Tag Archives: Premium Club

May Premium Club

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Araciel-Malbec-bottleBold wine Style logoCopper Cane
Araciel
Valle de Uco Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina

BOLD WINE STYLE

Deep garnet in color with abundant aromas of dried plum, black berry, and leather, followed by hints of thyme, sweet anise and black pepper. The palate is rich and complex with flavors of ripe dark fruits, chocolate cherry, thyme, and blackberry pie. This wine has a lingering fruit-forward finish with firm acidity and subtle tannins.

Varietal: Malbec
Food Pairing: Enjoy with a grilled steak with sautéed mushrooms, a spicy Cioppino, or a hamburger with blue cheese

THE VINEYARDS:
This Malbec is cultivated at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feat near Alto Agrelo, in Argentina’s Valle de Uco region in Mendoza. The southern part of the valley is slightly cooler than the north, with dry conditions and abundant sunshine. Combined with gravelly loam and alluvial soils, this creates an ideal environment for growing this typically tannic and intense varietal. What sets this region apart is the enhanced physiological maturity of the Malbec grapes, which softens the tannins while leaving a rich array of phenolics. The result is a wine with a massive mouthfeel, an intensely dark color, and a perfect balance of natural acidity.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Our journey through the Mendoza region began in 2010, when we discovered the perfect site for Malbec on the western edge of the Uco Valley, near Alto Agrelo. After successful initial trials, we committed to local production. The area’s long, dry growing season allows for extended hang-time, leading to high physiological maturity and transforming Malbec’s typically harsh tannins into a rich, soft structure. Using cryo-extraction, we enhance color and phenolic concentration. Parting ways from tradition, we saw a way to bring more character and balance to this wine using the Solera method for aging. Our solera system contains Malbecs of different ages/vintages, going back to 2015. By blending the younger wines into “la madre” (the mother-blend), we are able to craft an all-encompassing style with consistent character and quality. This process continues vintage over vintage, with a hearty percentage of the previous blend held back every year to be added to with the new vintage and continuing on its aging cycle. Controlled fermentation, extended maceration, and aging in French and American oak barrels add depth and layers of vanilla, spice, and softness. The result is a balanced, rich textured wine with exceptional depth.” – Araciel Winemakers

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Araciel Malbec from Copper Cane is the newest creation by the renowned winemaker Joseph Wagner, the visionary behind Belle Glos wines. The winery bridges two continents, crafting Albariño and Malbec wines from vineyards in California’s Santa Maria Valley and Argentina’s Valle de Uco. The name “Araciel,” meaning “Altar in the Sky,” reflects both the distance and the harmony between these two remarkable regions. Focused on hillside sites in the San Rafael Mountains and the eastern foothills of the Andes, Araciel sources fruit from cool-climate deserts where abundant sunshine, temperate conditions, and alluvial soils create the perfect environment for these varietals. The extended growing season allows Albariño to preserve its bright acidity and mineral character, while Malbec develops rich fruit, depth, and velvety tannins. Though grown at opposite ends of the globe, both wines share a balanced, fruit-forward elegance that unites them under the Araciel name.

Information & Photos © Araciel – All Rights Reserved

Bold wine Style logoPEJU-2022-Legacy-Cabernet-Sauvignon-bottlePeju
Legacy Collection
2022 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

The Legacy Cabernet Sauvignon presents an expressive nose that captivates the senses from the first moment. On the palate, it reveals intricate layers of dried red fruit and nuanced cigar box notes. A delicate hint of wet stone adds a distinctive touch to the experience. The wine’s medium to full body strikes a harmonious balance between fruit and tannin structure. The finish is elegant and prolonged, with a touch of cocoa dust that lingers on the palate.

Varietal: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Napa Valley, California
Oak: French & American oak, 40% new
Aging: 19 months
Harvest: October 2022
Winemaker: Sara Fowler
Critical Acclaim: 94 points, Decanter

VINEYARDS:
At Peju, they believe great wines are made in the vineyard and are committed to farming sustainably and naturally to preserve these properties for the long term. They are certified Napa Green at their Rutherford winery and vineyard. In 2019 all six of their estate vineyards were certified Fish Friendly Farming, as part of their ongoing commitment to sustainability.

VINTAGE:
In 2022 growers faced triple digit heat over five days in September quickly followed by rain that brought harvest to a sudden halt. Winemakers are calling the vintage “the tale of two harvests,” making it one of the more unique vintages in recent history. The typical gap between the white and red wine harvest was almost nonexistent. Winemakers describe 2022 Napa Valley red wines as having excellent structure with deep red color, opulent tannins and fruit-forward aromatics.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
In 1983, Tony and Herta (HB) Peju purchased thirty acres of vines in the famed Rutherford district of Napa Valley. They worked hard to build a winery, plant estate vineyards and raise their family. PEJU remains family-owned with Tony and HB’s two daughters, Ariana and Lisa, guiding the business today. Ariana and Lisa are bringing fresh ideas while maintaining the meticulous focus on quality that began 40 years ago. With its landmark tower and warm hospitality, PEJU Winery is an integral part of the Napa Valley landscape. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Peju – All Rights Reserved

Wine club logoJoin our PREMIUM WINE CLUB, enjoy amazing wines every other month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases! 

Learn more about our Premium Club >

March Premium Club

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Boen-Reserve-bottleMellow style logoBöen Wines 2023 Reserve Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley, California

MELLOW WINE STYLE  
Scarlet red with glimmers of garnet. The nose has notes of ripe blackberry, boysenberry, and tart cherry are followed by subtle hints of tobacco and cocoa powder. On the palate, vibrant flavors of very ripe boysenberry, blueberry, and plum pie are complemented by layers of rosemary and cocoa. These flavors are balanced by firm tannins that carry through to a long, structured, and mouthwatering finish.

Varietal: Pinot Noir
Analysis: 14.7% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Santa Maria Valley AVA, California
Vineyards: Haribach V. Vineyard
Oak Maturation: 100% French oak, 40% new for nine months with limited use of S02 to maintain phenolic profile
Harvest Dates: Late September to early October 2023
Food Pairing: Roasted lamb, rib eye with mashed potatoes, chicken mole, or a hearty charcuterie platter.
Awards: 95 pts Wine Enthusiast; 94 pts. Tasting Panel

Winemaker’s Notes: “The label on our Böen Reserve pays homage to the agricultural legacy of Napa Valley and the family roots that shaped our winemaking journey. It features a woodcut-style image of a traditional farm, with my grandfather, Charlie Wagner Sr., standing at its center, surrounded by livestock and Bamse, the German shepherd who was a familiar face around the Copper Cane winery for years. Napa Valley was once more about farming than the renowned wine destination it is today, and I was fortunate to grow up in that era. My grandparents took a bold leap from being farmers of various crops to cultivating vineyards and making wine—an endeavor that, at the time, was as risky as it was rewarding and the legacy continues on as we farm & make wine from many coastal regions. This label is a tribute to my grandfather’s deep farming roots and serves as a reminder to always work hard, stay grounded, and never forget where we come from.” – Joseph Wagner, Fifth Generation Winemaker

Growing Season: The 2023 growing season in Santa Maria Valley AVA began with cooler temperatures and average rainfall, which led to a slightly delayed budbreak. A warm spell in February and March accelerated vine growth, but cooler conditions and frost events in April reduced yields. From late April to August, consistent warm days and cool nights promoted optimal ripening, with veraison completing by the end of August. A mild sub-tropical storm in September brought moderate rainfall, but dry weather afterward prevented rot. The resulting Pinot Noir grapes showcased vibrant colors, rich flavors of cherry and blackberry, excellent acidity, and smooth tannins. Harvesting took place from late September to early October, resulting in a promising vintage.

Winemaking: The Böen team harvested early in the morning so the fruit would arrive at the winery while the grapes were still cool to preserve their vineyard-fresh flavors. After destemming (but not crushing) the berries, they cold-soaked the must for 14 days to soften the skins and allow for ideal extraction. Both punch-down and pump-over techniques were used to ensure balanced extraction of flavor, aromatics, structure, and color. To allow both the sweet and structural influences from the barrels to intermingle seamlessly with the rich fruit and ripe tannins of the wine, they aged this Pinot Noir in 100% French oak, 40% new for nine months with limited use of S02 to maintain the phenolic profile.

About Böen Wines: Böen Wines was founded by Joseph Wagner, a fifth-generation Napa Valley winemaker who grew up immersed in viticulture at his family’s Caymus Vineyards. In 2001, he established Belle Glos, focusing on vineyard-designated Pinot Noirs from California’s coastal regions. With Böen, Wagner continues his family’s legacy, producing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that reflect his signature style of rich, ripe fruit flavors balanced with bright acidity and subtle oak nuances. The name “Böen,” meaning “The Farm,” serves as a personal reminder of the inseparable connection between the wine and its land, emphasizing Wagner’s identity as a farmer first and foremost. Learn more here.
Information & Photos © Böen Wines – All Rights Reserved.

St-Supery-Napa-Valley-Estate-Cabernet-Sauvignon-bottleSt. Supéry Estate Vineyards & WineryBold wine Style logo 2019 Napa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE
This Estate Cabernet of deep purple hues, presents dark blackberry aromas combined with an elegant toasted oak nuance, threads of boysenberry, rich opulence with subtle notes of jam and graphite. Flavors follow with ripe blackberry jam, a luscious approach of dark fruits, terrific structure supported with elegant moments of oak and a finishing hint of anise. This is a supple yet generous wine with an excellent structure, feel and approach.

Varietals: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Malbec, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume pH: 3.70 Total Acidity: 6.2 g/L Appellation: Napa Valley, California Vineyards: Dollarhide Estate Vineyard, Rutherford Estate Vineyard Farming: Sustainably farmed, estate grown and bottled Oak Maturation: 100% French Oak (38% new) for 19 months Harvest Dates: September 20-October 16, 2019 Bottling Date: July 12-21, 2021

Vintage 2019: The 2019 growing season had a very wet winter and spring, capturing 41” of rain at Dollarhide. A mild spring with one late-May rainfall resulted in damp soils and healthy canopy growth. Other than one mid-June heat spell, summer was warm and dry, allowing for consistent and balanced ripening. Late summer and early fall continued to provide steady warmth. As evenings began to cool, the fall growing season was extended. The even ripening season with a mild summer resulted in excellent wine of great flavor and density. Winemaking: The fruit was hand-harvested in the cool morning hours. At the winery, the clusters were sorted using a double sorting system. First, the clusters were sorted by hand. The fruit then ran through a small de-stemmer before the individual berries being sorted to ensure the ideal grapes were selected. These berries were delivered to a fermenter where there was a period of resting on skins. Warm fermentation temperatures with gentle cap maceration achieved the desired color and structure before an extended maceration time on skins, prior to final pressing. The wine was transferred directly to barrel for 19 months of maturation.
About the Winery: St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery is a 100% Estate Grown, sustainably farmed winery located in the renowned Rutherford growing region in the heart of Napa Valley. Committed to producing the highest quality estate wines without compromise, they focus on sustainable winery and farming operations to protect the land and environment for future generations. Their Napa Valley Estate collection includes Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Rosé. These wines are balanced and showcase fruit-forward flavors. Learn more here.
Information & Photos © St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery – All Rights Reserved.
Wine club logoJoin our PREMIUM WINE CLUB, enjoy amazing wines every other month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases! Learn more about our Premium Club >

January Premium Wine Club

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Bold wine Style logoPEN 2022 Bin389 CabShiz 750 FB Cork AUSPenfolds
Bin 389
Cabernet Shiraz
Southbank, Australia

BOLD WINE STYLE

The color is glossy, dark red and purple. The nose is an “old school” Penfolds nose—a classic and comforting homage to their storied past. It opens with the rich, deep tones of mahagany and the refined scent of a cigar box. Sweet oak spices are neatly interlaced with a dusty character. This foundation is lifted by summer berries, offering a balance between richness and vitality. Baking spice is present alongside tart red currant and cranberry, while the aroma of fresh pastries rounds out the nose. The palate is immediately enveloped by cocoa powder-like tannins—smooth yet profound in their impact. The wine boasts volumes of Cabernet character, showcasing cool fruits that are well lifted and vibrant. A barrel ferment nuance adds depth without overshadowing the fruit’s purity. Sourdough notes bring a rustic edge which complement the lush profiles of plum fruits, blackberry, mulberry, wild cherries and more distinctly tart morello cherries.

Varietal: 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 49% Shiraz
Vineyard Region: McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Barossa Valley, Padthaway, Wrattonbully
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.62
Total Acidity: 6.7 g/L
Maturation: 12 months in American oak hogsheads (36% new)
Peak Drinking: 2025-2050
Awards:

  • 96 Points – Andrew Caillard MW
  • 96 Points – Tyson Stelzer
  • 96 Points – Huon Hooke
  • 96 Points – James Halliday
  • 96 Points – Ken Gargett
  • 94 Points, #12 on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 List

Winemaker’s Notes:
Bin 389 was often referred to as ‘Baby Grange’, in part because components of the wine are matured in the same barrels that held the previous vintage of Grange. First made in 1960 by the legendary Max Schubert, this was the wine that helped forge Penfolds reputation with red wine drinkers by combining the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness of Shiraz. Exemplifying the judicious balance of fruit and oak, Bin 389 highlights the generous mid-palate Penfolds is known for.

Vintage Conditions:
In McLaren Vale, temperatures rarely soared above 35°C — significantly lower than in the previous vintage. This coolness contributed to a delayed but unhurried harvest, allowing Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon fruit to be picked at an ideal time for quality. Coonawarra experienced its own cold spells with nine days dipping below 2°C during spring. The lowest point was recorded early in September at -0.3°C. Frost fans played a critical role in protecting the vines from damage. Warmer weather returning late November to December provided perfect conditions for flowering and fruit-set, leading to uniform veraison with robust grape flavors, tannins, and color. The Barossa Valley told a story of resilience under cool conditions with spring storms bringing winds and heavy rains including hail; nevertheless, yields exceeded early predictions. A dry but cool December extended the fruit-set period; however, this did not hinder sugar accumulation or phenolic maturity thanks to healthy canopies that retained acid well into the growing season. Padthaway faced a challenging frost event in mid-October, followed by mild weather free from significant heat spikes or harvest delays due to rain — conditions conducive for quality grape development. Wrattonbully faced its own trials with rainfall from October to April measuring 49% above long-term averages. While excess moisture slowed ripening and pushed back harvest dates slightly, fruit quality was not impacted, and ‘A grade’ blocks produced a high-quality harvest.

About the Winery:
Penfolds is one of Australia’s most iconic wineries, founded in 1844 by Dr. Christopher and Mary Penfold. With a history spanning over 175 years, the winery has built a legacy of crafting world-renowned wines. Penfolds blends tradition with innovation, focusing on quality, multi-regional sourcing, and a diverse portfolio that spans a wide range of varietals. The winery’s commitment to excellence has made it a symbol of premium Australian wine on the global stage. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Penfolds – All Rights Reserved.

Mellow style logoEtude Pinot Noir CarnerosEtude
Carneros Pinot Noir
Carneros, California

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The Etude Carneros Pinot Noir is a true reflection of the winery’s estate vineyard, Grace Benoist Ranch. A blend of the best grapes from individual vineyard parcels on the Ranch, this wine tells the story of a particular vintage from a very unique place.

Vibrant and lively, this ethereal ruby red Pinot Noir is full of lifted red berry aromas alongside flavors of strawberry compote, Bing cherry, pink peppercorn, and delicate hibiscus flower with nuances of earth and spice. The mouthfeel is savory and rich with fine-grained tannins and finishes long and fresh with hints of cinnamon and clove, a signature characteristic often found in Grace Benoist Ranch Pinot Noirs. Silky and supple with a lean line of acidity, making it ideal for enjoying now, or cellar away, for further development of the complex layers of flavor.

Analysis: 14.2% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Region & Appellation: Carneros
Critical Acclaim:

  • 92 Points – James Molesworth, August 2021
  • 94 Points – James Suckling, August 2021

The Vineyard:
The Etude Carneros Pinot Noir originates from their estate vineyards located in the far northwest corner of the Carneros appellation, near the southwest corner of Sonoma. Unlike the majority of Carneros, which features soils composed of clay from uplifted bay bottoms, the soils at Grace Benoist Ranch are diverse and influenced by volcanic origins. These well-drained, rocky upland soils, combined with the vineyard’s extreme western location near the Pacific Ocean and San Pablo Bay, create an ideal environment for cultivating Burgundian varieties.

The vineyard parcels at Grace Benoist Ranch are carefully aligned with the diverse soil types and varying contours of the ranch’s topography. Each vineyard averages just eight acres, with dense spacing to promote low per-vine yields of intensely concentrated fruit. The ranch is farmed to Etude’s rigorous standards using environmentally responsible viticultural practices. It is sustainably managed and certified by both the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance and Fish Friendly Farming. Grace Benoist Ranch encompasses four smaller vineyards—Laniger, Deer Camp, Temblor, and Heirloom—which feature five principal soil types and 20 distinct Pinot Noir clones.

Production:
The 2019 harvest started one to two weeks later than previous years, mostly due to February rains, but because the vines were in their winter dormancy, it did not affect the 2019 crop. Spring continued to be wet with some rain during flowering, followed by cool temperatures that allowed the grapes to mature gradually. Most grapes ripened at lower sugars, thanks to the extended, cool growing season, and winemakers were pleased with the full flavors, fresh acidity and superb balance of the 2019 fruit. Wildfires in October did not impact this year’s harvest as the vast majority of the grapes were already brought in, resulting in a crop size pretty much on par with previous years.

Winemaking:
For more than a decade Jon has fashioned Etude wines with a simple creed: Inspired winegrowing diminishes the need for a winemaker to intervene in the cellar. Whether sourcing from the estate Grace Benoist Ranch in Sonoma’s Los Carneros, or vineyards like Fiddlestix and North Canyon in famed growing regions of California’s Central Coast, his focus is on coaxing the very best from the vineyard. It shows in every glass of Etude.

About the Winery:
Etude is located in the Carneros region, which is the only American Viticultural Area (AVA) located at the crossroads of two major regions: Napa and Sonoma. Los Carneros, named in tribute to the livestock that roamed its hills from the late 1800s to the mid-20th century, was officially designated as an AVA in 1983. The year before, Etude was founded by winemaker Tony Sotor, whose leadership, along with the efforts of the Etude winemaking team, played a pivotal role in defining not only the boundaries of this new AVA but also the distinctive characteristics and quality of its grapes. These qualities continue to set Los Carneros apart from other AVAs in both Napa and Sonoma. As a cooler climate wine region, Los Carneros benefits from fog and maritime breezes flowing in from the Pacific through the San Pablo Bay and Petaluma Gap. This natural cooling slows vine growth and photosynthesis, allowing for a prolonged hang time that results in concentrated flavors, optimal sugar and phenolic ripeness, and balanced acidity in the grapes. To learn more about the winery, click here.

Information & Photos © Etude Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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November Premium Wine Club

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Bold wine Style logoPenfolds Bin 704 Cabernet Sauv_2019-bottlePenfolds
Bin 704
Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

The color has a saturated core and luminous crimson rim. The nose is abounded with red and sweet spices of paprika, sumac, cinnamon, rose water, saffron, red currants, Iranian barberries, and pomegranate. It has a steely-coolness and ferrous minerality. French oak announces itself, cedar-y and structural, all proudly supporting a saturated mulberry and summer berry core. It’s reminiscent of scents from the pâtisserie: dark cherry pie, and milk chocolate mousse dusted with freeze dried raspberries.

The palate is defined, yet approachable. It has a silkiness to it with a gorgeous texture that glides effortlessly across the palate. Succulence, mouth-watering and appetite-inducing acidity, a find graphite core confirms the varietal’s identity. There is power lurking beneath, a dense black fruit drive—which is somewhat unexpected, yet most welcome. This confident wine can be enjoyed now or cellar for a decade or more.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
AVA: Napa Valley
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
pH: 3.73
Total Acidity: 6.33 g/L
Maturation: 17 months in French oak (40% new)
Peak Drinking: Now-2036
Awards:

  • 94+ Points – Erin Larking – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points – Lisa Perrotti – Brown, The Wine Independent

Winemaker’s Notes:
Steeped in Penfolds winemaking tradition yet still embracing modernity, Bin 704 seeks to redefine Napa Valley Cabernet through a Penfolds lens. Being mindful of varietal nuances, regional essence and silk-like textural definition, the wine is nurtured in French barriques for maturation. Impressive is the cyclical nature of viticulture and winemaking and Penfolds recognizes that different hemispheres often end up being the mirror image of the other. The name Bin 704 draws inspiration from the “mirror” or “reverse” image of its Australian Bin 407 stablemate, a wine which also respects varietal expression.

Vintage Conditions:
Excellent winter rainfall ensured the soil was fully saturated at the beginning of the growing season. Spring was cooler and wetter than recent years, resulting in a two-week delay to bud-burst and flowering. May rainfall was especially helpful in maintaining the soil moisture profile. Warm summer weather had the vines moving along well making up for the slow start to the season. August was characterized by warm days and cool nights, optimal conditions for veraison. Harvest across the region was one to two weeks later than usual with yields close to long-term average. A good vintage for Cabernet Sauvignon, with grapes showing bright acidity, powdery tannins, and strong varietal flavors.

About the Winery:
Penfolds is one of Australia’s most iconic wineries, founded in 1844 by Dr. Christopher and Mary Penfold. With a history spanning over 175 years, the winery has built a legacy of crafting world-renowned wines. Penfolds blends tradition with innovation, focusing on quality, multi-regional sourcing, and a diverse portfolio that spans a wide range of varietals. The winery’s commitment to excellence has made it a symbol of premium Australian wine on the global stage.

The Bin 704 Cabernet Sauvignon, for example, is sourced from Napa Valley, marking the winery’s venture into crafting wines beyond Australia. Napa’s renowned terroir, known for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, offers a new canvas for Penfolds’ winemaking philosophy. By combining Napa’s rich soils with their expertise, Penfolds seeks to maintain the same meticulous standards they uphold in their Australian wines. Bin 704 is a reflection of the winery’s tradition of multi-regional sourcing, blending Napa’s signature characteristics with Penfolds’ distinctive style. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Penfolds – All Rights Reserved.

Mellow style logoVireton-Pinot-Noir_2022-bottleArchery Summit
Vireton
Pinot Noir 2022
Willamette Valley, Oregon

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The bouquet is layered, with a fruity core of raspberry, cranberry, and red currants surrounded by oak and earthen spice. Silky tannins and fresh fruit jam nudge the palate, giving way to hints of warm baking spices. A model Willamette Valley wine, the Vireton Pinot Noir is juicy, fruit-forward, kissed with slight new oak nuances while wonderfully balanced. Enjoy now through the next 5-10 years.

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
pH: 3.54
TA: 5.5 g/L
Production: 4,160 Cases
Key Facts:

  • The world-renowned Willamette Valley has become one of the most prized winegrowing regions on earth
  • Oregon is unique and offers its own distinctive voice

Viticulture & Production:
The wine puts the beauty of the Willamette Valley on a pedestal. The grapes were hand-harvested and sorted before being fermented in a combination of stainless steel, concrete, and wooden open-top vessels. For added character and nuance, they incorporated 25% whole cluster fruit in the fermentation. The tanks were pumped over twice daily until about two-thirds of the way through fermentation. At that point, they conducted daily tasting to coax the wine to finish fermentation with pump overs and manual punch downs. The wine was then pressed and put to barrel, aged for 10 months in 17% new oak to frame the bright fruit profile inherent to the unique profile from the high elevation, volcanic soils of the Willamette Valley.

Winemaker’s Notes:
Vireton Pinot Noir walks boldly into the Willamette Valley and returns with the unexpected, a kind of down-to-earth, everyday level of luxury. Not tethered to any one vineyard site, this outgoing wine instead reflects the merits of an entire region. It’s a testament to the power of multiple voices within one storied region and the strength in numbers that follows. In wine, just as in life, it’s the most intrepid who end up with the most fulfilling experiences. Vireton celebrates those experiences, whether you’re toasting another Tuesday, or celebrating something much bigger.

About the Winery:
Archery Summit, founded by Gary Andrus in 1993, is a distinguished winery located in the Dundee Hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir. Andrus, a veteran winemaker with a successful background in Napa Valley, was captivated by the region’s potential for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir. Archery Summit focuses on site-specific wines, sourcing grapes from five estate vineyards and three grower sites across four American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). With a commitment to showcasing the refined flavors of place, Archery Summit continues to elevate the reputation of Willamette Valley wines on the global stage. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Archery Summit – All Rights Reserved.

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Learn more about our Premium Club >

 
 
 

 

September Premium Wine Club

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Bold wine Style logoSeghesio-Old-Vine-Zinfandel-2022-bottleSeghesio Family Vineyards
Old Vine Zinfandel
Sonoma County, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This wine invites you in with layered aromatics of black plum, dried fig, clay earth, garrigue and cardamom spice. Our Old Vine Zinfandel opens with a luscious mouth filling entry reminiscent of chocolate cherry cordial and leads into a juicy, supple mid-palate and finishes with rich, velvety tannins. Beautifully balanced.

Analysis: 15% alcohol / volume
AVA: Sonoma County, California
Varietal: 88% Zinfandel, 11% Petite Sirah, 1% Alicante Bouschet
pH: 3.83
Total Acidity: 5.53 g/L
Cases: 6,900
Pairing: Pairs well with Beef Braciole, mushroom sugo, and cherry balsamic pork tenderloin.
Accolades: 93 pts. – Wine Spectator; “Like a briar patch in the glass, this Zin offers spirited raspberry and cherry flavors that take on underbrush, dried sage and white pepper flavors before finishing with zesty tannins. Drink now through 2032.” – Tim Fish, April 2024

Winemaker’s Notes:
Bold and spicy with rich, briary fruit, our Old Vine Zinfandel showcases the complexity and intensity that only truly old vines can yield. For us, “Old Vine” means that the vines are at least 50 years old, and we source grapes for this wine from exceptional vineyards that are closer to 75 years old on average.

Vintage:
The 2022 growing season began with significantly below average winter rainfall totals which led directly into a prolonged frost season lasting late into April. Seghesio vineyards escaped mostly unscathed and launched into a slight cooling trend for May and June. This put the growing schedule closer to average, helping to push back our veraison timing and projected harvest dates. July and August warmed up significantly and some vineyards sustained some sunburn due to exposure. This was just a preamble! Harvest commenced in late August and Labor Day week witnessed record shattering high temperatures in excess of 118° F in northern Alexander Valley while still reaching 115°F in Santa Rosa High Plains. These scorching temperatures pushed ripening and increased stress on vineyards leading to one of the fastest harvests on record for Seghesio Family Vineyards. The grapes were harvested between August 25th and October 20th, 2022.

Viticulture & Winemaking:
The grapes were harvested and sorted by hand to ensure uniformly ripened fruit is delivered to the winery. After being lightly crushed they were fermented in small open-top stainless steel tanks and mixed using pneumatic punch down devices – to facilitate extraction and pumped over to allow for gentle aeration. Free-run wine is drained to barrel after 8 to 12 days on skins and allowed to complete alcoholic fermentation and undergo malolactic conversion. The wines are allowed to evolve for 10 months prior to blending and returned to barrel to integrate for 5 more months prior to bottling. Aged 15 months in 15% New French Oak; 85% Neutral French and American Oak.

About Seghesio Family Vineyards:
Seghesio Family Vineyards is dedicated to the production of extraordinary Zinfandels and the cultivation and preservation of old-vine vineyards. Estate vineyards encompass approximately 320 acres in the Alexander; Dry Creek and Russian River Valleys. In addition to the winery’s critically acclaimed Zinfandels, Seghesio Family Vineyards also produces a handful of wines from traditional Italian varieties in homage to the heritage of the winery’s founders. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Seghesio Family Vineyards – All Rights Reserved.

Bold wine Style logoDAOU-Reserve-Cabernet-Sauvignon-2022-bottleDAOU Vineyards
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

A heady nose delivers fruit-forward aromas of blackberry, raspberry and plum with traces of licorice, thyme, vanilla and cherry. The palate is beautifully balanced, showing layers of black fruit and chocolate-covered blueberry with underlying herbal, cedar and mineral complexity. Exquisitely rounded tannins imbue the finish with stature and length.

Analysis: 15.2% alcohol / volume
AVA: Paso Robles, California
pH: 3.71
Aging: 18 months in 50% new French oak
Soil Profile: Calcareous, loamy and fine
Accolades: 92-94 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate 

Winemaker’s Notes:
The DAOU Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a special selection from top vineyard blocks, showcasing Paso Robles as a world-class region for Bordeaux varieties. The 2022 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon belongs to their Reserve Collection, which features allocated wines from DAOU Mountain as well as top vineyards across the Paso Robles AVA. The best fruit from each site is reserved for special winemaking treatment, resulting in wines that display remarkable character and expression.

Vintage:
The 2022 growing season was initially marked by winter drought conditions that were alleviated by rains in late March and April – a miracle happenstance that replenished the soils and set the pace for healthy vine canopies to come. A later-than-usual bud break was followed by normal spring and summer weather patterns through August. A sustained 10-day heat wave began in early September, prompting an early harvest that put Daniel’s winegrowing ingenuity, artistry and experience to the test. In the end, 2022 was a winemaker’s vintage, yielding elegantly powerful and balanced wines that prove the importance of mastering grape growing and winemaking.

The Vineyards:
The Paso Robles AVA spans many diverse terroirs with the common benefit of a moderating coastal influence. Warm days are followed by cool marine breezes, creating diurnal temperature swings of up to 50 degrees during the summer growing season. Sustainable farming practices, deficit irrigation and high-density vine plantings combine to foster grapes with natural quality and structure. The fruit is hand harvested at peak physiological ripeness to ensure that it reaches the winery in perfect condition.

About Daou Family Estates:
Georges and Daniel Daou are inseparable as brothers, best friends, and visionaries. Started as a family owned and operated winery, DAOU is committed to producing collectible, world-class wines to rival the most respected appellations in the world. DAOU Mountain stands alone at an elevation of 2,200 feet, rising from the heart of the Adelaida district in the rugged coastal range west of Paso Robles. As stewards of this beautiful terroir, DAOU’s goal is to make unique fine wines that honestly reflect the estate and craft wines that combine Old World tradition with New World techniques. Learn more >

Information & Photos © DAOU Vineyards – All Rights Reserved.

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July Premium Wine Club

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Bold wine Style logoBroken_Earth_CV-Reserve-Cab-Franc-2019-Bottle-ImageBroken Earth Winery
2019 CV Reserve
Cabernet Franc
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This crop was a much anticipated one. It has a very robust style that retains elegance and finesse. It is quite firm on the palate but the masses of spicy fruit and balancing oak compliment the grip nicely. The color is deep and intense reflecting the wine’s brooding nature. Bright natural acidity will ensure this wine ages for many years. Only new oak is used and the average aging is 23 months.

  • Analysis: 15.2% alcohol / volume
  • Varietal: 100% Cabernet Franc
  • Appellation: Paso Robles, California
  • pH: 3.58
  • Residual Sugar: 2 g/L
  • Total Acidity: 5.52 g/L
  • Harvest Date: October 2019
  • Bottling Date: March 2022
  • Accolades: 92 pts. – Wine Enthusiast

Winemaker Notes:
“The term CV refers to the original vineyard holdings on our estate, Continental Vineyards, and this very limited wine is only produced in exceptional vintage years. In 2019, we achieved perfect fruit ripeness, resulting in a wine of outstanding depth. Cabernet Franc is a significant Bordeaux variety that figures prominently in the “right bank” styles of Pomerol and St. Emilion. In the climate of Paso Robles, Cabernet Franc ripens on its own. We are excited to release this 100% varietal.” – Chris Cameron, Winemaker

Bold wine Style logoBroken_Earth_CV-Reserve-Studium-2020-Bottle-ImageBroken Earth Winery
2020 CV
Studium
Estate Grown
Paso Robles, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

The 2020 Studium is the only proprietary blend in the CV line. It is only produced in years where the grapes are of the highest quality. Studium is a medium-bodied wine with soft inviting tannins. Packed with bright plum and cherry flavors and aromas of dried flowers. The balance of acid and tannin will ensure that this wine will age gracefully and slowly. The wine will pair beautifully with roasted duck and a nice steak.

  • Analysis: 15.4% alcohol / volume
  • Appellation: Paso Robles
  • pH: 3.71
  • Residual Sugar: 1.1 g/L
  • Total Acidity: 6.3 g/L
  • Harvest Date: October 2020
  • Bottling Date: May 2023

Winemaker Notes:
“Latin for “the house of learning”, the 2020 Studium is a proprietary blend that is made early after pressing. It is first aged in neutral French barrels for 12 months, then transferred to second year French oak for just the right soft touch of sweet oak. Harvested late October 2020, the grapes for Studium were gently de-stemmed and immediately inoculated with yeast. Two pump-overs a day completed the fermentation, the wine was then pressed, the malolactic fermentation was initiated.” – Ben Mayo, Winemaker

About Broken Earth Winery:

50th-Year-Logo_Green-800x802Celebrating 50 Years: In 1973, Wayne Rodgers (Mash), James Caan (Godfather), Peter Faulk (Columbo), Jack Webb (Dragnet) and local visionary Herman Schwartz established the first large scale vineyard on the Central Coast, planting 520 acres. They anticipated the growth of Paso Robles to be another 2,000 acres with 10-15 wineries over the long-term. Paso Robles now stands around 70,000 acres under vine and over 300 wineries. 

Continental Vineyards (CV) grew grapes for many Napa wineries in the early 70’s and 80’s. Winemakers from all over the world would travel to this vineyard to see what Paso Robles was capable of growing.  This tradition continues today, establishing many new varieties that have never been planted in the US, and have 34 of the 72 varieties grown in the region. 

Broken Earth, as a brand, was born from the heritage of the vineyard property originally named “Rancho Tierra Rejada”, meaning “land of worked or farmed earth”. For generations, farmers have cultivated and ‘broken’ the soil in the region with care and respect. Their goal is to respect the land and its treasures. Broken Earth winery encompasses a philosophy to provide wine that reflects the personality of where it is sustainably grown and the personality of its talented craftsmen, the winemaker and crew. Learn more about the winery here.

Information & Photos © Broken Earth Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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July Premium Wine Club

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Scheid Vineyards logo

Al Scheid

Al Scheid

About Scheid Vineyards

Al Scheid set his roots in Monterey County in 1972, embracing his role as a pioneer of wine growing in the region. Al’s outlook has always been that life is an adventure and this attitude served him well as he embarked on the journey of his lifetime.   For the first 15 years, Scheid Family Wines was known as Monterey Farming Corp, a grape grower that sold all its production to winery clients for use in their own brands. Fast forward to today, Scheid Family owns 12 estate vineyards located along a 70-mile stretch of the Salinas Valley. They now focus on building their own brand that is produced at their state-of-the-art winery, as well as a smaller Reserve Winery where the small production wines of Scheid Vineyards are crafted.

Mellow style logoScheid Vineyards
Pinot Noir Clone POM Reserve
Monterey, California

Scheid’s Clone series was created to highlight the different nuances that each Pinot Noir clone exhibits.  What do we mean by “clone”? Grapevines in general and Pinot Noir in particular, are generally unstable and can mutate slightly over time. Each grape variety is actually made up of many subtypes, called clones. These clones can result in different flavors, intensity, color, etc.  Scheid Vineyards grow 20 different clones of Pinot Noir. Pommard is one of the Dijon clones and is known for earthy, fruit forward characteristics, as well as structure and density.  A dramatic and vibrant wine, Scheid Vineyards Clone POM has aromas of black cherries, blackberries and currants with notes of vanilla, mocha, and oak, mingled with a hint of clove. it is a classic Pinot Noir, with soft tannins and round, rich, red, fruit on the palate.

The Pommard clone is one of the oldest clones planted in the U.S., where it was originally sourced from Chateau de Pommard in the early 1950’s. The fruit for this Pinot Noir was sourced from the Riverview Vineyard, adjacent to the Pinnacles National Park.  This 215 acre vineyard is nestled on a bench overlooking the Salinas River and is an ideal site for ultra-premium Pinot Noir. The bench location aids in creating excellent air flow and the southwestern exposure maximizes available sunlight and allows the fruit to ripen slowly and evenly.

Appellation: Monterey, California
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.73
Total Acidity: 5.6 g/l
Aging: 100% French oak

Stokes Ghost

Stokes Ghost Bold wine Style logoScheid Family Wines
Stokes Ghost
Petite Sirah
Monterey, California

In 1833, British sailor James Stokes jumped ship in Monterey with a booty of stolen medicine. Passing himself off as a doctor, he opened a downtown pharmacy and launched a thriving medical practice as “Dr. Stokes”.  Despite a knack for killing his patients, he landed a commission as the personal physician to California Governor Jose Figueroa. Within a year, the governor was dead. The phony physician was astonishingly successful for someone so poor at his job. He grew wealthy, married the widow of one of his patients, and served as mayor of Monterey. Eventually the gig was up. According to legend, Stokes’ sons confronted him of his devious deeds and he ingested poison, falling lifeless at their feet. His former home still stands today and haunted by the ghostly figure of a man dressed in 1800s garb. This is the legend of Stokes’ Ghost.

Deep and brooding, this Petite Sirah is brimming with aromas of blackberry, plum and black currant.   The intense, jammy fruit provides the drama while subtle notes of mocha and hazelnut bring finesse. Stokes’ Ghost is full-bodied with balanced tannins and a finish that lingers on the palate.  This rich, lush wine is just what the doctor ordered.

The Petite Sirah grapes in this wine were harvested at night in the southernmost reaches of Monterey appellation, an ideal location for growing this dramatic, heart-stopping variety. Upon arrival to the winery, the grapes were crushed and fermented in small lots to extract the full flavors and tannin structure for which Petite Sirah is so well known.  The wine was then pressed and racked at dryness for oak aging.

The fruit for Stokes’ Ghost hails from Scheid’s estate vineyard in the Hames Valley, an inland enclave at the southern end of Monterey County. Considered a “Goldilocks” region – not too hot, not too cold – it offers ideal conditions for Petite Sirah. The wine was aged in American and Hungarian oak barrels to add complexity and soften the tannins.

Winemaker Dave Nagengast

Dave Nagengast, Winemaker

Winemaker: Dave Nagengast has a strong connection to Petite Sirah. As winemaker for Stokes’ Ghost, he is passionate about this powerhouse variety and well-acquainted with its deepest, darkest secrets. He knows where to grow, how to farm, when to harvest, and how to vinify Petite Sirah to create a wine that is not only big, dark and bold, but also lush, balanced and aromatic. Says Dave, “Petite Sirah is not for those with delicate sensibilities. But for those of us who revel in a muscular, full-bodied wine packed with flavor, character and soul, Petite Sirah has no equal.”

Appellation: Hames Valley, Monterey, California
Varietal: Petite Sirah
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Total Acidity: 6.2 g/l
pH: 3.54
Aging: 12 months in American, French and Hungarian oak

 

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Mad HatterBold wine Style logoTuck Beckstoffer Estate
Madhatter Red Blend 2016
Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

Since the beginning of Mad Hatter in 2003, our goal has been to craft elegant Bordeaux blend using grapes grown throughout Napa Valley. The 2017 vintage aptly continues that commitment, with vineyards in St. Helena, Calistoga, Rutherford and Oakville.   Under the winemaking and farming direction of Shawn Johnson and Tuck Beckstoffer, vineyard blocks were selected with a blend of micro climates and soils to highlight the best Napa Valley has to offer, creating a wine with complex aromas, purity of fruit, balance and a long silky finish.

A deep garnet hue precedes aromas of crushed cherries, black plum, warm cassis, and violets.  The palate is fleshy with suggestions of blackberries, licorice, and Indian spices. Chewy and approachable tannins lead into a long, silky finish.

Appellation: Napa Valley, California
Varietal: 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 8% Old Vine Petit Sirah, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec
Analysis: 14.8% alcohol / volume
Winemaker: Tuck Beckstoffer

Semper Pinot NoirMellow style logoTuck Beckstoffer Estate
Semper Homage 2016
Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, California

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Semper was conceived as a love letter to express enduring faithfulness.  Cultivated in a distinct region of the Sonoma Coast appellation, wines produced in this area have a rare and collectible quality that will only increase in value over time.  During the growing season the vineyard experiences bright sunshine during the day but is subject to a cool blanket of fog that hugs the coastline, creating the ideal conditions for that perfectly slow ripening.

The 2016 Semper Homage Pinot Noir pays homage to some of the great vineyards in the Russian River Valley and Petaluma Gap appellations.  The primary sourcing is Reuling Vineyard in the Russian River Valley, near Forestville.  In addition to having the ideal climate and well-drained soil for making great Pinot Noir, the vineyard is planted with three of the finest Pinot Noir clones, all of which was used in making the 2016 Semper Homage – Lat Tache, DRC and Calera.   The wine is blended with small amounts of two other vineyards – Sunchase Vineyard and Saltonstall Vineyard, both of which are located in the Petaluma Gap at the southern end of the Sonoma Coast appellation.

The 2016 Semper Homage Pinot Noir showcases powerful fruit with an elegant structure and medium body. Upon entry, this wine expresses aromatics of wild raspberry and strawberry, transitioning into a robust rhubarb and cranberry palate. Aged in French oak barrels for twelve months, the wine shows nuances of baking spices that complement the natural fruit components of the Russian River Valley.  While this wine is drinking beautifully now, it will continue to improve and develop in the bottle over the next five to ten years. 

Appellation: Sonoma Coast, California
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Winemaker: Tuck Beckstoffer, Philippe Melka

THE BECKSTOFFER FAMILY

Tuck Beckstoffer

Tuck Beckstoffer

It began on back country roads and among the vines. The Beckstoffer family arrived in the Napa Valley in 1975 and the young son of a future pioneer spent his days in the vineyards throughout every growing season, cultivating deep roots.

Brought up to respect the land and its fruit, Tuck naturally sought out the practice of viticulture, learning from the masters around him. Much like his father before him, he is a farmer first. It was only after he mastered the art of first craft that he turned his attention to a second craft—winemaking. Over three decades after he first set foot in the valley, Tuck bottled his first wine. For him, it was not a whim or passion project, but the culmination of a life lived on the land, among the vines.

Today, Tuck is one of the few Napa stewards who is both a grower and a winemaker. It is this pedigree that makes his approach different: the process begins with the land itself and culminates with a reverence for the winemaking traditions of the past—sharing successes and failures among fellow craftsmen and appreciating the fruits of their labor over a beautiful bottle of wine.

The St. Helena estate opened in 2016, offering intimate tours and private tastings as a way to share this passion—connecting visitors to the land and sharing the knowledge of how the art of grape growing translates into every bottle. Since day one, the Estate was designed to exude a sense of genuine care and generosity of time and spirit.

As the story continues the unfold, Tuck is raising the next generation in the same way that he was raised—as stewards among the vines. He invites you to share in this journey and visit the estate.

“It’s my belief that all great wines are an ode to teamwork. The wine in the glass is the apex of each season’s fruitful collaboration—hands on the vines, boots in the soil, and a team of voices carrying throughout the cellar.” – Tuck Beckstoffer

Learn more about our PREMIUM WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines every other month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases! Learn more >