardship. The vineyard's dedication to preserving the natural landscape reflects in every glass.

Artisanal California Cabernet

Hearst Ranch Bunkhouse Cabernet Sauvignon represents artisanal California winemaking at its finest. With well-structured tannins providing a balanced mouthfeel that lingers on the palate, this wine showcases the quality and character that has earned it critical acclaim and made it a favorite among wine enthusiasts.

Winemaker Description 

Established in 1978, Kistler Vineyards stands as a pioneer in the realm of Californian winemaking, guided by the vision of founders Steve Kistler and Mark Bixler. Their belief that exceptional wines of site could thrive in California laid the foundation for a four-decade journey marked by dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Kistler’s Pinot Noirs are come from two heritage selections originating from a Grand Cru vineyard in Burgundy. Both clones contribute to the richness and complexity of the wines. The approach in the vineyard emphasizes low yields, small berries, and a delicate touch to let the individual site characteristics shine through.

Aromas of wild cherries, pepper, spice and earthy floral notes in the 2023 Russian River Pinot Noir lead to a rich, medium-bodied palate of red and black fruits with excellent depth of flavor, elegant balance and a deceptively long lasting finish.

• 100% Pinot Noir
• Heritage Kistler Clones
• Redder soils banded with gravel from the Sebastopol soil series along the Gravenstein Ridge
• Hand harvested at night
• 100% destemmed
• Fermented in open top fermenters
• Only free run juice is collected from the tanks, with no pressing
• Aged 10 months in barrel and racked once to tank
• Bottled unfined and unfiltered

Georges and Daniel Daou grew up in Beirut, the sons of a self-made businessman in a city once known as the Paris of the Middle East. Their idyllic childhood was shattered in 1975 when the Lebanese Civil War brought a rocket into the family home, gravely injuring both brothers. Their parents nursed them back to health and moved the family to Paris, where the brothers rebuilt their lives, fell in love with the culture of food and wine, and began to dream of a life in winemaking.

Years later, after bootstrapping a technology startup to success in the United States, Georges and Daniel returned to their roots. They found their mountain in Paso Robles — a site of extraordinary elevation and limestone-rich soils — and built DAOU Vineyards with a singular conviction: that Paso Robles is California's next great region for Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Daou Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2024 375ml Half Bottle is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc, aged 8 months in 50% new French oak. Deep ruby in the glass, it opens with black cherry, blackberry, elderberry, and pomegranate, with nuances of cigar box, leather, and nutmeg. The palate is plush and juicy with cassis, cranberry jam, dried plum, and allspice, carried by luxuriant tannins and a smooth, lasting finish.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Black cherry, blackberry, elderberry, pomegranate, cigar box, leather, nutmeg
• Palate: Cassis, cranberry jam, dried plum, and allspice with plush, luxuriant tannins
• Finish: Smooth, rich, and lasting

Wine Details

• 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc
• Paso Robles, California
• Aged 8 months in 50% new French oak
• Vintage: 2024 | 375ml Half Bottle

Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon Biodynamic — Napa Valley 2022 Half Bottle

Grgich Hills Estate is one of Napa Valley's most storied wineries, founded by Miljenko "Mike" Grgich — the Croatian-born winemaker whose 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay famously defeated the French at the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Today, the estate farms entirely biodynamically and organically, producing wines of remarkable purity and terroir expression. This 375ml half bottle of their flagship Cabernet Sauvignon is the perfect introduction to one of Napa's great estates — or an ideal companion for an intimate dinner.

The 2022 growing season was defined by drought and patience. Rainfall came early — in October and December of 2021 — leaving a dry spring and summer. An intense heat wave in early September pushed sugar levels dramatically, but the Grgich team waited for cooler temperatures and balanced ripeness before harvesting. The result is a wine of concentration and elegance in equal measure.

The nose is rich and captivating: dark black currant, plum, and blackberry take center stage, joined by cedar, clove, and a touch of lavender. On the palate, it is full-bodied with layered dark fruit, firm but polished tannins, and a long, structured finish that speaks to Napa's finest terroir.

Grgich Hills — Certified Biodynamic & Organic — "Farming in harmony with nature since 2000."

• Producer: Grgich Hills Estate, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Farming: Certified Biodynamic & Organic
• Size: 375ml (Half Bottle)
• Tasting Notes: Black currant, plum, blackberry, cedar, clove, lavender, structured finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 5–10 years
• Best Paired With: Gorgonzola gnocchi, beef bourguignon, seared steak, ratatouille

Biodynamic Napa Cabernet from one of the valley's founding legends — Grgich Hills in a half bottle, perfect for any occasion.

Santa Barbara's Finest Syrah — Beckmen's Purisima Mountain Vineyard

Beckmen Vineyards has been one of Santa Barbara County's most celebrated estates since 1996, farming organically and biodynamically on the legendary Purisima Mountain Vineyard in Ballard Canyon. Their Purisima Mountain Vineyard Syrah is the flagship expression of this extraordinary site — a wine that captures the unique combination of intense California sunshine, cool Pacific breezes, and volcanic soils that make Ballard Canyon one of America's most exciting Syrah appellations. The 2020 vintage, despite the heat, retained beautiful acidity that balances the bold, rich flavors with classic texture and structure.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

• Jeb Dunnuck — 92 pts: "Blueberries, mulberries, peppery herbs, and some flower notes all emerge from the 2020 Syrah Purisima Mountain Vineyard, a medium to full-bodied, fruit-forward, plush, sexy little gem of a Syrah that will offer loads of pleasure over the coming 4-6 years or more. Completely destemmed and brought up in 35% new French oak."

Winemaker Notes

Beckmen Vineyards Syrah Purisima Mountain Vineyard 2020 750ml

Classic Purisima Mountain Vineyard Syrah aromas and flavors of black fruits, chocolate, game, pepper, and smoke are ripe and intense in the 2020 vintage. Very ripe, fine tannins frame the bold flavors and rounded texture. Through all the heat of the vintage, the fruit retained beautiful acidity which balances the bold and rich flavors — creating an awesome vintage with classic texture and structure.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Syrah
• Appellation: Ballard Canyon, Santa Barbara County
• Producer: Beckmen Vineyards
• Vintage: 2020
• Farming: Certified Organic & Biodynamic
• Aging: 35% new French oak
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Built for bold flavors — exceptional with grilled lamb chops, smoked brisket, wild boar, duck confit, aged cheddar, and hearty mushroom dishes.

Santa Maria Valley's Standard-Bearer — Cambria Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir

Cambria Estate Winery is one of Santa Barbara County's most storied producers, and Julia's Vineyard is their crown jewel — home to some of the oldest Pinot Noir vines in the Santa Maria Valley, planted in the 1970s. This cool-climate vineyard, buffeted by Pacific breezes, produces a Pinot Noir of remarkable definition and complexity: bright fruit, earthy spice, mineral precision, and the signature "Santa Maria spice" that sets this appellation apart. The 2023 vintage is a benchmark expression — balanced, detailed, and exceptional value for the quality in the glass.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

• James Suckling — 93 pts: "Hibiscus and herbal aromas mark this detailed Pinot Noir, following through to a palate of definition, length and mineral bones that frame cranberries, pomegranate, red cherries and their pits. Rose hips rise through the finish, a zip of orange zest on top."
• Jeb Dunnuck — 90 pts: "Framboise, Bing cherries, sappy underbrush, and floral notes that develop nicely with air. Medium-bodied, balanced, with good depth of fruit and a complex, satisfying style that would best many a great Village-level red Burgundy."
• Wine Enthusiast — 90 pts: "Rustic aromas of tart cranberry, oregano and thyme. The palate pairs red fruit with sage-like spices and dusty soil tones."
• Vinous — 90 pts: "Bright, rich and forward with spice tones and dark red cherry fruit forming the core. There's real character and Santa Maria Valley identity here."

Winemaker Notes

Cambria Pinot Noir Julia's Vineyard 2023 750ml

100% destemmed and aged seven months in 18% new French oak barrels. Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir is a quintessential expression of the Santa Maria Valley — old vines, cool climate, and a winemaking philosophy that lets the vineyard speak. The result is a wine of genuine depth and Santa Maria identity at an exceptional price point.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County
• Producer: Cambria Estate Winery
• Vintage: 2023
• Vine Age: Planted 1970s
• Aging: 7 months, 18% new French oak
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Incredibly versatile — exceptional with roast chicken with herbs, grilled salmon, duck confit, mushroom pizza, Gruyère, and charcuterie boards.

Husch Vineyards · Pinot Noir · Anderson Valley · Mendocino County, California · 2022 · 750ml

Husch Vineyards holds a special place in California wine history: founded in 1971, it was the first winery established in the Anderson Valley, a remote, fog-laced appellation in Mendocino County that has since become one of the state’s most celebrated addresses for Pinot Noir. The valley’s cool, maritime climate — shaped by Pacific fog that rolls in through the Navarro River corridor — produces Pinot Noir that sits at a compelling stylistic crossroads: darker and earthier than Russian River or Sonoma Coast, yet more structured and spice-driven than Willamette Valley Oregon. Husch has been farming this land for over fifty years, and the estate Pinot Noir remains the benchmark expression of what makes Anderson Valley special.

Lively ruby in the glass with an inviting, complex nose of raspberry compote, strawberry jam, dried florals, dried herbs, and a savory note of portobello mushroom. On the palate: baked red plum, pomegranate, and orange zest, interwoven with vanilla bean, earth, and mineral, carried by smooth tannins and lifted acidity that brings focus and length to a dry, supple finish. Wine Enthusiast awarded 92 points, calling it “a legacy family in the Anderson Valley still going strong.” Drink now through 2029. Pair with coq au vin, mushroom ravioli, roasted duck, grilled salmon, or creamy cheeses.

• Producer: Husch Vineyards (est. 1971, Anderson Valley — first winery in the appellation)
• Wine: Estate Pinot Noir · Anderson Valley
• Vintage: 2022
• Origin: Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Style: Earthy, spice-driven, food-friendly Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
• Score: Wine Enthusiast 92 Points
• Drinking Window: Now–2029
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry compote, strawberry, dried florals, portobello mushroom, red plum, pomegranate, orange zest, vanilla, earth, mineral, supple finish
• Pair With: Coq au vin · Mushroom ravioli · Roasted duck · Grilled salmon · Creamy cheeses

Anderson Valley’s founding winery, 92pts Wine Enthusiast — California Pinot Noir at its most authentic.

Expert Reviews

Wine Enthusiast — 92 Points
“This lively wine offers aromas of raspberry compote, strawberry jam, florals, dried herbs and portobello mushroom on the nose. The flavors on the palate are baked red plum, pomegranate and orange zest, interwoven with vanilla bean, earth, mineral and a dry, supple finish. From a legacy family in the Anderson Valley still going strong.”

Bart Hopkins — 67Wine.com 
“The beautiful Anderson Valley of Mendocino County is home to some of California’s best Pinot Noir. I look at it as a stylistic bridge between Russian River–Sonoma Coast and the Willamette Valley of Oregon. The fruit leans more to the darker spectrum with earthy complexity and a spicy character. Aromas of cherry and strawberry mingle with shades of violet, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Well balanced and harmonious with smooth tannins and lifted acidity that brings focus to the fruit on the long flavorful finish.”

In 1976, a bottle of Château Montelena Chardonnay shocked the wine world by beating the finest white Burgundies at the Judgment of Paris. That moment put California wine on the map — and Montelena on a pedestal it has never left. Founded in 1882 in Calistoga at the northern end of Napa Valley, the estate has spent over a century building one of California's most enduring legacies, defined by a commitment to classic structure, restraint, and wines that age with grace.

The Château Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2022 750ml is sourced from the Montelena estate and prime neighboring vineyards around Calistoga, on alluvium soils that deliver earthy, complex, and concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, aged in oak, it reveals layers of pomegranate, plum, and dried blackberry, with aromas of barrel toast, potpourri, and black pepper. On the palate, bright fruit and firm tannins tie together with fresh mint and graphite, finishing with earth, baking spices, toasted almond, and chalky tannins. More acid, more balance, more longevity than the typical Napa Cab — this is old-world structure with California sunshine.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Pomegranate, plum, dried blackberry, barrel toast, potpourri, and black pepper
• Palate: Bright fruit, firm tannins, fresh mint, graphite, dark chocolate, and tobacco
• Finish: Long and lingering with earth, baking spices, toasted almond, and chalky tannins

Wine Details

• Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot
• Napa Valley — Calistoga, California
• Alluvium soils | Aged in oak
• Vintage: 2022 | 750ml
• Pairs with: steak, grilled lamb, braised short ribs, wild game, mushroom risotto

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021

Jeb Dunnuck 98+ Points | "Incredibly elegant yet concentrated 2021 that does everything right." Purple-hued, with ample cassis, wild sage, graphite, and darker chocolate aromatics. Picks up a Graves-like gravelly earth character with air. Full-bodied with ripe, polished tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. Needs 4–5 years of bottle age but will drink well for 30 years.

James Suckling 98 Points | Intense aromas of iodine, blackcurrants, cedar, sandalwood and mint. Medium to full body with silky tannins that spread across the palate and expand in a balanced, harmonized way. Hints of chocolate and tar. Better in a few years — try 2027 and beyond.

Wine Spectator 95 Points | Packed with dark, winey flavors of blackcurrant and blackberry paste underscored with alder, sweet tobacco, warm paving stone and black licorice. Violet accent fills the background. Polished finish makes it accessible now, with plenty of life ahead. Drink now through 2042. — Wine Spectator’s #2 Wine of the Year 2024.

Winemaker Notes

A truly remarkable vintage of BV’s iconic flagship. The bouquet is intense with wild sage, blackcurrant, cedar, and fresh mint. The palate is expansive and full-bodied with layers of ripe blackberry, redcurrant, and red rose petal alongside graphite, licorice root, gravelly stone, and dark chocolate. French oak aging adds sandalwood, clove, and Ceylon cinnamon. The signature "Rutherford Dust" tannins are silky, polished, and fine-grained, finishing long with a cocoa powder texture.

Slightly reserved upon release but incredibly drinkable — significant presence, depth, and concentration foreshadowing cellar-worthy potential across the next few decades.

Tasting & Pairings

Cassis, wild sage, graphite, dark chocolate, blackberry, cedar, sandalwood, and Rutherford Dust. Full-bodied with polished, fine-grained tannins and extraordinary length. Decant generously now or cellar through 2042+.

• Prime rib or dry-aged ribeye — the wine’s concentration and tannin structure demand equally serious beef.
• Braised lamb shank with herbs — the sage and cedar notes mirror herbed, slow-cooked meats.
• Dark chocolate truffles — the cocoa powder finish and chocolate aromatics are a decadent match.

Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 750ml

Discover the excellence of Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, one of the region's most iconic wines and one of the very finest wines ever produced at this legendary estate. The Shafer Vineyard has a legacy of excellence that began in 1972, focusing on crafting superb wines from the renowned Stags Leap District in Napa Valley. This wine showcases the estate's commitment to quality, with grapes sourced from Shafer's famous Hillside estate vineyard, roughly 25 hectares, with very shallow volcanic tufa soils. The 2021 releases mark Elias Fernandez's 38th vintage as Shafer's winemaker, hired by John Shafer in 1984, two weeks out of UC Davis.

Exceptional Critical Acclaim - 2021 Vintage

Decanter - 99 Points
"Such a beautifully balanced wine with tremendous staying power and expressive Stags Leap ironstone minerality with heady sagebrush and conifer notes with white pepper and walnut husk. The wine has an impressive depth of red-toned fruit on the mid-palate framed by tannins that practically dance across the palate, exuding length, tension, and power. Huckleberry and black cherry fruits, black truffle, dried violets, graphite, and salted dark chocolate are all framed by racy acidity, which keeps everything fresh and lifted."

James Suckling - 99 Points
"Incredibly ripe, delicious and structured, this age-worthy, collectible wine puts a lot of power in a velvety, refined package. Deep, concentrated black cherries, blackberries, dried blueberries, espresso and creme de cassis are wrapped in a full body and fine-grained, supple tannins strong enough to call for further aging of at least a few years."

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 99 Points
"It's a big, ripe wine, weighing in at 15.5% alcohol, but it remains harmonious from front to back. Deep, intense aromas of black cherries and cassis are accented by dried spices on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is rich and textural, showing tremendous intensity and length on the finish."

Vinous - 99 Points
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is insanely beautiful. It's also one of the very finest wines I have ever tasted here. Bright, pliant and resonant, the 2021 offers a beguiling mix of Cabernet Sauvignon aromatics, generous fruit and gentle structure. The stylistic shift at Shafer has been remarkable—the 2021 is a great example. Red-toned fruit, blood orange, menthol, pine and sweet spice build into the eternal finish."

Jeb Dunnuck - 98+ Points
"You can safely put the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select up with the top vintages of this cuvée, yet it's much more in the style of say, the 2010 or 2018, than a more opulent year, and is going to demand bottle age. Sensational amounts of cassis, graphite, darker chocolate, graphite, tobacco, and a Pauillac-like lead pencil character all define this ultra-classic, focused, structured 2021. The purity is world class. Hide bottles for 5-7 years minimum, and it will evolve for 40+ years."

Wine Enthusiast - 97 Points
"Profound and full-bodied with an intensity of aromas and flavors, this sophisticated and ample Cabernet Sauvignon has become one of the region's icons. Abundant, fine tannins and a lengthy finish mean the wine will continue to develop with age, but will also benefit from another several years in bottle."

Wine Spectator - 93 Points
"Juicy and direct, with a solidly built core of cassis and blackberry preserves lined with cocoa, singed tobacco and warm earth hints. Best from 2025 through 2038."

Vineyard & Production

100% Cabernet Sauvignon from specific hillside blocks on the estate
Vineyard: Shafer's famous Hillside estate vineyard, approximately 25 hectares with very shallow volcanic tufa soils in Stags Leap District
Aging: 32 months in 100% new French oak (Wine Advocate notes 28 months)
Production: Barrel selection of the very best blocks, 2,900 cases produced
Alcohol: 15.5%

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Deep garnet color
Aroma: Deep, intense aromas of black cherries, cassis, ripe blackberries, dried spices, heady sagebrush, conifer, white pepper, walnut husk, black truffle, dried violets, graphite, tobacco, lead pencil, blood orange, menthol, pine, sweet spice, vanilla, cedar
Palate: Full-bodied, rich and textural. Deep, concentrated black cherries, blackberries, dried blueberries, espresso, creme de cassis, huckleberry, salted dark chocolate, cocoa, singed tobacco, warm earth. Impressive depth of red-toned fruit on the mid-palate. Refined, well-integrated tannins that practically dance across the palate. Racy acidity keeps everything fresh and lifted. Velvety, refined package with tremendous intensity
Finish: Smooth, lingering finish with tremendous length, tension, and power. Eternal finish

Stags Leap District Terroir

Quintessentially Stags Leap, with expressive Stags Leap ironstone minerality. The unique terroir of this celebrated Napa Valley region imparts remarkable depth and character to the grapes. The very shallow volcanic tufa soils contribute to the wine's distinctive mineral character and complexity.

Elias Fernandez - 38 Vintages of Excellence

The 2021 releases mark Elias Fernandez's 38th vintage as Shafer's winemaker. He was hired by John Shafer in 1984, two weeks out of UC Davis. The stylistic shift at Shafer has been remarkable, with the 2021 showcasing a more focused, seamless style that represents world-class purity.

Aging Potential

Drink Window: Best from 2025 through 2038 (Wine Spectator), hide bottles for 5-7 years minimum and will evolve for 40+ years (Jeb Dunnuck)
This age-worthy, collectible wine has tremendous staying power and will continue to develop beautifully with age. The wine will benefit from another several years in bottle to fully express its potential.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This wine pairs perfectly with:

• Prime rib and succulent cuts of meat
• Grilled lamb
• Rich beef stew
• Hearty dishes for dinner parties
• Special occasion dining

Collector's Wine & Investment Quality

Adding Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon to your wine collection is a decision that reflects a true appreciation for quality. This wine not only delivers on taste but also on prestige—Shafer is renowned among wine connoisseurs and collectors alike. The 2021 vintage has been exceptionally well-received with multiple 99-point scores, promising to evolve beautifully over the years if cellared properly. You can safely put the 2021 up with the top vintages of this iconic cuvée. Its balance of structure and elegance ensures that it will be a highlight on any table, elevating your collection and impressing your guests.

One of the Region's Icons

This sophisticated and ample Cabernet Sauvignon has become one of the region's icons. Whether you're a seasoned collector or appreciating fine wine, investing in Shafer Hillside Select represents the pinnacle of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The meticulous approach in both vineyard management and winemaking ensures that every bottle reflects the hard-earned reputation and tradition of Shafer Vineyards.