Winemaker Notes On the palate, the flavors are intensely focused, yet the pleasant round body fills the mouth with a wide, elegant mid-palate. The salinity and minerality of this wine bring a refinement that is gently carried by bright, integrated acidity. About Winery HDV Winery, or Hyde de Villaine, was founded in 2000 through a partnership between the Hyde family of Napa Valley and the de Villaine family of Burgundy, brought together by the marriage of Pamela de Villaine (Larry Hyde's cousin) to Aubert de Villaine. The venture produces single-vineyard wines from the esteemed Hyde Vineyards in Napa's Carneros region, blending Old World Burgundian techniques with New World Californian fruit through a philosophy of minimal intervention and respect for terroir. 

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The 2022 J. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon is exceptionally dark in color with aromas of blackberry, black currant, and toasted pastry crust. Dense and soft on the palate, with elegant layers of black and red currants leaving a bright finish. THE J LOHR STORY Fifty years ago, Jerry Lohr embarked on a career change. What followed would reshape the landscape of the California wine industry and create one of the country’s most popular wine brands. In the late 1960s, Jerry Lohr began an extensive investigation of California grape growing regions – searching for the ideal location for his first vineyard. Jerry was raised on a South Dakota farm; his agricultural roots armed him with an innate sense for the relationship between climate, soil, and location. His research and instincts led him to the Central Coast, an area just beginning to explore its potential for winegrowing. Four decades ago, the California Central Coast had not yet emerged as one of North America’s world-class winegrowing regions. With little history or viticultural precedent, planting on the Central Coast was a gamble. One of a handful of early pioneers, Jerry Lohr was among the first to realize the inherent potential of Monterey and Paso Robles for producing high quality grapes and superb wines. PIONEERING MONTEREY AND PASO ROBLES -JERRY LOHR LEGACY-It’s no coincidence that the Central Coast’s emergence as a world class winegrowing region runs parallel with the establishment and growth of J. Lohr Vineyards & Winery. Founder Jerry Lohr is one of the region’s pioneers and has played a larger-than-life role in bringing the area to prominence. Jerry’s instincts led him to two regions located about 75 miles apart. In the early 1970s, he chose Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco district for its cool, windy climate and rocky soils as ideal for Chardonnay. In the 1980s, he recognized the potential of Paso Robles for growing Bordeaux varietals, especially Cabernet Sauvignon – given the area’s rich soils and dramatic diurnal temperature swings between warm days and cool nights. After Jerry Lohr’s nearly decade-long search for the right place to plant his first vineyard, he chose a site in Monterey County that was to become the heart of the Arroyo Seco appellation. Jerry originally planted 280 acres in 1972 and 1973 near Greenfield. Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco appellation has proved ideal for growing layered, complex Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Brisk winds and fog off Monterey Bay, stony, well-drained soils, and a lack of damaging fall rains all combine to produce grapes with trademark fruit intensity and balancing acidity. In 1974, Jerry unveiled the first J. Lohr winery in San Jose. In the early 1980s, Jerry Lohr saw the potential for great Cabernet Sauvignon further south. Borrowing a lesson from the French—that great Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon excel in very different growing conditions—Jerry began planting Cabernet Sauvignon and other red varieties in San Luis Obispo County’s little-known Paso Robles region in 1986. With the hands-on devotion of an artisan farmer, Jerry tended to the vines while diligently working toward the creation and development of an adjacent winery and barreling cellars; J. Lohr’s Paso Robles production facility was opened in 1988.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes Seven Oaks' offers velvety richness and supple tannins. Dense and soft, this wine boasts ripe flavors of black currant and cherry, enhanced by a bouquet of vanilla and spice from one year of barrel aging, and is an excellent companion to grilled beef, lasagna, or dark chocolate. THE J LOHR STORY Fifty years ago, Jerry Lohr embarked on a career change. What followed would reshape the landscape of the California wine industry and create one of the country’s most popular wine brands. In the late 1960s, Jerry Lohr began an extensive investigation of California grape growing regions – searching for the ideal location for his first vineyard. Jerry was raised on a South Dakota farm; his agricultural roots armed him with an innate sense for the relationship between climate, soil, and location. His research and instincts led him to the Central Coast, an area just beginning to explore its potential for winegrowing. Four decades ago, the California Central Coast had not yet emerged as one of North America’s world-class winegrowing regions. With little history or viticultural precedent, planting on the Central Coast was a gamble. One of a handful of early pioneers, Jerry Lohr was among the first to realize the inherent potential of Monterey and Paso Robles for producing high quality grapes and superb wines. PIONEERING MONTEREY AND PASO ROBLES -JERRY LOHR LEGACY-It’s no coincidence that the Central Coast’s emergence as a world class winegrowing region runs parallel with the establishment and growth of J. Lohr Vineyards & Winery. Founder Jerry Lohr is one of the region’s pioneers and has played a larger-than-life role in bringing the area to prominence. Jerry’s instincts led him to two regions located about 75 miles apart. In the early 1970s, he chose Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco district for its cool, windy climate and rocky soils as ideal for Chardonnay. In the 1980s, he recognized the potential of Paso Robles for growing Bordeaux varietals, especially Cabernet Sauvignon – given the area’s rich soils and dramatic diurnal temperature swings between warm days and cool nights. After Jerry Lohr’s nearly decade-long search for the right place to plant his first vineyard, he chose a site in Monterey County that was to become the heart of the Arroyo Seco appellation. Jerry originally planted 280 acres in 1972 and 1973 near Greenfield. Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco appellation has proved ideal for growing layered, complex Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Brisk winds and fog off Monterey Bay, stony, well-drained soils, and a lack of damaging fall rains all combine to produce grapes with trademark fruit intensity and balancing acidity. In 1974, Jerry unveiled the first J. Lohr winery in San Jose. In the early 1980s, Jerry Lohr saw the potential for great Cabernet Sauvignon further south. Borrowing a lesson from the French—that great Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon excel in very different growing conditions—Jerry began planting Cabernet Sauvignon and other red varieties in San Luis Obispo County’s little-known Paso Robles region in 1986. With the hands-on devotion of an artisan farmer, Jerry tended to the vines while diligently working toward the creation and development of an adjacent winery and barreling cellars; J. Lohr’s Paso Robles production facility was opened in 1988.

Read more less

2022 |  JS 94 Bright, lifted, black and red fruits with aromas of dark cherries, damson plums, cedar box and fresh herbs. The full-bodied palate has a supple, rounded mouthfeel and softly integrated tannins. 91% cabernet sauvignon with smatterings of the other main Bordeaux varieties. Lively and approachable yet plush with plenty of years ahead.   About Winery Joseph Phelps Vineyards is a family-owned and operated wine estate with vineyards and wineries in Napa Valley and on the western Sonoma Coast. The winery was founded in 1973 by Joseph Phelps, a successful construction executive and entrepreneur whose early interest in wine led him to establish vineyards on a 670-acre former cattle ranch in Napa Valley. Over the next 42 years Joe became one of the most respected figures in the California wine industry, building Joseph Phelps Vineyards into a critically-acclaimed winery internationally known for its iconic wines and unwavering commitment to quality. Joe’s son, Bill Phelps, joined the family business in 1998 after a successful career in law, and as Executive Chairman now oversees Joseph Phelps Vineyards with a continued dedication to excellence. Family owns and farms 425 acres of vines in Napa Valley on nine estate vineyards in St. Helena, Rutherford, Oakville, Stags Leap District, Oak Knoll District, South Napa and Carneros, as well as 100 acres over two vineyards on the western Sonoma Coast. Strategically chosen over many decades, each vineyard has its own personality and brings a different characteristic to our wines. Our commitment to an estate-based model is our way of ensuring consistency and the highest quality we can possibly achieve. Our estate vineyards, paired with select long-term grower relationships, give our winemaking teams unparalleled depth and diversity when it comes to producing Joseph Phelps wines.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The 2022 Insignia is fresh and focused on entry with expressive cocoa powder, graphite and earthy spices. Elegant and complex with a supple, creamy texture and bold tannins, this latest vintage offers luscious ripe plum and blackberry character with hints of roasted coffee and dark cherry throughout the palate to a long, velvety finish. About Winery Joseph Phelps Vineyards is a family-owned and operated wine estate with vineyards and wineries in Napa Valley and on the western Sonoma Coast. The winery was founded in 1973 by Joseph Phelps, a successful construction executive and entrepreneur whose early interest in wine led him to establish vineyards on a 670-acre former cattle ranch in Napa Valley. Over the next 42 years Joe became one of the most respected figures in the California wine industry, building Joseph Phelps Vineyards into a critically-acclaimed winery internationally known for its iconic wines and unwavering commitment to quality. Joe’s son, Bill Phelps, joined the family business in 1998 after a successful career in law, and as Executive Chairman now oversees Joseph Phelps Vineyards with a continued dedication to excellence. Family owns and farms 425 acres of vines in Napa Valley on nine estate vineyards in St. Helena, Rutherford, Oakville, Stags Leap District, Oak Knoll District, South Napa and Carneros, as well as 100 acres over two vineyards on the western Sonoma Coast. Strategically chosen over many decades, each vineyard has its own personality and brings a different characteristic to our wines. Our commitment to an estate-based model is our way of ensuring consistency and the highest quality we can possibly achieve. Our estate vineyards, paired with select long-term grower relationships, give our winemaking teams unparalleled depth and diversity when it comes to producing Joseph Phelps wines.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes This powerful wine with ripe aromas calls for similar dishes: sole fried in butter with almonds, Bresse chicken with truffle and foie gras, rosé fried veal kidneys with 'moutarde à l'ancienne' cream sauce, turbot or brill with a creamy butter/white wine sauce, monkfish ham with beurre blanc, lobster with vanilla butter About Winery Kistler Vineyards is a small winery in the Russian River Valley specializing in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Founded in 1978 on the notion that compelling wines of site can and should be made in California. Kistler has been working with their own heritage selection of Chardonnay since the mid-1980s and is known the world over as a single clone Chardonnay house. They plant one heritage selection of Chardonnay across fifteen vineyards, giving rise to eleven vineyard designate Chardonnays. Similarly, Kistler produces four Pinot Noirs; each of these wines is crafted from the two small-clustered, low-yielding clones that were imported from a Grand Cru vineyard in Burgundy, which they began propagating over 20 years ago. Geoff Labitzke, MW, is the National Director of Sales for Kistler Vineyards and will be our guide as we explore five distinct bottlings of Kistler’s highly sought-after wines.

Read more less

2022 | WE, 91 Pts The 2022 vintage is described as "shattering the mold" with its off-the-charts intensity: Aroma: Opens with bold, layered scents of raspberry crème brûlée, cedar box, and hints of violet, dark chocolate, and cinnamon. Palate: Full-bodied and rich. You’ll find intense flavors of wild huckleberry, cherry pie, and juicy blackberries. There are unique "pastry" notes of butter croissant and toasted marshmallow, balanced by espresso and savory spices. Texture & Finish: The tannins are dry yet silky, leading into a "trembling," long, oak-inspired finish with lingering notes of mocha and spearmint cream.   About Winery “Michael” and “David” are Michael and David Phillips, brothers whose family has farmed fruits and vegetables in the Lodi region since the 1850s and cultivated wine grapes for nearly a century. Michael and David constitute the 5th generation of grape growers in the Phillips family, with the 6th generation now joining the family business. The Phillips family likes to emphasize the importance of quality wines with unique and fun labels. Wine makers Adam Mettler, Derek DeVries and Jeff Farthing specialize in producing Lodi’s famous Old Vine Zinfandels, as well as Rhone varietals such as Ancient Vine Cinsault and Syrah for Michael David Winery.  Farming with future generations in mind, the Phillips have adopted some of the most progressive sustainable farming practices in the state. All 800 acres of the family’s vineyards are third party certified, and the state’s first per ton bonus was issued for contracted growers to follow in the family’s footsteps. 

Read more less

Wine Enthusiast, 91 Pts Winemaker Notes This rich, burly Zin is off the charts in concentration and intensity! Opening with black cherry, dark chocolate and tobacco on the nose, this full-bodied Zinfandel exudes flavors of red berry, plum, cacao and cola leading to a spice laced finish that lingers until the next quake. About Winery “Michael” and “David” are Michael and David Phillips, brothers whose family has farmed fruits and vegetables in the Lodi region since the 1850s and cultivated wine grapes for nearly a century. Michael and David constitute the 5th generation of grape growers in the Phillips family, with the 6th generation now joining the family business. The Phillips family likes to emphasize the importance of quality wines with unique and fun labels. Wine makers Adam Mettler, Derek DeVries and Jeff Farthing specialize in producing Lodi’s famous Old Vine Zinfandels, as well as Rhone varietals such as Ancient Vine Cinsault and Syrah for Michael David Winery.  Farming with future generations in mind, the Phillips have adopted some of the most progressive sustainable farming practices in the state. All 800 acres of the family’s vineyards are third party certified, and the state’s first per ton bonus was issued for contracted growers to follow in the family’s footsteps. 

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The 2022 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Vineyard Cuvee Elizabeth is medium ruby-purple in color. Wow - gorgeous scents of raspberry coulis, wild strawberries, and rose oil spring from the glass, followed by nuances of iris, crushed rocks, underbrush, and pomegranate. The light to medium-bodied palate is so finely knit and elegant with a racy line and fine-grained tannins beautifully defining the red berry and floral layers, finishing long and perfumed.    About Winery Founded in 2011 by legendary winemaker Steve Kistler, Occidental represents the culmination of his decades-long quest to craft world-class Pinot Noir. Located in the extreme, cool-climate maritime fog of the West Sonoma Coast, the family-led winery focuses exclusively on crystalline, site-specific Pinot Noir.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes Lifted aromas of Key lime, honeydew melon, and passion fruit all jump out of the glass supported by hints of freshly cut grass in the background. Those fresh lime and honeydew flavors continue to the palate, joined by kiwi and subtle herbaceous notes, all mingling together in a lively way. The wine is linear and focused, ending with enticing, mouthwatering acidity that will leave you wanting more. About Winery Founded in 1980, by Koerner and Joan Rombauer, Rombauer Vineyards has been producing acclaimed wines from Napa Valley and the Sierra Foothills ever since. Still family owned and operated, our winery is known for its high-quality wines, exceptional vineyard sites, and family-style hospitality. In 1972, when Koerner and Joan Rombauer moved their two children, two horses and five dogs to Napa Valley, they were already well acquainted with the natural relationship between food and wine. Koerner’s great aunt Irma Rombauer wrote the internationally renowned cookbook, The Joy of Cooking, and his German ancestors had deep roots in the winegrowing region of Rheingau. Koerner and Joan established Rombauer Vineyards in 1980, and in 1984 they released their first California-style Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Four decades later–and still family owned–the winery has become widely acclaimed for its distinctive, fruit-driven expressions. Our first vintage was our 1980 Cabernet followed by our 1982 Chardonnay. We still make and cherish those wines as well as many others. 

Read more less

Winemaker Notes Tasting a bit riper than the 2021 due to the heat during the 2022 harvest, but still an elegant, well-balanced wine. This wine is golden in color, aromatic in lemon-butter, vanilla bean and golden apples, with vivid acidity. Medium-bodied. About Winery Winemaker Stephané grew up in Meloisey, Burgundy in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune. He learned from a 70-year-old winegrower in Pommard. He obtained advanced degrees in viticulture and enology from Université de Bourgogne in Dijon, and subsequently worked in Switzerland, Sonoma and New Zealand. He was attracted to American vineyards where winemakers were not bound by tradition or AOC restrictions. The winery was designed and developed to accommodate every aspect of de Villaine's winemaking philosophy of minimal intervention. Aubert de Villaine, former Co-Director of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, married Larry Hyde’s cousin, Pamela, bringing the two families together. To Stéphane, the best winemaker is one that largely keeps his hands to himself, allowing the alchemy of nature to do what it does best. He thinks of himself as a lazy winemaker, in the best sense that the wine is made in the vineyard and the winemakers best skill is staying out of the way of the fruit’s expression in the cellar. Today, Vivier is one of the United States’ most noted practitioners of the art of Pinot Noir.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes Vivier Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is generous, expressive and begging to be drunk! It has deep aromas of pomegranate, red cherries and blueberries with nuances of garrigue, Angostura bitters and orange peel. The medium-bodied palate is softly chalky and fresh, full of voluptuous, spicy fruit, with pretty botanical accents on the long finish. About Winery Winemaker Stephané grew up in Meloisey, Burgundy in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune. He learned from a 70-year-old winegrower in Pommard. He obtained advanced degrees in viticulture and enology from Université de Bourgogne in Dijon, and subsequently worked in Switzerland, Sonoma and New Zealand. He was attracted to American vineyards where winemakers were not bound by tradition or AOC restrictions. The winery was designed and developed to accommodate every aspect of de Villaine's winemaking philosophy of minimal intervention. Aubert de Villaine, former Co-Director of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, married Larry Hyde’s cousin, Pamela, bringing the two families together. To Stéphane, the best winemaker is one that largely keeps his hands to himself, allowing the alchemy of nature to do what it does best. He thinks of himself as a lazy winemaker, in the best sense that the wine is made in the vineyard and the winemakers best skill is staying out of the way of the fruit’s expression in the cellar. Today, Vivier is one of the United States’ most noted practitioners of the art of Pinot Noir.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The nose is accented by Meyer lemon, yellow apple, and pear notes. Undertones of mint and greengage offer a layer of complexity while a hint of Meyer lemon pith contributes spiciness. The palate is round and unctuous owing to the well-developed tannin structure and moderate acid profile. Flavours of Meyer lemon and lemon curd envelope the palate. The older vines are blended with newer plantings of Calera and Wente clones, which brings terrific balance and is wonderfully nuanced and elegant. About Winery Like most good stories, the history of Williams Selyem owes much to serendipity. If a grower with an abundance of fruit hadn’t given Burt Williams a few tonnes of free grapes in the 1970s, Burt might never have discovered his love and flair for winemaking. And if Burt and his partner Ed Selyem had been able to afford the French Burgundies they both favoured, they might never have tried making their own pinot noir. The two friends didn’t set out to produce wines for anyone but themselves. And they surely never imagined that their humble experiment in home winemaking would spawn a cult-status winery of international acclaim. Together, Burt and Ed set a new standard for American-made pinot noir, and elevated Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley to among the best wine growing regions in the world. Now considered Russian River Valley royalty, Williams Selyem are responsible for some of the most sought-after handcrafted expressions of pinot noir across both the New World and Old.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes Brooding and darker in profile compared to the Russian River Valley bottling, the Sonoma Coast is a completely different animal. Plum, dried herbs and savory undertones complete the darker aromatic profile. Full bodied at the entry, the palate becomes saturated with flavors of plum and brambly fruits. The mid-palate weight is compelling, and the firmness of the tannins seem to melt to the extract of the wine. The palate is then refreshed with enough acidity that carries the wine to the finish with a lingering hint of a sous bois character. About Winery Like most good stories, the history of Williams Selyem owes much to serendipity. If a grower with an abundance of fruit hadn’t given Burt Williams a few tonnes of free grapes in the 1970s, Burt might never have discovered his love and flair for winemaking. And if Burt and his partner Ed Selyem had been able to afford the French Burgundies they both favoured, they might never have tried making their own pinot noir. The two friends didn’t set out to produce wines for anyone but themselves. And they surely never imagined that their humble experiment in home winemaking would spawn a cult-status winery of international acclaim. Together, Burt and Ed set a new standard for American-made pinot noir, and elevated Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley to among the best wine growing regions in the world. Now considered Russian River Valley royalty, Williams Selyem are responsible for some of the most sought-after handcrafted expressions of pinot noir across both the New World and Old.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The 2023 Alpha Omega Chardonnay is straw yellow with hints of gold. Youthful aromas of golden delicious apple and stone fruit, accent notes of white flower, toasted cereal grains, French toast, honey and phyllo dough. An exciting core of melon, kumquat and lemon custard fruit mix with hints of hazelnut, nutmeg, maple candy and stony minerality. After whole cluster pressing, the Chardonnay Napa Valley 2021was barrel fermented in 100% French oak, 33% new barrels. Partial malolactic fermentation provides a richer and fuller aspect to the wine that was then aged in the same barrel composition for 19 months with periodic stirring of the lees. To soften the impact of oak and preserve freshness, the winemakers selected larger puncheons for 30% of the barrels. About Winery Established in 2006, Alpha Omega’s mission is to create artisanal wines drawing on Old World vineyard handcrafted practices and emphasis on unique terroir driven characteristics that reveal a sense of place combined with New World technology and science. The winery, located on the Rutherford Bench in the heart of Napa Valley, exudes the utmost experience of hospitality in an authentic place reflective of the Napa Valley farming community. Presenting world-class wines in a convivial setting remains just as paramount to vintners Robin and Michelle Baggett today as when they opened the winery’s doors on July 1, 2006. Alpha Omega boasts a picturesque setting, highlighted by views of its landmark water fountains and reflecting pond, stunning vineyards and the statuesque Mayacamas Mountains. The breathtaking scenery makes for the perfect backdrop to enjoy the handcrafted wines made with grapes from prized, historic vineyards by Alpha Omega’s talented winemaking team. A warm staff of well-trained wine educators, the postcard-worthy setting and the modern farm-style architecture of the winery on Napa Valley’s famous Highway 29, paired with beautiful wines was the intentional vision the Baggetts conceived when they toured the valley in 2005 searching for a property to purchase to open their first winery together. To create an estate comparable to the finest in the valley, the Baggetts took on the project in the same fashion that helped them achieve success in other fields — Robin as an attorney, grape grower and vintner in San Luis Obispo and Michelle as an international hotel interior designer later becoming a hospitality marketing and communication professional and branding whiz. Creating the brand name Alpha Omega in 2005 predestined their ambition to craft the ultimate winery experience from beginning to end. Today, Alpha Omega is honored that its estate is considered one of the top wineries in the region. When it came to building its brand, Alpha Omega spared no expense. There were no limits for the starry-eyed vintners who aimed to bring their vision to fruition. Several months into negotiations for the property, Sir Peter Newton of Newton Vineyards suggested to the Baggetts that they talk to his winemaker and assistant winemaker about joining their new winery project. This team together had excelled at making award-winning wines for Newton Vineyards in Napa Valley and left to do the same for Alpha Omega. The Baggetts’ relationships in the valley afforded them the opportunity to procure the best grapes from prized vineyards throughout the top AVAs of Napa Valley — most notably Thomas Vineyard in Rutherford, Beckstoffer To Kalon in Oakville, Beckstoffer Georges III in Rutherford, Beckstoffer Dr. Crane and Beckstoffer Las Piedras in St. Helena, Stagecoach in Atlas Peak, Drew Vineyard in Mount Veeder and Sunshine Valley in the Oak Knoll District.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes ARIEL oak-aged Cabernet Sauvignon offers aromas of black currants, cherry, blueberries and chocolate, with soft tannins and a dry finish. Try this with manchego, carne asada, Texas chili, wood-fired pizza. THE J LOHR STORY Fifty years ago, Jerry Lohr embarked on a career change. What followed would reshape the landscape of the California wine industry and create one of the country’s most popular wine brands. In the late 1960s, Jerry Lohr began an extensive investigation of California grape growing regions – searching for the ideal location for his first vineyard. Jerry was raised on a South Dakota farm; his agricultural roots armed him with an innate sense for the relationship between climate, soil, and location. His research and instincts led him to the Central Coast, an area just beginning to explore its potential for winegrowing. Four decades ago, the California Central Coast had not yet emerged as one of North America’s world-class winegrowing regions. With little history or viticultural precedent, planting on the Central Coast was a gamble. One of a handful of early pioneers, Jerry Lohr was among the first to realize the inherent potential of Monterey and Paso Robles for producing high quality grapes and superb wines. PIONEERING MONTEREY AND PASO ROBLES -JERRY LOHR LEGACY-It’s no coincidence that the Central Coast’s emergence as a world class winegrowing region runs parallel with the establishment and growth of J. Lohr Vineyards & Winery. Founder Jerry Lohr is one of the region’s pioneers and has played a larger-than-life role in bringing the area to prominence. Jerry’s instincts led him to two regions located about 75 miles apart. In the early 1970s, he chose Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco district for its cool, windy climate and rocky soils as ideal for Chardonnay. In the 1980s, he recognized the potential of Paso Robles for growing Bordeaux varietals, especially Cabernet Sauvignon – given the area’s rich soils and dramatic diurnal temperature swings between warm days and cool nights. After Jerry Lohr’s nearly decade-long search for the right place to plant his first vineyard, he chose a site in Monterey County that was to become the heart of the Arroyo Seco appellation. Jerry originally planted 280 acres in 1972 and 1973 near Greenfield. Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco appellation has proved ideal for growing layered, complex Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Brisk winds and fog off Monterey Bay, stony, well-drained soils, and a lack of damaging fall rains all combine to produce grapes with trademark fruit intensity and balancing acidity. In 1974, Jerry unveiled the first J. Lohr winery in San Jose. In the early 1980s, Jerry Lohr saw the potential for great Cabernet Sauvignon further south. Borrowing a lesson from the French—that great Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon excel in very different growing conditions—Jerry began planting Cabernet Sauvignon and other red varieties in San Luis Obispo County’s little-known Paso Robles region in 1986. With the hands-on devotion of an artisan farmer, Jerry tended to the vines while diligently working toward the creation and development of an adjacent winery and barreling cellars; J. Lohr’s Paso Robles production facility was opened in 1988.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The 2023 Cakebread Chardonnay (Napa Valley, California, USA) opens with inviting aromas of ripe green and golden apple, white peach, and subtle oak spice. On the palate, it delivers rich flavors of apple, pear, melon, and citrus, supported by a creamy texture and vibrant acidity. Hints of minerality, vanilla, and lemon linger through the clean, refreshing finish. Elegant yet full-bodied, this Chardonnay shows superb balance and depth, with the potential to develop even greater complexity over several years of aging.     About Winery  Cakebread Cellars was founded in 1973 by Jack and Dolores Cakebread in Rutherford, Napa Valley, California. Their journey began when Jack, originally a photographer, visited Napa to shoot images for a wine book and ended up purchasing a small ranch. From those modest beginnings, the family built a winery that quickly gained recognition for its Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, later expanding into Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and other varietals. Over the decades, Cakebread Cellars has grown into one of Napa Valley’s most respected family-owned wineries, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and hospitality, with wines now distributed internationally.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The 2023 Cakebread Sauvignon Blanc (North Coast, California, USA) opens with bright aromas of pink grapefruit, lemon curd, fresh pear, melon, and passionfruit. On the palate, lively citrus and kiwi are layered with hints of mango, guava, and pineapple, all carried by crisp acidity. Light-bodied yet concentrated, it balances vibrant fruit with a refreshing mineral finish, making it both elegant and invigorating. About Winery  Cakebread Cellars was founded in 1973 by Jack and Dolores Cakebread in Rutherford, Napa Valley, California. Their journey began when Jack, originally a photographer, visited Napa to shoot images for a wine book and ended up purchasing a small ranch. From those modest beginnings, the family built a winery that quickly gained recognition for its Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, later expanding into Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and other varietals. Over the decades, Cakebread Cellars has grown into one of Napa Valley’s most respected family-owned wineries, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and hospitality, with wines now distributed internationally.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The 2023 Cakebread Two Creeks Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley, Mendocino, California, USA) opens with bright aromas of fresh raspberries, blackberries, dark cherries, violets, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and vibrant, showing flavors of strawberries, black cherries, and crisp red berries layered with hints of spice and sweet toasty oak. Balanced acidity integrates smoothly with silky tannins, giving the wine lift and elegance, while the finish lingers with rounded berry tones and a touch of bramble complexity. About Winery  Cakebread Cellars was founded in 1973 by Jack and Dolores Cakebread in Rutherford, Napa Valley, California. Their journey began when Jack, originally a photographer, visited Napa to shoot images for a wine book and ended up purchasing a small ranch. From those modest beginnings, the family built a winery that quickly gained recognition for its Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, later expanding into Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and other varietals. Over the decades, Cakebread Cellars has grown into one of Napa Valley’s most respected family-owned wineries, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and hospitality, with wines now distributed internationally.

Read more less

PRE-ORDER Winemaker Notes The 2023 DAOU Cabernet Sauvignon is described as powerful, complex, and layered, with a rich and weighty palate and a structured finish. It features aromas of black cherry, cassis, plum, and desert sage, with notes of cigar box, leather, and bay leaf. The palate offers flavors of black raspberry, spicy currant, and blueberry compote, with hints of Bing cherry and baking spices. The wine is well-structured with fine-grained tannins and a lingering finish of cherry, espresso, and vanilla.  About Winery In the golden, oak-studded hills of Paso Robles' fabled west side, not far from William Randolph Hearst's magnificent castle, there is a man with a Homeric vision. His name is Daniel Daou and he is devoting his life and every imaginable resource to creating, first and foremost, a Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals the very best in the world. Gracefully perched atop a stunning promontory at 2,200 feet, the DAOU Spanish Colonial style winery is embraced by a tangible serenity. Hawks wheel and bank while the all-day sun caresses close planted rows of lush, emerald green vines. The 100 percent calcareous soil makes no sound as it passes out nourishment and only a gentle breeze flows up through the Templeton Gap from the Pacific. The quiet is bewitching; you want to lay down roots here, just as the four-year-old vines have done. But the sense of peace belies the serious industry at work on this 100 acre estate. No effort is spared to create the luscious varietals and blends that flow from this limited production winery. This kind of synergy happens rarely: superlative climate and terroir, super intensive vineyard culture, and cutting edge viticultural practice. You're more likely to find it in Bordeaux than Central California. Coupled with the infectious passion and gracious, family style hospitality of the Daou brothers, Georges and Daniel, the result is pure magic. The kind of magic that comes in a bottle.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The Cave Blend is a complex and intriguing wine that is perfect for everyday enjoyment. The nose is awash in the aromas of dark, juicy berries, with hints of baking spices and cedar. The palate is smooth and silky, with a long, lingering finish. This wine would pair well with a variety of dishes, from hearty pasta dishes to grilled meats. It is also a great wine to enjoy on its own About Winery Although the Del Dotto story begins on our Rutherford Estate, it has expanded to include seven other specially selected appellations. Currently our footprint consists of 437 acres with 121 acres planted of varietals including chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, pinot noir, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot and sangiovese. It took 18 years to find the ideal sites to cultivate each individually selected grape clone and to maximize the terroir flavors in the wines. Each vineyard is organically farmed, with no chemical sprays or fertilizers, and all weeding performed by hand. The plants are meticulously cared for by professional vineyard workers in order to maintain the quality of the crop that defines the Del Dotto reputation.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The luminous bouquet of white peach, lemon cream, kumquat preserves, Bosc pear, honeydew, Granny Smith apple skin, lemon peel and chamomile is mouth-watering and compelling. Brilliant and juicy on the palate the Zellerbach Chardonnay exudes complementing notes of tangerine, green pear, pink grapefruit and lemon drops. About Winery Ambassador James D. Zellerbach founded Hanzell Vineyards in 1953 with a vision to create wines that could compete on the world stage.  Named after his wife Hana, Hanzell sits at the southern toe of the Mayacamas mountain range overlooking the south-western end of Sonoma Valley and San Pablo Bay.  After extensive time spent in Burgundy, Zellerbach returned inspired and educated by the region’s wines and grapes—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.  He then planted these two varieties at a time when there were less than a few hundred acres of each planted in North America.  Since 1975, Hanzell has been solely owned by the de Brye family, who is dedicated to the preservation of tradition with a progressive and holistic approach which will ensure the sustainability for generations to come.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes The 2023 Hanzell "The Sessions" Selection Pinot Noir is a delightful wine with a complex and inviting profile The nose is rich with fresh and juicy dark cherry, blackberry, wild raspberry, and hints of orange peel, Bergamot tea, cardamom, cinnamon, and anise. On the palate, you'll find beautifully textured, fine tannins carrying flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, and wild raspberry, complemented by a long, red-fruited finish. This wine is crafted from organically farmed grapes, ensuring a pure and expressive taste. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile choice for many occasions. About Winery Ambassador James D. Zellerbach founded Hanzell Vineyards in 1953 with a vision to create wines that could compete on the world stage.  Named after his wife Hana, Hanzell sits at the southern toe of the Mayacamas mountain range overlooking the south-western end of Sonoma Valley and San Pablo Bay.  After extensive time spent in Burgundy, Zellerbach returned inspired and educated by the region’s wines and grapes—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.  He then planted these two varieties at a time when there were less than a few hundred acres of each planted in North America.  Since 1975, Hanzell has been solely owned by the de Brye family, who is dedicated to the preservation of tradition with a progressive and holistic approach which will ensure the sustainability for generations to come.

Read more less

Winemaker Notes Bursting with aromas of orange blossom, honeysuckle, mango, lemon verbena, lime zest, and a lifted chalky minerality, the nose is bright and effusive. Pear, tangerine, lime, Meyer lemon, kumquat and hints of arugula carry on a textured and buoyant long juicy and tremendously delicious finish. About Winery Ambassador James D. Zellerbach founded Hanzell Vineyards in 1953 with a vision to create wines that could compete on the world stage.  Named after his wife Hana, Hanzell sits at the southern toe of the Mayacamas mountain range overlooking the south-western end of Sonoma Valley and San Pablo Bay.  After extensive time spent in Burgundy, Zellerbach returned inspired and educated by the region’s wines and grapes—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.  He then planted these two varieties at a time when there were less than a few hundred acres of each planted in North America.  Since 1975, Hanzell has been solely owned by the de Brye family, who is dedicated to the preservation of tradition with a progressive and holistic approach which will ensure the sustainability for generations to come.

Read more less