California Wine

Winemaker Notes

The 2023 Far Niente Chardonnay enchants with a bouquet of citrus, white floral, and hints of honeydew melon and nectarine. Its silky texture and bright, refreshing palate dance with flavors of lemon/lime zest and lemon verbena, culminating in a long, juicy finish.

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

Tasting Panel — 97 Points
"The combination of Carneros’ maritime climate and the volcanic soils of Coombsville lends a hand in creating one of the most deluxe Chardonnays our team has had the pleasure of tasting. Augmented by sweet vanilla cream, elderflower, and white cherry, the mouthfeel is exquisitely graceful, and notes of key lime, herbed lemon, and luscious ripe pineapple are opulent to the end. Aged sur lie in French oak barrels."

James Suckling — 93 Points
"Pure aromas of lemon confit, poached Asian pears, pastry and lanolin. The palate is medium-bodied with focused acidity and a creamy texture, giving notes of lime curd, orange blossoms, yellow apples and flint. Very well constructed and polished."

Forbes Magazine (Jeanette Hurt)
"A blend of superlative Napa Valley vineyards located in Coombsville. The 2023 vintage enchants with a bouquet of citrus, white floral, and hints of honeydew melon and nectarine. Its silky texture and bright, refreshing palate dance with flavors of lemon/lime zest and lemon verbena, culminating in a long, juicy finish."

About Far Niente

Far Niente is one of Napa Valley’s most iconic and historic estates, founded in 1885 and restored to its current glory in 1979 by Gil Nickel. The name — Italian for “dolce far niente,” or “the sweetness of doing nothing” — reflects the estate’s philosophy of unhurried, meticulous winemaking. Far Niente’s Estate Chardonnay is sourced from their own vineyards in Coombsville and Carneros, two of Napa’s coolest and most prized white wine growing areas. Aged sur lie in French oak barrels, it is consistently one of California’s benchmark Chardonnays — rich, precise, and built to age.

Food Pairings

Lobster, Dungeness crab, pan-seared halibut, roasted chicken with cream sauce, risotto, soft ripened cheeses, and truffle dishes. A luxurious Chardonnay built for the finest occasions.

Product Details

• Producer: Far Niente
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Vineyards: Coombsville & Carneros
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Aging: Sur lie, French oak barrels
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Rich, precise, age-worthy Napa Chardonnay
• Format: 750ml

ZD Wines Chardonnay — California 2023

ZD Wines has been crafting benchmark California Chardonnay for over 55 years, and the 2023 vintage — the estate’s 55th harvest — is a landmark expression of everything the house does best. Sourced from certified-organic grapes across three premier coastal appellations — Napa Carneros, Sonoma Carneros, and Monterey — the fruit is hand-harvested at night to preserve freshness, then 100% barrel-fermented in ZD’s custom-designed cellar at a cool 48°F. This long, cool fermentation maximizes lees contact for richness and depth while deliberately avoiding malolactic fermentation to preserve the wine’s signature bright coastal acidity. Ten months in 100% American oak adds complexity and the house’s hallmark crème brûlée finish. The 2023 earned 90 points and three Gold Medals in 2025 — Los Angeles Invitational, San Francisco Chronicle, and Pacific Rim International.

The color is pale yellow with a luminous hue. The nose bursts with ripe Asian pear, green apple, honeydew melon, pink grapefruit, and nectarine. On the palate, it is vibrant and richly textured — lemon curd, guava, and white peach are framed by mouthwatering acidity and a long, complex finish of crème brûlée and vanillin. Sunshine in a glass.

90 Points • Gold Medal — Los Angeles Invitational Wine Challenge 2025
Gold Medal — San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2025
Gold Medal — Pacific Rim International Wine Competition 2025

• Producer: ZD Wines, Napa Valley, California, USA
• Vintage: 2023 (55th Harvest)
• Appellation: California
• Sources: Napa Carneros, Sonoma Carneros, Monterey — certified organic
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Harvest: Hand-harvested at night
• Vinification: 100% barrel-fermented at 48°F, no malolactic fermentation, 10 months in 100% American oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Asian pear, green apple, honeydew, pink grapefruit, lemon curd, guava, white peach, crème brûlée, vanillin, long finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster, grilled halibut, crab cakes, roast chicken, creamy pasta, soft-ripened cheeses

Fifty-five harvests, three gold medals, and zero malolactic fermentation — ZD’s California Chardonnay is the benchmark that keeps raising the bar.

St. Francis Chardonnay — Sonoma County, California 2023

St. Francis Winery has been crafting benchmark Sonoma County wines since 1979, and their Chardonnay remains one of the appellation’s most reliable values. The 2023 is a lighter-styled, nimble expression — elegant rather than opulent — with a creamy mouthfeel balanced by refreshing minerality on the finish. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points, calling it a wine that delivers genuine Sonoma character at an honest price.

The nose opens with lemon peel, white flowers, tangerine, butterscotch, and baked apple. On the palate, D’Anjou pear, fresh apple, almond, and Meyer lemon zest emerge with a creamy texture that gives way to a clean, mineral-driven finish with notes of orange blossom and spice.

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points — “This lighter-styled and nimble Chard brings aromas of lemon peel, white flowers and tangerine on the nose, giving way to flavors of pear, river rocks, spice and orange blossom on the palate and finish.” — Tom R. Capo

• Producer: St. Francis Winery, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Sonoma County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon peel, white flowers, tangerine, baked apple, D’Anjou pear, almond, Meyer lemon zest, orange blossom, mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Roast chicken, grilled halibut, lobster bisque, creamy pasta, soft cheeses

A 91-point Sonoma Chardonnay that delivers elegance and minerality at an everyday price — St. Francis is the benchmark.

Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir That Punches Well Above Its Price

Martin Ray has been crafting wines from California's finest appellations since 1943, and their Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir consistently delivers the kind of freshness, complexity, and varietal precision that makes this AVA one of America's most exciting Pinot Noir regions. The 2023 vintage shows beautifully — vivid, alive, and layered, with the cool-climate character that defines the Sonoma Coast at its best.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

• James Suckling — 93 pts: "Great, fresh feel, vivid fruit flavors and subtle, complex toast and spice notes. Medium-bodied and slightly tannic, alive and refreshing. Red cherries, sour cherries, raspberries, black tea and spearmint. Aromas of spiced cranberry, cedar, cinnamon, and wildflowers."
• Wine Enthusiast — 91 pts: "Bright acid and a savory character, with flavors of plum skin, spiced cherry, black tea, and roses lingering through the finish."

Winemaker Notes

Martin Ray Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2023 750ml

Layers of fresh raspberry and plum with hints of candied violets and earth. Vivid red notes carry throughout with tart cherry and hibiscus, with an undercurrent of sassafras and vanilla. Bright acidity on the palate, with velvety yet structured tannins on the finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast, California
• Producer: Martin Ray Winery
• Vintage: 2023
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Highly versatile at the table — exceptional with roasted duck, grilled chicken, mushroom risotto, truffle dishes, pork loin, and salmon.

Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon That Takes the Bull by the Horns on Value

Bull by the Horns is a Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon built for those who want serious wine without the serious price tag. Sourced from the sun-drenched vineyards of Paso Robles — one of California's most exciting Cabernet appellations — this is a full-bodied, fruit-forward red with the structure, complexity, and 92-point pedigree to punch well above its price.

Expert Reviews

• Wine Advocate — 92 pts: "Scented of baked red cherry and plum with nuances of graphite, tobacco, tea leaves and aniseed. The full-bodied palate offers generous, perfumed fruit. Supple tannins and just enough juicy acidity to call you in for another sip."

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2020
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for California-style grilling — exceptional with ribeye steak, BBQ brisket, lamb burgers, aged cheddar, and smoked short ribs.

CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs Sonoma Coast Chardonnay — Sonoma County 2024

CrossBarn is Paul Hobbs’s second label — and one of California’s most compelling values in cool-climate Chardonnay. Drawing on 81% estate fruit from Sonoma Coast vineyards, CrossBarn channels the same winemaking philosophy that has made Paul Hobbs one of Napa and Sonoma’s most celebrated names: minimal intervention, site transparency, and a relentless focus on freshness. The Sonoma Coast appellation is defined by its proximity to the Pacific — cold ocean winds and morning fog that slow ripening and preserve the natural acidity that makes this style so compelling. Partial malolactic conversion in stainless steel adds a subtle creamy texture without sacrificing the wine’s essential brightness and drive. The 2024 vintage is a textbook expression of the appellation.

The color is a luminous pale gold. The nose is fresh, pure, and immediately inviting: green apple, baked apple, ripe pear, lemon peel, and a whisper of bread dough and warm spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and easygoing — generous and juicy, with vibrant acidity, a subtle creamy mid-palate from partial malo, and a long, mineral-driven finish. Crisp, refreshing, and built for the table.

James Suckling 93 • Wine Advocate 90 — “Fresh, fruity, juicy, crisp — generous in green apples, baked apples and minerals. Subtle cream and butter from partial malolactic conversion.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Estate Fruit: 81%
• Vinification: Partial malolactic conversion, stainless steel maturation
• Style: Bright, fresh, cool-climate Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Green apple, baked apple, pear, lemon peel, bread dough, warm spice, mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Crab Louie, grilled shrimp, oysters, roast chicken, mushroom risotto, creamy pasta

Paul Hobbs’s vision for Sonoma Coast Chardonnay — CrossBarn delivers serious winemaking at an honest price.

Daou Vineyards Chardonnay Paso Robles 2025 — Paso Robles, California

Daou Vineyards is one of Paso Robles’ most celebrated estates, founded by brothers Georges and Daniel Daou on a dramatic hilltop site in the Adelaida District. Best known for their benchmark Cabernet Sauvignon, Daou also produces a Chardonnay of genuine character — aged 7 months in 30% new French oak, striking a stellar balance between tropical richness and focused acidity that sets it apart from heavier, over-oaked California styles.

The 2025 opens with enticing aromas of pear, passion fruit, pineapple, and honeysuckle, with hints of white peach, nutmeg, and buttered toast, rounded out by nuances of crushed hazelnut, hibiscus, papaya, and vanilla. On the lush, vibrant palate, tropical flavors of mango, kiwi, and pineapple mingle with golden apple and clover honey, while suggestions of casaba melon, citrus zest, and toasty oak persist on a clean, balanced finish.

Tropical, vibrant, and beautifully balanced — Daou Chardonnay at its most expressive.

• Producer: Daou Vineyards, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Paso Robles AVA
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Oak: 7 months in 30% new French oak
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Pear, passion fruit, pineapple, honeysuckle, white peach, mango, kiwi, golden apple, clover honey, citrus zest, toasty oak
• Best Paired With: Grilled halibut, lobster, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, brie, crab cakes

Paso Robles Chardonnay with tropical soul and Burgundian restraint — Daou delivers every time.

Explore the Bacchus Pinot Noir Ginger's Cuvee California 2023

Winemaker Description

Dark ruby color. Light to medium bodied with aromas and flavors of raspberry, tart cherry, spice with a touch of earth. Supple and balanced with a smooth finish. 

The Bacchus label was created by David Gordon, one of New York’s first recognized sommeliers, and the person responsible for the Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning wine list at Manhattan’s famed Tribeca Grill restaurant. The restaurant opened in 1990 by restaurateur Drew Nieporent and actor Robert DeNiro. Gordon, who is self-taught, began learning about wine in the 1980s just as Kevin Zraly started to educate America on the world of wine. At the time, there were very few non-French somms working in the city and the British-born Court of Master Sommeliers was in its infancy.

While he tasted and learned about the best wines on the planet, which included expensive Burgundies and Rhône wines, Gordon always kept the consumer top of mind.“I started the Bacchus line as a fun, cool thing to do,” says Gordon. “There really weren't any wines associated with sommeliers at the time.  Now there are many, but these were definitely among the first. I named the wine after the person I worship- Bacchus.”

Gordon has kept to his original promise that wines with the Bacchus label will always be affordable and delicious. “People want ripe fruit and a clean taste that’s not too oaky or tannic,” he says. The wines are refreshing, they can be drunk as an aperitif before dinner or with a meal."

Memo Summary Notes

The Bacchus Ginger’s Cuvee Pinot Noir 2023 is a standout "value" wine created by David Gordon, the longtime Wine Director at New York’s famed Tribeca Grill. Named after his daughter, Ginger, this cuvée is designed to over-deliver on quality relative to its modest price point.

Pair with

• Proteins: Roast chicken, grilled salmon, or charcuterie.

• Cheese: Goat cheese or mild brie

• Vegetarian: Mushroom risotto or soy-ginger glazed tofu. 

Unveiling the Pinot Noir Experience

The Bacchus Pinot Noir Ginger's Cuvee California 2023 is a delightful representation of this classic grape variety. Pinot Noir grapes thrive in California's diverse climates, and this wine showcases the rich flavors and aromas characteristic of the region. It features notes of ripe berries, delicate floral hints, and subtle earthiness, making every sip an exploration of taste. This is not just a wine; it’s an experience, crafted for those who appreciate depth and complexity.

The Perfect Pairing for Any Occasion

This Pinot Noir is incredibly versatile, which means it pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply unwinding after a long day, this wine enhances the experience. Its soft tannins and bright acidity complement grilled salmon, roasted chicken, and even rich mushroom dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience that everyone will enjoy.

Why Choose Bacchus for Your Wine Collection

Bacchus is known for its commitment to quality, and the 2023 Pinot Noir Ginger's Cuvee is a testament to that. The meticulous crafting process ensures that each bottle reflects the vineyard's dedication and passion for winemaking. So, if you are looking for a new addition to your collection or a gift for a wine lover, consider this outstanding Pinot Noir. You'll appreciate its depth, elegance, and the story behind every bottle.

Paso Robles Cabernet That Delivers Napa-Level Richness

Austin Hope has become one of Paso Robles' most celebrated names, crafting wines that showcase the region's unique ability to produce powerful, opulent Cabernet Sauvignon with remarkable depth and approachability. The 2023 Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon is a benchmark expression — lavish, full-bodied, and built for both immediate enjoyment and the cellar.

Winemaker Notes

Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2023 750ml

Deep ruby in color, the 2023 Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon expresses aromas of fresh black currants and cherries accompanied by subtle smoky notes and dried spices. On the palate, this lavish powerful wine is layered with juicy blackberry, ripe cherry, vanilla bean and brown butter. It's full-bodied and rich, balanced by a touch of bright acidity and firm polished tannins.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Paso Robles, California
• Producer: Austin Hope Winery
• Vintage: 2023
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for bold, rich dishes — exceptional with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, aged cheddar, and hearty pasta with meat sauce.

CK Mondavi | Willow Springs, California | Chardonnay | 1.5L Magnum

From the Mondavi family's Willow Springs vineyards in California, this Chardonnay is approachable, food-friendly, and built for sharing. Medium-bodied with a light touch of oak, it delivers clean citrus and orchard fruit character with a crisp, refreshing finish. The 1.5L magnum format makes it the ideal choice for gatherings, dinner parties, or stocking a well-priced house pour.

Tasting Notes

• Lemon, citrus blossom, and apple on the nose
• Pear, green apple, and light oak on the palate
• Medium body | Hint of oak | Crisp, clean finish

Pairings: Grilled chicken, seafood, light pasta, soft cheeses

1.5L Magnum — equivalent to two standard bottles.

Flowers Pinot Noir Rosé — Sonoma Coast, California 2025

Flowers Winery is one of California's most celebrated coastal producers, farming estate vineyards on the extreme Sonoma Coast — just miles from the Pacific Ocean — where relentless marine influence, persistent fog, and cool temperatures produce wines of exceptional freshness, tension, and minerality. Their Pinot Noir Rosé is a benchmark for the California coastal rosé style: not a simple summer sipper, but a wine of genuine structure and complexity that happens to be pink.

The 2025 pours a delicate, luminous hue. The nose is lifted and aromatic — wild strawberry, rose petal, and a trio of fresh, sweet, and candied ruby grapefruit, underscored by a layer of wet stone minerality that speaks directly to the estate's coastal terroir. On the palate, the entry is welcoming and supple, with hallmark flavors of red grapefruit and a hint of vine-ripened watermelon. The palate is taut and neatly structured, with a latticework of texture and acidity that supports a persistent, mouth-watering finish. Serve well chilled at 45–50°F.

"Lifted aromas of wild strawberry and rose petal give way to fresh, sweet, and candied ruby grapefruit, underscored with wet stone minerality. Taut, with a latticework of texture and acidity and a persistent, mouth-watering finish." — Flowers Winery

• Producer: Flowers Winery, Sonoma Coast, California
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Style: Dry coastal rosé with marine minerality
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Wild strawberry, rose petal, ruby grapefruit, watermelon, wet stone minerality, taut finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled salmon, sushi, crab, burrata, light pasta with herbs, summer salads, or as an aperitif

The benchmark California coastal rosé — Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, marine minerality, and the kind of structure that makes it as serious as it is beautiful.

Winemaker Description

Mevushal. This wine is a blend of Central Coast and Russian River Chardonnay grapes. This blend has produced a very lush and complex wine. Baron Herzog Chardonnay displays notes of tropical fruit, citrus, and apple, with a hint of vanilla on the finish.

Kosher for Passover. 

Napa Valley's Most Iconic Cabernet

Since its founding in 1972, Caymus Vineyards has become one of Napa Valley's most recognized and consistently celebrated estates. The Wagner family's signature style — dark, rich, and opulent, with ripe tannins that make the wine as approachable in youth as in maturity — has earned Caymus a devoted following among Cabernet lovers worldwide.

The 2023 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon draws fruit from across Napa's diverse sub-appellations, from Coombsville in the south to Calistoga in the north. Valley floor fruit contributes lushness and generosity; hillside fruit provides structure and backbone. The result is a wine of layered complexity and seamless balance.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Layered aromas of cocoa, cassis, and ripe dark berries
• Palate: Rich and full-bodied with plush, ripe tannins and flavors of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and vanilla
• Finish: Long, smooth, and satisfying — approachable now, with the structure to age gracefully

Vineyard & Vinification

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Sub-appellations: Coombsville, Rutherford, Oakville, St. Helena, Calistoga
• Producer: Caymus Vineyards, Rutherford, CA
• Vintage: 2023
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A classic match for prime rib, dry-aged ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb rack, and aged hard cheeses. Also exceptional alongside rich pasta dishes and hearty stews.

Mumm Napa Brut Rosé — California NV

Mumm Napa’s Brut Rosé is one of California’s most vibrant and food-friendly sparkling wines — a Pinot Noir-dominant expression that brings the energy and freshness of méthode champenoise winemaking to a beautiful pink-salmon package. Blending 80% Pinot Noir with 20% Chardonnay, the wine is partially fermented in the press to develop its signature soft, fruity directness, while the Chardonnay component adds power and structure. The result earned 91 points from Wine Enthusiast and is one of the most versatile food wines in the sparkling category.

The nose is ripe and inviting: black cherry, wild strawberry, peach, and fresh red fruit. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and succulent — peach, wild strawberry, and plum flavors are framed by lively acidity and fine bubbles, with a clean, refreshing finish. Robust enough to stand up to bold cuisine, yet elegant enough for the apéritif hour.

Wine Enthusiast 91 — “A hearty 80% Pinot Noir dominates in this sparkler. With a pink-salmon hue, it offers peach and wild strawberry aromas followed by similar, medium-bodied flavors, with the addition of succulent plum.”

• Producer: Mumm Napa, Napa Valley, California, USA
• Vintage: Non-Vintage
• Appellation: California
• Blend: 80% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay
• Method: Méthode Champenoise
• Style: Brut Rosé
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, wild strawberry, peach, plum, fine bubbles, clean refreshing finish
• Best Paired With: Thai cuisine, grilled salmon, charcuterie, soft cheeses, pasta with tomato, Italian dishes

Pink, precise, and endlessly food-friendly — Mumm Napa’s Brut Rosé is California sparkling at its most vibrant.

Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir from Eleven Family-Owned Vineyards

Patz & Hall draws from eleven small, independent family-owned vineyard sites across the Sonoma Coast, unified into a wine of saline freshness, lively red fruit, and structural elegance. The 2021 vintage delivered cool, even growing conditions that preserved natural acidity and exceptional purity.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

• Decanter — 96 pts: "Delightful, extra juicy red and black fruits give graciously and generously with a mouth-filling texture and soft, silky tannins. The coolness of the Sonoma Coast takes the salty sea air and places it squarely on the grapes to give this wine a lovely saline finish. The great structural envelope will protect this wine for the future. It will last and last."
• Wine Spectator — 93 pts: "Fresh and lively, raspberry and mulberry coulis with a mouthwatering savory edge. Textbook vintage and AVA profile. Drink now through 2031."
• Wine Advocate — 90 pts: "Aromas of red and black cherries, mint, forest floor and allspice. Generous, spicy fruit with grainy tannins and juicy acidity."

Winemaker Notes

Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2021 750ml

Complex aromas of Morello cherry and wild strawberry, with cinnamon, clove, anise, and coriander alongside forest floor and pink flowers. Full palate with good purity, refined tannins, and fresh acidity.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast, California
• Vineyard Sources: 11 independent family-owned sites
• Producer: Patz & Hall
• Vintage: 2021
• Drinking Window: Now–2031
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Exceptional with roasted duck, salmon, mushroom risotto, lamb loin, and soft-ripened cheeses.

California's Definitive Old Vine Zinfandel

Turley Wine Cellars is the benchmark producer for old vine Zinfandel in California, farming some of the state's most ancient and storied vineyards. The Old Vines bottling is a masterclass in what age does to a vine — drawing from sites across Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lodi, Contra Costa, Amador, and Paso Robles, with vines ranging from 50 to 130 years old. Too small or too new to be vineyard-designates, these sites collectively tell the story of California old vine Zinfandel better than any single vineyard can.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022 

• Wine Advocate — 92 pts: "The nose is considerably deeper, fuller and more polished, opening with aromas of crushed plums, wild berry preserves, tobacco leaves and autumnal accents. The palate is light- to medium-bodied with a subtly dusty tannin structure and bright acidity. Generous layers of fruit, spice and floral notes on the finish."

Winemaker Notes

Turley Zinfandel Old Vines Paso Robles 2023 750ml

Dark brambly fruits — dark berry and fruitcake — dominate the palate. Notes of gingerbread, black pepper, and cinnamon add beautifully spiced complexity, with hints of Herbes de Provence and a slight herbal quality throughout.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Zinfandel
• Vine Age: 50–130 years old
• Sources: Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lodi, Contra Costa, Amador, Paso Robles
• Producer: Turley Wine Cellars
• Vintage: 2023
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Exceptional with BBQ brisket, braised short ribs, lamb burgers, spiced sausages, and aged hard cheeses.

California Cabernet That Delivers Every Time

Cannonball has built a devoted following by doing one thing exceptionally well: crafting approachable, fruit-forward California Cabernet Sauvignon at a price that makes it an easy everyday pour. Big, bold, and unapologetically generous, the 2022 is a crowd-pleaser with genuine winemaking behind it.

Winemaker Notes

Cannonball Cabernet Sauvignon California 2022 750ml

A big, bold Cabernet Sauvignon that explodes with black cherry and wild berry fruit, with notes of chocolate and oak. The rich texture lingers long with a bright, fresh finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: California
• Producer: Cannonball Wine Company
• Vintage: 2022
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Perfect with burgers, grilled ribeye, BBQ ribs, pizza, and aged cheddar. An ideal everyday red for any occasion.

Winemaker Description 

Flavors of pear, apple, and ripe tropical fruit. Well-balanced with vanilla and oak notes. Pair with grilled chicken or fish.

Beringer is known for establishing many 'firsts' as leaders in the wine industry. We were one of the first gravity fed facilities and among the first to operate using hand-dug caves and cellars. We were the first to give public tours in 1934, starting a Napa Valley hospitality tradition. We are the first and only winery to have both a red and a white wine named #1 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator Magazine.

Winemaker Description

This Rutherford-dominated blend of Cabernet Sauvignon complemented by Bordeaux grape varieties offers aromas of blackberry cobbler, plum, and black currants, followed by warm hints of vanilla and caramelized black fruit. A concentrated, silky wine emphasizing varietal expression, richness and balance from start to finish. 

James Suckling 92 Points | This tank sample of the final blend before bottling shows an abundance of ripe, juicy, almost syrupy fruit flavors, from blueberries to blackberries and cherries. It feels soft and plush, tastes warm and broad and adds chocolate and vanilla accents to all the sweet-tasting fruitiness. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Ripe plums, darker berries, spice, and chocolaty, savory herb notes all emerge from the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, a nicely textured, medium-bodied, incredibly satisfying Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that has ripe tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish.

A Classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from One of the Valley’s Most Iconic Estates

Cakebread Cellars has been crafting benchmark Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon since 1973, and the 2022 is a quintessential expression of the house style — rich, layered, and beautifully balanced. A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Syrah, and 1% Cabernet Franc, it delivers ripe blackberry, plum, and boysenberry with dark chocolate, baking spices, and toasty oak, underpinned by bright acidity and velvety tannins.

Expert Reviews

• James Suckling — 92 pts: Plush and generous aromas of blackcurrants, mulberries and baking spices. Full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving flavors of olive tapenade, blackberries and cedar. Approachable for early drinking, but will age nicely. (Vintage 2022). 

Winemaker Notes

Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2022 750ml

Rich layers of ripe blackberry, plum, and boysenberry enhanced by subtle hints of dark chocolate, baking spices, and toasty oak. Bright acidity and velvety tannins deliver a full-bodied yet refined and elegant structure. Approachable now and built to age gracefully.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Syrah, 1% Cabernet Franc
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Cakebread Cellars
• Vintage: 2022
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural at the table — exceptional with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb rack, rich pork dishes, game, and aged cheddar or Gruyère.

About This Wine

Beringer's Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has long been one of California's benchmark expressions of the variety — a wine that bridges Napa's richness with Sonoma's elegance. Sourced from the volcanic soils of Knights Valley, just east of the Mayacamas Mountains, the 2022 vintage delivers everything this appellation is known for: depth, structure, and a sense of place.

The 2022 growing season brought warmth and richness, yielding bold layers of blackcurrant, plum, and boysenberry, accented by dark chocolate, sage, and hints of tobacco and cedar. Extended maceration extracted maximum color and flavor, while 14 months in French oak (30% new) added spice and texture without overwhelming the fruit. Fine-grained tannins and bright acidity give this wine both immediate appeal and genuine aging potential.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep plum with ruby highlights
• Nose: Blackcurrant, boysenberry, cassis, dark chocolate, sage, cedar, wild lavender
• Palate: Medium-to-full body, plush sandy tannins, vibrant acidity, baking spice, crushed stone
• Finish: Long, elegant, savory — structured and mouthwatering

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

James Suckling 93 | Perfumed aromas of red currants, lavender, fresh thyme and graphite. Medium-bodied with plush tannins and balanced acidity, giving flavors of raspberry coulis, red licorice and baking spices. Very soft and delicate, with a nicely constructed backbone. Drink or hold.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, aged cheddar, and mushroom risotto. A natural at the dinner table, equally at home with a casual weeknight meal or a celebratory feast.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2022
Region: Knights Valley, Sonoma County, California
Appellation: Knights Valley AVA
Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot
Oak Aging: 14 months, French oak (30% new)
Style: Full-bodied Red Wine

A Limited Single-Vineyard Pinot Noir from Arroyo Seco, Monterey County

“Balade” is French for wandering — a fitting name for Belle Glos’s annual exploration of the most compelling single-vineyard Pinot Noir blocks on the West Coast. Each vintage, only the most nuanced and expressive block is selected for this limited bottling. The 2022 comes from the Arroyo Seco appellation in Monterey County, delivering dark purple-violet tones, enticing blackberry and boysenberry aromas, and a palate of black cherry, wild blackberry, and jammy plum with beautiful acidity and a long, mouthwatering finish.

Expert Reviews

• Wine Enthusiast (Matt Kettmann) — 92 pts: Dried cherry, baked plum and a full spice rack of aromas on the nose. Tense, slightly sappy tannins frame the sip, where black plum, stewed cherry and bay leaf flavors lead into a wood smoke-kissed finish. (Vintage 2022). 

Winemaker Notes

Belle Glos Pinot Noir BALADE Single Survey Arroyo Seco Monterey County 2022 750ml

Dark purple-violet in color with enticing aromas of blackberry and boysenberry. Sophisticated on the palate with flavors of black cherry, wild blackberry, and jammy plum. Balanced and structured with beautiful acidity that lingers through to a long, mouthwatering finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Appellation: Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California
• Producer: Belle Glos
• Vintage: 2022
• Bottling: Limited Single-Vineyard Release
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A versatile partner at the table — exceptional with roasted duck, grilled salmon, lamb chops, mushroom risotto, pork tenderloin, and aged cheeses.

Winemaker Description 

Experience the dark side of Ménage a Trois with Midnight, a luxurious dark red blend sure to satisfy your deepest desires. Voluptuous black cherry and berry flavors with hints of mocha and exotic spice play across your lips, urging you to turn out the lights and savor the pleasures of the dark.

Banshee Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2022 - Premium California White Wine

Discover the rich, luxurious character of Banshee Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2022, a beautifully crafted California Chardonnay that showcases the best of Sonoma County's warmer vineyard sites. This full-bodied white wine delivers layers of golden apple, yellow peach, and luscious caramel wrapped in a creamy, mouth-filling texture.

Why Choose Banshee Sonoma Coast Chardonnay?

• Exceptional Value: 93 points from James Suckling - premium quality at an accessible price
• Rich & Luxurious: Full-bodied with extraordinary depth and complexity
• Perfectly Balanced: Lush texture with bright acidity and a creamy finish
• Versatile Pairing: Ideal with seafood, poultry, creamy pasta, and rich cheeses

Tasting Notes

Experience a wonderfully complex wine with enticing aromatics of caramel toffee, exotic lychee, hints of spice, and lemon pie filling. On the palate, this Chardonnay is lush and viscous, packed with flavors of lemon pie, luscious caramel, and vanilla wafer. The wine finishes with bright acidity and a creamy, lingering finish that invites another sip.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

James Suckling 93 Points | From warmer parts of Sonoma County, this rich and luxurious wine offers golden apples, yellow peaches, hints of caramel and vanilla on a full body and rounded, mouth-filling texture.

Perfect Food Pairings

This versatile Sonoma Coast Chardonnay pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled lobster or crab with drawn butter
• Roasted chicken with herbs and lemon
• Creamy fettuccine Alfredo or carbonara
• Aged Gruyère or triple-cream Brie
• Pan-seared scallops with brown butter

About Banshee Wines

Banshee Wines crafts exceptional, terroir-driven wines from California's finest coastal regions. Their Sonoma Coast Chardonnay showcases the winery's commitment to producing rich, expressive wines that over-deliver on quality and value.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled at 50-55°F to fully appreciate the wine's complex aromatics and creamy texture. This Chardonnay is perfect for enjoying now or can be cellared for 2-3 years to develop additional complexity.

Winemaker Description 

Our family winery has hand-crafted fine wines for four generations. We harvest grapes at their peak of ripeness from our 1,850 acres and prime California vineyards creating wines to be enjoyed every day – whatever the occasion. Our Chardonnay is a delightfully crisp wine with aromas of lemon and citrus.

• Flavors of apple and pear mingle with a hint of oak in this medium-bodied wine that is smooth and refreshing

J. Lohr Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon — Paso Robles 2022 — 375ml Half Bottle

J. Lohr is one of California’s most respected family-owned wineries, with estate vineyards across Paso Robles, Monterey, and Napa Valley. Seven Oaks is their flagship Paso Robles Cabernet — named for the majestic valley oaks that shade the estate — and it has become one of the most decorated value Cabernets in California, consistently earning 90+ point scores from the country’s top critics. Paso Robles delivers the warm days and cool nights that produce Cabernet of exceptional ripeness and natural balance, and the 2022 vintage was no exception. 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 rich and inviting: black cherry, currants, roasted plums, sage, cloves, and damp earth, with a spicy, toasty complexity that punches well above its price point. On the palate, it is full-bodied and plush — creamy black cherry, vanilla, purple plum, and black currant, with wet clay, cocoa, mint, and mace adding impressive depth and complexity. The tannins are velvety and ripe, the finish long and delectable. Three critics, three 90+ scores. At this price, it is one of the great values in California Cabernet.

Expert Reviews

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 black currant.”

James Suckling — 90 Points (Claire Nesbitt)
“Currants, sage, roasted plums and cloves on the nose of this rich and spicy red. Full-bodied, plush and toasty, with ripe tannins.”

Wine Enthusiast — 90 Points (Matt Kettmann)
“Damp earth aromas lead quickly into sharp yet ripe cherry aromas. Likable flavors of black cherry greet the palate, as wet clay, cocoa, mint and mace flavors add impressive complexity at this price point.”

• Producer: J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Paso Robles
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Format: 375ml Half Bottle
• Style: Full-bodied, plush, value-driven Paso Robles Cabernet
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, currants, roasted plum, vanilla, cocoa, mint, velvety tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2028
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, New York strip, gourmet burgers, portobello mushrooms, blue cheese

Three critics, three 90+ scores, one half bottle — J. Lohr Seven Oaks 2022 is Paso Robles Cabernet at its most generous.

Frog’s Leap has long been one of Napa Valley’s most thoughtful producers, and this Sauvignon Blanc from their Rutherford estate is a compelling argument for California’s ability to craft world-class whites. Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc sourced from organically grown, dry-farmed vineyards, it is vinified primarily in stainless steel to preserve the grape’s natural freshness and clarity. The 2024 vintage delivers stone fruit and white flower aromatics layered with crisp citrus, mineral, and herbaceous notes — medium-bodied, elegant, and refreshingly precise, with a clean finish that speaks clearly of Rutherford’s distinctive terroir.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

“The 2024 Sauvignon Blanc offers up scents of lemon confit, slate, white pepper, mint and dried herbs, all framed by a gentle kiss of French oak. Lees-stirring builds the mid-palate beautifully. A dollop of Musqué clone adds aromatic lift and presence through to the finish.” — 93 pts, Vinous

“Crisp, well balanced and medium-bodied, this herb- and citrus-scented wine tastes refreshing and clean. Good acidity supports bright lemon and lime flavors, with grass, mineral and dried herb accents.” — 92 pts, James Suckling

Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage: 2024
Region: Rutherford, Napa Valley, California
Farming: Dry-Farmed
Bottle Size: 750ml

Our Professional Review 

Bart of 67wino.shop writes | Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon is one of Napa Valley’s shining stars, but it’s always a ‘special occasion’ wine that’s priced beyond the reach of ordinary quaffing. The good news is Cakebread is now producing an affordable top notch Cabernet from Paso Robles that drinks deliciously. 

Winemaker Description 

Our Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles is bold and generous, with intriguing depth and loads of California charisma. Layers of sun-kissed wild blackberries alternate with boysenberry jam, dried bay leaf, and dark chocolate. This California Cab makes friends wherever it goes.

We source our Paso Robles Cabernet from two sites at opposite ends of the appellation, so we can combine the best of both: great tannin structure and acidity, as well as plush, generous fruit with a classic herbal edge.”
— JANE DUNKLEY, WINEMAKER
 

Scharffenberger Brut Excellence | Méthode Traditionnelle | Mendocino County, California

A benchmark California sparkling wine crafted in the traditional méthode champenoise, bottle-fermented and aged a minimum of 24 months on the lees. The blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir draws from Scharffenberger's own 120-acre Anderson Valley vineyards and select long-term Mendocino County contracts — a pedigree that shows in every pour.

The nose opens with toasted brioche, crème caramel, Asian pear, and honeysuckle, layered with hazelnut and candied citrus. On the palate, a creamy, fine-bubbled mousse gives way to bright orchard fruit — yellow apple, white fig, apricot — framed by lip-smacking acidity and a long, nutty finish. 100% malolactic fermentation adds a round, full-bodied texture that punches well above its price point.

• Appellation: Mendocino County, California
• Blend: 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir
• Method: Méthode Traditionnelle (Champenoise)
• Aging: Minimum 24 months on the lees
• Dosage: ~8 g/L
• Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim

• Jeb Dunnuck — 93 pts: Impressive depth of texture and balanced richness; lovely notes of crème caramel and brioche.
• The Tasting Panel — 93 pts: Remarkable value with the poise and presence of wines twice the price; lilting, lip-smacking acidity and a creamy tang.
• Decanter — 92 pts: Riveting aromatics of brioche, crème brûlée, and candied citrus; broad and mouth-filling with a crisp, layered finish.
• James Suckling — 92 pts: Solid core of fruit with apple, strawberry, and hints of iron and salt; tensioned and full of flavor.

Turley Wine Cellars Juvenile Zinfandel — California 2024 750ml

Turley Wine Cellars is California’s most celebrated Zinfandel specialist, founded by Larry Turley in Napa Valley in 1993 with a singular mission: to rescue and vinify fruit from California’s oldest, most historic Zinfandel vines. The Juvenile is Turley’s entry-level Zinfandel — but “entry-level” is a relative term here. Sourced from younger vines across California’s finest Zinfandel-growing regions, the Juvenile consistently delivers the house’s signature combination of perfumed aromatics, mid-weight elegance, and vibrant fruit character. The 2024 vintage is described by critics as an especially delicate and gracious expression — a beauty by any measure.

The 2024 Juvenile opens with crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, spice, and mint on an expressive, perfumed nose. The winemaker notes juicy dark cherries, blackberries, and just-ripened raspberries alongside savory Thanksgiving spices. On the palate, notes of salty dried meats and brambly fruits are paired with silken tannins — mid-weight, refined, and utterly drinkable.

Vinous 91 Points — “A very pretty entry-level offering from Turley. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, spice and mint give this mid-weight, perfumed red tons of character. The 2024 is an especially delicate, gracious Zinfandel. What a beauty.”

• Producer: Turley Wine Cellars, Napa Valley, California (est. 1993)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Zinfandel
• Style: Mid-weight, perfumed, elegant California Zinfandel
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Crushed flowers, sweet red berry, spice, mint, dark cherry, blackberry, raspberry, savory spice, salty dried meat, brambly fruit, silken tannins
• Best Paired With: BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, roasted lamb, pizza, aged Gouda, charcuterie

California’s greatest Zinfandel specialist at its most approachable — Turley Juvenile 2024 is a perfumed, elegant beauty built for drinking now.

A 99-Point Napa Cabernet That Outscores Cult Wines at Double the Price

Heitz Cellars is one of Napa Valley’s most storied estates, producing benchmark Cabernet Sauvignon since 1961. The 2021 Napa Valley Cabernet bounds from the glass with Heitz’s signature pure red cherry and redcurrant flavors, accented by mint, underbrush, and dark cocoa. With Napa Valley’s average Cabernet price cresting $100, this is a phenomenal value — outscoring some cult names at double the price, with the firm acidity and tannin structure to fascinate for decades.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

• Decanter — 99 pts: Remarkably pure and fresh. Pristine black cherry and blackberry, layered with beautiful violet aromas. Everything builds with precision and focus, supported by gorgeously firm, taut, mineral-rich tannins that bring energy and drive. Compact and tightly wound at this youthful stage, its intensity truly emblematic of the vintage.
• James Suckling — 94 pts: Dark fruit aromas of blackberries, bitter chocolate, dried herbs, blackcurrants, black olives and graphite. Full-bodied with a textural, rounded mouthfeel and finely integrated tannins, leading to a savory, fruit-driven finish.
• Wine Spectator — 94 pts: Ripe, fresh and focused, offering a lovely beam of red currant and plum coulis alongside savory, violet, tobacco and singed cedar hints. Finishes with a late twang of iron.
• Vinous — 93 pts: Plump and vibrant with good up-front fruit and bright acids. Captures the essence of modern classicism typical of Heitz wines today. Floral overtones brighten the finish.

Winemaker Notes

Heitz Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2021 750ml

Pure red cherry and redcurrant on the nose, accented by red plum, mint, underbrush, and dark cocoa. Firm acidity and tannin in harmony with a plush mouthfeel — a wine built to evolve for decades. One of Napa Valley’s great values in serious Cabernet Sauvignon.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Heitz Cellars
• Vintage: 2021
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A classic Napa Cabernet at the table — exceptional with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, roasted lamb rack, duck breast with cherry reduction, and aged cheddar or Gruyère.

RouteStock · 'Route 29' Cabernet Sauvignon · Napa Valley · 2023

Route 29 is the highway that runs the length of Napa Valley — and RouteStock's flagship Cabernet is named for it because it captures exactly what makes this corridor one of the world's great wine roads. Sourced from Napa Valley fruit and blended with the precision of a classic Bordeaux assemblage, this is a Cabernet built for both the dinner table and the cellar. The winemaking team crafted the blend with intention: Cabernet Sauvignon for power and structure, Cabernet Franc for wild aromatics and flavor complexity, Merlot for dusty plum character, Malbec for violet notes, and Petit Verdot for color and tannin grip. At $23.99 with a compare-at of $26.99, this is Napa Valley Cabernet at a price that makes it an everyday luxury.

The 2023 opens with an alluring nose of cedar, cola, dark black fruit, and a kiss of toasted oak. On the palate: round, expansive, and bright — flavors of cocoa, coffee, dark fruit, and herbs weave together with impressive complexity. The wine fills the mouth without being dominated by any single element, finishing with a brightness that is rare for Cabernet Sauvignon at this price. Drink now through 2030.

• Producer: RouteStock Wines
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot
• Vinification: Classic Bordeaux-style assemblage · Blended before bottling for balance
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cedar, cola, dark black fruit, toasted oak, cocoa, coffee, herbs, bright finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2030
• Food Pairings: Ribeye steak, braised short ribs, lamb chops, aged cheddar, mushroom ragù

Bordeaux-style precision, Napa Valley power — Route 29 Cabernet at a price that makes it a no-brainer.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023 

Jonathan Cristaldi of Decanter Magazine writes 93 Points | This wine impresses with its richness, creamy vanilla, and buttery brioche notes on the nose—never over the top—building into a fleshy, layered palate balanced by excellent acidity, with a pH of around 3.4 and 6.2 TA. Candied ginger peel, rich citrus, and tangerine peel lead into baked pineapple notes on a very long, saline-mineral finish—a true crowd-pleaser, perfect with roast chicken and potatoes or roast pork. The fruit for this Chardonnay comes from Napa and Sonoma Carneros. Barrel-fermented and aged for nine months in a mix of American and French oak, one-third of which is new. Oklahoma-born and raised, Andrew Holloway began his winemaking journey as an intern at Rombauer in 2010. His talent and dedication saw him rise to assistant winemaker in 2014, and in 2023, he was named winemaker.

Jim Gordon of JamesSuckling.com writes 91 Points | This is a lush, ripe, relaxed classic with generous poached pear and peach pie flavors. Full-bodied, rich in fruit and spice flavors, with butter and caramel accents. All barrel fermented, with hand-stirred lees and full malolactic. Reasonable acidity and a super-relaxed texture.

Winemaker Description 

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 ripe peach and melon are found on the nose, interspersed with bright citrus notes. These continue to the palate where they are met by flavors of creamy vanilla and buttery nuances on the long finish. Rombauer’s signature bright acidity is evident throughout each sip, balancing the softness of the midpalate.

California Merlot from Duckhorn's Celebrated Everyday Label

Decoy is the acclaimed everyday label from Duckhorn Vineyards, one of Napa Valley's most respected producers. The 2023 Decoy Merlot — sourced from California's premier coastal appellations — delivers the lush, polished style that has made Decoy one of America's most beloved Merlots: rich dark fruit, silky tannins, and the kind of effortless drinkability that works equally well at a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Winemaker Notes

Beautifully lush and expressive, this alluring Merlot draws you in with aromas of black currant, black cherry, boysenberry, and sweet baking spices. On the palate, it is plush and polished, with silky tannins carrying the luxurious dark berry, creamy mocha, and bittersweet chocolate flavors to a long, supple finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Merlot
• Appellation: North Coast, California
• Producer: Decoy by Duckhorn Vineyards
• Vintage: 2023
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

Wonderfully versatile — exceptional with grilled ahi tuna, prime rib, roasted lamb chops, mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses.

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon That Defines the Silver Oak Legacy

Silver Oak has been one of Napa Valley's most iconic Cabernet producers since 1972, celebrated for a house style that balances power with elegance and approachability. The 2019 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon — a blend of 76.61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18.13% Merlot, 2.56% Cabernet Franc, 2.32% Petit Verdot, and 0.38% Malbec, aged in American oak seasoned 24 months and toasted 90 minutes — is a benchmark expression of the estate: structured yet silky, complex yet immediately rewarding, with the depth to cellar through 2047.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2019 

• Decanter — 96 pts: "Beautifully compact with complex aromas of Bing cherry, black raspberry, tobacco, currant leaf, and cedarwood laced with dried sage. Focused and linear on the medium to full-bodied palate with expressive dark berry character and exotic oak spices. Fine-grained structured tannins, a crisp, lively, energetic finish. One to cellar. Drink 2024–2038."
• James Suckling — 95 pts: "So elegant, supple and silky, this vintage is a dream to drink now, but should also have plenty of life ahead of it. Aromas of blueberries and dark chocolate meld with lux black fruit, mint and cocoa on the palate. Drink or hold through at least 2030."

Winemaker Notes

Expressive and lively on the nose with black cherry and huckleberry aromas laced with dry floral notes. Integrated oak adds a light note of sweet nutmeg. Ruby in color, with a fruit-forward entry, silky tannins that build across the mid-palate, and a long, balanced finish. Structured while still approachable — true to the signature Silver Oak style. Will continue to improve through 2047 with proper cellaring.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Blend: 76.61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18.13% Merlot, 2.56% Cabernet Franc, 2.32% Petit Verdot, 0.38% Malbec
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Silver Oak Cellars
• Vintage: 2019
• Oak: American oak, 24-month seasoning, 90-minute toast
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for Napa-style entertaining — exceptional with prime ribeye, lamb rack, braised short ribs, aged cheddar, and mushroom-crusted filet mignon.