California Wine

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Spectator 89 Points | Smooth and plump, with an appealing seamlessness to the spice, melon, lemon zest and ripe peach flavors. There's a creamy, juicy quality that makes this white appealing and stylish. Lingering finish. Drink now. 253,505 cases made.

Winemaker’s notes

La Crema Monterey Chardonnay offers aromas of grilled pineapple, citrus blossom, tangerine, and papaya. On the palate, white peach, key lime, and honeydew melon are complimented by a touch of barrel spice, and a river stone minerality.

The winery's original name, La Crema Viñera, means "best of the vine," setting the standard for all the team has done since 1979. For more than 35 years, the family-owned and operated winery has focused exclusively on cool-climate appellations, from its original home in the Russian River Valley, to Monterey and, now, the Willamette Valley. La Crema is continually exploring these very special regions—passionate in the belief that they make uniquely expressive and elegant wines. Thorough vineyard site selection and boutique winemaking techniques ensure the consistently distinct, naturally balanced wines La Crema is committed to producing.

Winemaker Description 

Beautifully integrated tropical flavors such as pineapple, mango and papaya, with citrus notes that explode in your mouth. These flavors delicately intertwine with aromas of vanilla and honey to create depth and balance throughout. A hint of toasted oak and butter rounds out the long, lingering finish. 

Memo Pairing Notes

    •    Seafood: Lobster, salmon, grilled chicken breast, fish tacos.
    •    Other: Corn on the Cob, chicken dishes, and rich, buttery foods.

Winemaker Description 

Monterey’s combination of moderate climate and marine influences from the Pacific Ocean keep the grapes balanced and able to develop fully ripe flavors. A classic Central Coast Chardonnay, this wine offers tropical aromas of grilled pineapple with a hint of star fruit and vanilla.

Nicely balanced, Hess Select Chardonnay is medium-bodied with layers of sliced peaches and golden delicious apples, finishing crisp and clean with well-balanced acid. 

Winemaker Description

With attractive aromas of black fruit and spice, this smooth, ready-to-drink Cabernet Sauvignon is made with the same care as the highest-quality, traditionally crafted Bordeaux-style wines. Justin Cabernet Sauvignon spends 14 months in traditional small oak barrels to impart depth and complexity. The unique climate and soils of Paso Robles add a classic Cabernet character to this wine, highlighting an exceptional balance of flavors and textures.

Bright, moderate concentration, and consistent ruby red hues to the rim. Aromatic with juicy red fruit on the nose, this wine shows red raspberry and black cherry laced with a bouquet of vanilla, soft herbs, and warming spices. On entry, this wine is dry, moderately full-bodied, supple, and bursting with bright red plum and ripe cherry. The velvety tannins are well-integrated among more nuanced elements of caramel, toasted coconut, fennel, and sage. The long finish turns pleasantly savory with floral notes and a hint of pepper. 

The 2022 Justin Cabernet Sauvignon is remarkably balanced and complex, with a fresh palate that not only invites another sip on its own, but also pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Try this wine with grilled chicken or burgers at your next cookout or with a classic filet mignon at your favorite steakhouse.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 91 Points This full-bodied, round and buttery chardonnay has notes of baked apples, toast and brown butter. Ripe, soft and generous. 

Winemaker Description

A fresh, youthful and textured Chardonnay with flavors and aromas of pear, floral, white peach, citrus, baking spices and honey.

This versatile wine can be enjoyed as an aperitif with a triple crème or Humboldt Fog goat cheese, or to accompany entrées such as fresh seafood risotto, mussels in white wine sauce, or chicken piccata

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 93 Points | Made since 2001 from a number of Sonoma County vineyards, the 2023 Three Valleys blends 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% each Mataro and Alicante Bouschet from Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma Valley, and Russian River Valley. Floral, it is complex and less rustic than usual, the vintage showing classic charm and elegance. Though it is one of Ridge's largest production wines, it is made in the exact same way as all its others, in open top tanks with real oak and native fermentations. It's meant to represent a vintage more than a location. A popular by-the-glass pour, order it when you see it.

The Wine Spectator 93 Points | Generous and robust yet retains a sense of polish, with expressive raspberry and blueberry flavors highlighted by licorice and pepper, plus a whiff of dill as this builds toward fine-grained tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Mataro and Alicante Bouschet. Drink now through 2034.

James Suckling 93 Points | Aromas of confit cherries, licorice, blackberry bush, baking spices and violets. The palate is full-bodied with a rounded mouthfeel and firmly framed tannins that end in a lush and generous finish. Made from a blend of 71% zinfandel, 16% carignane, 9% petite sirah, 2% mataro and 2% alicante bouschet.

The Wine Advocate 91 Points | The 2023 Three Valleys is a blend of 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Mataro and 2% Alicante Bouschet that matured for 12 months in 19% new air-dried American oak. It has layered aromas of wild berries, Italian plums, chargrilled meats, resinous herbs and lavender. The full-bodied palate offers highly concentrated flavors, though it’s light on its feet, with chalky tannins and vibrant acidity. It has a long, spicy finish.

Winemaker Description 

Winemaker Description

This alluring Cabernet Sauvignon draws you in with aromas of black cherry, blackberry, mocha, savory blueberry and sweet baking spices. On the palate, silky tannins and a supple, rounded texture frame the voluptuous dark berry flavors, with notions of barrel spice adding nuance and complexity to the long, lush finish.

James Suckling 90 Points | A smooth, relaxed, full-bodied wine that's soft in texture and rich in tropical fruit, butter and vanilla bean flavors. Pineapple, mango and coconut flavors spread across the palate and linger in the finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | There's a vivid tropical approach to the nose of this bottling, which is layered in jasmine, plumeria and ripe star fruit aromas. The palate is clean and balanced, offering vanilla, peach and guava flavors.

The Wine Spectator by MaryAnn Worobiec 88 Points | Firm and toasty, with notes of grilled bread and dried spices alongside a core of peach and mango. Nutmeg and cardamom details linger on the firming finish.

Winemaker Notes

Kali Hart is our most fruit-forward expression in the Talbott family of wines. In the winery, we let the grapes guide the way with minimal influence, resulting in a rich and bright wine. Aromas of vanilla and brioche rise out of the glass to greet you. Ripe and intense notes of Bosc pear, pineapple, tangerine and melon give this wine a luscious, inviting palate. This Chardonnay shines with a soft, clean finish, a hint of minerality and hard spice notes.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 90 Points | A light and fresh pinot that has real pinot character, with sliced strawberry and citrus notes. Light-bodied, clean and an attractive.

Winemaker Description

Vivid notes of black raspberry, fresh pomegranate juice, with wild blueberry, sassafras, subtle licorice, toasted oak an earthy backbone, and grippy tannins. 

Winemaker Description - 2024

The iconic California Chardonnay! This wine will delight with its ripe fruit intensity, hints of vanilla oak, a creamy midpalate, and a buttery finish, all supported by bright acidity tying it all together. Bring this wine to a party or open on a quiet night at home- you'll never be disappointed! 

Aromas of yellow peach and ripe melon are found on the nose, interspersed with bright citrus notes. These notes continue on the palate, featuring creamy vanilla and buttery nuances on the long finish. Rombauer’s signature bright acidity is evident in each sip, balancing the softness of the midpalate.

2024 was another classic vintage with good winter rain and moderate spring, ending with warm spells in September that brought us good yields. These perfect conditions allowed optimal fruit ripeness while still preserving the signature acid and body for which Rombauer wines are known.

Sustainable farming practices used throughout the growing season were tailored to each block with the assistance of aerial photos produced using NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) technology.

Food Pairings

• Rich Classics: Lobster with drawn butter, Fettuccine Alfredo, or Crab Cakes.

• The "Joy of Cooking" Match: The Rombauer family famously authored the Joy of Cooking; they specifically recommend pairing this with their Chicken Risotto or Strawberry Shortcake.

Winemaker Description

The wine owes much of its complexity to its varied upbringing, unifying grapes from California's most notable winegrowing regions. Meiomi Pinot Noir brings you structure and depth seldom seen in a Pinot Noir wine, thanks to its unique and meticulous aging process.

Aged for six months in French oak barrels, this California red wine's juicy strawberry flavor and notes of dark berries and toasted mocha add complexity and depth on the palate.

Winemaker Description

The Beringer Founders’ Estate Cabernet boasts flavors of black cherry, raspberry, vanilla and cinnamon spice. It has a round mouthfeel, supple tannins and a long, lingering finish. A food-friendly wine, it pairs beautifully with a grilled rib-eye steak, roasted vegetables, or aged cheddar.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

The Tasting Panel 92 Points | Streamlined, with velvety tannins, this balanced red surpasses expectations for its price point. Creamy notes of black cherry, vanilla, and purple plum bathe the mouth, giving way to a delectable finish of spiced LOHR black currant.

James Suckling 90 Points | Currants, sage, roasted plums and cloves on the nose of this rich and spicy red. It’s full-bodied, plush and toasty, with ripe tannins.

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | Damp earth aromas lead quickly into sharp yet ripe cherry aromas on the nose of this bottling. Likable flavors of black cherry greet the palate, as wet clay, cocoa, mint and mace flavors add impressive complexity at this price point.

Winemaker Description

Ripe fruit aromas of black cherry and currant are accented by notes of toasted pastry, hazelnut, and vanilla from J. Lohr's authentic barrel aging program. Big, juicy red-fruit flavors infuse the palate while softly textured tannins lead to a long, gratifying finish.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 92 Points | Ripe yet restrained, this sits on the edge of reduction, showing aromas of yellow apples, grilled peaches, lemon curd and a touch of struck flint. The palate reflects the cool vintage with bright acidity and a layered feel, delivering baked citrus, toasted almonds and subtle spices. Rounded and fresh with a savory, lingering finish. Drink or hold.

Winemaker Description 

Our unique Chardonnay does not undergo malolactic fermentation, preserving its natural fresh acidity. This exceptional 2022 vintage opens with aromas of sweet lime, fresh lemon, green mango, and white peach. The taste is of fresh citrus, star fruit, mango, and a hint of vanilla supported by vibrant, juicy acidity and abundant minerality. Enjoy its long, flavorful, and delicious finish.

Our Professional Review

Debra 67Wine.com | This wine shows lovely flavors of ripe stone fruits, citrus and orchard apples . Balanced with aromas toasty oak, coconut and vanilla lead into a generous finish. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

James Suckling 90 Points | A nice mix of stone, citrus and tropical fruit aromas. Dry, with bright acidity. A solid, lively and refreshing California chardonnay at an affordable price.

Winemaker Description 

Pair with cheeses, grilled chicken,  broiled fish and salad. Debra, California Chardonnay Buyer 

Fresh notes of Bosc pear, lemon zest, touches of pineapple, and subtle vanilla on the finish. Fresh and spicy.  Pairs effortlessly with fresh fish tacos and mango salsa. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

Wine Spectator | 90 Points | #27 Top 100 Wine of 2025 | Offers a lovely mix of ripe peach, apricot and orange blossom notes that are effusive, juicy and decidedly drinkable on a plump frame. Details of ripe pear, melon and dried ginger linger on the finish effortlessly alongside a hint of white tea.

James Suckling 91 Points | Aromas of sliced pears, yellow apples, nectarines and white flowers. The palate is medium-bodied with bright acidity and a salty, crunchy finish. Simple and generous. 

Winemaker Description 

Crisp, bright, and vivacious! The Chenin aromatics bring citrus characters of tangerine, yuzu, pear, orange blossom, and honeydew melon. The Viognier aromatics tend to be a little heavier on stone fruit of peach and mango with hints of honeysuckle. The mouthfeel is clean, crisp with no oak or malolactic fermentation. The slight residual sugar and acid are in balance to add a viscous mouthfeel in the mid-palate with a crisp finish.

This versatile wine pairs well with a number of dishes, from light salads to seafood, and most notably with foods with a hint of spiciness – its subtle sweetness provides balance alongside a touch of heat.

Memo Summary Notes

Its slight hint of off-dry sweetness makes it a perfect counterpoint to heat:

• Spicy Cuisine: Thai green curry, spicy tuna rolls, or shrimp and avocado tostadas. 

• Appetizers: Goat cheese, fresh radishes with butter, or hummus and veggie boards.

  
  
  
  

   

A classic Cabernet Sauvignon with rich color, layered aromatics and good structure. The wine is smooth and vibrant with cassis, dark cherry and black olive aromas preceding rich fruit flavors of dark plum and cherry preserves followed by a note of roasted coffee bean.. 

Winemaker Description 

Embodying the luxurious beauty of great Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, this alluring wine draws you in with complex aromas of black cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, and sweet baking spices. On the palate, the tannins are supple and round, framing juicy layers of dark berries and chocolate, with sophisticated hints of white pepper and toasty oak emerging throughout the long, resonant finish.

Winemaker Description

This lush and alluring Pinot Noir draws you in with aromas of black cherry, wild strawberry, red currant, black tea and sage, as well as rustic hints of earthy forest floor. On the palate, the generous ripe berry flavors are framed by bright, balanced acidity and refined tannins that carry the wine to a long, silky finish. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

James Suckling 91 Points | Aromas of lemon zest, white peaches, grapefruit, lemongrass and wet stones. The midweight palate shows bright acidity and a smooth, textural mouthfeel, giving freshness and balance to the finish.

Winemaker Description - 2024

From the first swirl, this Sauvignon Blanc captivates with aromas of candied pineapple and guava, layered with a delicate flourish of key lime blossom. On the palate, vibrant notes of fresh melon take center stage, balanced by a lively acidity that lends energy and precision. 

A silky texture carries the wine to a focused finish, where a hint of minerality adds intrigue and finesse. Crisp, expressive and beautifully crafted, this wine is a stunning reflection of North Coast Sauvignon Blanc.

The 2024 growing season began with abundant winter rainfall, revitalizing the vines for a strong start. Ideal weather during bud break and bloom fostered a generous crop, while above average temperatures in June and July encouraged vibrant vine growth and consistent berry ripening. Dynamic weather patterns throughout summer brought alternating warm and cool periods late into the season, with moderate September temperatures fostering balanced sugars and vibrant acidity.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 90 Points | Spiced and cedary on the nose, with dark cherries, plums and hints of cigar box and wet earth. Full-bodied and chewy with a lightly austere, bitter-spice character, yet with juicy fruit underneath.

Winemaker Description

A bright, fruit forward wine with supple tannins makes this a crowd pleaser. Petite Sirah contributes beautiful color and spice, while splashes of Petit Verdot and Malbec round out the mouthwatering finish.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Jeb Dunnuck 93 Points | The 2023 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills is a terrific base appellation release, with redcurrants, framboise, peppery herbs, and floral nuances on the nose. Medium-bodied, pure, supple, and well-structured on the palate, it has integrated acidity and ripe, polished tannins. Fermented with 40% whole cluster and aged in neutral wood, it’s beautifully done and worth a case purchase.

The Wine Advocate 92+ Points | Tasted just three weeks after its bottling, the 2023 Pinot Noir Estate is already showing beautifully. The nose presents powerful dark fruit and citrus peel aromas with spry energy, notes that are mirrored on the silky, refined palate. It finishes with a lovely balance between saturated fruits and a powdery, subtly drying structure. I look forward to checking back on this after a bit more time in bottle

The Wine Spectator 90 Points | Brisk and fresh, with pine and savory notes peeking out from a core of strawberry and raspberry coulis. The finish is light-bodied but sleek. Drink now through 2027. 6,066 cases made.

Memo Pairing Suggestions

Serving & Pairing

• Food Pairings: Its high acidity and savory notes make it versatile. It pairs well with mushroom risotto, grilled pork chops, or even a tuna poke bowl.

Winemaker Description 

Our Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is a rich, medium straw color. It enchants with aromas of stone fruit and apple blossom, complemented by honeydew, pineapple and subtle oak spice. On the palage, it offers a lush blend of ripe pear and golden delicious apple, balanced by our signature bright acidity and soft mid palate. The finish is distinguised by gentle barrel spice, adding a layer of sophistication. This wine’s vibrant fruit character is perfect for pairing alongside gourmet meals or savoring on its own.

The Sonoma Coast is as much about lifestyle as it is about the celebration this wonderful grape deserves. Sonoma-Cutrer's winemakers are selective about the fruit that goes into this wine to ensure that vintage after vintage, they are producing an exceptional Chardonnay.

This wine has all of the elements of a classic Chardonnay. It is a wine you serve when you want to show people you care about them. Or, sometimes it's just for you – because you've earned it.

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

James Suckling 92 Points | A very generous, luscious and focused chardonnay with a good core of fruit and spices, bright acidity and a textural, rounded mouthfeel. Well made, poised and stylish.

Winemaker Notes

Winemaker Description

This tried-and-true Cabernet has been a dinner table staple for more than 40 years. A rich ruby hue fills the glass along with aromas of fresh vanilla, lush red fruit and herbaceous nuances. On the palate, bright cherry notes mingle with warm cocoa and sweet oak. The finish is unbelievably smooth with soft, gorgeous tannins. 

Memo Summary Notes

That is a great choice! The Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2023 is an extremely popular and dependable wine from the Hope Family Wines portfolio, known for being an excellent value.

This is a very versatile wine that pairs well with classic American comfort foods:

• Grilled Steaks and Burgers

• Red Sauce Pasta Dishes

• Lamb

• Hard Cheeses

Winemaker Description 

Apothic Red was aged on different types of oak to encourage notes of vanilla, mocha and toffee in this unique blend.

Apothic Red reveals intense fruit aromas and flavors of rhubarb and black cherry, complemented by hints of mocha, chocolate, brown spice and vanilla. The plush, velvety mouthfeel and the smooth finish round out this intriguing, full-bodied red blend.

Winemaker Description 

The Morning Fog Chardonnay stands as the cornerstone of the Wente Chardonnay portfolio, and the 2024 vintage proudly upholds this legacy. Subtle oak nuances of sweet cream and vanilla integrate effortlessly with the bright character of crisp Gala apple, underpinned by hints of fresh-cut pear and lemon curd. On the palate, the wine offers the hallmark weight and depth of classic Chardonnay, balanced by a refined acidity that brings a modest richness while preserving it svibrant, fruit-driven freshness. 

Memo Summary Notes

The 2024 Wente Vineyards "Morning Fog" Chardonnay is a freshly released vintage from the estate that pioneered Chardonnay in California. Named for the coastal fog that rolls through the Livermore Valley, this wine is known for balancing "New World" fruitiness with a crisp, food-friendly acidity.

Because it has moderate acidity and subtle oak, it is more versatile than heavier Chardonnays:

• Seafood: Pan-seared scallops with lemon butter or roast chicken.

• Vegetarian: Pasta with cream-based sauces, roasted squash, or mushroom risotto.

• Casual: It is a classic "crowd-pleaser" for sipping on its own due to its smooth texture.

Winemaker Description

The 2023 California growing season began with plentiful winter rains that revitalized the soils after several years of drought. Cool spring temperatures led to later ripening trends, running anywhere from two weeks to a month behind average. The October heat was a gift, pushing the grapes to optimum ripeness and phenological maturity.

The longer growing season produced red wines with depth, plentiful texture and rich color, and white wines with delicate aromatics, breadth, and vibrant acidity, making 2023 an impressive harvest of outstanding quality.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023 

Wine Enthusiast 93 Points | This wine is fresh, with aromas of citrus, white nectarine, yellow apple and orange-blossom water on the nose. The flavors on the palate are tangerine and Golden Delicious apple, sliding into white peach, white grapefruit zest and white pepper, with a mouthwatering, dry finish.

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points | The 2023 Pinot Noir is seamless and supple in vanilla, dark cherry, and a twist of earthy forest, sourced from several vineyards in San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. Long lasting, fresh, and approachable, it has full-bodied weight and breadth supported by supple tannins and spiced oak.

Winemaker Description 

This beautifully lush and supple Pinot Noir draws you in with inviting aromas of raspberry, dark cherry, dried sage and sweet tobacco leaf. On the palate, soft, supple tannins frame alluring layers of wild strawberry and Bing cherry, with hints of cracked black pepper and spice emerging on a long, satisfying finish.

Winemaker Description

This medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon has vibrant notes of blackberry fruit, hints of vanilla and oak, and a lingering finish.

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins of 67Wine.com writes | Blended with a small amount of Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, Oberon Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is darkly colored with aromas and flavors of lush blackberries, black cherries, mocha, dark chocolate and baking spices. Silky sweet tannins lead to a long and delicious finish.

Winemaker Description 

To create this Cabernet Sauvignon, Oberon sourced grapes from throughout Napa's finest winegrowing regions, including Oakville, Oak Knoll, Yountville, Suscol Ridge, Chiles Valley, Pope Valley and Capell Valley.

By layering fruit from Napa's sparse volcanic soils and the deeper alluvial soils of the valley floor, Oberon accomplished their goal of marrying many different expressions into one outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon that boasts a beautifully seamless mouthfeel and rich, complex texture and flavors.

Memo Summary Notes

The Oberon Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is a classic Napa Valley staple from the Michael Mondavi family. Winemaker Tony Coltrin sources fruit from premium Napa sub-regions—including Oakville, Oak Knoll, and Yountville—to create a "seamless" style that balances the structure of volcanic soils with the lush fruit of the valley floor.

The 2023 vintage in Napa was characterized by an exceptionally long, cool growing season, which resulted in highly concentrated fruit and a more "elegant" balance than the hotter preceding years.

Grilled Meats: A classic partner for ribeye steak, lamb chops, or duck breast with a berry reduction. 

Grilled Meats: A classic partner for ribeye steak, lamb chops, or duck breast with a berry reduction. 

Grilled Meats: A classic partner for ribeye steak, lamb chops, or duck breast with a berry reduction.

Winemaker Description 

This light-bodied, refreshing Pinot Grigio Colombard has crisp acidity with bright citrus notes with hints of pineapple and pear. Pair with grilled chicken or fresh seafood. 

Winemaker Description

Bonanza calls back to a simpler time – Chuck Wagner recalls fondly how his family enjoyed his dad’s homemade wine with their nightly dinner. His vision is that delicious Cabernet should be accessible to a broad group of people. Chuck wants everyone to have the chance to enjoy good wine as a simple pleasure of everyday life.

Tasting Notes:

Bonanza Wine Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 9 is a bold and delicious red wine that embodies the spirit of the Wild West. With its deep ruby color and rich aromas, this wine is a true testament to the adventurous spirit of the American frontier. It reflects the “bonanza” of the great state of California – and bonanza calls back to the discovery of land where delicious Cabernet can be farmed. Medium ruby-red, this wine opens with scents of currants and dried roses, grape pomace, and fresh tilled soil.

The nose is filled with ripe blackberry and black currant, along with hints of vanilla and spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with a velvety texture and silky tannins that make it easy to drink.

Winemaker Description 

A rich and memorable Chardonnay with creamy notes of vanilla bean, almond and a touch of tropical fruit. Balanced acidity and savory oak lead to a long, smooth finish. 

Winemaker Description 

California white wine with vibrant aromas and flavors of pear, apple, peach, oak and toast.

Medium-bodied white California wine with balanced acidity and a rich, toasty finish
Table white wine that pairs well with light appetizers and hearty entrees.