Veterans Day: All California Reds and Whites on Sale!

Ridge Three Valleys Sonoma County Zinfandel Red Blend 2023

Ridge Vineyards is one of California’s most iconic and respected wineries — a benchmark producer whose Monte Bello Cabernet has competed with the world’s greatest wines, and whose commitment to traditional winemaking is unmatched. Three Valleys, made since 2001, is Ridge’s Sonoma County field blend: a multi-vineyard, multi-appellation wine sourced from Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma Valley, and Russian River Valley, crafted in the exact same way as all of Ridge’s wines — open-top tanks, native fermentations, and real oak. It’s meant to represent a vintage more than a location, and the 2023 is one of the finest in recent memory.

The 2023 blend is 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Mataro, and 2% Alicante Bouschet, aged 12 months in 19% new air-dried American oak. Floral, complex, and less rustic than usual — the vintage showing classic charm and elegance. A popular by-the-glass pour at restaurants across the country. Order it when you see it.

Aromas of confit cherries, licorice, blackberry, baking spices, wild berries, Italian plums, and lavender. The palate is full-bodied yet light on its feet — expressive raspberry and blueberry, licorice, pepper, and chargrilled herbs — with chalky tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, spicy, generous finish.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck — 93 Points

“Floral, complex and less rustic than usual, the vintage showing classic charm and elegance… A popular by-the-glass pour, order it when you see it.”

Wine Spectator — 93 Points

“Generous and robust yet retains a sense of polish, with expressive raspberry and blueberry flavors highlighted by licorice and pepper. Drink now through 2034.”

James Suckling — 93 Points

“Aromas of confit cherries, licorice, blackberry bush, baking spices and violets. Full-bodied with a rounded mouthfeel and firmly framed tannins that end in a lush and generous finish.”

Wine Advocate — 91 Points

“Layered aromas of wild berries, Italian plums, chargrilled meats, resinous herbs and lavender. Full-bodied with highly concentrated flavors, chalky tannins and vibrant acidity. Long, spicy finish.”

Track Record

Three Valleys has scored 92 points or above for five consecutive vintages: 94 pts Decanter (2022) | 92 pts WS (2021) | 93 pts WS (2020) | 93 pts WS (2019).

Food Pairings

Grilled lamb, BBQ ribs, braised short rib, aged cheddar, and hearty pasta with meat sauce.

Blend: 71% Zinfandel, 16% Carignane, 9% Petite Sirah, 2% Mataro, 2% Alicante Bouschet
Appellation: Sonoma County, California
Vintage: 2023
Aging: 12 months, 19% new air-dried American oak
Format: 750ml
Scores: 93 pts JD | 93 pts WS | 93 pts JS | 91 pts WA

Decoy by Duckhorn · California · 2023

Decoy is the approachable expression of Duckhorn Wine Company, bringing the house’s quality-minded style to premium California Cabernet at an inviting price. The 2023 growing season began with abundant winter rain and a cool spring, followed by a long harvest that helped build depth, color, and texture in the fruit.

Deep ruby in the glass, it opens with black cherry, blackberry, mocha, savory blueberry, and sweet baking spice. The palate is rich and supple, with silky tannins, dark berry and cocoa flavors, a touch of barrel spice, and a long, lush finish.

Wine Enthusiast: 93 points
“Dark berry and plum aromas on the nose of this bottling are cut by nutmeg, cola and bittersweet cocoa touches. The palate is quite dry with flavors of dark-chocolate flake and oregano, as dark berry fills in the fruit tones. A very classic California Cab.” (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Decoy by Duckhorn Wine Company
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Appellation: California
• Vintage: 2023
• Style: Rich, supple, approachable California Cabernet
• Tasting notes: Black cherry, blackberry, mocha, blueberry, cocoa, baking spice, and silky tannins
• Pair with: Grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, burgers, barbecue, or aged cheddar
• Cellar potential: Enjoy now or cellar for 3–5 years
• Size: 750ml

Duckhorn quality at an everyday price, a polished California Cabernet with 93-point appeal.

LA CREMA CHARDONNAY MONTEREY 2024 | 750ML

🇺🇸 United States — Chardonnay | Monterey, California

A consistently reliable, cool-climate Chardonnay from one of California’s most focused white wine producers. The nose opens with grilled pineapple, citrus blossom, tangerine, and papaya. On the palate, white peach, key lime, and honeydew melon are complemented by a touch of barrel spice and a river stone minerality. Energetic and well-balanced, with a clean, refreshing finish.

La Crema — whose original name, La Crema Viñera, means “best of the vine” — has focused exclusively on cool-climate appellations since 1979. From its home in the Russian River Valley to Monterey and the Willamette Valley, the winery is committed to producing naturally balanced, site-expressive wines through thorough vineyard selection and boutique winemaking techniques.

90 Points — Wine Enthusiast
“Clean aromas of lemon zest, lime pith and sliced apple show on the nose… The palate is energetic with familiar flavors of Meyer lemon and nectarine.”
— Matt Kettmann. (Vintage 2024). 

Pairs well with: Grilled chicken, seafood, creamy pasta, and soft cheeses.

Grape: Chardonnay
Region: Monterey, California, United States
Vintage: 2024
Format: 750ml
Score: 90 pts Wine Enthusiast

Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay — California 2023

Kendall-Jackson's Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay is one of the most recognized and beloved white wines in America — a wine that has introduced millions of drinkers to the pleasures of California Chardonnay and remained a benchmark for the style for decades. Sourced from select coastal vineyards across California, where cool marine influence preserves freshness and acidity, the 2023 vintage delivers the rich, fruit-forward profile that has made Vintner's Reserve a perennial favorite. Sustainable and screwcap-sealed for freshness.

The nose is inviting and tropical — pineapple, mango, papaya, and ripe peach, layered with hints of vanilla, honey, and toasted oak. On the palate, the wine is balanced and approachable, with ripe citrus and stone fruit carrying through a creamy, medium-bodied palate. The finish is long and satisfying, with the hallmark Vintner's Reserve richness that makes it as comfortable at a weeknight dinner as it is at a celebration.

One of California's most beloved Chardonnays — sourced from select coastal vineyards and crafted for balance, richness, and enduring approachability.

• Producer: Kendall-Jackson, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: White Wine — Rich, Fruit-Forward, Lightly Oaked
• Certifications: Sustainable • Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Pineapple, mango, papaya, ripe peach, citrus, vanilla, honey, toasted oak, creamy finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled salmon, lobster, shrimp scampi, roast chicken, creamy pasta, fish tacos, corn on the cob

California's most beloved Chardonnay at an honest price — Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve is the benchmark for what approachable, fruit-forward California white wine can be.

Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay — Sonoma Coast, California 2024

Sonoma-Cutrer is one of California's most celebrated Chardonnay producers — a winery built on precision viticulture, estate fruit, and a commitment to site expression that has earned it a devoted following for decades. The 2024 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is crafted from carefully selected estate vineyard blocks — including the renowned Cutrer and Vine Hill sites — fermented and aged in French oak to build texture and draw out notes of stone fruit, vanilla, and subtle barrel spice. The result is a full-bodied, elegant white that overdelivers at its price point and works equally well at a weeknight table or a formal dinner.

The nose is rich and inviting: ripe pear, golden delicious apple, apple blossom, and honeydew, with warm accents of pineapple and subtle oak spice. On the palate, the wine is lush and medium-to-full-bodied with a silky mouthfeel, bright acidity, and a smooth, lingering finish defined by gentle barrel spice. It is approachable, food-friendly, and deeply satisfying — the kind of Chardonnay that disappears fast.

"Our Sonoma Coast Chardonnay enchants with aromas of stone fruit and apple blossom, complemented by honeydew, pineapple and subtle oak spice. On the palate, it offers a lush blend of ripe pear and golden delicious apple, balanced by bright acidity and a soft mid palate. The finish is distinguished by gentle barrel spice, adding a layer of sophistication." — Winemaker's Notes

• Producer: Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma Coast
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Aging: French oak aging for stone fruit, vanilla & barrel spice complexity
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe pear, golden apple, apple blossom, honeydew, pineapple, vanilla, gentle barrel spice, bright finish
• Best Paired With: Dungeness crab, grilled salmon with lemon-butter, roasted chicken, creamy pasta, soft cheeses

California's benchmark estate Chardonnay at an honest price — Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast is the standard for what site-driven, French oak-aged California Chardonnay can deliver.

Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2023 750ml

Josh Cellars was founded by Joseph Carr as a heartfelt tribute to his father, Josh — a hardworking man who inspired a lifetime of dedication and craft. Today, Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon is the flagship wine of the brand and one of California’s most beloved everyday reds. A quintessential Modern California Cabernet — approachable, fruit-forward, and smooth — the 2023 vintage showcases the careful selection of grapes from California’s finest growing regions, crafted to deliver bold character with balanced acidity and silky tannins that make every occasion feel special.

Deep ruby in color, the 2023 opens with aromas of blackberry, toasted hazelnut, and cinnamon, complemented by hints of vanilla and toasted oak. The palate is rich and smooth — dark fruit, plum, and blackberry with a refined vanilla and oak character — leading to a balanced, satisfying finish that is as versatile at the dinner table as it is enjoyable on its own.

“A quintessential Modern California Cabernet — fruit-forward, smooth, and crafted as a tribute to the hardworking spirit of Josh Carr.”

• Producer: Josh Cellars, California, USA
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, plum, toasted hazelnut, cinnamon, vanilla, toasted oak, smooth tannins
• Best Paired With: Well-seasoned beef, grilled pork chops, lamb, Bolognese, aged Cheddar or Gouda, dark chocolate desserts

California’s most approachable Cabernet Sauvignon — Josh Cellars 2023 is a wine built for sharing, celebrating, and everyday enjoyment.

Joel Gott Blend No. 815 Cabernet Sauvignon — California 2023

Joel Gott is one of California’s most beloved winemakers — a third-generation vintner who built his reputation on the simple idea that great wine should be approachable, consistent, and honestly priced. Blend No. 815 is his signature Cabernet Sauvignon — the number refers to the specific blend Joel crafts each vintage from select vineyards across California, always chasing the same benchmark of ripe fruit, velvety texture, and reliable quality. It has become one of the most recognized everyday Cabernets in the country, and for good reason: vintage after vintage, it delivers.

The color is a deep, concentrated ruby. The nose is layered and expressive: raspberries, blackberries, plum, and mocha, with savory notes of damp soil, charcoal, and a whisper of tar that steadily open with air into something genuinely complex. On the palate, red fruit leads into an asphalt minerality, dried plum, dark spice, and espresso bean — velvety tannins carrying through the mid-palate to a long, textured finish of black pepper and cedar. Familiar, satisfying, and built for the table.

• Producer: Joel Gott Wines, California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Blend: No. 815
• Style: Approachable, velvety, fruit-forward California Cabernet
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Raspberry, blackberry, plum, mocha, espresso, dark spice, black pepper, velvety tannins
• Drink Window: Now–2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled ribeye, burgers, BBQ, lamb chops, pasta with meat sauce, aged cheddar

California’s most reliable everyday Cabernet — Joel Gott 815 is the bottle you reach for when you want something great without thinking twice.

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.

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.

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

Decoy by Duckhorn — Sonoma County Chardonnay 2024

Decoy is the acclaimed second label of Duckhorn Wine Company, one of Napa Valley's most celebrated producers. Crafted from Sonoma County fruit, the Decoy Chardonnay brings Duckhorn's signature winemaking philosophy — precision, balance, and elegance — to an approachable everyday price point. It is a wine that punches well above its weight: rich and fruit-forward, yet anchored by vibrant acidity and a refined oak touch that adds complexity without heaviness.

The nose is luminous and inviting: ripe tangerine, sweet melon, white peach, and tropical mango mingle with delicate oak spice. On the palate, it is round and full-bodied with juicy citrus zest, pineapple, and orchard fruit flavors, brightened by lively acidity and finishing with a smooth, lingering touch of vanilla and spice. Graceful and satisfying from first sip to last.

"Radiant aromas of ripe tangerine, sweet melon, and tropical mango mingle with delicate oak spice. The palate is round and full, with bright acidity and a supple backbone of sweet oak, layered with notes of juicy mango, pineapple, and a touch of vanilla." — Decoy Winemaker

• Producer: Decoy by Duckhorn Wine Company, Sonoma County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Sonoma County, California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Style: Full-Bodied, Lightly Oaked
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Tangerine, sweet melon, white peach, mango, pineapple, vanilla, creamy oak finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Roasted chicken, creamy pasta, buttery seafood, lobster bisque, soft cheeses
• Serve: Chilled, 45–50°F

Duckhorn quality at an everyday price — Decoy Sonoma Chardonnay is the smart pour for any occasion.

Duckhorn Vineyards | Napa Valley Chardonnay | 50th Anniversary | California | 2024

Duckhorn Vineyards was founded in 1976 by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in St. Helena, Napa Valley — and has grown over five decades into one of California's most celebrated and respected fine wine producers. The 2024 Napa Valley Chardonnay marks a milestone: the 50th Anniversary of the winery, a tribute to tradition, excellence, and the enduring vision that has defined Duckhorn since its founding vintage.

Crafted from 100% Chardonnay sourced from Napa Valley vineyards, the wine is made with 40% malolactic fermentation — a deliberate choice that adds a layer of creamy texture and complexity while preserving the bright, fruit-driven freshness that defines the Duckhorn house style. The result is a Chardonnay of genuine balance: rich enough to satisfy, vibrant enough to refresh.

The 2024 opens with inviting aromas of ripe pear, fresh lemongrass, orchard fruit, lemon pith, citrus peel, and a delicate touch of ginger. On the palate, vivid and juicy with medium to full body and crunchy acidity. Vibrant layers of citrus and creamy crème brûlée are accompanied by a subtle hint of salinity that adds depth and intrigue. A silky entry leads to a long, fruit-driven finish where its balanced complexity shines through.

Pair with butter-poached lobster, pan-seared halibut, crab cakes, roasted chicken with lemon and herbs, creamy pasta, Brie, Gruyère, and mild aged Gouda.

• Producer: Duckhorn Vineyards
• Appellation: Napa Valley AVA, California, USA
• Grape: Chardonnay (100%)
• Vintage: 2024
• Vinification: 40% malolactic fermentation
• Closure: Screwcap
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2024

• James Suckling — 92 pts: Fresh orchard fruit, lemon pith, citrus peel and spicy herbs on the nose. Vivid and juicy on the palate with medium to full body and crunchy acidity. Creamy and sleek with a flavorful, fruit-driven finish.

Cambria Estate Winery | Chardonnay Katherine's Vineyard | Santa Maria Valley, California | 2023

Cambria Estate Winery is one of Santa Barbara County's most celebrated producers, farming estate vineyards in the heart of the Santa Maria Valley — one of California's premier cool-climate appellations. Named for Katherine Jackson, Katherine's Vineyard sits at the western end of the valley where persistent Pacific Ocean breezes slow ripening and allow Chardonnay to develop remarkable complexity, balance, and natural acidity.

The 2023 vintage was fermented with 30% stainless steel and 70% barrel, then aged seven months in French oak (20% new) — a winemaking approach that delivers both freshness and texture without overwhelming the fruit. The result is a Chardonnay of genuine balance: ripe tropical and orchard fruit, toasty barrel spice, taut minerality, and mouthwatering acidity that keeps everything in focus.

The nose offers lemon balm, baked apricot, ripe pear, pineapple, and macadamia nut, with honeysuckle and subtle spice. On the palate, medium-bodied and fleshy with a creamy, mouth-coating texture, bright acidity, and a long finish of lemon verbena, fresh ginger, and a hint of marzipan. Serious complexity and impressive finesse, especially at this price point.

Incredibly versatile at the table — exceptional with roast chicken, lobster bisque, pan-seared halibut, creamy pasta, brie, and soft-ripened cheeses.

• Producer: Cambria Estate Winery
• Vineyard: Katherine's Vineyard
• Appellation: Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, California
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2023
• Vinification: 30% stainless steel, 70% barrel; 7 months French oak (20% new)
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2023

• Vinous — 92 pts: Rich yet energized, driven by taut minerality and juicy acidity. Barrel spice and ripe orchard fruit marry in harmony, with serious complexity, deep minerality and impressive finesse, especially for the price.
• Wine Enthusiast — 92 pts: Lemon balm, baked apricot and macadamia nut aromas. A blast of acidity cuts into the lightly salted core of pear, apple and citrus peel flavors, with a warm oak note carrying the finish.
• Jeb Dunnuck — 90 pts: Ripe stone and orchard fruits intermixed with honeysuckle and subtle spice. Medium-bodied, plush, round, and supple. A well-made, ready-to-drink California Chardonnay that delivers terrific value.
• Wine Spectator — 90 pts: Remarkable seamlessness and complexity — lemon blossoms, orange sherbet, papaya and marmalade, with a fresh thread of acidity and notes of lemon verbena, fresh ginger, and a hint of marzipan.

67Wine Buyer's Note

Debra, California Chardonnay Buyer — "This fleshy, medium-bodied wine offers plentiful flavors of tropical fruit, baking spice, and zest, with an underlying subtle oak influence. Harmoniously balanced with ample acidity and a buttery, creamy, mouth-coating finish."

Talbott Kali Hart Chardonnay — Monterey County, California 2024

Named after founder Robb Talbott's daughter, Kali Hart is the estate's most approachable and fruit-forward expression — and one of the most consistent overachievers in California Chardonnay. Grown on Talbott's certified sustainable estate vineyards in Monterey County, where morning fog rolls in off the Pacific and the Santa Lucia Highlands channel cool maritime air through the vines, the 2024 vintage delivers the kind of lush, balanced Chardonnay that earns 90-point scores and Best Buy recognition from Wine Enthusiast year after year. The estate uses 100% recycled irrigation water, solar-offset vineyard power, and a 2:1 industry-leading water-to-wine ratio — sustainability built into every bottle.

The nose opens with vanilla, brioche, ripe Bosc pear, pineapple, tangerine, and melon — generous and inviting, with a cool-climate freshness underneath. On the palate, the wine is smooth and full-bodied with lush tropical fruit, soft texture, and a clean finish with a hint of minerality. It is the kind of Chardonnay that works equally well on a Tuesday night or at a dinner party — effortless, crowd-pleasing, and genuinely delicious.

Wine Enthusiast Best Buy — "Kali Hart delivers ripe tropical fruit, vanilla, and brioche with a smooth, balanced finish. Estate-grown Monterey Chardonnay at its most approachable." (Prior Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Talbott Vineyards, Monterey County, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Monterey County AVA
• Region: Central Coast, California
• Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
• Certification: Certified California Sustainable (CSWA)
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Vanilla, brioche, Bosc pear, pineapple, tangerine, melon, soft minerality
• Best Paired With: Fish tacos with pineapple salsa, Dungeness crab, seared scallops, roast chicken, Brie

A Best Buy Chardonnay at an honest price — Talbott's Kali Hart is the benchmark for what sustainable, estate-grown Monterey Chardonnay can deliver.

Apothic · California · 2024

Apothic Red Winemaker’s Blend brings together Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in a rich, layered California red. Produced by Apothic Wines in Modesto, its multi-oak aging adds vanilla, mocha and toffee complexity to a full-bodied, approachable style.

Rhubarb, black cherry and dark plum meet mocha, chocolate, brown spice and vanilla. The palate is plush and velvety, with rich dark fruit and a smooth, lingering finish. Try it with BBQ ribs, grilled burgers, pasta bolognese, aged cheddar or dark chocolate.

Winemaker’s Notes

Winemaker’s Notes, Vintage Not Specified: “Apothic Red reveals intense fruit aromas and flavors of rhubarb and black cherry, complemented by hints of mocha, chocolate, brown spice and vanilla. The plush, velvety mouthfeel and smooth finish round out this intriguing, full-bodied red blend.”

A generous California red blend for a weeknight meal or a relaxed dinner with friends.

Details

• Producer: Apothic Wines, Modesto, California
• Vintage: 2024
• Region: California, United States
• Grapes: Red Blend, Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
• Type: Red wine
• Aging: Multi-oak aging
• Closure: Screwcap
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Intensely flavored with a long finish, our Pinot Noir is elegantly balanced and filled with lush fruit flavors, complemented by subtle hints of toasted wood.

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.

Winemaker Description

The Grounded by Josh Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon California 2024 is a practicing sustainable California Cab from the Phelps family — crafted with the same attention to detail that defines their storied winemaking heritage. Sourced from premium vineyards across California’s North and Central Coast interior valleys, this blend of 85.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5.2% Merlot, 4.5% Petit Verdot, and 4.8% Petite Sirah is harvested at optimal ripeness, carefully fermented for balanced tannins, and aged in oak to preserve varietal integrity. 14% ABV.

The nose leads with heady aromas of black cherry, cassis, and licorice. On the palate, ripe blackberry, dusty cocoa, and sweet oak complement the silky texture throughout a long, aromatic finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Classic: Grilled ribeye, lamb chops, or a slow-braised short rib.
• Casual: Burgers, BBQ brisket, or a hearty pasta Bolognese.
• Cheese: Aged cheddar, Gouda, or a sharp Manchego.

Some wines earn their name. Bread and Butter Chardonnay is one of them — a California white that delivers exactly what it promises: richness, comfort, and the kind of easy pleasure that makes a Tuesday feel like a celebration.

Sourced from cool-climate vineyards across California, this 2024 vintage is everything a well-made New World Chardonnay should be. The nose opens with inviting notes of vanilla bean, toasted almond, and ripe tropical fruit — mango, pineapple, a whisper of peach. On the palate, it's creamy and full without being heavy, with just enough oak to add warmth and structure, and a clean, lingering finish that keeps you coming back for another pour.

This is the bottle you reach for when you want something reliably delicious — for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or simply because the moment calls for a good glass of wine.

Tasting Notes
Vanilla bean, toasted almond, tropical fruit (mango, pineapple), and a hint of peach on the nose. The palate is creamy and round with balanced acidity, savory oak, and a smooth, satisfying finish.

Food Pairing
Roasted chicken, buttery lobster, crab cakes, pan-seared halibut, mac and cheese, soft cheeses, or a classic Caesar salad.

Product Details

• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml
• Producer: Bread and Butter Wines

Winemaker Notes:  The 2020 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has captivating notes of cedar and concentrated red fruit character that dance gracefully on the palate. With its ruby hue and smooth, polished tannins, this wine offers a harmonious blend of depth and nuance. Balanced acidity adds a refined touch to the long finish, with vibrant layers of fresh raspberry, cherry and cola. This wine will continue to improve through 2042 given proper cellaring conditions.

Blend: 95.2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2.1% Merlot, 1.4% Cabernet Franc, 0.7% Petit Verdot, 0.6% Malbec

Expert Ratings

94 Decanter: Silver Oak's 2020 releases of Napa and Alexander Valley Cabernets are downright impressive. Tasted four years after the fires, in September of 2024 at the Alexander Valley winery, neither wine showed any sign of the hardened tannic structure or overwrought fruit often associated with the vintage. Instead, these wines remain true to Silver Oak’s signature style, with blackcurrant, fig, and plum fruits layered with white pepper, sweet cedar, and coriander spice. Medium-bodied, with sculpted tannins that persist through the lengthy finish, the Alexander Valley Cabernet in particular retains all the hallmarks of a balanced, inviting, and vibrant Silver Oak red.

94 James Suckling: Truly gorgeous, fruity, velvety and enjoyable for a full-bodied cabernet. It is rich in blueberries, cherry cream, black cherries and raspberries on the palate, with very smooth, layered tannins and a soothing mouthfeel.

Boen Belle Glos · Santa Maria Valley, California · 2023

Boen Belle Glos is one of California's most celebrated Pinot Noir projects, sourcing fruit from the fog-kissed vineyards of Santa Maria Valley — a cool-climate AVA where the Pacific Ocean's influence stretches deep inland, preserving natural acidity and coaxing wines of remarkable depth and finesse. The 2023 vintage was shaped by a deliberate growing season: cooler spring temperatures slowed budbreak, while consistent warm days and cool coastal nights through summer allowed each cluster to develop exceptional concentration. Harvesting from late September to early October, the winemaking team captured fruit at peak ripeness.

In the glass, this Pinot Noir opens with a vibrant scarlet red shot through with glimmers of garnet. Aromas of ripe blackberry, boysenberry, and tart cherry intertwine with subtle hints of tobacco and cocoa powder. On the palate, very ripe boysenberry, blueberry, and plum pie unfold in layers alongside rosemary and cocoa — anchored by firm, structured tannins that carry through to a long, mouthwatering finish. Rich, expressive, and built for the table.

"Vibrant colors, rich flavors of cherry and blackberry, excellent acidity, and smooth tannins — a promising vintage from one of Santa Maria Valley's most distinctive estates."
— Wine Enthusiast, 95 Points. (Vintage 2023).

• Producer: Boen Belle Glos
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Santa Barbara County
• Sub-Region: Santa Maria Valley AVA, California
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Blackberry, boysenberry, tart cherry, tobacco, cocoa powder, rosemary, plum pie, blueberry
• Food Pairings: Duck confit, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, lamb chops, aged cheeses

A standout California Pinot Noir that delivers cool-climate elegance and Santa Maria Valley's signature coastal character in every pour.

Au Bon Climat | Santa Barbara County, California | Chardonnay | 2023

Jim Clendenen's Au Bon Climat has long been California's benchmark for the Burgundian approach to Chardonnay — prioritizing balance, acidity, and minerality over heavy oak and butter. The 2023 is sourced from five carefully farmed Santa Barbara vineyards: Bien Nacido, Los Alamos, Rancho Real, Gold Coast, and North Canyon. Handpicked and whole-cluster pressed, the juice is barrel-fermented and aged 8 months sur lie in neutral François Frères barrels, then blended the following summer. The result is round, bright, and unmistakably ABC.

Vineyards: Bien Nacido, Los Alamos, Rancho Real, Gold Coast, North Canyon
Oak: 8 months sur lie, neutral French oak (François Frères)
Drink: Now–2029

Tasting Notes

• Grapefruit, peach, honeysuckle, and lemon curd on the nose
• Round mid-palate with elderberry, brioche, and a hint of nutmeg
• Zippy, bright acidity | Creamy lingering finish | Mineral backbone

Pairings: Roast chicken, pasta alfredo, seared scallops, baked brie en croûte

Decoy by Duckhorn Pinot Noir California 2023 — California

Duckhorn Wine Company is one of Napa Valley’s most iconic producers, and Decoy is their approachable everyday label — crafted with the same attention to detail as their flagship wines but priced for the table. This California Pinot Noir draws from the state’s finest cool-climate growing regions, where the combination of coastal fog, moderate temperatures, and well-drained soils coaxes out the delicate aromatics and silky texture that define great Pinot Noir.

The 2023 is lush and alluring from the first pour. Aromas of black cherry, wild strawberry, red currant, black tea, and sage lead to rustic hints of earthy forest floor. On the palate, generous ripe berry flavors are framed by bright, balanced acidity and refined tannins that carry the wine to a long, silky finish.

“Lush and alluring — black cherry, wild strawberry, and sage with a long, silky finish.” — Winemaker’s Notes

• Producer: Duckhorn Wine Company (Decoy Label), California
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: California
• Varietal: Pinot Noir
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Black cherry, wild strawberry, red currant, black tea, sage, earthy forest floor, silky finish
• Best Paired With: Salmon, duck breast, mushroom risotto, charcuterie, roasted chicken, soft cheeses

Duckhorn craftsmanship at an everyday price — California Pinot Noir done right.

Clos du Val · Estate Cabernet Sauvignon · Napa Valley 2023

Founded in 1972, Clos du Val says its winemaking is guided by family and a close connection to the land. Its 2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a Napa Valley bottling; Wine Advocate lists a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot.

The winemaker describes blackberry, mulberry, cassis and violet on the nose, followed by cranberry, red plum, cherry and lavender. Supple tannins, balanced acidity and a long, smooth finish round it out.

Winemaker Description
This fresh and vibrant Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is brimming with aromas of blackberry, mulberry, cassis, and violet. On the palate, bright flavors of cranberry, red plum, cherry, and lavender are intertwined with supple tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, smooth finish.

James Suckling · 94 Points · 2023
Refined and earth-driven, showing tightly wound black-fruit aromas with underlying notes of graphite, bitter chocolate and cured meats. The palate is focused and pure with finely tuned tannins and a generous yet precise palate.

Wine Enthusiast · 94 Points · 2023
Expressive with the potential to age, this Cabernet captures the inky dark fruits, dark chocolate, and cascade of fresh herbs so classic to the cuvée, with the intensity and lengthy structure of the vintage.

Vinous · 92 Points · 2023
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is a fabulous entry-level offering in this range. Bright, aromatic and punchy, the 2023 is seriously beautiful from start to finish. Rose petal, spice and new leather meld into a core of dark red/purplish fruit. There's a good bit of tannin, making this a pretty serious appellation wine.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate · 91 Points · 2023
A super value in ready-to-drink Napa Cab, Clos du Val's 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is actually a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot. Black cherries dominate the nose, joined by hints of cassis and tobacco leaf, while the medium- to full-bodied palate is firm without being hard or edgy and finishes long and silky.

Wine Spectator · 90 Points · 2023
This is fresh and juicy, with a slightly understated style to its black cherry and blackberry compote flavors, all laced with light singed alder and savory hints and then dusted with a cocoa note on the finish. Drink now through 2033.

• Producer: Clos du Val
• Wine: Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Napa Valley, California
• Blend (Wine Advocate): 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec, 4% Petit Verdot
• Size: 750ml

Layered dark fruit, fine tannins and a long finish make this a classic Napa Valley Cabernet for the table.

"Scott and Jenny Schultz of Jolie-Laide make highly distinctive wines from grapes that are not among California’s usual suspects. The Trousseau Gris grapes for this bottle were farmed organically and stomped by foot. The wine is lively and aromatic and will go with a wide range of savory and sweetish things." — Eric Asimov, The New York Times

About the Wine

Planted in the late 1970s, these rare, near-extinct vines with massive, gnarly trunks produce unique and fascinating fruit. Since Jolie-Laide’s first Fanucchi Wood Road Trousseau Gris bottling in 2010, the wines have shown a strong structural foundation with vintage-driven character.

In 2024, Mother Nature yielded half the fruit of 2023 — making this Trousseau Gris as rare as the old vines that produced it. To preserve natural acidity, the grapes were harvested early and foot-stomped for a three-day whole-cluster cold soak. This gentle maceration adds subtle phenolic texture, lifted aromatics, and a gorgeous rose-gold hue. The juice was then moved to a combination of neutral puncheon and stainless steel for a slow, cold native yeast fermentation, followed by a 6-month élevage in neutral puncheons and barrique to preserve freshness.

Tasting Notes

Fresh and elegant — summer melon, nectarine, white tea, and pine. 12.5% ABV.

About the Label

The 2024 labels feature the work of Sandra Fontenas, a French visual artist and photographer based in La Rochelle, France.

Food Pairings

Oysters, grilled fish, sushi, charcuterie, soft cheeses, roasted vegetables, and light poultry. Equally stunning as an aperitif. Serve well chilled.

• Producer: Jolie-Laide (Scott & Jenny Schultz)
• Vineyard: Fanucchi Wood Road, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County
• Appellation: Sonoma County, California
• Grape: Trousseau Gris
• Farming: Organic, old vines (planted late 1970s)
• Vinification: Foot-stomped, whole-cluster cold soak, native yeast
• Aging: 6 months, neutral puncheon + stainless steel
• ABV: 12.5%
• Vintage: 2024
• Format: 750ml

An elegant, quietly expressive Chenin Blanc from Heringer Vineyard in Clarksburg. Fermented with native yeasts in an egg-shaped concrete vessel, this wine reveals delicate floral aromatics, subtle complexity, and a graceful, understated character.

94 Points — Wine Enthusiast: A lush and aromatic Chenin Blanc with notes of peach, apple, white flowers, guava, pineapple, and orange-blossom honey. On the palate, ripe cantaloupe, peach, and Meyer lemon zest mingle with layers of minerality, creating a mouthwatering texture and a dry, juicy finish. An excellent pairing for grilled sand dabs.

Wine Details

• Grape: 100% Chenin Blanc

• Appellation: Clarksburg AVA, California

• Vineyard: Heringer Vineyard

• Farming: Certified Sustainable

• Soils: Deep, well-drained loam

• Winemaking: Night-harvested grapes, native yeast fermentation for 25 days in a 500-gallon egg-shaped concrete vessel

• Alcohol: 12.5% ABV

About This Wine

Beaulieu Vineyard — BV — is one of Napa Valley's most storied estates, founded in 1900 and home to the legendary Georges de Latour Private Reserve. The BV Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is the house's approachable flagship: a Bordeaux-inspired blend drawing from Rutherford, Calistoga, and St. Helena, aged 15 months in French and European oak. Generous, polished, and built for immediate enjoyment.

The 2022 vintage delivers a warm, fruit-forward profile — strawberry, black cherry, and cassis up front, with kola nut, mocha, and toasted oak in support. The blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon with Syrah, Malbec, Petite Sirah, Merlot, and Petit Verdot adds mid-palate plushness and a lingering, finessed finish. Medium-bodied with soft tannins and a lovely mouthfeel, this is a Napa Cab that delivers at the table tonight.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby
• Nose: Caramel, ripe red berries, strawberry, black cherry, cassis
• Palate: Medium body, juicy red and black fruit, blueberry, kola nut, mocha, toasted oak
• Finish: Soft tannins, tangy freshness, lingering and finessed

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast 93 | Focused and brilliant flavors of red and black cherries and black currants drive this sleek and powerful wine, as minty, toasty, and tobacco-like accents stay subtly in the background. A full body, medium to full tannins and good fruit acidity lend tangy freshness. Best from 2026.

James Suckling 92 | A warm and generous wine with a sweet-seeming richness that makes it easy to sip without further aging. Full-bodied, laced with mostly red fruit — strawberries to cherries — with underlying blueberry, cocoa and crème de cassis notes. Drink now.

Food Pairings

Grilled ribeye, roasted chicken, lamb burgers, aged cheddar, and tomato-based pasta. Versatile enough for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Product Details

Bottle Size: 750ml
Vintage: 2022
Region: Napa Valley, California
Appellation: Napa Valley AVA
Blend: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Syrah, 5% Malbec, 3% Petite Sirah, 2% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot
Oak Aging: 15 months, French & European oak (30% new)
Style: Full-bodied Red Wine

Schug · Carneros · 2023

Chardonnay | Carneros, California | 750ml

Drawn primarily from Schug's Estate and Ricci vineyards, with additional barrels from Wildcat Mountain and Sangiacomo, this Carneros Chardonnay brings together barrel-aged richness and refreshing acidity. Each vineyard lot was fermented separately and aged on the lees in small French oak barrels, with a judicious contribution of new oak.

Citrus, white flowers, and peach lead into layers of tropical and stone fruit with light minerality. Creamy texture and a crisp, mouth-watering finish make this a Chardonnay to enjoy at the table.

Expert Reviews · Vintage 2023

Tasting Panel, 92 Points | Aged sur lie for nine months in (25% new) small French oak barrels, this classically styled Chardonnay shows a salty mineral character with melon, MacIntosh apple, marzipan, and lemon oil. Nice mouth feel, with body weight, and accented with crisp acidity.

Wine Enthusiast, 92 Points | A tantalizing, toasty top note draws you into this mouth-coating, richly flavorful and full-bodied wine. Spicy oak notes, light butter accents and poached pear flavors bring a lot of satisfaction on the sip.

James Suckling, 91 Points | This shows note of ripe peaches and pineapple with hints of toffee, honeysuckle and lemon custard. Medium- to full-bodied, creamy and weighty yet with fresh, juicy acidity coming through. Mellow and textural on the finish.

Winemaker Description

Chardonnay grapes grown primarily in Schug's Estate and Ricci vineyards, with additional barrels from the Wildcat Mountain and Sangiacomo vineyards, underwent traditional European winemaking practices. Each lot was fermented separately and aged on the lees ("sur-lie") in small French oak barrels, introducing judicious new oak. The result is an elegant and powerful wine that is refreshing and mouth-watering on the finish. It has intense aromatics of citrus, white flowers, and peach. This wine offers layers of tropical and stone fruit and light minerality on the palate.

Well-balanced acidity gives it a crisp, clean finish, making it an excellent wine with food. Try it with cream soups, rich seafood, fowl, veal, and pasta dishes.

Pairing & Serving

Serve chilled alongside rich seafood, cream soups, poultry, veal, or pasta dishes.

Wine Details

• Producer: Schug
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Carneros
• Region: California, United States
• Grape: Chardonnay
• Aging: On the lees in small French oak barrels
• Size: 750ml

Matanzas Creek Winery · Alexander Valley · 2025

Matanzas Creek Sauvignon Blanc Alexander Valley 2025 offers a bright, aromatic expression of Sonoma County. Citrus, white nectarine, pear and floral notes meet a medium-to-light texture and balanced acidity, making it an inviting white for the table.

Founded in 1977 by Sandra MacIver, with Merry Edwards as its first winemaker, Matanzas Creek has spent more than four decades developing its Sonoma County winemaking legacy. Its work has included helping establish the Bennett Valley AVA, advancing clonal research and mentoring winemakers.

Winemaker Marcia Torres Forno draws on her Chilean roots and an exacting approach to aromatics. Across the winery’s Sauvignon Blanc program, vineyard blocks are picked at different times to capture citrus, stone-fruit, tropical and floral characteristics, with stainless steel tanks, concrete eggs and oak barrels used to preserve and develop those aromas. The winery also produces Merlot and limited quantities of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Chenin Blanc, Bordeaux-style red blends and sparkling wine.

Expert Review · Vintage 2025

Wine Spectator, 90 Points | Light notes of straw, lemon peel and white peach stay in lockstep through the modest finish.

Winemaker Description

Matanzas Creek Winery
Aromas of citrus fruit (lime and lemon) and leaf, white nectarine, white flowers, and bosc pear. On the palate, key lime, nectarine, honeysuckle, and kumquat. Medium-to-light mouthfeel with balanced and bright acidity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Try with grilled white fish, shrimp with citrus, goat cheese or a fresh herb salad.

Details

• Producer: Matanzas Creek Winery
• Winemaker: Marcia Torres Forno
• Vintage: 2025
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• Country: United States
• Region: California
• County: Sonoma County
• Appellation: Alexander Valley
• Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
• Type: White wine
• Closure: Screw top
• Style: Medium-to-light texture with bright, balanced acidity

McManis Family Vineyards · Lodi, California · 2023

McManis Family Vineyards has been farming the rich alluvial soils of California's Central Valley for three generations. Rooted in Lodi — one of California's most celebrated Zinfandel-producing regions — the family grows fruit with an exceptional depth of flavor, benefiting from warm days, cool Delta breezes, and old vine complexity. Their Zinfandel consistently over-delivers for the price, earning fans from casual drinkers to serious collectors alike.

The 2023 Zinfandel is bold and supple, opening with inviting aromas of red currant, dark strawberry, brown sugar, cinnamon, and toasty oak. On the palate, hibiscus tea and cracked black pepper unfold alongside silky tannins and a long, smooth finish. Rich, expressive, and supremely food-friendly.

92 Points — Wine Enthusiast (Tonya Pitts)
"Bold and supple with aromas of red currant, dark strawberry, brown sugar, cinnamon, and toasty oak. The palate mirrors the nose with hibiscus tea, cracked black pepper, silky tannins, and a smooth finish." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: McManis Family Vineyards
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Lodi, California
• Grape Variety: Zinfandel
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red currant, dark strawberry, brown sugar, cinnamon, toasty oak, silky tannins
• Food Pairings: BBQ, shredded chicken, grilled meats, burgers, spiced dishes

A crowd-pleasing California Zinfandel at a remarkable price — drink now through 2027.

A compelling expression of California Chenin Blanc, combining ripe orchard fruit, citrus oil, and gentle spice with refreshing acidity and a subtle saline edge. Rich yet beautifully balanced, with impressive texture and finesse.

92 Points — Vinous

A beautifully textured Chenin Blanc featuring creamy lees, lanolin, orange oil, and gentle spice surrounding a core of ripe orchard fruit. Supple and generous, yet balanced by fresh acidity, this wine delivers remarkable character and value.

Featured in The New York Times, Lieu Dit captures the fascinating contrasts that make Chenin Blanc so appealing: richness alongside freshness, delicate floral aromatics, and a dry palate with an impression of honeyed sweetness.

Wine Details

• Grape: 100% Chenin Blanc

• Appellation: Santa Ynez Valley, California

• Vineyard: Happy Canyon Vineyard, Block 1B

• Farming: Practicing Organic

• Soils: Positas fine sandy loam with chert and serpentine

• Winemaking: Native yeast fermentation in stainless steel and neutral oak barrels; aged in neutral French oak through winter before transfer to stainless steel in spring

• Alcohol: 12.5% ABV

A beautifully textured Chenin Blanc offering sun-kissed fruit, delicate floral notes, and an inviting touch of honey. Sourced from the McCormack Family Vineyard, this vibrant wine balances richness with freshness and a lingering, elegant finish.

Featured by Eric Asimov in The New York Times, this wine showcases the versatility of Chenin Blanc beyond its traditional Loire Valley home. Lean yet generous, it offers expressive floral and honeyed flavors that leave a lasting impression on the palate.

Wine Details

• Grapes: 96% Chenin Blanc, 4% Riesling

• Appellation: Clarksburg AVA, California

• Vineyard: McCormack Family Vineyard

• Farming: Practicing Organic

• Soils: Dense clay and loam

• Winemaking: Aged for five months on the lees, primarily in neutral French oak

• Alcohol: 11.9% ABV

Kosta Browne · Russian River Valley Pinot Noir · 2023

Kosta Browne's 2023 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir layers ripe raspberry, dark cherry and black fruit with fragrant hibiscus, floral notes and a touch of vanilla. Blackberry, blueberry and plum unfold on the palate, supported by balanced acidity and refined tannins, with cocoa powder adding depth to a warm, extended finish.

Producer & Terroir

Dedicated to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Kosta Browne draws this blend from Russian River Valley vineyards including its Estate Series sites, Bootlegger's Hill and Treehouse. Coastal fog follows the river inland from the Pacific, and daily temperature shifts slow ripening, helping the grapes develop complexity while retaining freshness and balance.

The vineyard selection includes Bootlegger's Hill, Giusti Ranch, Treehouse, Winner's Circle, Zio Tony, Moonshine, Jenkins, Sundawg Ridge and Barron Ranch. Soils are mainly Goldridge loam. Nearby Graton is home to a community of writers, artisans, growers and winemakers, with local restaurants and a lively harvest season.

Winemaker Description

Kosta Browne · 2023 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
Our wines embody our relentless pursuit of crafting wines that reflect the land that defines them. The Russian River Valley, often called the heartland of California Pinot Noir, is shaped by the cooling influence of coastal fog that follows the river inland from the Pacific. These daily temperature shifts slow ripening, allowing the grapes to develop layered complexity while preserving freshness and balance.

The 2023 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir brings together a dynamic selection of vineyards, including our Estate Series sites, Bootlegger’s Hill and Treehouse Vineyard, which contribute to its character and dimension. Ripe raspberry, dark cherry, and black fruit intertwine with fragrant hibiscus, floral notes, and a touch of vanilla. The palate unfolds with blackberry, blueberry, and plum, supported by vibrant acidity and polished tannins. Hints of cocoa add depth, leading to a warm, extended finish. Aged for 16 months in a mix of French oak and foudre, followed by time in stainless steel, this wine achieves a refined balance of structure and elegance.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate, 93 Points · 2023 Vintage · Reviewed September 2025
The 2023 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is blended from several vineyards, including Bootlegger’s Hill, Giusti Ranch, Jenkins and Treehouse, and offers a lovely high-toned, red-fruited expression that is reflective of the cool growing season. Matured for 16 months in 40% new French oak, intense aromas of pomegranate, tangerine peel, rose petal, rooibos tea and conifer pour from the glass. The full-bodied palate is bursting with spicy red fruit flavors. It’s structured by fine, chalky tannins, and the vibrant acidity drives a long, energetic finish. 

Wine Spectator, 92 Points · Reviewed September 2025 · Vintage 2024 

Singed tea, apple wood and rose hip notes give this a subtly earthy edge, while the core of raspberry, black cherry and loganberry fruit shows brambly energy. Drink now through 2032. 

Winemaking

Fermentation: 55% stainless steel, 25% concrete and 20% oak, with 5% whole cluster. The Zio Tony contribution fermented on skins for 20 days. Clones include 115, Mt. Eden, 37, Swan, 777, Calera, 114, 667, Pommard, 23, 828 and 2A.

Producer Élevage Notes
40% new French oak & 60% neutral oak for 16 months, 16% foudre for 16 months, then 100% of the blend was aged in stainless steel for 1 month.

Pairing Suggestions

Try with roast duck, grilled salmon or mushroom dishes to complement the wine's layered fruit and savory accents.

Details

• Producer: Kosta Browne
• Vintage: 2023
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Appellation: Russian River Valley
• Grape: Pinot Noir
• Type: Red wine
• Soil: Mainly Goldridge loam
• Whole cluster: 5%
• Alcohol: 14.2%
• pH: 3.68
• Total acidity: 5.35 g/L

Booker · My Favorite Neighbor Cabernet Sauvignon · 2022

My Favorite Neighbor 2022 combines Cabernet Sauvignon's dark-fruited character with savory herbs, spice and polished tannins. Red, blue and black fruits mingle with floral and tobacco notes in a medium-bodied wine shaped by vibrant acidity and French-oak aging.

Producer Story

Booker's name honors two orphan brothers who purchased the land in the late 1920s and devoted their lives to farming and humanitarian work. Their legacy of community, giving back and quality farming informs Booker's purpose: thoughtfully farming and crafting wines with a small footprint and a lasting impact.

Booker's 100-acre estate vineyard is certified organic and emphasizes Rhône varieties. In 2021, the winery opened a visitor center with underground wine caves and an indoor-outdoor tasting lounge connected to the vineyard landscape. Its virtual tour offers a look at the vineyard, cellar and gathering spaces.

Blend & Winemaking

The 2022 blend is 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 6% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah and 3% Petit Verdot. It was aged for 20 months in French oak, 55% new.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Vinous Media, 92 Points · 2022 Vintage
"Sweet herbs combine with cloves and dried black cherries as the darling 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon blossoms in the glass. Racy and sleek, it offers ripe citrus-infused red and black fruits elevated by nuances of cola and spice, while a stream of vibrant acidity maintains fantastic balance. Mocha mingles with fine tannins as this finishes with medium length and a licorice tinge."

James Suckling, 92 Points · Vintage 2022
"Dark-fruited, classic aromas of blackcurrants, cedar and tobacco. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and acidity, showing notes of blackberries, cassia bark, dried herbs and leather. Very savory and austere. Made from a blend of 79% cabernet sauvignon, 8% malbec, 6% syrah, 4% petite sirah and 3% petit verdot."

Decanter Magazine, 91 Points · Vintage 2022
"The nose features a mix of red and black fruits with a touch of bramble. On the palate, it offers well-structured tannins yet remains approachable and enjoyable, whether sipped solo or paired with food. An easy drinker with a bit of heft, this is perfect for backyard barbecue fare, bringing just the right amount of complexity and depth."

Jeb Dunnuck, 91 Points · 2022 Vintage
"Based on 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 6% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah, and 3% Petit Verdot, aged 20 months in 55% new French oak, the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals lifted red, blue, and black fruits, violets, tobacco, and incense notes. It's medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, and polished on the palate, with fine tannins and outstanding length."

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with backyard barbecue, grilled steak or herb-roasted meats to complement its dark fruit, savory spice and fine tannins.

Details

• Producer: Booker
• Wine: My Favorite Neighbor Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vintage: 2022
• Bottle size: 750ml
• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Listed appellation: San Luis Obispo
• Primary grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
• Blend: 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 6% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah, 3% Petit Verdot
• Type: Red wine
• Aging: 20 months in French oak, 55% new