United States Wine

Expert Review — Vintage 2024

James Suckling 93 Points | A ripe but balanced wine with plenty of golden apple and Bartlett pear flavors on a smooth, buttery texture. Some green apple acidity brightens up the ripeness, lifting vanilla bean, toast, and butterscotch nuances. Full-bodied.

Winemaker Description

Decoy Limited represents the elevated tier of the Decoy lineup — where the standard Decoy Chardonnay draws from across California, the Limited label focuses strictly on the cooler maritime vineyards of the Sonoma Coast, delivering more precision, depth, and structural complexity. The 2024 growing season brought a cool, wet winter and moderate spring, with harvest beginning mid-September. Strategic leafing and crop adjustments yielded white wines with fresh aromatics and lively acidity.

Food Pairings

Dungeness crab with drawn butter, lobster rolls, seared scallops, roasted chicken with cream-and-mushroom sauce, Fettuccine Alfredo, roasted squash with sage butter, and truffle mushroom risotto.

MacRostie Winery and Vineyards Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2023 — Sonoma Coast, California

MacRostie Winery and Vineyards has been one of Sonoma Coast’s most dedicated Chardonnay producers since 1987, when Steve MacRostie began crafting wines that prioritized site expression over winemaking intervention. The Sonoma Coast AVA — with its cool Pacific-influenced climate, morning fog, and well-drained hillside soils — is one of California’s premier addresses for Chardonnay, producing wines with the kind of natural acidity and aromatic complexity that sets them apart from warmer inland bottlings.

The 2023 opens with beautiful aromas of tropical fruit, melon, and perfumed lemon mingling with hints of slate, wet chalk, and intriguing floral notes of jasmine and orange blossom. On the velvety palate, pineapple and guava give way to layers of stone fruit, Key lime pie, Asian pear, and yellow apple, all flowing to a long, luxurious finish. James Suckling awarded it 90 points, noting “plenty of ripe, succulent fruit on a full body and a smooth, rounded texture.”

James Suckling 90 — “Applesauce, pineapple, brown butter and vanilla bean flavors give ample richness.”

• Producer: MacRostie Winery and Vineyards, Sonoma Coast, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Closure: Screwcap
• Farming: Sustainable
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit, melon, lemon, jasmine, orange blossom, pineapple, guava, stone fruit, Key lime, Asian pear, brown butter, vanilla
• Best Paired With: Grilled halibut, lobster bisque, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, crab cakes

Sonoma Coast Chardonnay at its most expressive — MacRostie delivers complexity and elegance at an honest price.

Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon — Paso Robles 2023

For over 40 years, Liberty School has been a dinner table staple — a reliably delicious, generously priced Cabernet Sauvignon from one of California’s most exciting wine regions. Produced by Hope Family Wines in Paso Robles, the 2023 vintage continues the tradition: approachable, food-friendly, and built to please.

The wine pours a rich ruby with inviting aromas of fresh vanilla, lush red fruit, and subtle herbaceous nuances. On the palate, bright cherry mingles with warm cocoa and sweet oak, leading to an unbelievably smooth finish with soft, gorgeous tannins that make this wine as easy to love as it is to drink.

• Producer: Liberty School / Hope Family Wines, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fresh vanilla, red cherry, lush red fruit, cocoa, sweet oak, soft tannins
• Best Paired With: Grilled steaks, burgers, red sauce pasta, lamb, hard cheeses

A 40-year track record of over-delivering — Liberty School is the Cab you reach for when you want something great without thinking twice.

Three Wishes | Cabernet Sauvignon | California | NV

Three Wishes is California's best-kept secret for everyday drinking — genuine California wine character at a price that makes it the easiest decision on the shelf. At $5.49, this Cabernet Sauvignon delivers the classic California Cab profile — dark fruit, soft tannins, and a touch of oak — without the premium price tag. The perfect house red for casual entertaining, weeknight dinners, or stocking up for a crowd.

Medium-bodied and approachable with vibrant notes of blackberry, hints of vanilla and oak, and a lingering finish. Fruit-forward and easy-drinking from start to finish. Vegan-friendly and gluten-free.

Pair with burgers, grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, pizza, pasta with tomato sauce, and mild cheddar.

• Producer: Three Wishes
• Appellation: California, USA
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Suitable for: Vegans; Gluten-Free
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Winemaker Description

Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon displays great complexity and structure from Washington State's renowned Columbia Valley. Bold and expressive, with slight pepper, a round body, dried cherry, silky vanilla, and a concentrated, long velvet finish.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby in color with aromas of dark cherry, blackcurrant, and a hint of cedar. The palate is full-bodied and well-structured with flavors of dried cherry, plum, vanilla, and subtle pepper spice. Silky tannins lead to a long, velvety finish.

Food Pairings

Pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted beef, veal, duck, blue cheese, and dark chocolate. An excellent everyday Cabernet Sauvignon from one of Washington's most celebrated producers.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2020
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA
Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA
Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Producer: Columbia Crest
Style: Red Wine, Dry, Full-Bodied

Three Wishes | Pinot Grigio | California | NV

Three Wishes is California's best-kept secret for everyday drinking — genuine California wine character at a price that makes it the easiest decision on the shelf. At $5.49, this Pinot Grigio-Colombard blend delivers more freshness, drinkability, and honest pleasure than wines at two or three times the price. The perfect house white for any occasion, any night of the week.

Light-bodied and refreshing with crisp acidity, bright citrus notes, and hints of pineapple and pear. Clean, approachable, and lively from start to finish. Colombard adds a touch of aromatic lift and natural freshness that keeps the wine energetic and food-friendly.

Pair with grilled chicken, fresh seafood, light salads, soft cheeses, and summer appetizers. Equally at home as an aperitif or alongside a casual weeknight meal.

• Producer: Three Wishes
• Appellation: California, USA
• Blend: Pinot Grigio, Colombard
• Style: Light-bodied, crisp California white
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2024

Decanter 93 Points: The 30th Anniversary bottling of Mt. Jeff, with fruit from four of the five Cristom estate vineyards. Pure Willamette character on the nose — forest floor, tart cranberries, and mint leaves balanced by a kiss of sea salt. The palate is a mélange of juicy red berries, salty mineral glimpses, and savoury amaro herbals. A classic, after all these years.

Wine Advocate 90–92 Points: Slowly opening aromas of blackberry and black cherry, earth and violets. The medium-bodied palate matches concentrated, floral fruit with well-integrated oak spice, framed by silky tannins and fresh acidity. A nuanced finish.

Winemaker Description

Cristom Mt. Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2024 750ml

Cristom’s flagship Pinot Noir — known colloquially as “Mt. Jeff” — embodies the hallmark Cristom style, marrying whole-cluster and native yeast fermentations. With the 2024 vintage, this iconic wine debuts for the first time as a fully Estate Pinot Noir, comprised of fruit from the Paul Gerrie, Eileen, Louise, and Jessie Vineyards, marking its 30th Anniversary.

Mt. Jeff captures the diversity of volcanic soils, elevations, and aspects that define Cristom’s Eola-Amity Hills hillside. Coastal winds funneled through the Van Duzer Corridor further shape its structure and complexity. The 2024 opens with pronounced floral aromas of roses and lavender combined with blue fruit and plum, accented by subtle earth. The palate is well-balanced with fresh acidity, tart cherry, and raspberry — a benchmark classic Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and an exceptional value.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roasted duck breast with cherry reduction, herb-roasted chicken, or turkey with cranberry.
• Meat: Lamb chops with rosemary, pork tenderloin with mushroom sauce, or salmon with pinot beurre blanc.
• Cheese: Aged Gruyère, Brie de Meaux, or a mild washed-rind cheese.

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi is California’s most trusted everyday wine brand, crafted in the tradition of Robert Mondavi’s commitment to quality and approachability. This 1.5L Magnum — equivalent to two standard bottles — is the perfect format for entertaining, parties, and casual gatherings.

Tasting Notes

Vibrant aromas and flavors of pear, apple, peach, oak, and toast. Medium-bodied with balanced acidity and a rich, toasty finish. Approachable and food-friendly.

Food Pairings

Light appetizers, grilled chicken, pasta with cream sauce, seafood, and soft cheeses. A versatile everyday Chardonnay for any occasion.

• Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
• Appellation: California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Style: Medium-bodied, lightly oaked California Chardonnay
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)

Columbia Crest Grand Estates | Merlot | 2020 | 750ml | Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA

Rated 90 Points – Vinous | 90 Points – James Suckling

An outstanding value from Washington State's Columbia Valley, Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot delivers dark fruit complexity, soft tannins, and a creamy finish at an everyday price. Vinous calls it "an excellent entry to the value category of Washington State Merlot."

• Winery: Columbia Crest
• Origin: Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Varietal: Merlot
• Vintage: 2020
• Closure: Screw Cap

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Dark plum, herb, blackberries, tobacco, mint chocolate, dark cherries, and a kiss of vanilla
• Palate: Round and juicy with tart wild berry fruits, chewy blueberry skin, mocha, and soft ripe tannins
• Finish: Bold and structured with notes of vanilla, raspberry, and lingering minerality

Critical Acclaim

• 🏆 Vinous – 90 Points: "Darkly floral and earthy with hints of animal musk and crushed blackberries. Juicy acids enliven its tart wild berry fruits. Leaves a mark of minerality along with chewy blueberry skin concentration and hints of mocha."
• 🏆 James Suckling – 90 Points: "Blackberries, tobacco, mint chocolate and dark cherries, with a kiss of vanilla. Medium- to full-bodied with soft, ripe tannins and a creamy finish. Drink now."

Food Pairings: Blue cheese, duck, beef, veal, and dark chocolate.

Winemaker Description

Dark garnet in color with juicy flavors of blueberry, blackberry, and black cherry. Most of the fruit comes from the Lodi AVA, with the remainder sourced from sustainable vineyards throughout the Central Valley. Harvested in late September, the Cabernet Sauvignon undergoes 7–9 days of fermentation on the skins before being pressed and finishing fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged on new and used French and American oak for 4–6 months, adding structure and a subtle layer of complexity to the fruit-forward profile.

About McManis Family Vineyards

McManis Family Vineyards is a family-owned estate based in Ripon, California, farming sustainably in the Lodi AVA — one of California’s most celebrated regions for value-driven, fruit-forward reds. Founded by Ron and Jamie McManis, the winery has built a reputation for producing approachable, well-crafted California Cabernet Sauvignon at an exceptional price point. Their commitment to sustainable farming, careful vineyard management, and thoughtful winemaking consistently delivers wines that punch well above their price — making McManis one of the most trusted names in everyday California wine.

Food Pairings

Grilled burgers, BBQ ribs, roasted chicken, pasta with meat sauce, mild cheddar, and pizza. An ideal everyday red for casual dinners and entertaining.

Product Details

• Producer: McManis Family Vineyards
• Region: Lodi AVA, California, USA
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: 4–6 months, French & American oak
• Closure: Screwcap
• Vintage: 2024
• Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

Elouan Pinot Noir — Oregon 2023

Elouan is the Oregon project of Joseph Wagner — the Caymus winemaker who headed north to one of the world’s great Pinot Noir regions with a clear vision: depth of flavor, vibrancy, and suppleness. Sourcing from across Oregon’s diverse appellations, Wagner crafts a Pinot that is fuller-bodied and more expressive than the typical delicate style, layering dark fruit with spice, earth, and a supple, polished structure. The Tasting Panel awarded it 93 points.

The nose is a cornucopia: spiced plums, dark berries, violets, cloves, wildflowers, and exotic herbs. On the palate, it is robust and expansive — dark cherry, black raspberry, coffee, and hibiscus with baking spice and cocoa, carried by vibrant acidity and soft, supple tannins through an exotic finish of cherry bark and red tea.

🇺🇸 Tasting Panel 93 — “Iron and ash form an earthy partnership in this most expressive vintage. Deep and seductive, with notes of coffee, black raspberry, and hibiscus leading to an exotic finish of cherry bark and red tea.”

🇺🇸 67Wine Buyer’s Pick — Bart Hopkins: “A cornucopia of aromas swirl from the glass, unmistakably Oregonian, with enticing layers of spiced plums, dark berries, violets, cloves, wildflowers and exotic herbs. In the mouth, the flavors become robust and expansive with superb depth and definition that follow through into the finish. Smooth tannins compliment the luscious fruit with charming succulence. Delicious!”

• Producer: Elouan (Joseph Wagner / Caymus), Oregon, USA
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Oregon
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Spiced plum, dark cherry, black raspberry, violets, coffee, hibiscus, baking spice, cocoa, cherry bark finish
• Best Paired With: Roasted or smoked meats, duck, mushroom dishes, Brie, Gruyère, prosciutto

Oregon Pinot Noir with California soul — Elouan delivers depth, vibrancy, and suppleness in every glass.

Daou Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2023 — Paso Robles, California

Daou Vineyards is one of Paso Robles’ most ambitious estates, founded by brothers Georges and Daniel Daou on a dramatic hilltop site in the Adelaida District — one of the appellation’s coolest, most limestone-rich growing areas. Since their first vintage, Daou has pursued a singular vision: to produce Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals Napa Valley at a fraction of the price. The 2023 vintage continues that mission with a wine of genuine complexity and cellar-worthy structure.

The 2023 opens with heady aromas of black plum, Zante currant, frankincense, and sage, followed by trailing scents of blackberry, cardamom, and espresso bean with accents of vanilla, saddle leather, and cinnamon toast. On the palate, fine-grained tannins provide structure for rich flavors of black cherry, raspberry, and mulberry, with secondary layers of black olive, sandalwood, and dark chocolate. The finish is velvety and long, with lingering impressions of chocolate-covered cherry, dried herbs, and toasty oak. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points, noting “clean lines of cherry, toasted wood, red flower and a pinch of thyme.”

Wine Enthusiast 91 — “The palate pairs familiar blackberry flavors with mocha spice. A satisfying, widely available bottling.”

• Producer: Daou Vineyards, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Paso Robles AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black plum, Zante currant, blackberry, cardamom, espresso, vanilla, dark chocolate, saddle leather, velvety finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, rich pasta, aged cheddar, hearty roasts — serve at 60–65°F

Paso Robles Cabernet at its most compelling — Daou punches well above its price.

DeLoach Heritage Reserve Chardonnay — California 2024 750ml

DeLoach Vineyards has been crafting expressive California wines since 1975, with a philosophy rooted in sustainable farming and a commitment to letting the fruit speak. The Heritage Reserve Chardonnay is part of DeLoach’s California Series — a bright, fruit-forward expression that bucks the trend of heavy, oak-driven California whites. Instead, the 2024 focuses on freshness, balance, and approachability, making it an ideal everyday white for a wide range of occasions and cuisines.

The 2024 opens with nicely integrated notes of orange blossom and creamy honeydew melon. On the palate, tropical flavors of pineapple, papaya, and mango take center stage, delightfully balanced with bright acidity and a long, clean finish that makes this wine as versatile at the table as it is enjoyable on its own.

“Nicely integrated notes of orange blossom and creamy honeydew melon. Tropical flavors of pineapple, papaya and mango — delightfully balanced with bright acidity and a long finish.” — DeLoach Winemaker

• Producer: DeLoach Vineyards, California, USA (est. 1975)
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: Bright, fruit-forward, lightly oaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Orange blossom, honeydew melon, pineapple, papaya, mango, bright acidity, long clean finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, shrimp, chicken, light pasta, soft cheeses, Asian-inspired dishes, summer salads

Fresh, tropical, and beautifully balanced — DeLoach Heritage Reserve Chardonnay 2024 is California sunshine in a glass at an exceptional price.

Buehler Vineyards Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2022

A family-owned estate established in 1978, Buehler Vineyards has quietly built one of California’s most respected reputations for quality and value — wines that consistently overdeliver at their price points, vintage after vintage. Their Russian River Valley Chardonnay is a standout expression of cool-climate winemaking from one of Sonoma’s most celebrated appellations, where the influence of the Pacific Ocean and morning fog creates ideal conditions for Chardonnay of genuine elegance and complexity.

Crafted from two exceptional vineyard sources — Wood Vineyard on River Road and River Vineyard on East Side Road — the blend brings together the floral, mineral, and lime character of River Vineyard with the lush peach and apricot richness of Wood Vineyard. Sur-lie aging adds toasty brioche and graham cracker notes with a creamy, velvet-textured mouthfeel that elevates the wine well above its price point.

Abundant floral and stone fruit aromas on the nose. The palate is plush and smooth — lemon meringue, peach preserves, grilled pineapple, and subtle spice — with toasty brioche richness, bright natural acidity, and a long, clean finish with marmalade and spice accents.

Wine Spectator — 88 Points

“Lemon meringue, peach preserves and grilled pineapple mingle with spice, toasted brioche and marmalade notes on a plump and smooth frame.”

Food Pairings

Roasted chicken, lobster with butter, grilled halibut, creamy pasta, and soft-ripened cheeses.

Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Russian River Valley AVA, Sonoma County, California
Vintage: 2022
Aging: Sur-lie
Format: 750ml
Score: 88 pts Wine Spectator

Matchbook Wine Company | Chardonnay Estate Bottled | Dunnigan Hills | 2023

Dunnigan Hills is one of California's best-kept secrets — a warm, inland appellation in Yolo County where Matchbook has farmed estate vineyards for decades. The combination of hot days, cool nights, and well-drained soils produces Chardonnay with a distinctive personality: tropical fruit richness balanced by genuine freshness. This estate-bottled 2023 is a signature expression of that terroir, blended with a small addition of Verdejo that lifts the wine with a bright thread of minerality. In the cellar, 60% malolactic fermentation adds a creamy, supple texture and a whisper of butterscotch, while careful oak aging layers in vanilla without overwhelming the fruit. The result is a plump, satisfying Chardonnay with a crisp, lingering finish — classic California golden straw in the glass, and a mouthful of pineapple, mango, and melon on the palate.

• Appellation: Dunnigan Hills, Yolo County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay with a touch of Verdejo
• Vintage: 2023
• Format: 750ml
• MLF: 60% malolactic fermentation
• Style: Tropical, creamy, fruit-forward with a crisp finish

Critical Acclaim

Wine Enthusiast — Tonya Pitts | 89 Points: Lush, with aromas of white peach, nectarine, Golden Delicious apple, pineapple, creamy vanilla, and clove, and supple mineral notes on the finish.

Tasting Notes

Pineapple, mango, melon, white peach, and nectarine on the nose. Creamy mid-palate with butterscotch and vanilla from oak aging, brightened by a lift of minerality from the Verdejo. Plump mouthfeel with a crisp, fresh fruit finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roast chicken with herb butter, turkey, or creamy pasta dishes.
• Seafood: Grilled lobster, shrimp scampi, or pan-seared halibut.
• Cheese: Brie, Gruyère, or a mild aged cheddar.

Diatom Chardonnay — Santa Barbara County 2024

Greg Brewer's Diatom project is built on a single, radical idea: subtraction. No oak barrels. No malolactic fermentation. No extended aging. Just 100% Chardonnay from Santa Barbara County, fermented and aged six months in stainless steel, stripped of everything that typically softens, butters, or blurs the grape. What remains is electric — a wine that tastes like the soil and the sea. The name itself is a clue: diatomaceous earth, the plankton fossil-rich geology beneath Santa Barbara's vineyards, is the terroir this wine is designed to express. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 94 points and called it "a no-brainer purchase." Wine Spectator followed at 93, James Suckling at 93, Wine Enthusiast at 92, and Wine Advocate at 90. Across the board, the verdict is the same: this is one of California's most precise and honest Chardonnays.

The nose is vivid and pure: exotic citrus, minty herbs, oyster shell, honeydew rind, lime candy, and a whisper of sea spray. On the palate, it is sleek and taut — ripe pear, ginger, pomelo, and brisk lime zest coiled around a mouthwatering thread of acidity. Salinity and minerals run through the finish alongside springtime blossoms and a lingering kick of melon pith. It gains weight and richness with time in the glass without ever losing its electric freshness.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 • Wine Spectator 93 • James Suckling 93 • Wine Enthusiast 92 • Wine Advocate 90 — "A no-brainer purchase for those who love Santa Barbara County Chardonnay."

• Producer: Diatom (Greg Brewer), Santa Barbara County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Santa Barbara County
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation and aging — no oak, no malolactic fermentation
• Aging: 6 months, stainless steel
• Style: Unoaked, crisp, mineral-driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Citrus, oyster shell, lime zest, sea spray, pear, ginger, pomelo, saline mineral finish
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled halibut, ceviche, fresh goat cheese, sushi

A 94-point unoaked Chardonnay at an honest price — Diatom is the benchmark for what Santa Barbara Chardonnay can be when nothing gets in the way.

Bogle Vineyards · Clarksburg · California · 2023

There is something quietly extraordinary about a vine that has been growing in the same spot for sixty, seventy, eighty years. It has survived drought and frost, boom years and lean ones, and in doing so has learned to give less — and mean more. Bogle Vineyards Old Vine Zinfandel is the direct expression of that patience: a wine drawn from head-trained vines planted decades ago in the rich delta soils of Clarksburg, where the Sacramento River keeps the summers honest and the nights cool.

The nose leads with cranberry, raspberry, and ripe red cherry, then deepens into marionberry pie and warm baking spices — cinnamon, clove, a hint of vanilla. On the palate it’s generous and round, with the kind of fruit-forward richness that Zinfandel does best, balanced by enough structure to carry it through a long, satisfying finish.

• Producer: Bogle Vineyards
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Clarksburg, California
• Varietal: Zinfandel
• Vine Age: 60–80 years (head-trained, old vine)
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cranberry, raspberry, red cherry, marionberry pie, baking spices, vanilla
• Pairings: BBQ ribs, grilled sausages, braised short ribs, aged cheddar, mushroom ragù

Old vines, honest fruit, and a price that makes it an easy yes — this is California Zinfandel at its most satisfying.

Benton Lane Estate Pinot Noir — Willamette Valley, Oregon 2023

Benton Lane is one of Oregon's most respected estate Pinot Noir producers, farming sustainably in the Willamette Valley since 1988. The estate vineyards sit in the foothills of the Coast Range in the southern Willamette Valley, where diverse microclimates, volcanic Jory soils, and a long, cool growing season create ideal conditions for world-class Pinot Noir. Now part of the Huneeus Vintners family — the team behind Quintessa and Flowers — Benton Lane continues to produce estate-grown Pinot Noir of exceptional purity and elegance. The 2023 Estate bottling represents the full expression of the estate's best blocks, delivering benchmark Willamette Valley character at an accessible price.

The nose is pretty and inviting: pure ripe raspberries, fresh floral perfume, wet stones, and pine. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and elegant, floating with fine tannins and a lovely, even finish — a breath of fresh air. Holiday spice, toast, and brown sugar layer over red cherry and forest floor, with concentrated, earthy flavors framed by soft, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity on the long, spicy finish.

Jeb Dunnuck 91 Points — "Pretty on opening, with pure notes of ripe raspberries, fresh floral perfume, wet stones, and pine. Medium-bodied, elegant, and floating on the palate, with fine tannins and a lovely, even finish. A highly charming and approachable wine — a breath of fresh air from the Benton-Lane team." (Vintage 2023). 

Wine Advocate 90 Points — "Opens with scents of holiday spice, toast, and brown sugar over red cherry and forest floor aromas. The medium-bodied palate offers concentrated, earthy flavors framed by soft, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity, with a long, spicy finish." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Benton Lane Winery, Southern Willamette Valley, Oregon
• Owner: Huneeus Vintners (Quintessa, Flowers)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Willamette Valley AVA, Oregon
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Farming: Sustainable, 100% estate-grown
• Soils: Volcanic Jory
• Style: Medium-Bodied, Elegant, Terroir-Driven
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, red cherry, forest floor, holiday spice, wet stones, pine, chalky tannins, long finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2030
• Best Paired With: Roasted duck, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, herb-roasted chicken, soft cheeses, charcuterie
• Serve: Slightly chilled, 58–62°F

91pts Dunnuck, 90pts Wine Advocate — Benton Lane Estate is benchmark Willamette Valley Pinot Noir at under $25. It doesn't get better than this.

Stags Leap Wine Cellars KARIA Chardonnay — Napa Valley 2024

Stags Leap Wine Cellars is one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated estates — the house that shocked the world at the 1976 Paris Tasting with its Cabernet Sauvignon. KARIA (pronounced KAR-ee-ah, from the Greek for “graceful”) is their benchmark Chardonnay, sourced from a diverse selection of cool-climate vineyards across southern Napa Valley: Atlas Peak (52%), Carneros (24%), Arcadia Vineyard in Coombsville (18%), and Oak Knoll (6%). Whole-cluster pressed, aged 8 months sur lie in 100% French oak (39% new), with malolactic fermentation applied in moderation to preserve freshness. Vinous awarded it 93 points; James Suckling 92.

The nose is heady and expressive: lemon confit, tangerine oil, marzipan, white flowers, preserved lemon, and a whisper of baking spice. On the palate, it is velvety and medium-bodied — vibrant citrus, honeysuckle, white peach, and honeydew melon with taut acidity and a lingering finish of subtle oak. Graceful, balanced, and unmistakably Napa.

🇺🇸 Vinous 93 — “Heady and racy from start to finish. Lemon confit, tangerine oil, marzipan and white flowers are beautifully laced together.” (Vintage 2024). 

🇺🇸 James Suckling 92 — “Aromas of preserved lemons, salted nuts, sea spray, baking spices and orchard fruit. Taut acidity.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Stags Leap Wine Cellars, Napa Valley, California, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Vineyards: Atlas Peak 52%, Carneros 24%, Arcadia (Coombsville) 18%, Oak Knoll 6%
• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Whole-cluster press; 8 months sur lie in 100% French oak (39% new, 61% older); partial malolactic
• ABV: 13%
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lemon confit, tangerine, marzipan, white flowers, white peach, honeydew, honeysuckle, subtle oak
• Best Paired With: Lobster, grilled halibut, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, soft cheeses

Napa Chardonnay at its most graceful — KARIA is Stags Leap’s elegant answer to what cool-climate California Chardonnay can be.

Bonanza Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 9 — California

Bonanza is the passion project of Chuck Wagner — the legendary winemaker behind Caymus Vineyards, one of Napa Valley’s most iconic estates. The concept is deeply personal: Chuck recalls fondly how his family gathered around the dinner table each night to share his father’s homemade wine, and Bonanza is his answer to that memory. His vision is simple and democratic — delicious Cabernet Sauvignon should be accessible to everyone, not just collectors. Lot 9 is sourced from premium California vineyards across the state, blended with the same meticulous attention to quality that has defined Caymus for decades. This is the bonanza of California — a discovery of land where great Cabernet can be farmed and shared at the everyday table.

The color is a medium ruby-red with depth and clarity. The nose is inviting and expressive: currants, dried roses, ripe blackberry, black currant, grape pomace, and fresh-tilled soil, with hints of vanilla and warm spice. On the palate, it is full-bodied and rich — velvety texture, silky tannins, and an easy, generous drinkability that makes it impossible to put down. This is Chuck Wagner’s gift to the everyday wine drinker: Caymus-level care at a fraction of the price.

“Delicious Cabernet should be accessible to a broad group of people. I want everyone to have the chance to enjoy good wine as a simple pleasure of everyday life.” — Chuck Wagner

• Producer: Bonanza Wine by Chuck Wagner (Caymus Vineyards), California
• Lot: Lot 9
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Style: Full-bodied, velvety, approachable California Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Currants, dried roses, blackberry, black currant, vanilla, spice, silky tannins
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 3–5 years
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, burgers, BBQ ribs, lamb chops, aged cheddar, casual entertaining

Caymus craftsmanship at an everyday price — Bonanza Lot 9 is Chuck Wagner’s most democratic wine, and one of California’s best values.

Joel Gott | California | Unoaked Chardonnay | 2023

Joel Gott's answer to the heavy, buttery California Chardonnay: 100% stainless steel fermentation that preserves every bit of the grape's natural brightness and tropical acidity. No oak, no malolactic softening — just clean, vivid fruit and crisp minerality from start to finish. The 2023 is the go-to for Chardonnay lovers who want freshness over richness, and for those who've been burned by over-oaked whites before.

Fermentation: 100% stainless steel, unoaked
Closure: Screwcap
Drink: Now–2026

Tasting Notes

• Pear, sweet-tart apple, and mango on the nose
• Citrus and honeysuckle aromatics
• Bright fruit entry | Crisp minerality on the mid-palate | Long, clean finish

Pairings: Grilled fish, shrimp, light salads, goat cheese, sushi

Bogle Vineyards California Chardonnay — California 2023

Bogle Vineyards has been farming the Sacramento River Delta since 1968 — one of California's most enduring family wine estates, now in its third generation. Their California Chardonnay is a perennial overachiever: sourced from select California vineyards, crafted with careful oak integration, and built to deliver genuine complexity at an everyday price. The 2023 vintage reflects the distinct influence of a cooler growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and develop nuanced, layered flavors that punch well above their weight class.

The nose is captivating: freshly baked brioche, yellow plum, bruléed orange slices, and notes of elderflower honey lead into vibrant aromas of bright citrus, freshly plucked apple, and delicate white jasmine. On the palate, stone fruit notes are met with rich undertones of vanilla and clove, harmonized with warm spice and a touch of oak-derived toastiness. Sugared lemon rind, baked pear, and Pink Lady apple carry through to a balanced, mineral-dry finish with higher toasty notes lingering gracefully.

🏆 Wine Enthusiast 92 Points — Tonya Pitts. "The aromas of freshly baked brioche are captivating, giving way to yellow plum, bruléed orange slices and notes of elderflower honey. Flavors of sugared lemon rind, baked pear, Pink Lady apple with a mineral dry finish."

• Producer: Bogle Vineyards, Clarksburg, California, USA
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Style: Dry white, medium-bodied, oak-influenced
• Tasting Notes: Brioche, yellow plum, bruléed orange, elderflower honey, citrus, baked pear, vanilla, clove, toasty oak, mineral finish
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Roasted chicken, grilled salmon, creamy pasta, soft cheeses, butternut squash dishes

California Chardonnay that genuinely overdelivers — Bogle's 2023 is complex, balanced, and built for the table.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Decanter 93 Points | A cuvée from Lemelson's five organic estate sites, this Pinot Noir is savoury and bright-fruited. The Thea's Selection shows red currant, tart cranberry, and roughly chopped mint. The palate stays savoury with pine sap and dried herbs accenting intense pomegranate fruits, dried lavender, and structured black tea and clove notes.

The Wine Spectator 91 Points | Snappy and vibrant, with tart cherry, cranberry, green tea and spice flavors that zip along toward sleek tannins. Drink now through 2032. 

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | The 2022 Pinot Noir Thea's Selection has a bright red hue and is expressive with aromas of spiced cherries, forest herbs, and dried orange peel. It’s bright and medium-bodied, with a snappy freshness, chalky tannins, and a lifted finish.

Lemelson Vineyards Pinot Noir Thea's Selection 2022 - A True Expression of Terroir

Winemaker Description

As their house cuvee, Lemelson's Thea's Selection is a blend from their five organic, estate vineyards that span three different Willamette Valley AVAs. As such, it is a wonderful representation of the vintage across all their sites. The nose is inviting and earthy with black cherry, black currant and plum fruit that is nuanced by subtle notes of black tea, chocolate, mushroom, and lavender. This wine is rich and supple with silky tannins and a juicy core which transitions into a long finish that leaves the taste of brambly fruit on the palate. 

Memo Summary Notes

The 2022 Lemelson Vineyards "Thea's Selection" Pinot Noir is a masterful "house cuvée" that blends fruit from five of Lemelson's organically farmed estate vineyards across the Willamette Valley.

The 2022 vintage in Oregon is often called the "rollercoaster year" due to an early spring frost followed by a record-warm summer, resulting in wines with high aromatic intensity and serious textural power.

• Food: Its savory edge makes it perfect for roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or herb-crusted lamb. It also has enough acidity to cut through fatty charcuterie or a classic salmon dish.

Rich Flavor Profile and Aroma

Lemelson Vineyards Pinot Noir Thea's Selection 2022 showcases an impressive range of flavors and aromas. It offers notes of ripe cherry, raspberry, and subtle hints of spice that develop with each sip. The complexity of this wine is enhanced by its beautiful acidity and smooth tannins, which create a well-rounded texture. Because this wine is crafted from carefully selected grapes, it demonstrates the true character of the Willamette Valley, making it a must-try for any wine enthusiast.

Craftsmanship Behind the Wine

This particular selection is a testament to the dedicated craftsmanship at Lemelson Vineyards. The grapes are hand-harvested, ensuring that only the finest fruit is used in the winemaking process. Moreover, the fermentation occurs in small batches, allowing for precise control and a more intimate expression of the vineyard's quality. As a result, each bottle captures the essence of the vintage while reflecting the vineyard's commitment to sustainability and excellence.

Perfect Pairings and Occasions

Lemelson Vineyards Pinot Noir Thea's Selection is exceptionally versatile when it comes to food pairings. It complements a variety of dishes, such as grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, or a charcuterie board. Therefore, you can effortlessly serve it at casual gatherings or more formal dinners. This Pinot Noir is not only a delightful choice for wine lovers but also makes for an excellent gift for friends or family who appreciate quality wines.

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon — Columbia Valley 2022

Chateau Ste. Michelle is Washington State’s founding winery — and the 2022 Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterclass in what makes this high-desert wine region so compelling. Sourced from vineyards east of the Cascades, where extreme diurnal temperature swings and volcanic soils concentrate flavor while preserving freshness, the wine is crafted to highlight Washington’s signature dark fruit in an accessible, food-friendly style. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91 points. At under $15, it is one of the most exciting values in all of American wine.

The nose is inviting and layered: a salty ocean breeze, driftwood, blackberries, olive oil, and a trace of bacon fat. On the palate, it is smooth and viscous, with dark plum and bittersweet chocolate-covered cherries coating the palate, framed by silky tannins and a long, fruit-forward finish. It delivers the kind of concentrated, structured pleasure that only great Columbia Valley Cabernet can — and it drinks beautifully right now.

Wine Enthusiast 91 — “This superb value strikes first with a marine-themed nose of a salty ocean breeze, a driftwood beach fire, blackberries, olive oil, and a trace of bacon fat. Smooth and viscous, with dark plum and bittersweet chocolate-covered cherries coating the palate.” (Vintage 2022).

• Producer: Chateau Ste. Michelle, Washington State, USA
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, dark plum, bittersweet chocolate, olive, bacon, ocean breeze
• Best Paired With: Beef tenderloin, grilled ribeye, lamb chops, pasta with meat sauce, aged cheddar, BBQ

A 91-point Washington Cabernet at an honest price — Chateau Ste. Michelle is the benchmark for what Columbia Valley Cab can be.

Josh Cellars California Chardonnay — California 2024

Josh Cellars has become one of America's most beloved wine brands — and for good reason. Founded in honor of winemaker Joseph Carr's father Josh, the label is built on a simple philosophy: craft wines that are approachable, delicious, and made with genuine care. The California Chardonnay is their flagship white, sourced from select California vineyards and crafted to strike the perfect balance between bright fruit, subtle oak, and refreshing acidity. No single flavor overpowers another — just a clean, well-made Chardonnay that delivers every time.

The nose exudes aromas of tropical fruits and citrus married with subtle oak notes. On the palate, this is a beautifully balanced wine: bright citrus and honey up front, with hints of juicy peach, lemon oil, and crème brûlée on the mid-palate. Medium-bodied with a smooth, lingering finish — simply delicious and endlessly versatile at the table.

"Crafted with care so that no single flavor overpowers another — this wine is simply delicious." — Josh Cellars Winemaker

• Producer: Josh Cellars, California, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit, citrus, honey, peach, lemon oil, crème brûlée, subtle oak
• Style: Medium-bodied, bright acidity, touch of oak
• Drink: Now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, roasted chicken with fresh vegetables, butter and herb dishes, soft cheeses, light pasta

California Chardonnay at its most approachable — Josh Cellars delivers bright, balanced, and genuinely delicious every single time.

Chalk Hill Chardonnay — Sonoma Coast 2024

Since 1972, Chalk Hill has been one of Sonoma County’s most dedicated Chardonnay producers, crafting terroir-driven wines of character, richness, and elegance from the region’s rolling hills. The Sonoma Coast Chardonnay draws from premium cool-climate sites — including Russian River Valley and Carneros — to deliver the house’s signature creamy texture alongside the crispness and energy that coastal California does best. The 2024 vintage earned 93 points from James Suckling and represents outstanding value: fruit-forward, opulent, and crowd-pleasing without sacrificing precision.

The nose is bright and inviting: Fuji apple, lemon curd, honeydew melon, toasty oak, and baking spices, with a touch of flinty minerality and nutmeg. On the palate, it is mouth-filling and full-bodied — juicy acidity lifts flavors of white peach and ripe citrus, while partial malolactic fermentation adds a touch of creaminess and depth. The finish is clean, generous, and satisfying.

James Suckling 93 — “Fruit-forward and opulent, showing juicy acidity and flavors of white peaches. A mouth-filling, weighty, full-bodied wine. Generous and satisfying with a big burst of flavor and a clean finish.” (Vintage 2024). 

• Producer: Chalk Hill, Sonoma County, California, USA
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast AVA
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Sources: Russian River Valley, Carneros, and Sonoma Coast cool-climate sites
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Fuji apple, lemon curd, honeydew melon, white peach, toasty oak, baking spices, flinty minerality, creamy finish
• Best Paired With: Lobster rolls, grilled prawns, sea bass, roast chicken, creamy pasta, Brie, young goat cheese

Fifty years of Sonoma Chardonnay expertise at an honest price — Chalk Hill’s Sonoma Coast is the crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Winemaker Description

The Saintsbury Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2023 is the most complete wine in the portfolio — a masterful blend of 7 single-vineyard ferments spanning 5 Sub-AVAs and 8 clones across the breadth of Sonoma Coast. From Jim Pratt's Sebastopol Hills Vineyard to the Sangiacomo Family's Roberts Road Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap, these sites represent decades of relationships and a deep understanding of Sonoma Pinot Noir's remarkable diversity. Together, they yield a richer, more harmonious canvas than any single vineyard could provide alone. Expect aromas of cranberry, spruce, and violets, with Goldridge soils, volcanic clay, and marine fog lending structure and freshness throughout.

Appellation: Sonoma Coast  |  Sub-AVAs: 5  |  Vineyards: 7  |  Clones: 8  |  Production: 1,083 Cases

Fermentation & Élevage: 15% whole cluster fermentation, 11 months in 10% new French Oak.

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Blood sausage with apples on toast or leg of lamb with Dijon & rosemary.
• Vegetables: Braised fennel alla Romana with shallot, garlic, lemon & herbs.
• Cheese: Aged Comté, Époisses, or a mild washed-rind cheese.

Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon 1.5L Magnum is a California red wine crafted in the approachable, fruit-forward style that has made Woodbridge one of America's most trusted everyday wine brands. This 1.5L Magnum format — equivalent to two standard bottles — is ideal for entertaining, casual gatherings, and any occasion that calls for a generous pour.

The wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe cherries, mixed berries, cedar, brown sugar, and toast. On the palate, flavors of berries, toasted marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker unfold with a smooth, toasty caramel finish. Medium-bodied and approachable, it delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing character at an exceptional value.

Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, burgers, BBQ, tomato-based pasta dishes, and aged cheddar.

• Producer: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
• Appellation: California
• Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Format: 1.5L Magnum (equivalent to 2 standard bottles)
• Country: United States

Winemaker Description

Ménage à Trois Red Blend brings together three strange bedfellows: Zinfandel, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. To add complexity and retain character, each variety was fermented separately, then blended together prior to bottling. On top you’ve got Zinfandel, a saucy tease that brings blackberry and raspberry jam to the relationship. Merlot, with its generous mouthfeel and red fruits, fits perfectly in the middle. The rich flavors and firm tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon make it the ideal candidate for the bottom layer of the trio.

Forward, silky, and soft, this delicious dalliance makes the perfect accompaniment for grilled meats and chicken.

About Ménage à Trois

Ménage à Trois is produced by Folie à Deux Winery in California’s Napa Valley. The brand was born from a simple but inspired idea: that the best wines are often the result of unexpected partnerships. By blending Zinfandel, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon — three varieties rarely combined — winemaker Glen Salva created a wine that is greater than the sum of its parts. Rich, approachable, and unapologetically fun, Ménage à Trois has become one of California’s most beloved red blends, consistently delivering crowd-pleasing fruit and silky texture at an everyday price.

Food Pairings

Grilled burgers, BBQ ribs, roasted chicken, pizza, pasta with meat sauce, mild cheddar, and charcuterie. A crowd-pleasing red that works at any table, any night of the week.

Product Details

• Producer: Folie à Deux Winery
• Region: California, USA
• Blend: Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Forward, silky, fruit-driven California red blend
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Description

Deep rich ruby. Aromas of blackberry cobbler, ripe and dark mixed berries, graham cracker, brown sugar, vanilla, milk chocolate, toasty oak, with notes of coffee and smoke. On the palate, ripe blackberry cobbler, blueberry pie, pralines, sweet vanilla custard, brown sugar, caramel, and mocha with hints of coffee. Ripe, dense, and soft chewy tannins with toasty oak round the wine out with a lush, long, and lingering finish.

About Robert Mondavi Private Selection

Robert Mondavi Winery is one of California’s most iconic and influential wine estates, credited with putting Napa Valley on the world wine map. The Private Selection tier sources fruit from Monterey County — one of California’s coolest and most distinctive coastal appellations — and ages the wine in bourbon barrels, adding layers of vanilla, caramel, and toasty oak that complement the naturally rich dark fruit of the region. The result is a lush, approachable Cabernet Sauvignon with unmistakable California character and exceptional value at under $15.

Food Pairings

Bourbon glazed ribs, grilled ribeye, charcuterie boards, hearty pasta dishes, BBQ chicken, and strong aged cheeses.

Product Details

• Producer: Robert Mondavi Winery
• Appellation: Monterey County AVA, California, USA
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Aging: Bourbon barrels
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Lush, fruit-forward, bourbon barrel-aged California Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

Awards & Accolades

Gold Medal | 2024 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Gold Medal | 2024 Los Angeles Wine & Spirits Challenge

Winemaker Description

Bogle's heritage Petite Sirah is celebrated for its concentration and jammy, luscious character. The nose opens with touches of cacao and roasted coffee bean, while blue fruits and boysenberry command the senses upon entry. Notes of black pepper and spice linger on the palate, and 12 months of aging in American oak has noticeably softened the ripe, textured tannins — yielding an incredibly well-structured yet approachable wine of great color and depth.

Aging: 12 months in American oak  |  Certifications: Certified Sustainable (California Rules for Sustainable Winegrowing), Vegan Friendly, Gluten-Free

Pairing Suggestions

• Meat: Smoked lamb shoulder with rosemary or braised short ribs with blackberry barbecue sauce.
• Cheese: Smoked Gouda or other bold, aged cheeses.
• Grilled: BBQ brisket, portobello mushrooms, or spiced lamb chops.

Producer Description

Wild blackberry and brambly forest fruits are underscored by aromas of roasted bell pepper and bold toasty oak. On the palate, the 2023 vintage is bright and structured, offering flavors of just-ripe blackberries, savory dried herbs, and a hint of smoked paprika. Firm, age-worthy tannins provide grip and depth, giving this wine a powerful yet balanced finish

About Juggernaut

Juggernaut is a California Cabernet Sauvignon brand built around a single idea: that the best hillside fruit — grown at elevation, with poor soils and natural stress — produces wines of exceptional concentration, structure, and age-worthiness. Sourced from hillside vineyards along California’s North Coast, Juggernaut Hillside Cabernet is crafted to deliver the power and complexity of a serious Napa Cab at a fraction of the price. Bold, structured, and built to age, it has quickly become a go-to for Cabernet lovers who want more than the average California red.

Food Pairings

• Smoked brisket or grilled ribeye
• Game meats: venison or lamb
• Aged cheddar or Gouda
• Rich BBQ and burgers with caramelized onions

Product Details

• Producer: Juggernaut Wines
• Region: North Coast, California, USA
• Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Full-bodied, structured, age-worthy California Cabernet
• Format: 750ml

Expert Review — Vintage 2023

Wine Enthusiast — 89 Points (Tonya Pitts) | Fresh aromas of youthful strawberry, watermelon, and citrus zest on the nose. The palate is lively with raspberry jam, vanilla cream, orange peel, and clove — supported by supple tannins and a clean, dry finish.

Murphy-Goode Winery sources this Pinot Noir from premier cool-climate vineyards along the California coast, including Arroyo Seco, Santa Maria Valley, and Monterey. These exceptional growing sites maintain a perfect balance between vibrant dark fruit character and bright, refreshing acidity.

Dr. Konstantin Frank Dry Riesling — Finger Lakes, New York 2024 750ml

Dr. Konstantin Frank is the founding father of vinifera winemaking in the Finger Lakes — a Ukrainian-born viticulturist who arrived in New York in 1951 and proved, against all skepticism, that great European varieties could thrive in the cold climate of upstate New York. His winery, established in 1962, remains the benchmark for the region, and the Dry Riesling is its flagship: a wine made from estate vines dating back to 1958, blended from a mosaic of sites across their Keuka Lake estate. The 2024 vintage is a true reflection of the season — structured, expressive, and unmistakably Finger Lakes.

Pale straw with brilliant clarity. The nose is profoundly aromatic: vibrant lime, stone fruit, ripe melon, white flowers, and citrus zest. On the palate, a dynamic interplay of apricot, nectarine, and distinct stoniness is supported by a backbone of bright, mouthwatering acidity. Despite its brisk freshness, the wine offers a rich texture and a lingering, elegant finish that speaks to the pedigree of site and the timeless character of this estate.

• Producer: Dr. Konstantin Frank, Hammondsport, Finger Lakes, New York
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Finger Lakes
• Varietal: 100% Riesling
• Vines: Estate vines planted 1958
• Style: Dry Aromatic White
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Lime, stone fruit, melon, apricot, nectarine, white flowers, citrus zest, slate minerality, elegant finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar 5–10 years
• Best Paired With: Oysters, grilled fish, sushi, spicy Thai, roast pork, soft cheeses

The wine that put the Finger Lakes on the world map — Dr. Frank’s Dry Riesling is American fine wine at its most historic and most delicious.

Expert Review - Vintage 2020

93 Points Wine Spectator: "This packs in some serious plum compote and cassis flavors, liberally wrapped in dark licorice and finishing with a swath of sweet toast and tobacco on the broad finish. Nice mineral underpinning keeps it honest. Fairly accessible despite its heft."

Winemaker Description

The Cabernet opens with fresh fruit, aromas of black currant, ripe raspberry, wild sage, graphite, crushed rose petals, and fennel seed. The palate is elegant, complex, rich, and refreshing with a long finish that is supported by supple tannin and beautifully integrated French Oak.

Blend: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot

About the Producer

Since first working in her family's Mendocino vineyards, Kathryn Hall dreamed of a place to showcase fine wines alongside expressive art and masterful architecture. Now, Kathryn and Craig Hall have created an unrivalled destination in the Napa Valley — where more than 30 years of winemaking excellence and innovation meets contemporary design to celebrate life and inspire the senses.

The Halls acquired the historic St. Helena Bergfeld Winery in 2003 and re-opened as HALL St. Helena in July of that year. With a rich history spanning 150 years, HALL St. Helena was once the home of the Napa Valley Co-Op, producing 40% of Napa Valley's wines. In 2013, the Hall family completed the restoration of the 1885 Bergfeld Winery — California's first LEED® Gold Certified winery — alongside a stunning Visitor Center and state-of-the-art gravity flow winemaking facility.

HALL's estate vineyards encompass more than 500 acres of classic Bordeaux varietals. As winegrowers, the Halls have a strong respect for the environment and a commitment to cutting-edge vineyard technology. Under the artisanship of winemaker Megan Gunderson, HALL Wines continue to set new heights in Napa Valley winemaking.

Winemaker Description

The 2024 vintage in the Willamette Valley was a winemaker’s dream — cool, well-paced, and ideal for Elk Cove’s six estate vineyard sites: The Winery Estate, Mount Richmond, Five Mountain, Clay Court, Goodrich, and Windhill. A longer harvest window of 40 days allowed each block to receive optimal attention, yielding concentrated, fruit-forward wines with great complexity. The winery considers 2024 a potential classic Willamette Valley vintage.

Made from 100% estate-grown fruit spanning all three major Willamette Valley soil types, with both Pommard and Dijon clones represented. Each vineyard block is fermented separately in small, temperature-controlled steel tanks, hand punched down twice daily, then aged 10 months in French oak before careful blending. The result is Elk Cove’s most approachable, well-balanced Pinot Noir — fresh fruit, well-integrated alcohol, and great concentration of flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

• Poultry: Roasted duck with cherry sauce, herb-roasted chicken, or turkey with mushroom gravy.
• Meat: Lamb chops with rosemary, pork tenderloin with berry reduction, or salmon with pinot beurre blanc.
• Cheese: Aged Gruyère, Willamette Valley Brie, or a mild Oregon chevre.