ANNUAL WINE AWARDS
THE
NEW WAY WINE TO
Top Tasting Rooms Wine Country Travel High-Low Happy Hour
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold
Gold
The patio at Sonoma’s Valley Bar and Bottle offers shade, local sips, and excellent food.
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Editor’s Letter Keep wine weird and wonderful.
The Best of the West
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Sip, Snack, Savor We all know red wine with
meat and white wine with
fish are outdated rules for
CONTENTS WINE ISSUE 2023
wine pairing. But did you
know that Champagne and Cheez-Its is a transcendent
match? We break down what wines to serve with your favorite salty snacks.
12 A Tale of Two Tastings
THOMAS J. STORY
A pair of storied Napa Valley wineries have reimagined what the wine tasting experience can be. Take a tour of Chandon’s stunning upgrade of its indoor-outdoor Yountville property and the new ultra luxurious lobby at Jordan.
Coastal Wine 18 ACountry Road Trip With a spectacular car and an open mind, we hit the
road to take a freewheeling, slightly unconventional food and wine-focused road trip up the California coast.
24 Peaks and Valley
With a fresh take on new California cooking and a come-as-you-are vinous vibe, Valley is the kind of all-day restaurant wine country needed.
30 Award-Winning Wine Country Whether you’re planning a trip to Napa, Sonoma, or the Central Coast, here are the top travel award winners in wine country to put on your itinerary.
37 2022 Award Winners
A list of the top honorees in this year’s International Wine Competition.
ON THE COVER
Our favorite high-low wine pairings Photograph by TH O MAS J. STO RY
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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EDITOR’S NOTE
CHAIRMAN & PUBLISHER
Michael A. Reinstein
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Hugh Garvey DIGITAL DIRECTOR
Wine and chips is one of the most unconventional and sublime culinary pairings.
Sarah Yang
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Michael Wilson ART DIRECTOR
Vanessa Morsse
Keep Wine Weird We’re living in the golden era of wine in the West. I had that thought on a recent road trip up the California coast where at nearly every stop along the way I was delighted by exceptional wine everywhere I went: at all day cafes with short smart wine lists, at hotel restaurants that featured wines from local producers who rarely sell outside of their region, at shops specializing in zerozero wines made with no added sulfur or yeasts. I realized on my way up to wine country that all of the West has become wine country, whether there are vines or not. It’s all part of a loosening of the rules: Wine is more diverse and abundant than ever, labels are becoming less ponderous and self important and far more whimsical, grapes are fermented with other fruits, there’s decent boxed and canned wine, and crown caps rather than corks secure bubbly that rivals Champagne. It used to be a serious wine list could only be found at what we used to call a “fancy” restaurant with a thickly bound leather tome that could sprain your wrist. Nowadays exciting wine lists full of excellent bottlings are scribbled on butcher paper and chalkboards and are to be found at casual pizza joints and sandwich shops. Wine shops are breaking rules and becoming relaxed spots to hang out and sip and maybe even get a snack or a meal from a food truck. Wineries are pulling out the stops with experiences that go way beyond the expected counter with tasting flights and a dump bucket. And wine experts are pushing for pairings that are the ultimate in high-low: the formerly insider-only knowledge that Champagne goes well with potato chips has gone mainstream and now there are sommeliers and winemakers suggesting the best varietals to sip with Cheez-Its or sour cream and onion Ruffles. Weird? Yes, but in the most wonderful way. We explore these trends and more in our annual wine issue. We also celebrate the delicious diversity of the winners of the most recent Sunset International Wine Competition. Every one of them is pushing the world of wine forward, both in the West and beyond. Cheers to the winners!
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Tom Griffiths Graydon Sheinberg THOMAS J. STORY
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High-Low Happy Hour
From pairing potato chips and Pinot Noir to matching Cheez-Its and Chardonnay, the high-low combo of salty snacks and wine is having a moment. Here’s how to pair them properly. Story by KRI STA S I M M O N S Photograph by TH O MAS J. STO RY
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While the trend of TikTok influencers pairing chips and wine is a relatively new one, this high-low combo has been on the minds (and plates) of snackers for some time. Italians have been serving potato chips with wine at aperitivo hour for years, usually alongside vermouth or spritzes. But it turns out chips taste just as excellent with some of our favorite wine varietals, too. We spoke to Paul Sloan, the owner and winemaker at Small Vines on Sonoma Coast, and Mathew Bruno who owns an eponymous wine brand based out of Napa Valley, to get some of their recommendations on what chips to pair with a variety of bottles. The California-based winemakers thoughtfully put together some pairings with readily available chips whose ingredients lists we can thankfully pronounce, and we added some of our favorites in to boot. Here are the pairings we recommend serving up for guests at your next happy hour.
takes on chips and dip being topped with caviar or salmon roe. It’s truly the ultimate high-low indulgence. And that’s where pet nat can really shine. Designed to be consumed fresh and young, softly fizzy pet nats, which unlike traditional Champagne only go through one fermentation that finishes in the bottle, have a delightful, gentle effervescence. That scrubbing bubbles effect really pops off when paired with ridged chips and creamy caramelized onion dip, especially if said dip is topped with briney, luxuriously oily fish roe. It’s a true playground on the palate.
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CHENIN BLANC AND SOUR CREAM AND ONION CHIPS
Chenin blanc is known for both its acidity and adaptability, and AVAs with the most significant amount of plantings include the Clarksburg, Napa Valley, and Mendocino in California, and the Washington wine regions of the Yakima and Columbia Valley, where the cooler climate is hospitable for this high acid grape. Down in the Santa Ynez Valley, some of our favorite producers include Lo-Fi, Field Recordings, and Habit, all of which get their fruit from the famous Jurassic Vineyard, where the grape’s quintessential bright minerality and citrus notes makes it a wonderful foil to sour cream and onion chips.
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A great barbeque chip is bursting with seasoning—think onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and tomato powder—so rather than totally assaulting the palate with something equally as complex, opt for a wine with just the right amount of ripe, brambly fruit without being too sweet. Enter grenache. This Southern Rhone variety has found a great home here in the West, especially in in California’s Central Coast regions, as well as the Columbia Valley in Washington, where its delicate profile, balanced acidity, and refined leathery characteristics play nicely together. Bruno believes that his Cabernet Sauvignon, which is smoky, savory and has some herbaceous notes, would also be excellent, especially if you up the ante and pair with barbequed pork rinds or chicharrones. This pairing “creates a symphony of flavors—the rich, bold notes of the wine perfectly complement the smoky, savory crunch of the pork rinds,” says Bruno. He suggests his Mathew Bruno Cabernet with 4505 Meats Smokehouse BBQ Pork Rinds, which are made with responsibly raised meats.
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PINOT NOIR AND TORRES TRUFFLE CHIPS
The aforementioned idea of pairing like with like also applies here, with the earthiness and umami factor of Small Vines’ Pinot Noir matching up perfectly with the true truffle flavor of Torres chips. Torres chips are the most authentic-tasting truffle chips on the market, free of the fake truffle-oil taste that you find in a lot of truffle-flavored items. “The Torres, I think, are a little more pure to the flavor and just a touch more subtle, and natural tasting. I’ll say more true to the truffle-like mushroom flavors that you would get shaved on a dish at a restaurant,” he says. “It’s a really, really good Pinot Noir combination.”
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PET NAT AND RUFFLES
Orange wine and pet nat have captured the zeitgeist as of late, and these admittedly wily wines can actually be really versatile. If you’ve dined at spots like Crude e Nudo or Lemon Grove in LA or Pacific Standard in Portland, you’ve likely noticed elevated
GRENACHE AND BBQ CHIPS OR BBQ PORK RINDS
SPARKLING WINE AND NACHO CHEESE CHIPS
Sparkling wines are some of the most versatile when it comes to pairing with food. The same goes for chips, it seems, as Bruno has several suggestions to match up with his blanc de blancs sparkling wine. While many default to the classic pairing of simply salted potato chip and sparkling wine, he opts for nacho cheese. “The wine’s robust profile enhances the cheesy goodness of these chips, making it a delightful duo for any occasion.” He also suggests Kettle Brand Sea Salt and Vinegar Kettle Potato Chips as an alternative. “The crisp acidity of the wine beautifully balances the tangy zing of these chips.” Barbara’s Original Cheese Puffs would be another awesome pairing, according to Bruno. “The wine’s effervescence enhances the creamy cheese flavor, making it an exquisite pairing.”
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CHARDONNAY AND CHEEZ-ITS OR AGED CHEDDAR PUFFS
Cheez-Its and Chardonnay are a combo that have saved many an airplane ride over the years. And there’s good reason. Sloan, who started his career as a sommelier in the ’90s, likes taking a twofold approach when it comes to matching wine with food. “There’s two different directions to do with pairing. You’ve got the yin-yang, in that the opposites attract, or you’ve got pairing like elements with like elements. So I think that the cheddar works beautifully with this wine,” he says. Sloan loves Pirate’s Booty white cheddar puffs with his crisp, almost briny organically farmed Chardonnay. “It makes me think about a high-end cheese and charcuterie board with some nice shaved white cheddar on there, but this is obviously much more casual, so it’s a really fun, really nice pairing.”
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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TALE of TWO
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CHRISTOPHER STARK
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CHANDON
TASTINGS A PAIR OF STORIED NAPA VALLEY WINERIES HAVE REIMAGINED WHAT THE WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE CAN BE. TAKE A TOUR OF CHANDON’S STUNNING UPGRADE OF ITS INDOOR-OUTDOOR YOUNTVILLE PROPERTY AND THE NEW ULTRA LUXURIOUS LOBBY AT JORDAN. WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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MOD MAXIMALISM What is the future of wine tasting in Napa Valley? If Chandon’s new multi-million dollar renovation is any clue, it’s going to be organic, luxurious, and true to terroir.
Yountville Terrace
“We approached the project as a continuation of the [original] design, almost as if we were building on an archaeological site,” says Linda Taalman. “The structural integrity of the cast-in-place concrete brutalist foundation and the barrel-vaulted wood structure formed as much a part of the site as the majestic oaks they so carefully avoided.” The barrel-shaped ceilings are a striking structural element that refererences the winemaking process.
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winery’s original indoor-outdoor design and now boasts multiple zones for dining and tasting for both visitors and club members. Taking its cues from the surrounding landscape, the property is all soothing earth tones, natural materials, and has an organic and biophilic appeal that embodies the relaxed but refined essence of the brand and the Valley itself.
Sailcloth Cabanas
Dramatic swooping sailcloth cabanas offer breezy shelter and private dining experiences for groups of up to 12. Here guests can sip on spritzes made with housemade orange bitters before a lunch of dishes such as mushroom pizzette, beef carpaccio, and macarons paired with Chandon’s seasonal bottlings, including their organic sparkling rosé.
CHANDON
Sparkling wine powerhouse Chandon has been making exquisite bubbly in Napa Valley since 1973 and its California hospitality center has just completed an ambitious top-to-bottom renovation that makes it easily one of the most exquisite new tasting experiences in California wine country. Designed by L.A. firm Taalman Architecture, the new space builds upon the
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Exclusively accessible to members of Club Chandon, Club Chandon Lounge is a well-appointed indoor-outdoor space with comfortable sofas, low tables, and a bar where members can create customizable wine shipments, experience exclusive cuvées and tasting flights, and enjoy special events while taking advantage of discounts. Members can also access private patios and other seating areas throughout the property.
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Galleria
The on-site store is one of the most luxe wine shops to open in Napa in years. This jewel of a space features all of Chandon’s bottlings, including limited edition cuvées, as well as products made by local artisans, further connecting Chandon Home to the terroir it calls home.
CHANDON
Club Chandon Lounge
The Gardens
The Chandon Home’s gardens are landscaped with trees and flowing grasses that border paths and seating areas dotted throughout the property where guests can enjoy wines and picnic boxes underneath the native California Valley oaks. There’s also a kitchen garden growing seasonal produce and herbs that can be booked for private tastings.
CHANDON
Epicurean Hub
Wine was made to go with food and here’s where the sparkling wines and Champagnes of Chandon are showcased in four distinct culinary settings under one barrel-vaulted roof: Tasting menus featuring locally sourced ingredients like Tomales Bay mussels and Snake River Farm short rib, the aforementioned Yountville Terrace, the Micro Bar offering wines by the glass and small plates, and the Cove, an intimate space for private events.
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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LUXE LOBBY Jordan Winery’s newly redesigned lobby is a masterclass in refined interior design, wine country style.
Nestled in a sprawling 1,200-acre property of vineyards and wildlands, the chateau at Jordan Winery is a luxurious expression of the refined side of the Napa Valley lifestyle and takes its cues from European architecture and history— the better to pair with Jordan’s wines that are made in the European tradition that emphasizes finesse over raw power. The stunningly renovated new chateau lobby fittingly exudes classic French sophistication. This project was masterfully brought to life by San Francisco’s renowned interior designer, Maria Khouri
Haidamus, the same talent behind the 2021 makeover of the Jordan Chateau Guest Suites. Bespoke wall panels, graced with a delicate robin’s egg blue and aged gold detailing, establish a lavish ambiance. Throughout the entry hall, grand salon, corridor, and retail boutique, visitors are treated to the finest materials, timeless antiques, and exquisite art pieces. Handmade wooden floors in a captivating chevron design unify these areas.
Haute Entry Hall
The redesigned entry hall instantly immerses visitors into the Jordan ethos, highlighted by a bespoke reception desk crafted from Ponte Vecchio-honed marble, echoing the George V Hotel in Paris. A 17th-century Aubusson tapestry portrays a serene French forest, complemented by a quaint windowpane pendant featuring a dual-arm candelabrum.
Adjacent to the entry is the grand salon, which serves as a lounge for guests who are checking in to one of the chateau’s suites or waiting to embark on one of the winery’s daily activities. Expertly crafted O. Henry House sofas and rugs from Tony Kitz Gallery harmoniously coexist with exquisite antiques: Napoleon III era armchairs reupholstered with contemporary fabric; treasured 18thcentury sketches from Paris’s esteemed Galerie Marie-Pierre Jaudel Antiquités; a specially designed Louis XVI-influenced walnut console; and meticulously curated decorative items from Paris, Provence, and American antique shops. The room’s grandeur is crowned by Fisher Weisman chandeliers, boasting 14 candelabras and sweeping curves.
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CHRISTOPHER STARK
A Swellegant Salon
CHRISTOPHER STARK
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Opposite the entry hall lies a dual-purpose retail boutique and reception area. This inviting space offers guests a curated selection of Jordan merchandise and a visual journey through Jordan’s heritage via a 19-piece art ensemble. This captivating array features three unique pieces that narrate Jordan’s storied past, accompanied by 16 French prints and etchings spanning the 17th to 19th centuries. A standout piece is a dynamic portrait of John Jordan by celebrated illustrator Sharif Tarabay, notably his inaugural video portrait on a digital canvas. The room showcases elegant wooden furnishings, from a statement walnut table and tailored walnut wine cabinet to a 19th-century French display unit hailing from the Napoleon III era. An ornate Chippendale mirror, adorned with an acanthus motif and bathed in antique gold leaf, hearkens back to the Rococo era of the 18th century, while a chandelier inspired by cascading palm leaves introduces a contemporary flair. The space is further enhanced with Louis XVI-style seating and newly installed French doors, ushering guests into Jordan’s Bacchus Courtyard. Here, a bee-friendly garden and elegant marble fountain create a serene retreat.
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CHRISTOPHER STARK
The Belle Boutique and Reception
Building a Better Bath
CHRISTOPHER STARK
For the lobby bathrooms, Jordan commissioned Gracie, a storied family business specializing in hand-painted wall decorations since 1898. They tailormade a unique mural of the property’s beloved Linda’s Garden for the ladies’ restroom. The mural features oak and citrus trees, blossoming dogwood, kites, and an egret—all species native to the vast 1,200-acre Jordan Estate. Gracie devoted roughly 500 hours to perfecting this handcrafted mural. In contrast, the men’s restroom features a subtle monochromatic mural of a forested landscape by Susan Harter. Both restrooms are complemented with exquisite marble flooring and countertops from Ann Sacks and fixtures and sconces from Waterworks.
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WINE
COUNTRY With a spectacular car and an open mind, we hit the road to take a freewheeling, slightly unconventional food and wine-focused road trip up the California coast Story by H U G H GARVE Y Photograph by TH O MAS J. STO RY
ROAD
TRIP
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we’re spoiled by proximity to some of the most vibrant, varied, and beautiful wine growing regions in the world. From the verdant Willamette Valley with its misty mornings and spectacular Pinots, to Walla Walla Washington’s gently rolling hills and stunning Syrahs, to the Valle de Guadalupe’s dramatic landscape and ingenious blends. Any one of them is a worthy road trip that will reward a tour of its vineyards and landscape and responsible tasting. But California in its enormity and diversity, and beauty is the location I chose to explore on a recent three day blast up the coast to experience some pinnacle wine and food experiences. It was an itinerary that blended new and classic stops with the goal of ditching the wine country cliches and maximizing
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satisfaction along the way: lots of intown exploration. No official tasting flights. I’d rather get the flavor of a town or a region as a traveler first, drinker second. Evenings were the time to sit down and enjoy wine, ideally with a meal. To ensure a speedy and equally superlative driving experience I was fortunate enough to be able to secure a loan of one the world’s greatest touring vehicles, the Aston Martin DBS. Touring cars at this level blend road trip worthy creature comforts such as adjustable seats, suspension settings that favor comfort (though sport modes are always a button push away), and an aesthetic that matched the beauty of the stops along the way. The idea: Instead of plunking down in one AVA or wine growing district I decided to hug the coast northward and dip into stops along the way in perpendicular pursuit of food, hotel, and wine experiences, covering ground and racking up miles and smiles. My southern launching point was Los Angeles, a car Valhalla in its own right, with stops on the central coast in Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Sonoma County, and Napa Valley. Long tastings were out for obvious
reasons. You can always responsibly taste at your hotel, an Ubered restaurant, or at home. The car: The Aston Martin DBS. In a subdued gray tone on the outside with alcantara trim on the inside and 12 cylinders under the hood I had a vehicle that made the trip a delight in between stops. The engine (with the charming plaque on its block reading: “Hand built by Luke Wembley”) is a marvel, throwing down silky smooth power on those stretches of the 1, the 101 and 5. It’s an objet d’art as much as a supercar, its fiberglass cladding elegantly draped over the frame with ingenious scoops shuttling air through the wheel wells to hold it down and cool the brakes. Everywhere I stopped, from a Shell station on the 101 to the town square in Sonoma, car fans would pepper me with questions and ask for a peek under the hood. I kept it in touring mode which soaked up the road and kept me at a confident clip as I carved my way up the coast.
OJAI Clockwise
from top left (this page): The Aston Martin DBS outside the Dutchess; Saw Naing grills; The dining room at the Dutchess.
THOMAS J. STORY
LIVING IN THE WEST
OJAI
Clockwise from top left (this page): Burmese skewers at the Dutchess; Pointe de Chen wines; The farmer’s market; Bart’s Books.
THOMAS J. STORY
J
ust two hours north of Los Angeles sits Ojai, one of the most charming little towns in Southern California. Surrounded by ranches and citrus groves and a handful of wineries, it’s the closest thing I’ve ever seen to one of those fantasy farmscapes of California you see on the side of vintage fruit crates. The boho enclave has in recent years seen an influx in visitors drawn by its charms (a city law prevents large scale development and as a result it’s blissfully free of tall buildings, big box stores, and big chains). In the past few years its dining scene has been elevated by a number of new restaurants rounding out its hippie-hipster-ranchy vibes. I’m a big fan of the new restaurant Rory’s Place, which is a must-visit for its wood fired meat and fish, breads and pizzas, and a wine list featuring local bottlings. Since opening last year it’s become a buzzy spot attracting locals and bold-faced names alike who linger on its patio sipping wines
and nibbling on crudo. But I arrived in Ojai mid-morning and swung by the Dutchess, the other most talked about new restaurant that serves as a culinary community hub of sorts. Partner and baker Zoe Nathan is also behind Santa Monica’s Rustic Canyon, Huckleberry, and other fine establishments. It’s an all-day restaurant and cafe with a wide ranging menu of pastries, sandwiches, grain bowls, and breakfast items. It also has an extensive Burmese menu thanks to chef Saw Naing, who channels his childhood in curries, rice dishes, and a weekly skewer night on the patio. The bar is always open and has an expert selection of non-alcoholic cocktails if you’re not imbibing, but I have a quick coffee before strolling around the town. I browse the stacks at Bart’s Books, the preposterously charming open-air used bookstore that’s been a long-standing national treasure to inthe-know bibliophiles, and then head to Ojai Tortilla House for hearty al
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MONTECITO
Rosewood Miramar Beach offers a sprawling luxury retreat with expansive grounds and well-appointed rooms.
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entrance. I settle into my suite and head over to the Manor Bar, the resort’s excellent cocktail bar, with its wood paneling, dim lights, and low slung lounge areas. While it’s known for its extensive top shelf cocktail program, I decide to have a taste of something grown and made not far from the resort so order a glass of Donnachadh Pinot Noir from the Santa Rita Hills just inland. With its medium body, berry fruit, and long elegant finish it’s the perfect aperitif to precede my dinner at Caruso’s, the Michelin-starred restaurant that offers views of the Pacific and precisely prepared local seafood. I opt for the tasting menu which featured local Channel Island spiny lobster to taste the terroir of the ocean.
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he next morning I take the 101 up the coast, the DBS anchored securely on its 21 inch tires, the 12-cylinder engine thrumming gently as I surge northward into Sonoma. In record time I get to the southern end of the county and arrive at Scribe, the winery that expanded the idea of what a tasting experience can be with its hacienda and its gracious patio, open fire cooking, tasty CaliforniaMediterranean menu, and low-intervention wines that possessed a balance that delightfully offered a fresh alternative to the bigger more traditional winery experiences in the area. People joined the Scribe Viticultural Society club in droves and it’s now some 10 years old and still a uniquely refined and relaxed experience that sets the standard for Sonoma. We photograph a story for the magazine with Scribe head farmer Stephen Carter and culinary director Kelly Mariani, who runs the winery with her brothers Andrew and Adam. From there I go to the town of Sonoma for lunch at Valley Bar and Bottle, the restaurant and bottle shop of your dreams. You can get coffee and a breakfast sandwich in the morning, a bowl of crispy rice with Dungeness crab and furikake for lunch, or lamb with garlic yogurt and a glass of
THOMAS J. STORY
pastor tacos (get the loaded “specialty” version) rolled with handmade rosemary-scented tortillas and wrapped in foil that I eat in nearby Libbey Park. After lunch I pop into the boutique In the Field. If the Ojai boho chic look had a starter kit, this is where you’d find it: Perfectly picked, locally made surf wear, jewelry, caftans, hats, and home goods make this the top lifestyle shop in Ojai. From Ojai it’s a short drive to my final stop for the day: the Rosewood Miramar Beach, the sprawling coastal resort that’s the crown jewel of Montecito. Dotted with bungalows, multiple pools, and a stretch of private beach, it offers a refined escape from the moment you arrive at the cobblestone roundabout at the grand
OJAI
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: MACARTHUR PLACE (2); THOMAS J. STORY (2)
Left: Rory and Maeve McAuliffe at Rory’s Place; Channon Roe at In the Field.
SONOMA
Left: Kelly Mariani and Stephen Carter at Scribe. Above: A patio room and outdoor dining at MacArthur Place
gamay at night (read our feature on Valley Bar and Bottle in this issue for recipes and more!). That night I settle into MacArthur Place Hotel and Spa in the town of Sonoma, which recently completed a multi-year refresh that has turned the property into an immersive retreat that offers an expanded spa, an artist’s cottage with artists in residence who create work on property, upgraded rooms with fireplaces and outdoor showers, and Friday evening “pours on the porch” featuring tastings of local wines for guests. Napa Valley is next and here I head straight to Stanly Ranch, a brand new Auberge property that has taken the modern farmhouse concept and applied it at the highest level to this resort that’s planted with vines and ambles over gently sloping hills. It’s a luxurious evolution of a wine country resort: there’s a gift shop stocked with California brands, books, and
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NAPA VALLEY
Stanly Ranch boasts lovely grounds, a wellcurated shop, and excellent farm to table food.
housewares that could easily be transplanted in a trend-aware neighborhood like Silver Lake; and you won’t see any pseudo Tuscan flourishes that used to proliferate in the wine country. It’s luxe California-pride. I dine at Bear, where the menu perfectly encapsulates the possibilities of wine country cooking, all in a soothing Scandinavian-inspired space with soaring ceilings and an open kitchen. Dishes are fire roasted, carefully assembled, often featuring flavor packed international ingredients like nudja and nuoc chuam, and serranos. Things are pickled to add vibrant pops. So I have ember roasted tiger prawns, chicken with harissa, and possibly the most beautiful farm vegetable crudite with dip I’ve ever seen.
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THOMAS J. STORY
H
aving reached the northern tip of my trip, the next day I wend south toward home, stopping in Santa Cruz, the funky beach town turned tech haven where you can hit the vintage boardwalk, watch the longboarders, hike the redwoods, and experience a timeless California coastal vibe year round. I head to Apéro Club, one of California’s best natural wine bars and bottle shops. It’s a groovy little shop specializing in zero-zero wines, which means no added yeast and no added sulfur. It’s a highwire way of making wine that results in vibrant bottlings that are the truest expression of the grape. I pick up bottles of earthy funky Pinot Noir from local organic winery Madson to take back home. I walk around the corner to Bantam, one of Santa Cruz’s best restaurants that serves killer pizzas, wood-fired meats, and seasonal specialties, like chicory caesar salad, an insane gluten-free fried chicken with crackling crust and served with autumn squash, and, of course, a smart list of wines, including local bottlings. Pro tip to score a great seat: do like the locals and line up right before they open in the evening and you’ll get the pick of the patio or the cavernous main dining room. To close out my trip I book at Dream Inn on the waterfront right next to the
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: ELLE BENNETT; THOMAS J. STORY; PAUL DYER (2)
boardwalk with its old school carnival rides and a Ferris Wheel. Here I pay extra to park the precious DBS in the private lot by the lobby. The Dream Inn is a legendary spot that hosts concerts by the pool, once was the temporary home of Patti Smith who wrote poetry and a memoir here, and is the preferred spot for any traveler who wants to soak up the funky vibes of the town. I head out onto my patio with its view of the spinning Ferris wheel and the rolling waves and decide to uncork a bottle of the Madson I scored at Apéro Club. I sip it watching the evening sky turn shades of a purple, violet, and orange until the sun sets completely. It’s a serene and vivid end to a vinous road trip that shows you can experience the best of wine country where it comes to life the most: in the cities, the towns, and the tables of the California coast.
SANTA CRUZ
Upper left: Seaside suites at the Dream Hotel. Above: the chill tasting room at Apero Club.
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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WITH A FRESH TAKE ON NEW CALIFORNIA COOKING AND A COME-AS-YOU-ARE VINOUS VIBE, VALLEY IS THE KIND OF ALL-DAY RESTAURANT WINE COUNTRY NEEDED. Story by H U G H GARVE Y Photographs by TH O MAS J. STO RY
PEAKS AND VALLEY 24
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
25
A
After several visits to wine country, you eventually learn you don’t need to go to a vineyard or a winery to have a quintessential wine country experience. In a humble space on Sonoma’s old town square, the restaurant Valley embodies many of the things city dwellers seek when they venture out of their urban enclaves and settle into the rhythms of a place where one of the most romantic versions of agriculture is practiced. Valley is not unlike the valleys that surround it, charming in a dressed-down sort of way, expressing the terroir in wines and food and an ethos that bridges Alice Waters–like farm-to-table obsession with seasonal and local ingredients, but bringing in global tweaks and influences that jump borders. Valley is as much a gathering place for the community as it is a restaurant and excellent bottle shop: There’s a bar out front where folks can order espresso or an orange wine any time of day, or pick up a bottle or two; there’s a come-as-you-are vibe that attracts both folks with their dogs and food-savvy tourists. The food is as good as any you’ll get in the city, all the while avoiding wine country clichés like roast duck and Cabernetbraised this and that; actual winemakers and chefs frequent the place, along with locals on the patio in the shade or perched by little café tables in the sun out front. The fact that it’s in the center of Sonoma, which has long been the civic heart of the vast county, is what gives it
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SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
a bit of a pulse—albeit a restful 65 bpm. Town square in Sonoma is the kind of old-timey place that feels like throwback wine country: a shaded park with town hall at the center, a Franciscan mission at one end. Valley slow walks the evolution of the city and surrounding fields forward. It’s a restaurant that’s simultaneously simple and ambitious and above all the kind of place you want to go to again and again. This sweet spot is the result of the vision of Emma Lipp and Stephanie Reagor, partners in work and in life who met while working together at nearby Scribe Winery. Lipp has a culinary education that explains the Chez Panisse through line of the place: She worked at New York’s seminal Prune on the Lower East Side and as the assistant to David Tanis, longtime executive chef at Chez Panisse. Reagor’s résumé includes other restaurants grounded in a local-produce-first philosophy, such as the Spotted Pig and Marlow & Daughters. Along with partners Tanner Walle and Lauren Feldman, they’ve created something they say is not “the French country Tuscan Pinterest fantasy pastoral countryside sophistication” you’ll see elsewhere in the region. They use ingredients not traditionally associated with wine, like fish sauce and spice, but without ever losing focus of where they are. “This is a wine-focused restaurant,” says Reagor. “We love spicy food, so we’re going to cook it, but we’re not going to blow the wine out of the water with the spice. The emphasis is on freshness and everything working together.” And you’ll experience that in this celebratory late-summer menu that takes full advantage of ingredients that are at their best right now. Like Valley, the dishes embody wine country as it’s evolving in real time, at just the right pace.
Peach Cooler Make this super-simple peach drink from the reduced liquid
leftover from roasting the fruit for the feta with roasted peaches.
S E R V ES 4 Roasted peach syrup Sparkling water
Fresh mint for garnish
1. Spoon about 1 Tbsp. leftover juices from the roasted
peaches into a rocks glass,
top with sparkling water, stir,
add ice cubes, garnish with a mint sprig, and serve.
Feta With Roasted Peaches This dish is a great alternative to
super-sweet desserts. If you can’t
find Turkish Urfa biber, which have a lovely sweet and smoky flavor,
substitute red chili flakes. Bonus:
The leftover syrup makes the base for the peach cooler! S E R V ES 4
4 ripe peaches
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. If you are
bitters, combine 1 qt. Angostura
1 cup red wine
cut in half lengthwise. If your
in a sealable container. Let sit for
1 Tbsp. sugar vinegar
1 cup red or white wine
1 dried bay leaf
8 oz. block of feta Olive oil
Black pepper
½ tsp. ground urfa biber chilies
working with freestone peaches, peaches are clingstone, cut as best you can into nice large
bitters and ½ cup cinnamon chips 24 hours, then strain into a sealable bottle or container.
wedges. Put cut pieces into a
2. Cut the feta into four squares,
the peaches with the sugar, then
3. Place the peach halves or pieces
baking dish, cut sides up. Sprinkle pour the vinegar and wine over. Add the bay leaf to the liquid.
Roast peaches in the oven until
the fruit is tender, about 20 minutes. To make the cinnamon
then place in individual bowls.
around the feta. Spoon some of
the roasting juices over the peach pieces and feta. Drizzle olive oil
over the top. Sprinkle with black
pepper and Urfa biber and serve.
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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Zucchini with Basil and Butter Sweet summer squash needs little more than butter and basil.
S E R V ES 4 5 lbs. zucchini or summer squash
¼ cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Salt
6 garlic cloves
4 sprigs fresh basil, divided 3 Tbsp. cultured butter Black pepper
1. Cut the zucchini into fat
coins, roughly 13-inch thick.
2. Set a heavy-bottomed pot
over medium heat and add ¼ cup olive oil. Add all the
zucchini, a heavy pinch of
salt, garlic, and 3 sprigs of basil. Put a lid on the pot
and let the zucchini slowly
cook, steaming itself out. If you are worried about it
drying out and sticking, add a little bit of water. The goal is not to get a lot of color or char, but a little bit is okay.
Take care not to stir, as it will start to break.
3. When the zucchini is uni-
formly tender, take it off the
heat. Remove the basil and discard. Add the cultured
butter to the pot and gently stir to integrate it into the
soft zucchini. At this point
some pieces may fall apart, and that’s okay.
4. Taste. Does it need more salt? There should be
enough acid from the cul-
tured butter, but make sure you used enough butter to give it that rich silky bite.
5. To serve, scoop into a bowl,
drizzle a little olive oil, sprinkle with black pepper and tear fresh basil sprigs to garnish.
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Cod with Tomato Curry and Corn This party-worthy main course is one of the best uses of peak-season to-
mato and corn we’ve ever tried. It’s a
bit cheffy to make corn broth with leftover corn cobs, but it adds a layer of
flavor you can’t get otherwise. If that’s one step too many, feel free to skip!
You can make the curry the morning of your party or a day ahead. S E R V ES 4
½ tsp. black peppercorns ½ Tbsp. coriander seeds
½ tsp. fenugreek or white peppercorns ½ tsp. cumin seeds 2 Tbsp. neutral oil
1 large white onion, sliced thinly
1 knob peeled ginger, about 2 oz., chopped
4 garlic cloves, chopped ½ Tbsp. ground turmeric ½ tsp. cinnamon
½ Tbsp. kosher salt
1 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 stick plus 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter 1 red jalapeño, sliced thinly
3 lbs. beefsteak tomatoes, chopped ½ cup crème fraîche
4 ears of corn, shucked
Freshly ground black pepper
1½ lb. cod or other thick-fleshed white fish
Olive oil
1. In a large pot over medium heat,
combine the black peppercorns, coriander, and fenugreek or white peppercorns, and toast for 30 seconds
or until fragrant but not burnt. Grind the spices with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder and set aside.
2. In the same pot over medium heat,
add neutral oil and let heat for 1 min-
ute. Add the onion, ginger, and garlic, and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but not brown, about 4 min-
utes. Add the ground toasted spices,
plus the turmeric, cinnamon, salt, tomato paste, and the stick of butter and stir. Add the tomatoes and jalapeños.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until everything is fully soft, 15–20 minutes. Take off the heat. Stir in the crème
fraîche. Let cool a bit, then blend in
batches in a blender. Return to pot. Adjust salt if needed. Set aside.
4. Char the corn on a grill or in a cast-iron pan.
Sprinkle with salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
Cut the corn off the cob, set aside, and re-
8. When you are ready to serve the dish, put in
5. Cover the cobs with 4 cups water in a medi-
cooked and tender, 7–10 minutes. The cod
serve the cobs.
um pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30
minutes. Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer, reserve, then discard the cobs.
6. Return the charred corn kernels to the pot,
and cover with the corn broth. Cook until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and remaining 2 Tbsp. butter. Keep warm in pot for dish assembly.
7. For the cod: Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut the cod into four equal pieces. Remove any bones. Set the cod in a parchment-lined baking dish.
the oven. Roast the cod in the oven until fully should flake when squeezed, indicating it is
fully cooked. You can also check for doneness by inserting a metal skewer into the center or thickest part of the fish. There should be no
resistance, and the skewer should be hot to the touch from the fish.
9. To assemble the dish, rewarm the tomato curry. Set the cooked pieces of fish into individual serving bowls. Spoon the corn kernels on top of the fish. Scoop the tomato curry on top of the corn and fish. Drizzle olive oil to finish.
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Melon Salad with Pickled Chilies You can use any melon that’s at peak ripeness, but the salad is prettier and tastier if you use multiple varieties. S E R V ES 4
1 cup red wine vinegar
6 cups various melons, cut into
2 Tbsp. sugar
¼ tsp. ground Marash or Aleppo
1 cup water
2 Tbsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste
¼ cup thinly sliced onions
2 Tbsp. thinly sliced Fresno chiles
1-inch cubes chilies
2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice, plus more to taste
Olive oil
3 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint leaves
1. Pickle the onions and chilies: In a small pan over medium heat, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer. Stir until sugar has dissolved. Add onions and Fresno chilies. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Assemble the salad: Put melon cubes into a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt to taste, ground chilies, and lime juice. Remove Fresnos
and onions from the pickling mixture, and add to salad. Add a nice drizzle of olive oil, and toss to combine. Taste and add more lime juice or salt if needed. Add the mint, toss once more lightly, and serve.
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
31
Wine Country
TRAVEL PLANNER WINE COUNTRY TRAVEL ALWAYS INDEXES BIG IN SUNSET’S ANNUAL TRAVEL AWARDS AND IN 2023 IT WAS A BANNER YEAR FOR HOTELS, RESTAURANTS, AND TASTING EXPERIENCES IN OUR FAVORITE VINOUS CALIFORNIA DESTINATIONS. WHETHER YOU’RE PLANNING A TRIP TO NAPA, SONOMA, OR THE CENTRAL COAST, HERE ARE THE TOP TRAVEL AWARD WINNERS IN WINE COUNTRY TO PUT ON YOUR ITINERARY. Story by H U G H GARVE Y and KRI STA S I M M O N S
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SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
© DON RIDDLE/FOUR SEASONS
Four Seasons Resort and Residences vineyard near Calistoga
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
33
Hotel Ynez
Hotels and Resorts From sprawling luxury resorts to your private manor, here’s where to book a room among the vines.
Meadowood Napa Valley
Four Seasons Resort and
cottages nestled in wine
Located on a working vine-
country has literally risen
from the ashes after the res-
taurant and other parts of the property were destroyed by
the Glass Fire in 2020. And it’s
better than ever, with Howard Backen–designed restaurant Forum, expanded wellness
and tennis programs, and revived Wine Center.
Residences
yard near Calistoga, the Four Seasons is a refined experi-
ence thanks to its suites, villas, and private residences that raise the bar on rustic
luxury. Add multiple restau-
rants, pools, and holistic spa treatments and the wine
country retreat gets more refined.
Hotel Ynez
Francis House
cape is situated on two acres
manor in the Napa Valley and
This charming Santa Ynez esstudded with live oak trees,
gardens, and bonfire pits. With plush bedding, DIY BBQ kits delivered to your door, and
vintage touches throughout,
it’s the definitive spot to spend your time in wine country. The Genevieve
Elegant and polished yet unstuffy, this Victorian-style
boutique inn in Santa Ynez
Imagine you had a private you’re close to envisioning
what Francis House in Calis-
toga is all about. This sevenroom hotel offers luxury ac-
commodations for travelers looking for a communal experience with daily shared
meals, an on-site spa, and
expansive grounds allowing for a serene, right-sized respite.
has an incredibly impressive
The Landsby
ing for a break from vino. The
its throwback Danish heri-
whiskey library for those lookstay is first-class from the start, with champagne at
check-in, a candy station for
noshing, and a gourmet restaurant with top-notch brekkie to fuel you for a day of tasting.
Stanly Ranch
In Solvang, a town known for tage, Scandinavian modernism is alive and well at this
boutique hotel. All the rooms
are well appointed, but try to book a suite with a patio on
the restaurant courtyard for a lovely indoor-outdoor experience.
Napa Valley’s latest luxe re-
Skyview Los Alamos
country resort with modern
the Santa Ynez Valley and the
treat improves upon the wine cabins surrounded by vines, multiple pools, a Scandi-
meets-California-cuisine restaurant with a top-shelf bar and an on-site vegetable
garden. Add bespoke local
outings and this property encapsulates all that we love about wine country.
34
With views of the vineyards of foodie town of Los Alamos,
this revived hilltop motel offers private patios, a pool,
and a restaurant featuring local produce and wines and
craft cocktails. It’s the perfect balance of a groovy mid-
century modern aesthetic and country charm.
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
COURTESY OF HOTEL YNEZ
This iconic, exclusive resort of
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: MICHAEL HOSPELT; KARYN MILLET/COURTESY OF SKYVIEW LOS ALAMOS; DAVID TSAY; THOMAS J. STORY
The Francis House
Stanly Ranch Skyview Los Alamos
The Landsby
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
35
Bar Le Côte
Restaurants, Shops, and Tasting Rooms These eating establishments, bakeries, wineries, and
more prove that Western wine country is even more of a delicious destination than ever before.
made from naturally leav-
With stylish design and a
ened dough, croissants, and
duce and seafood of the
from Northern California’s
menu that marries the proCentral Coast, this is the
coolest new restaurant to open in Los Olivos. The
unique desserts crafted
finest produce, dairy, and game.
whole fish is a must-order,
Troubadour Bread
cludes gems from wineries
Just up the street from its
and the wine list always inin the surrounding Santa Ynez Valley.
Hitching Post 2
Fans of Sideways will recognize this famed Pinot purveyor, which serves up
some of the best Santa Maria–style barbecue in the
region. Grab a glass of Cork
Dancer, a whole grilled artichoke, and a cut of the valley’s finest beef and enjoy
and Bistro
sister bakery Quail & Con-
dor is this one stop culinary shop. You’ll find coffee and fresh baked bread in the
morning, francophile sand-
wiches for lunch, and a prixfixe French bistro at night at
this unassuming boulangerie. Don’t miss out on the perfectly done canelés,
which will whisk you right back to France.
the view.
Bob’s Well Bread
The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern
ley, Bob’s bakes up the val-
A newcomer to Los Olivos,
this upscale inn is also home to some of the Santa Ynez
Valley’s most delightful dining experiences (all housed in a converted 1886 stagecoach stop): wood-fired
A hub of the Santa Ynez Valley’s best boules each
morning for its two indooroutdoor cafés serving the
area—the original in Los Alamos and a second in Ballard.
meat and produce at the
Marin French Cheese Co.
the cozy Bar, and craft cof-
company produces excep-
Tavern, classic cocktails at fee at Felix Feed & Coffee. Quail & Condor
Run by Michelin-pedigreed chefs Melissa Yanc and
Sean McGaughey, this thrilling bakery serves goods
36
Hitching Post 2
The country’s oldest cheese tional cheese but is also a
community hub and desti-
nation in and of itself, with a property home to myriad
farm animals, a vegetable garden, an elementary
school, and a fire station.
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
FROM TOP: THOMAS J. STORY; ROB STARK
Bar Le Côte
Troubadour Bread and Bistro
Quail & Condor
Marin French Cheese Co.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EMMA K. MORRIS (2); MARIN FRENCH CHEESE; SILAS FALLSTICH
Bob’s Well Bread
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
37
Presqu’ile Winery
The Salon at Heitz Cellar
Restaurants, Shops, and Tasting Rooms (CONTINUED)
Alma Rosa Winery
the full range of award-win-
nia industry pioneer Richard
the rolling hills of Marin
Sanford, the first vintner to plant Pinot Noir in the region, Alma Rosa is now
known not only for its stun-
ning Santa Rita wines but for its unique programming.
ning oils while gazing out at County. Guests can also
tour the property, including orchards and the olive oil
mill, and visit the shop for
wine and pantry essentials.
This year, the winery
Frank Family Vineyards
tours and tasting experi-
net scene, the yellow
launched two new hiking ences for visitors at its his-
toric El Jabali estate, the first certified-organic vineyard in the country.
The Salon at Heitz Cellar
Located at the original St. Helena property that Joe
and Alice Heitz purchased in 1961, the salon consists of a grand tasting room, a pri-
An old faithful in the CaberCraftsman tasting room is one of Napa Valley’s most recognizable buildings.
Adding to a storied reputa-
tion, this year they opened a new Howard Backen–de-
signed space for tastings
and food pairings, including a small-bites program by
chef Christina Machamer.
vate tasting room, the
Presqu’ile Winery
randa, and a chef’s larder
not Noir is your jam, this
Quartz Creek garden, a vedesigned by renowned architect Peter Fleming. McEvoy Ranch
To taste olive oil at this 550acre, family-owned farm in
Petaluma is to taste Califor-
nia food history. A pioneer in the olive oil industry, McEvoy invites visitors to experience
38
Alma Rosa Winery
If nuanced, cold-climate Pifamily-owned winery in the Santa Maria Valley is a
must. For the quintessential bucolic-vineyard experi-
ence, pull off the 101 to their hilltop lounge, where you’ll
nibble on mezze made from
their on-site organic garden while tasting world-class wines.
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: TREVOR GORDON; HEITZ CELLAR; ZACH BROWN/ATLAS IMAGERY
Founded in 2005 by Califor-
McEvoy Ranch
FAR RIGHT, FROM TOP: DONALD S. HICKS III; TUBAY YABUT
Frank Family Vineyards
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
39
ADVERTISEMENT
Country chic Peltzer. Spanish fare at Altísima.
Balloon rides over the Valley. The tasting room at Akash.
The Temecula Valley’s Seriously So Cal Wine
Situated midway between the desert and the ocean, the Temecula Valley is the epitome of Southern California Wine Country. TIME YOUR TRIP
The heart of the Temecula Valley experience can be found in the tasting rooms of its nearly 50 wineries. Weekends are wonderful but they can be busy, so many local wine insiders suggest visiting mid week for a more relaxed, less crowded experience, with more time to learn about the wines from the tasting rooms’ knowledgeable staff. In fact, it may even be the winemaker or winery owner pouring for you, sharing stories and pro tips while you sip.
SIP OLD AND NEW
Experience what dedication to the craft tastes like at Carter Estate where Javier Flores (who moved from Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe 25 years ago) and Jon McPherson make sparkling wine in the painstaking méthode traditionnelle used in Champagne, along with other exceptional bottlings. For forward-looking reds and whites from a UC Davis-trained winemaker, hit Masia de la Vinya on bucolic De Portola Road. The Verdelho is a standout.
Poolside sips at Bottaia.
he server asks “Is the Cab Franc treating you well?” It is indeed. I’m at the restaurant at Ponte Vineyard Inn in Temecula Valley, sipping a tasty glass of Cabernet Franc— one of the nearly two-dozen grapes that thrive here—reflecting on a two-day trip during which I’ve tasted zippy whites, hearty Rhône-style reds, and other award-winning wines. Temecula Valley is a beautiful wine growing region that’s a convenient hour and half from Los Angeles and an hour from Palm Springs and San Diego. Yes, the climate and rolling hills remind people of the Mediterranean, but the Temecula Valley is uniquely Southern Californian. There’s are experiences for everyone, with welcoming tasting rooms, live music, wellness and adventure activities, and an exciting culinary scene. Local talent and winemakers from other well-known regions, including the nearby Valle de Guadalupe, are seeing the promise of Temecula Valley and raising the bar on the area’s bottlings. Here are six ways to build a perfect itinerary in this vibrant wine region that’s seriously So Cal.
GO FAMILY FIRST
Instagram your heart out at the rustic yet refined Peltzer Winery where expertly crafted wines are poured against the backdrop of an Americana farm fantasy. At Akash Winery, the Patel family’s modernist refuge offers views, pop-up pizza, yoga, and, of course, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, and crushable rosé. Pioneering Palumbo Family Vineyards pours high quality estate reds in a setting that embodies the Valley’s farm-toglass experience.
EXPERIENCE WINE WITH A VIEW
At Doffo Winery, Argentinian varieties and a collection of gorgeously restored vintage motorcycles are in full effect. Sleek Bottaia offers an interactive wine blending lab, a charcuterie and wine pairing experience, and a pool with private cabanas that visitors can rent. Altísima serves local bottlings at a luxurious facility with a modern Spanish restaurant and spectacular views.
DINE FINELY
Cap off your day with an exquisite Spanish meal at Bolero Restaurante at the sprawling Europa Village, where the affable and talented Egyptian-born chef Hany Ali oversees an expertly cooked menu of classic paella, modern tapas, and wines to match. The Restaurant at Leoness Cellars is an incredible upscale dining experience, with ultra-talented Chef Ben Diaz at the helm. The french fries here deserve a mention— they are life changing.
JOIN THE CLUB
Wines from Temecula don’t have wide distribution beyond the region, so be sure to sign up for one of the many wine club memberships offered throughout the Valley. Not ready to commit? Just about all wineries ship to most U.S. states.
A toast to Temecula
M AY Y O U A LWAY S BE WELCOMED
WITH OPEN ARMS, OPEN MINDS, AND AN OPEN BOTTLE OF WINE
T E M E C U L AW I N E S . O R G
Distinctive Wines from the Sierra Highlands
97
POINTS
El Dorado AVA | Placerville, Ca | Open Daily | www.starfieldvineyards.com | 530.748.3085
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold
Congratulations to This Year’s Sunset Wine Award Winners
It’s a wonderful wide, wide world of wine, and each year we host the Sunset International Wine Competition to steer you to bottles worth seeking out. We assembled an esteemed panel of judges and tasted our way through hundreds of bottles that collectively represent what’s being produced throughout the West and beyond. And then we awarded the medals. The wines and wineries listed here deliver incredible flavor, the highest production standards, and, above all, deliciousness in the glass. Cheers to the deserving winners who have earned their place in this directory of exceptional wines!
THE COMPETITION JUDGES Andre DuVigneaud, Owner and Winemaker, Bee Hunter Anna Marie Dos Remedios, Winemaker, Idle Hour Winery Carol Shelton, Owner and Winemaker, Carol Shelton Wines David Sundberg, Winemaker, Hans Fahden Vineyards David Vergari, Winemaker Kerry Damskey, Wine Consultant and Winemaker Luke Goldschmidt, Enologist, Dutton Goldfield Matt Reid, Winemaker, Benessere Vineyards & PWR Wines Miro Tcholakov “Chief Judge” and Winemaker, Miro & Trentdue Penny Gadd-Coster, Winemaker, Breathless Wines Rick Davis, Owner and Winemaker, Calstar Cellars Stephanie Trotter, Owner and Winemaker, Trotter 1/16, D.O.S. at Tedeschi Family Winery
Ali DuVigneaud, Winery Owner, Bee Hunter Bekah Schloss, Wine Wall Supervisor, The Matheson Bridget Newcome, Wine Educator Cathy Vicini, Owner, Trecini Charles Mara, Winery Owner, Educator Corey Lester, Sommelier David Sandri, Educator Dawne Sacchetti, Consultant, River House Consulting Debbie Zachareas, Wine Expert, International Judge, and Lecturer Denise Gill, Educator and Consultant Emily Edeen, Sommelier Greg Richtarek, Wine and Spirits Manager Jai Wilson, Sommelier Jay Baili, Wine Judge and Educator Jessica Main, GM, Buyer, Sommelier Mary Beth Vierra, Wine and Spirits Educator, Consultant
Christopher Sawyer, Wine Writer and “Sommelier to the Stars”
Rebecca Fletcher, VIP and Trade Coordinator, Raymond Vineyards
Dan Berger, Wine Journalist
Sunny Yang Liao, Co-founder and CEO, Vinusclub
Ellen Landis, Wine Writer, Certified Wine Specialist Larry Van Aalst, Radio Host of “The Sonoma Wine Report,” CRN Digital Talk Radio Laura Ness, Food and Wine Writer
Traci Dutton, Educator, Sommelier, Wine and Beverage Judge, Public Wine and Beverage Studies, Culinary Institute of America Wilfred Wong, Chief Story Teller, Buyer / Educator
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
43
2023 SUNSET INTERNATIONAL WINE COMPETITION 2022 Brecon Estate Wines Last Sandwich
Albariño
True Acacia Head Albariño
PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA BRECONESTATE.COM | 805.239.2200 | TASTING ROOM OPEN DAILY 11-5
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
DOUBLE GOLD, BEST OF CLASS, PLATINUM
DOUBLE GOLD, BEST OF CLASS, BEST OF SHOW
PAPAPIETRO PERRY WINERY
HUSCH VINEYARDS
Papapietro Perry 2020 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir Barrel Aged
Category: Muscat Varietals 0.0 - 5.0% rs Award: Double Gold, Best of Class; Best of Show Dessert/ Late Harvest Score: 97 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $18 Tasting Notes: Sugar; tartness in harmony. Well made; balanced; very clean. Elegant. www.huschvineyards.com
Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class; Platinum Score: 100 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $61 Tasting Notes: Abundance of purple floral aromatics; perfectly ripe raspberry; savory green and cola; balances sweet fruit. www.papapietro-perry.com
DOUBLE GOLD, BEST OF CLASS, BEST OF SHOW, BEST OF THE BEST
BRECON ESTATE 2022 Albariño Category: Spanish White Award: Double Gold, Best of Class; Best of Show White Wine; Best of the Best Score: 98 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $43 Tasting Notes: fresh and bright; honeysuckle; lingering finish. Very well made wine. www.breconestate.com
2022 Muscat Canelli Sustainably Farmed
SOJOURN CELLARS Sojourn Cellars NV Brut Sparkling Methode Champenoise
Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Double Gold, Best of Class; Best of Show Sparkling Wine Score: 97 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $54 Tasting Notes: Elegant; cherry; hints of earth; golden delicious apple; traditional sparkling; tiny beads. www.sojourncellars.com
TRENTADUE WINERY La Storia 2020 Merlot Estate Bottled & Produced
Category: Merlot > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class; Best of Show Red Wine Score: 98 Appellation: Alexander Valley Price: $26 Tasting Notes: True to varietal; good fruit. Made by a real pro! www.trentadue.com
Score: 97 Appellation: Lodi; Mokelumne River Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Lemongrass; rosé petals; firm palate. www.whitewinewinery.com
TRINCHERO FAMILY ESTATES
2021 Chardonnay Sonoma County Sustainably Farmed Grapes
Seaglass 2021 Rosé Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Double Gold, Best of Class; Best of Show Rosé Wine Score: 98 Appellation: Monterey County Price: $12 Tasting Notes: Light delicate; pale blush complex and lively. www.tfewines.com
DOUBLE GOLD, BEST OF CLASS
ACQUIESCE WINERY & VINEYARDS 2022 Cinsaut Rosé Lodi Rules Estate Produced and Bottled Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Double Gold, Best of Class
ALEXANDER VALLEY VINEYARDS Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $22 Tasting Notes: Baked apple and powdered ginger. Gooseberry tones. avvwine.com
ANCIENT PEAKS WINERY 2020 Renegade Santa Margarita Ranch AVA; SIP Certified; Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other Red Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $26 Tasting Notes: Coffee; cola; bacon; maple syrup; some dark fruit. www.ancientpeaks.com
APSARA CELLARS 2021 Whole Cluster Syrah Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Sonoma Mountain Price: $80 Tasting Notes: Bright; less weighty; black fruit and good balance. Nimble. www.apsaracellars.com
BARGETTO WINERY/ CHAUCERS CELLARS NV Chaucer’s Raspberry Mead Category: Meads Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $16 Tasting Notes: Strawberry blossom; noise; good funk; nicely balanced; raspberry. www.bargetto.com; www. chaucerswine.com
BELTANE RANCH 2022 Drummond Block Estate Sauvignon Blanc Estate Grown Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $34
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Tasting Notes: nice acidity; tart white peach and Eureka lemon; lime grass; green apple; intense fruit continues on finish www.beltaneranch.com
Appellation: Petaluma Gap Price: $85 Tasting Notes: Wild strawberries; mandarin peel; fresh raspberry; spice www.bluefarmwines.com
Appellation: Ohio Price: $13.1 Tasting Notes: Precisely Catawba; beautifully expressive; palate pleasing. www.breitenbachwine.com
BENZIGER FAMILY WINERY
2020 Laceroni Vineyard Single Vineyard; Estate Grown Estate Grown
Breitenbach NV Roadhouse Red
2021 West Rows Chardonnay Estate Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Los Carneros Price: $37 Tasting Notes: Lovely; crisp; clean; pretty; balanced; sweet floral; dandelions. www.benziger.com
BIG DOG VINEYARDS 2019 Cabernet Franc Estate Grown; Unfiltered Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: San Francisco Bay Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Well balanced; tobacco and fruit. Long powerful finish. Layered black fruit. Definitely Cab Franc; well made. bigdogvineyards.com
BLUE FARM 2021 Gap’s Crown Vineyard Estate Farmed Single Vineyard Reserve Category: Pinot Noir > $75.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 99
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Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $75 Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit; creamy; tart vanilla oak. Very well put together. www.bluefarmwines.com
BOGLE FAMILY WINE COLLECTION Phantom 2020 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Clarksburg (Yolo) Price: $18 Tasting Notes: Key Lime pie; sophisticated www.boglewinery.com
Category: Native American Hybrid Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Ohio Price: $1 Tasting Notes: Spicy; true to varietal; with balance to mid-palate to finish. Excellent. www.breitenbachwine.com
CAROL SHELTON WINES
CLINE CELLARS
2021 Coquille Blanc Category: White Rhone Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $27.99 Tasting Notes: Honey; peach; integrated oak; layers; clean finish;layered fruit www.carolshelton.com
CELLAR BEAST WINEHOUSE
NV Brut Rosé
2021 The Dark Angel Pontin Del Roza Winemaker’s Reserve Blend
Category: Sparkling Rosé <2.5% rs Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Nose is tantalizingly; red cherry; tangerine; with notes of spice box; vibrancy. www.bricoleurvineyards.com
CARBOY WINERY NV Grand Cuvee Colorado Sparkling Wine Sparkling Wine Traditional Method
Breitenbach NV First Crush
Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Grand Valley Price: $57 Tasting Notes: Bright citrus;
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Tasting Notes: Plummy; cohesive; well balanced www.cinderwines.com
BRICOLEUR VINEYARDS LLC
BREITENBACH WINE CELLARS Category: White Hybrid Varietals Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96
intriguing; floral notes; stunning. carboywinery.com
Category: Other Red Bordeaux Type Varietals > $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Yakima Valley Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Italian Combination Pizza (olive & sausage) Wood Verdant www.CellarBeastWine.com
CINDER WINES Laissez Faire 2022 Red Wine Category: Proprietary (House) Red Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Snake River Valley Price: $24
2022 Viognier Category: Viognier Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: North Coast Price: $15 Tasting Notes: fusel aromatics; coastal; lemon tart candies. A lovely wine. www.clinecellars.com
Jacuzzi Family Vineyards 2021 Malvasia Bianca Category: Italian White Varietals Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95 Appellation: Lodi Price: $26.99 Tasting Notes: Apple pie; spicy; good acidity www.clinecellars.com
DANCIN VINEYARDS Dancin 2021 Tribute Barrel Aged Category: Barbera Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $55 Tasting Notes: Bold; sophisticated notes of red and black fruits. A finish that keeps on giving.
DELICATO FAMILY WINES Stoneleigh 2022 Sauvignon Blanc
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 99 Appellation: Marlborough Price: $17 Tasting Notes: slate; key lime pie; meringue; pronounced flint stone and mango; graham cracker crust. www.delicato.com
DUBOST 2019 Jacob’s Ladder Category: Other Red Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Adelaida District Price: $25 Tasting Notes: Juicy full rich boysenberry. Lovely Rhone wine. www.dubostwine.com
2022 Rosé Wert Hill Vineyard Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Adelaida District Price: $75 Tasting Notes: Great color. Berries; beautiful balance; strawberry; crisp; balanced; mouth watering www.dubostwine.com
DUTCHER CROSSING WINERY Dutcher Crossing 2022 Dutcher Crossing Sauvignon Blanc Barrel Aged Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01
Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $56 Tasting Notes: gravely; Asian pear; boxwood; beautifully long finish without heat. www.dutchercrossing winery.com
Dutcher Crossing 2018 Cooney Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Alexander Valley Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Bold; rich; lush; textured; yummy; excellent. www.dutchercrossing winery.com
EFESTE 2020 Grenache Estate Grown and Produced Category: Grenache Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 99 Appellation: Red Mountain Price: $45 Tasting Notes: High acid; bright; precise; elegant; aromatics; southern Rhone; electric. www.efeste.com
ENKIDU WINE Enkidu 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon; Sonoma County; “ANSAR” Reserve Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class
Score: 99 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $95 Tasting Notes: Nice touch of cassis; classic Cab; nice acidity; food friendly. www.enkiduwines.com
Enkidu 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $38 Tasting Notes: Cassis; nice balance; blueberries; boysenberry; nice spice; age worthy. www.enkiduwines.com
FAITH HOPE AND CHARITY WINERY Faith Hope and Charity Vineyards 2018 Marechal Foch Estate Category: Red Hybrid Varietals Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Oregon Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Excellent varietal character; spicy; generous fruit; well balanced. www.faithhopeand charityevents.com
FOLEY FAMILY WINES Ferrari-Carano 2022 Fumé Blanc
Appellation: North Coast Price: $17 Tasting Notes: Candy; gingered; salty melon. www.foleyfamilywines.com
FOUR LANTERNS WINERY 2017 Merlot Reserva Reserva aged 3 yrs in barrel and one in bottle before released
Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Merlot > $75.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Paso Robles; Templeton Gap District Price: $112 Tasting Notes: Pair with rack of lamb/w mint jelly. Herbaceous; everything a good merlot should have! www.fourlanternswinery.com
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Double Gold DANCIN Vineyards DANCIN 2021 Tribute Barrel Aged Category: Barbera Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Bold; sophisticated notes of red and black fruits. A finish that keeps on giving. www.dancin.com
Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
FURTHERMORE WINES 2019 Nevina’s Vineyard Pinot Noir Single Vineyard Estate Grown Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Sonoma Coast Price: $75 Tasting Notes: Good value;
ruby color; solid tasting Pinot Noir. www.furthermorepinot noir.com
2019 Sierra Mar Vineyard Pinot Noir Single Vineyard Estate Bottled and Produced Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97
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Double Gold Gainey Vineyard 2021 Estate Pinot Noir Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Cherry cola; light style; blood orange; nice acid. www.gaineyvineyard.com
Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands Price: $55 Tasting Notes: Rhubarb; nice follow through. Very round and earthy. www.furthermorepinotnoir. com
GAINEY VINEYARD 2021 Estate Pinot Noir Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Cherry cola; light style; blood orange; nice acid. www.gaineyvineyard.com
GRINDSTONE WINES Grindstone 2019 Petit Verdot Estate Grown Category: Petit Verdot Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: California Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Earthy; sage aromas; Bing cherry; ripeness; long finish; well balanced. www.grindstonewines.com
HAHN FAMILY WINES Hahn SLH 2021 Pinot Noir Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95
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SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands Price: $30 Tasting Notes: Dry earthy. Hint of blood orange www.hahnwines.com
HALF MOON BAY WINERY 2021 Mavericks Sauvignon Blanc 100% Stainless Steel Fermented and Aged Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $16.99 Tasting Notes: Sage; lemon grass; nice nose; well balanced. www.halfmoonbaywinery. com
HAMILTON CELLARS 2019 Bona Vita Family owned; barrel aged Estate Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Red Mountain Price: $40 Tasting Notes: thick; dusty; coats the tongue; graphite www.hamiltoncellars.com
HEAVEN’S GATE VINEYARD 2019 HGV Mourvedre Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Double Gold, Best of Class
Score: 96 Appellation: Borden Ranch Price: $29 Tasting Notes: Fresh strawberry jam; boysenberry; fruity; delicious; spice box; sweet tobacco.
HEDGES FAMILY ESTATE DLD 2020 Descendants Liegeois Dupont - Syrah Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Red Mountain Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Showcases savory side of Syrah. Black pepper; dense; syrupy tart. Roasty; cherry and oak. www.hedgesfamilyestate. com
HERTELENDY VINEYARDS Hertelendy 2019 Woolsey Road Vineyard Chardonnay Barrel Aged Category: Chardonnay > $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $85 Tasting Notes: Banana cream pie; hazelnut; honey; pineapple; very balanced and luscious. www.hertelendy.com
PHOTO BY MICHAEL DESMOND
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
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R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
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Double Gold
Best of Class
Double Gold
Gold
Gold
93 POINTS 96 POINTS
93 POINTS 96 POINTS
ESTATE GROWN WINES IN BEAUTIFUL PASO ROBLES, CALIFORNIA. WE’RE HONORED TO RECEIVE GOLD, DOUBLE GOLD, AND BEST OF CL ASS FROM SUNSET MAGAZINE.
FOURL ANTERNSWINERY
FOURL ANTERNSWINERY.COM
2485 WEST HIGHWAY 46, PASO ROBLES, CA 93446
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
HOOT OWL CREEK WINERY
IMAGERY ESTATE WINERY
Hoot Owl Creek Vineyards 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon
2020 Cabernet Franc Estate Produced and Bottled
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Notes of dark chocolate drinking perfectly. Pink peppercorn; currants. hootowlcreekvineyards.com
Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $55 Tasting Notes: Nice uniform structure. Bell pepper; jalapeno. An elegant wine. www.imagerywinery.com
HOUSE OF BROWN Brown Estate 2022 House of Brown Rosé Direct press; limited skin contact; Vegan Friendly; Certified Sustainable Category: Rosé Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Lodi Price: $19.99 Tasting Notes: Fun blend; highly aromatic; floral; peaches and cream; well made. WOW! Houseofbrown.wine
IDLE CELLARS 2016 Merlot Category: Merlot > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Structure; good finish; bright fruit with depth. idlecellars.com
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Class Score: 96 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Rich; vanilla cream soda; good texture; honey. www.jaxonkeys.com
JESSIE’S GROVE WINERY 2020 Alicante Bouschet Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $17.99 Tasting Notes: Nice apple. Really good wine. www.irisvineyards.com
Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Lodi (San Joaquin) Price: $14 Tasting Notes: Mouthwatering concentrated fruit; old leather goods; substantial in fruit expression and mouthfeel; enjoyable without overpowering. www.jessiesgrovewinery.com
J. RICKARDS WINERY
JØYUS
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Serpentine Ridge Reserve Estate
NV Sparkling Wine Non-Alcoholic
IRIS VINEYARDS 2022 Pinot Gris
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $62 Tasting Notes: Lovely; inky; luscious. www.jrwinery.com
JAXON KEYS NV Jaxon Keys Brandy Conerstone Barrel Aged Category: Brandy Award: Double Gold, Best of
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Category: No alcohol Sparkling White Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Washington Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Very enjoyable; apple; nice texture and finish. drinkjoyus.com
KING ESTATE WINERY King Estate 2022 Pinot Gris Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio
Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $19 Tasting Notes: Floral;pear; spice; perfect balance; white pepper; lemon peel. kingestate.com
LEDSON WINERY AND VINEYARDS Ledson 2019 Tiamo Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends > $75.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 99 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $110 Tasting Notes: Well balanced; elegant for linen table; special wine. www.ledson.com
LIONSTONE INTERNATIONAL Capital Z 2021 Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Lodi Price: $15.99 Tasting Notes: Black cherry cola; floral; lifted aromatics; passion fruit.
Left Of Ordinary 2021 Tannat Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: California Price: $18.99
Tasting Notes: Tame tannins; refined expression; red current; strawberry rhubarb pie; black Satsuma plum.
LINDSAY CREEK VINEYARDS 2022 Riesling Category: Riesling semisweet 2.1 - 4.0% rs Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $17 Tasting Notes: Well balanced and structured; creamy finish. Nice mouth feel. Good standalone. lcvineyards.com
LUCID WINERY Lucid Wine 2021 Memorial Malbec Estate Produced and Bottled Category: Malbec Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $38 Tasting Notes: Very pretty wine; Intense; spicy; plum; cedar box. www.lucidwinery.com
MACCHIA 2021 Amorous Category: Sangiovese Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Lodi Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Tobacco; chewy; nice oak; vanilla; lots of fruit; great for aging; nice tannins. www.macchiawines.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
2021 Superlicious Barrel Aged Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Lodi Price: $24 Tasting Notes: Stylish varietal fruit; soft tannins; rich and perfectly balanced; charming quaffer. www.macchiawines.com
2020 Dangerous Listneadt Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Port Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95 Appellation: Amador County; Sierra Foothills Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Minty and fresh; chocolate covered cherries. www.macchiawines.com
MAKER WINE COMPANY 2022 Verdelho Category: White Wines Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Lodi Price: $8 Tasting Notes: Pretty; peach; citrus; tropical; nose is stellar; musk melon. www.makerwine.com
MATRIX WINERY 2021 Rockpile Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class
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Score: 98 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $56 Tasting Notes: Grippy quality; tight; still young. Bright. www.matrixwinery.com
MAZZOCCO SONOMA WINERY Mazzocco Sonoma 2020 Petite Sirah Maria Category: Petite Sirah Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $38 Tasting Notes: Great acidity. Spicy. Trace of earth; complex. Blackberry. Big; Balanced. www.mazzocco.com
MCPRICE MYERS WINES 2021 Right Hand Man Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $25 Tasting Notes: Floral; raspberry-white pepper. Stewed tomato chutney; very concentrated. https://www.mcpricemyers. com/
MIRO CELLARS
Class Score: 98 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Huge wine; big and bold; fennel and cassis; molasses; meaty. mirocellars.com
Miro 2021 Miro Zinfandel Bastoni Bastoni Vineyard Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Fountaingrove District Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Balanced; nice and smooth; full mouth; succulent; nice vanilla bean; perfectly ripe fruit; cocoa. mirocellars.com
MONSERATE VINEYARDS AND WINERY 2021 Negroamaro Estate Grown Produced and Bottled Category: Italian Red Varietals Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: San Diego County Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Bursts of flavor; food friendly; well balanced; wild berries; cherry; whisper of herbs; fantastic finish.
Miro 2021 Petite Sirah Coyote Ridge Vineyard
MY ITALIAN COUSIN
Category: Petite Sirah Award: Double Gold, Best of
Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
My Italian Cousin - Eugenio - 2019
Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Nice fruit; round rich; Bing Cherry; meaty dark fruit; great structure & length; chewy tannins. http://myitaliancousin.com/
O’NEILL VINTNERS & DISTILLERS Robert Hall 2020 Merlot - Artisan Collection Category: Merlot =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $19.99 Tasting Notes: Dried herbs; coco powder; ripe cherry and plum; sweet tobacco. www.ONeillWine.com
PARADISE RIDGE WINERY Paradise Ridge 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Estate Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Bright; racy; lemon; minerality. Blossoms on the nose; delicacy. www.prwinery.com
PENNYROYAL FARM 2022 PinoTrio
Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Other White Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $33 Tasting Notes: taste of place; really nice wine; good fruit; clean; apple www.PennyroyalFarm.com
PEZZI KING VINEYARDS Pezzi King 2020 Serracino Zinfandel Reserve Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $62 Tasting Notes: Classic zin; blacktea; hints of black pepper. Ripe red fruit; wilh herbs. www.pezziking.com
Pezzi King 2020 Rockpile Reserve Zinfandel Single Vineyard Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Rockpile Price: $50 Tasting Notes: Figgy; aromatic; expansive; structure; texture. www.pezziking.com
PICCHETTI WINERY 2021 Leslie’s Estate Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Score: 98 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $39.95 Tasting Notes: Peanut butter cookies; true fruit; Burgundian style. Excellant! www.picchetti.com
POPE VALLEY WINERY 2022 Rosé Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $36 Tasting Notes: Strawberry; pretty; delicate. www.popevalleywinery.com
PURPLE BRANDS Four Vines 2021 The Maverick Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir = <$20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95 Appellation: Monterey County Price: $17.99 Tasting Notes: Charming varietal character. Cherry fruit; spice; earth. Elegant finish. Balanced and juicy purplebrands.com
PWR WINES 2021 Tempranillo Barrel Aged Category: Tempranillo Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Clarksburg Price: $19 Tasting Notes: Medium body; gorgeous Bing cherry; great nose; elegant.
pwrwines.com
RIVINO ESTATE VINEYARDS & WINERY Rivino 2022 Pinot Blanc RIVINO Ranch Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other White Varietals Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $27 Tasting Notes: Stone fruits; white peach; white flowers; vanilla confections; citrus pith. www.rivino.com
ROBERT YOUNG ESTATE WINERY 2019 Bob’s Burn Pile Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Moca and black tea. Dark plumsblackberry. Very swell balanced; long finish. www.sequoiagrove.com
SIDEREUS VINEYARD & WINERY Sidereus 2022 Riesling Laurelwood District Estate Grown Category: Riesling semi-dry 0.91 - 2.0% rs Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Chehalem Mountains Price: $22 Tasting Notes: Finish is stunning; classic Riesling. Bright summer fruit. www.sidereuswinery.com
SIPWELL WINE CO.
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $105 Tasting Notes: Cedar; black cherry; anise; cocoa dusted; long juicy finish. www.ryew.com
2022 Perfect Day
SEQUOIA GROVE WINERY
SONORAN WINES
2019 Napa Valley Malbec Category: Malbec
Category: Rosé Wines Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $6 Tasting Notes: Pretty white flowers; melon; saline; nice mouthfeel; white stone fruit; mandarins. www.sipwell.co
2018 Real de Terrenate Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of
Class Score: 97 Appellation: Arizona; Cochise County Price: $39 Tasting Notes: Aged; pretty & earthy; just tastes good. www.sonoranwines.com
Score: 97 Appellation: California Price: $20 Tasting Notes: Good finish; juicy round pleasing finish; nice complexity. www.thewinegroup.com
STARFIELD VINEYARDS TRINCHERO FAMILY ESTATES 2020 Bronson Bros. Estate Grown
Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: El Dorado Price: $46 Tasting Notes: Minty quality; balanced black fruit; robust varietal typicality - crowd pleaser. www.starfieldvineyards.com
STE MICHELLE WINE ESTATES Tormaresca 2022 Calafuria Rosato Category: Rosé Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Salento IGT Price: $22 Tasting Notes: Stone fruit & cream; juicy; balanced; pleasant acidity; crowd pleaser. www.ste-michelle-wineestates.com
THE WINE GROUP Imagery 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class
Fre NV Sparkling Brut Category: No alcohol white Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: California Price: $12 Tasting Notes: Floral; bright with lime. www.tfewines.com
Menage a Trois 2021 Midnight Dark Red Blend Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: California Price: $14 Tasting Notes: Good herbal notes; plummy; layers. www.tfewines.com
Seaglass 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Santa Barbara County Price: $12 Tasting Notes: Bright; vibrant; tart and tangy; gets better in the glass. www.tfewines.com
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Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
VINA ROBLES VINEYARDS & WINERY Vina Robles 2019 Mountain Road Reserve Estate Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Paso Robles; Adelaida District Price: $62 Tasting Notes: Opulent; nice oak; plush; rich black fruits. www.VinaRobles.com
WENTE FAMILY ESTATES Wente Vineyards 2019 Artiest Series Duetto Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Chocolaty; oak; built to last; has structure. www.wentevineyards.com
WESTBROOK WINE FARM Fait Accompli 2011 Fait Accompli October Harvest Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 96 Appellation: Madera County
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Price: $75 Tasting Notes: Magnificent and mature. Leather; earthy character. Walnut. www.westbrookwinefarm. com
WILLIAM HERITAGE WINERY Jersey NV Jersey Red Category: Native American Vinifera Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 95 Appellation: American Price: $119 Tasting Notes: Elegant; expressive; smooth; very textured; great with a meal. www.heritagewinenj.com
WILSON CREEK WINERY & VINEYARDS, INC.
Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Black sesame; chocolate; blackberry cobbler; truffle; explosive. www.wilsonwinery.com
WISE VILLA WINERY 2022 Stainless steel Chardonnay Estate Produced and Bottled Category: Unoaked Chardonnay Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 97 Appellation: Lodi; Clements Hills Price: $35 Tasting Notes: great texture from concrete; harmony of sweet; sour; bitterness. www.wisevillawinery.com
DOUBLE GOLD
2020 Vardande Estate Grown
ABACELA
Category: Other Red Blends Award: Double Gold, Best of Class Score: 98 Appellation: Temecula Valley Price: $46.99 Tasting Notes: Fruit driven; opens at mid palate. Aromatic www.wilsoncreekwinery.com
2020 Tempranillo Fiesta Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
WILSON WINERY OF DRY CREEK 2021 Primitivo / McClain Single Vineyard Selection Category: Primitivo
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Category: Tempranillo Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Umpqua Valley Price: $27 Tasting Notes: Good earthy notes; juicy; crowd pleaser; juniper; black fruit; dried plum. www.abacela.com
ACQUIESCE WINERY & VINEYARDS
2022 Jolie Lodi Rules Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: White Rhone Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Lodi; Mokelumne River Price: $34 Tasting Notes: Deep minerality; orange blossom; meyer lemon; lovely mouth feel; juicy. www.whitewinewinery.com
FOLEY FAMILY WINES Acrobat 2022 Rosé Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Oregon Price: $15.99 Tasting Notes: Juicy; balanced; right acidity. Crisp; good varietal character www.foleyfamilywines.com
ALEXANDER VALLEY VINEYARDS 2019 Sin Zin Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $24 Tasting Notes: Sweet juicy blackberry; nice lingering finish; Earthiness. avvwine.com
AMMONS HORN WINES Ammons Horn 2020 Pinot Noir
Clone 777 Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Carneros Price: $44 Tasting Notes: Bing cherry; balanced; very good color. ammonshornwines.com
ASCENSION CELLARS 2022 Siren Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Paso Robles Geneseo District Price: $32 Tasting Notes: WOW Aromatics; chutney; raspberry; beautiful acidity; captures every varietal. www.ascensioncellars.com
BARGETTO WINERY/ CHAUCERS CELLARS Bargetto Winery 2019 Dolcetto Estate Vineyard Category: Italian Red Varietals Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Juicy; purity; spice; sour cherries; raspberry; dried herbs; aromatics; tannins and acid; well balanced. www.bargetto.com; www. chaucerswine.com
Bargetto Winery 2020 Pommard Clone Pinot Noir Barrel Aged Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Bitter chocolate; dipped cherries. www.bargetto.com; www. chaucerswine.com
BARLOW VINEYARDS Barlow 2018 Barrouge Estate Single Vineyard Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Napa Valley; Calistoga Price: $55 Tasting Notes: Roasty oak; integrated fruit; long finish; good example of oak. www.barlowvineyards.com
BARRISTER WINERY 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pepper Bridge Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Walla Walla Valley Price: $41 Tasting Notes: Herbal cherry; toasty oak; pleasant; dusty tannins; red fruit. barristerwinery.com
2019 Sangiovese Kiona Estate Category: Sangiovese Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Red Mountain Price: $37 Tasting Notes: Big oak; lots of fruit; cherry; good balance between oak and fruit; good food wine; vanilla.
barristerwinery.com
BELLAGRACE VINEYARDS 2020 Amador Barbera Category: Barbera Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Amador County Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Licorice; tobacco; lavish flavors of crushed blackberry and raspberry. www.BellaGraceVineyards. com
BENZIGER FAMILY WINERY 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon; Sunny Slope Vineyard Estate Bottled Estate Grown and Produced Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Sonoma County; Sonoma Valley Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Cocoa; sweet red fruit; cranberry; long finish. www.benziger.com
BIG OAK RANCH LLC DBA LIGHTPOST WINERY Lightpost Winery 2021 2021 Pinot Noir SCM Vintner’s Reserve Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold
Score: 96 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $58 Tasting Notes: Tart red fruit; cranberry; classic Pinot. lightpostwinery.com
BIG OAK RANCH LLC DBA LIGHTPOST WINERY Lightpost Winery 2021 2021 Pinot Noir Saveria Vintage Reserve Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $58 Tasting Notes: Beautiful terroir notes. Rich; good spice; ripe berry fruit; cherry cola. lightpostwinery.com
BLUE FARM 2021 Anne Katherina Vineyard Single Vineyard; Estate Grown Single Vineyard Category: Pinot Noir > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Carneros Price: $85 Tasting Notes: Blue fruit; pomegranate; blueberry. Opulent. www.bluefarmwines.com
2021 King Ridge Vineyard Single Vineyard; Estate Grown Estate Grown Category: Pinot Noir > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Fort Ross
- Seaview Price: $95 Tasting Notes: Red plum; dark cherry; sea smoke. www.bluefarmwines.com
BOGLE FAMILY WINE COLLECTION Phantom 2019 Red Blend Barrel Aged Category: Proprietary (House) Red Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: California Price: $18 Tasting Notes: Upfront blackberry Pepper (red); balanced. www.boglewinery.com
BOKISCH VINEYARDS NV Sparkling Albariño Estate Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Clements Hills Price: $36.5 Tasting Notes: Citrusy; lemon-lime; tropical fruit; mango; great food wine. www.bokischvineyards.com
BREATHLESS WINES Breathless NV Blanc de Blancs Methode Champenoise Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $39 Tasting Notes: Bright finish; citrus; lovely tropical notes;
yeasty. www.breathlesswines.com
BRICOLEUR VINEYARDS LLC 2021 Grenache Kick Ranch Estate Category: Grenache Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Fountain Grove Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Floral; spiced cherry; delicate; red cherry; cinnamon; cardamon. www.bricoleurvineyards.com
2021 RRV Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $85 Tasting Notes: Deep color; pretty; age worthy; lots of umami. www.bricoleurvineyards.com
2021 Special Selection Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 98 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $70 Tasting Notes: Lively notes of violet; pomegranate; black raspberry. www.bricoleurvineyards.com
CA’ MOMI 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Napa Valley
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Price: $24.99 Tasting Notes: Toasty cherry cola; big fruit; rich; nice wine; nice acidity. www.camomi.com
CACTUS STAR VINEYARD Scaredy Cat Ranch 2020 Petit Verdot Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Petit Verdot Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Ramona Valley Price: $42 Tasting Notes: Cocoa/ mocha tones; toasted nuts; olive tapenade. scaredycatranch.com
CAMARADERIE CELLARS 2020 Grenache Category: Grenache Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $31.5 Tasting Notes: Nice mouth feel; red plum; spicy; balanced. www.camaraderiecellars.com
CAROL SHELTON WINES 2022 Wild Thing Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $21.99 Tasting Notes: Bright apple; lemon zest; good acid; food wine. www.carolshelton.com
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CASS WINERY 2022 Viognier Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Viognier Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Paso Robles Geneseo District Price: $38 Tasting Notes: baking spices; white pepper; peach and apricot; magnolia/orange blossom. www.casswines.com
CELLAR 13 WINERY 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $43 Tasting Notes: Rich; soft; full; round; dark; ull body; provocative; spice; complexity. http://www.Cellar13Winery. com
CINNABAR VINEYARDS & WINERY 2021 Mercury Rising Red Blend Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: California Price: $26 Tasting Notes: nice oak; great opaque color; ponderous. cinnabarwinery.com
CLINE CELLARS Jacuzzi Family Vineyards
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
2020 Giocondo
Estate Single Vineyard
Category: Grenache Award: Double Gold Score: 98 Appellation: Carneros Price: $52 Tasting Notes: Blackberry; rosémary; complex smooth; refreshing on palate; complex. www.clinecellars.com
Category: Malbec Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Elegant; lovely layers. BIG wine; clean nose. coxfamilyvineyards.com
CLOS DU VAL WINERY Clos du Val 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Textural. Classic Bordeaux style; well balanced. www.closduval.com
CORUCE VINEYARDS AND WINERY 2020 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Antelope Valley of the California High Desert (Los Angeles) Price: $29 Tasting Notes: Chocolate; mushroom; white chocolate; and blood orange peel. www.corucevineyards andwinery.com
COX VINEYARDS JLC 2020 Malbec Cox Family Vineyards
CRU WINERY 2019 Sierra Madre Vineyard Chardonnay Single Vineyard Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Santa Maria Valley Price: $25 Tasting Notes: Lemon chiffon; hazelnuts; bright hints of pomelo and papaya. www.cruwinery.com
2021 SLH Pinot Noir Smith & Lindley Vineyard Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Great representation; balanced; shows promise; delicate. www.cruwinery.com
D & L CARINALLI VINEYARDS 2021 Chardonnay D & L Carinalli Vineyards Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold
Score: 96 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $25 Tasting Notes: Bright; fresh and lively. Well made. www.dlcarinallivineyards.com
DANCIN VINEYARDS Dancin 2021 Adagio Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $42 Tasting Notes: Pleasantly chubby on palate; brightness; a lot of cherry; Wildberry; Huckleberry; mulberry; raspberry; lovely savory character.
Dancin 2021 En Croix;Barrel Fermented Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $33 Tasting Notes: Golden apple; star fruit. Peachy lemonade. Butterscotch notes.
DAVIS FAMILY VINEYARDS 2020 Sangiovese Category: Sangiovese Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $48 Tasting Notes: Supple; nice wine; lots of spice; vanilla; mature fruit; cherry. www.daviswines.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
www.dotwinery.com
DEL RIO VINEYARD ESTATE 2022 Grenache Rosé Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $17.99 Tasting Notes: Floral ;citrus; pale sunset; white stone fruit; mouth watering; balanced. www.delriovineyards.com
DRY CREEK VINEYARD 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $25 Tasting Notes: New Zealand style from Dry Creek. Floral ripe fruit; refreshing. www.drycreekvineyard.com
ECO TERRENO WINES DOMAINE DE BROGLIE & VINEYARDS 2019 Cuvée Pinot Noir Barrel Aged Estate Grown Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Dundee Hills Price: $44 Tasting Notes: Soft and tight tannin; concentrated and intense on palate and finish; texture; silky. www.domainedebroglie.com
DOT WINES LLC Dot Wine 2022 Nalu Sauvignon Blanc Certified Sustainable Single Vineyard Selection Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Yum! Wet stone minerality; chalky; summer rain; long finish; hint of Mandarin orange.
2019 Cuvée Tierra Red Wine Biodynamically farmed Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $27 Tasting Notes: Aromatic; nice finish; pretty; earthy; smooth; purple rosé. https://www.ecoterreno.com/
ENKIDU WINE
FOLEY FAMILY WINES
Enkidu 2019 Pinot Noir; Russian River Valley; Tina Marie Vineyard
Acrobat 2022 Rosé
Single Vineyard Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Sonoma County; Russian River Valley; Green Valley Price: $68 Tasting Notes: Cola; age worthy; rhubarb pie; nice wine; nice balance. www.enkiduwines.com
FAITH; HOPE AND CHARITY WINERY 2021 La Crescent Estate Grown
EHRET FAMILY WINERY
Category: White Hybrid Varietals Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Oregon Price: $45 Tasting Notes: True to varietal; floral; honeysuckle; tropical plumeria; aromatic. www.faithhopeand charityevents.com
2019 Hillside Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Bavarian Lion Vineyards
FLAMBEAUX WINE
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Knights Valley Price: $125 Tasting Notes: Old world meets new world; fruity; well balanced; beautiful cassis; great oak. www.ehretwinery.com
Flambeaux 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $70 Tasting Notes: Soft floral notes with ripening blackberry. www.flambeauxwine.com
Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Oregon Price: $15.99 Tasting Notes: Juicy; balanced; right acidity. Crisp; good varietal character
www.foleyfamilywines.com
FORIS VINEYARDS WINERY Foris 2022 Pinot Gris Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio Award: Double Gold Score: 96
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold D & L Carinalli Vineyards 2021 Chardonnay D & L Carinalli Vineyards Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Bright; fresh and lively. Well made. www.dlcarinallivineyards.com
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $17 Tasting Notes: Energetic wine. Rosé petals; well made. www.foriswine.com
FORTUNATI VINEYARDS 2020 Malbec Category: Malbec Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Oak Knoll District Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Pretty regal; ruby rich and lean. www.fortunativineyards.com
2019 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Price: $175 Tasting Notes: Elegant; black currant; tobacco leaf; leather; fresh cinnamon; cassis; classic Cab. www.fortunativineyards.com
FOUR LANTERNS WINERY 2022 House Rosé Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Rosé Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Paso Robles; Templeton Gap District Price: $36 Tasting Notes: Pretty wine; inviting nose; great color; nice balance; beautiful clarity; raspberry and rosé petal.
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www.fourlanternswinery.com
FOUR SISTERS RANCH 2018 Sacheen Red Wine Bordeaux Style Red Wine Barrel Aged Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $56 Tasting Notes: sweet red fruit; cherry; very pretty. www.foursistersranch.com
2019 Serena’s Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Estate Bottled Reserve Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Paso Robles Estrella District Price: $44 Tasting Notes: Generous helping of blue fruit. Wild berries; bayleaf. www.foursistersranch.com
GARRÉ VINEYARD AND WINERY 2019 Primitivo Estate Category: Primitivo Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $36 Tasting Notes: Bright flavors; wild strawberries; dark plum.
GREENWOOD RIDGE VINEYARDS
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
2021 ZINFANDEL RUSSIAN RIVER Grown; Produced and Bottled
VINEYARDS
Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Sonoma County; Russian River Valley Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Rich; earthy; black cherry soda; expansive; layers. www.greenwoodridge.com
2019 Malbec Shayna Vista Vineyard Single Vineyard
GWINLLAN ESTATE 2019 Rosé Sparkling Wine Methode Champenoise Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Sparkling Rosé <2.5% rs Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Fair Play Price: $42 Tasting Notes: Purity; elegance in a glass; pretty fruit; hint of herbs; complex with touch of tangerine. gwinllanestate.com
Category: Malbec Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Ripe; intense; good wine. Chocolate tones; baking spice. www.hansfahden.com
HARNEY LANE WINERY Harney Lane 2022 Albarino Category: Spanish White Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Lodi; Mokelumne River Price: $18 Tasting Notes: summer flowers; delightful mouth feel; well-balanced. www.harneylane.com
HALTER RANCH VINEYARD
HERTELENDY VINEYARDS
Halter Ranch 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown & Bottled
Hertelendy 2019 Audere Red Blend Barrel Aged
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Adelaida District Price: $55 Tasting Notes: Deep; broad and pretty. www.halterranch.com
Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $75 Tasting Notes: Charming varietal character; black olives green tea. www.hertelendy.com
HANS FAHDEN
HOLESINSKY WINERY 2020 Idawine Red Blend
Category: Other Red Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Snake River Valley Price: $14 Tasting Notes: Big full fruity “”Beast”” Lovable; deep fruit. www.holesinsky.com
2020 100% Pinot Noir Barrel Select Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Snake River Valley Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Bold; full body; long finish. www.holesinsky.com
IRIS VINEYARDS 2020 House Call Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Oregon Price: $19.99 Tasting Notes: Red fruit; smooth; subtle. www.irisvineyards.com
IRONSTONE VINEYARDS Kautz & Kramer 2019 Sheldon Ranch; Block 72 Cabernet Franc Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Lodi Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Generous; yet graceful; power and oak. Tobacco with rich sweet fruit and ripe black plum. Exuberant; opulent; winemaker’s wine. www.ironstonevineyards.com
2 0 2 3 S U N S E T I N T E R NAT I O NA L W I N E C O M P E T I T I O N
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POINTS
98
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL
BEST OF CLASS
POINTS
good for the earth, great in the glass 18 8 3 L ON D ON R A NC H ROA D, G L E N E L L E N, C A 8 8 8.49 0.27 3 9 | W W W. B E N Z IG E R .C OM
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
J. LOHR VINEYARDS & WINES 2021 J. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Vanilla; dark chocolate; lead pencil; very nice wine; good black. https://www.jlohr.com
J. RICKARDS WINERY 2020 Old Vine Zinfandel 1908 Brignole Reserve Estate Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Sonoma County; Alexander Valley Price: $47 Tasting Notes: Cocoa; notes of sarsaparilla and allspice. www.jrwinery.com
J WRIGLEY VINEYARDS 2021 Proposal Block Pinot Noir Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: McMinnville Price: $68 Tasting Notes: Grapey; very yummy; youthful. www.wrigleywines.com
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JAXON KEYS NV Jaxon Keys Brandy Private Stock Barrel Aged Category: Brandy Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Fresh; green apple; balanced. www.jaxonkeys.com
2021 Primitivo Michael’s Reserve Category: Primitivo Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $349 Tasting Notes: Big bright; luscious; velvety www.jaxonkeys.com
JL WOOD 2021 Premier Winery and farming practices certified sustainable (CSWA) Single Vineyard Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Arroyo Seco Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Minerality; orange peel; wet stone; white pepper; intriguing. jlwoodwine.com
JUSTIN VINEYARDS & WINERY Landmark 2021 Overlook Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Monterery
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
County/Santa Barbara County/Sonoma County Price: $27 Tasting Notes: Abundance of blue fruit; forest floor; cherry cola; black raspberry. www.justinwine.com
KINGS MOUNTAIN WINERY Kings Mountain Vineyards 2019 Bacchus Pinot Noir Estate Grown Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Appellation Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Lean; juicy fruit & fruit forward. Brandy cherry & long finish. www.kingsmountain vineyards.com
LA PRENDA WINES Fifth Hill 2021 Pinot Noir Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Carneros Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Fresh floral; juicy cherry; fruit driven; easy to drink. www.laprendawines.com
LANGETWINS FAMILY WINERY 2022 Aglianico Rosé River Ranch Vineyard Single Vineyard
Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Jahant Price: $25 Tasting Notes: Soft tannin; attractive nose; pleasing finish. Lovely! www.langetwins.com
LIONSTONE INTERNATIONAL Domare 2021 Barbera Category: Barbera Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Piemonte DOC Price: $19.99 Tasting Notes: Classic; medium to full body. Black fruits and mineral; long finish.
GFF Lodi 2021 Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Lodi Price: $18.99 Tasting Notes: Sweet spice; nutmeg; allspice; cinnamon.
Long Bay 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: WO Western Cape Price: $16.99 Tasting Notes: Roasted pine nut; poached pears; wild herbs.
Portinho do Covo 2021 Red blend Category: Other Red Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Vinho Regional Beiras Price: $15.99 Tasting Notes: Outstanding wine. Well integrated fruit spice. Charcuterie and friends wine.
LUCID WINERY Lucid Wine 2021 Forestbed Grenache Estate Produced and Bottled Category: Grenache Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $48 Tasting Notes: Raspberry; strawberry; balanced; good acid; expansive on palate. www.lucidwinery.com
LULA CELLARS 2020 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Dry finish; velvety; plumy; figgy; classic Pinot character. www.lulacellars.com
2019 Rescue Block Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Big; dynamic ; grip in mouth; lasting fruit. www.lulacellars.com
Over 40 years of excellence in Central Coast Pinot Noir
California Table Wine, ©2024 Hahn Estate, Modesto, CA. All rights reserved. 24-5907590-HAN-820-110075427
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
MACCHIA 2021 Generous Mohr Fry Ranch Barrel Aged Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Lodi Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Balanced; dry cherries; bright layered. www.macchiawines.com
2021 Infamous Cooper Ranch Barrel Aged Category: Barbera Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Amador County; Sierra Foothills Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Deep savory texture; generous hints of black fruit. Volcanic ash; gracious. www.macchiawines.com
2021 Meticulous Luna Vista Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Primitivo Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Lodi Price: $30 Tasting Notes: Hickory; cedar notes of violet; boysenberry; and roasted almonds. www.macchiawines.com
MAGITO & COMPANY Meadowcroft Wines 2022 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Anderson Valley
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Price: $38 Tasting Notes: Boysenberry; expensive oak; sexy.
Meadowcroft Wines 2020 River Trace GSM Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: California Price: $50 Tasting Notes: Jammy; lush; dry finish; nice floral bouquet.
MARIETTA CELLARS 2021 Angeli Zinfandel Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $38.5 Tasting Notes: Juicy; fresh; attractive. www.mariettacellars.com
MATRIX WINERY 2022 Shiloh Rosé Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $34 Tasting Notes: Juicy; no edges; delicate great wine; lots of character. www.matrixwinery.com
MAZZOCCO SONOMA WINERY Mazzocco Sonoma 2020 Zinfandel Serracino Reserve Category: Zinfandel > $20.01
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
- $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Olallieberry; savory; brilliantly balanced; great finish. www.mazzocco.com
MCPRICE MYERS WINES Mac & Billy Cellars 2021 M Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Spice; lead pencil; rich; black licorice; very refined. www.mcpricemyers.com
MENDOCINO WINE COMPANY Parducci 2021 True Grit Petite Sirah Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Petite Sirah Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $30 Tasting Notes: Very well balanced. Charming. intensity. www.mendocinowineco.com
MERRIAM VINEYARDS 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Gloeckner-Turner Ranch Single Vineyard Estate Bottled & Produced
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Rockpile Price: $88 Tasting Notes: Bright; great acidity; white pepper; cassis; classic. www.merriamvineyards.com
2022 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Estate Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Sonoma Coast (Sonoma) Price: $30 Tasting Notes: Lime peel and pineapple. Passion fruitgood minerality. www.merriamvineyards.com
METTLER FAMILY VINEYARDS 2019 Epicenter Old Vine Zinfandel Estate Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Lodi Price: $24.99 Tasting Notes: WOW! Lovely dark berries; addition of Petite Sirah adds incredible complexity; velvety texture; so well crafted. www.mettlerwine.com
MI SUENO WINERY 2019 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 97
Appellation: Napa Price: $85 Tasting Notes: Deep dark aromas; cinnamon; graphite; dark black cherry; long finish. misuenowinery.com
2019 Lynne’s Vineyard Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Valley; Mt. Veeder Price: $105 Tasting Notes: Tobacco aromas; cigar box; slight anise flavor; black raspberry. misuenowinery.com
2019 Mama Ester Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Coombsville Price: $105 Tasting Notes: Very floral; dried herbs; roasted pine nuts; mocha; great dustiness; long finish. misuenowinery.com
MIRA WINERY 2017 Hyde Vineyard Pinot Noir Single Vineyard Category: Pinot Noir > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Carneros Price: $95 Tasting Notes: Aromatic wonder blueberry; raspberry; blackberry www.miranapa.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
2016 Hyde Vineyard Merlot Single Vineyard Category: Merlot > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Carneros Price: $95 Tasting Notes: Sweet Fruit; nice chalky; tannins; classic; CA style merlot. www.miranapa.com
MONSERATE WINERY Monserate Vineyards and Winery 2022 Fiore Estate Grown Produced and Bottled Category: Other White Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: San Diego County Price: $29 Tasting Notes: nice mid palate; well done; delivery from start to finish.
Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $34 Tasting Notes: Nice orange; lime; tangerine. www.nicheliniwinery.com
NOTRE VUE ESTATE WINE GROUP Balverne 2021 Chardonnay Certified Sustainable Grown Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Quince; flatbreads brioche; caramel butter popcorn; long finish; www.notrevueestate.com
NAPA DE ORO WINERY OKAPI 2021 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Hazelnut; lemon curd; long lingering finish; butter cream. napadeoro.com
NICHELINI FAMILY WINERY 2022 Roman Press White Estate Bottled Category: Other White Blends
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2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Jungle Love Vineyard Estate Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Valley; Oak Knoll Price: $121 Tasting Notes: Deep dark fruits; purity of variety; tannins; fruit and acid in perfect balance. okapiwine.com
OLIVIA BRION WINES Cantadora 2019 The Sage Organically farmed; not certified
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Barrel Aged Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Amador County; Sierra Foothills Price: $50 Tasting Notes: Elegant. old world construction. Delicate; silkiness. www.oliviabrion.com & www.cantadora.wine
O’NEILL VINTNERS & DISTILLERS Robert Hall 2020 Merlot Category: Merlot =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $19.99 Tasting Notes: Dried herbs; tobacco; mocha; super red plum skins. www.ONeillWine.com
OPOLO WINES Opolo 2021 Summit Creek Zinfandel Barrel Aged Category: Zinfandel =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $20 Tasting Notes: Ripe; dried red fruit; leathery. www.opolo.com
PAPAPIETRO PERRY WINERY Papapietro Perry 2020 Charles Vineyard Pinot Noir
Single Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $66 Tasting Notes: Deep; rich; inviting; juicy; delicious. www.papapietro-perry.com
PARADISE RIDGE WINERY Paradise Ridge 2022 Rosé Wine Brides Blush Category: Rosé Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $32 Tasting Notes: Aromatic; lean; clean; fresh; well balanced; charcuterie notes; raspberry. www.prwinery.com
PELTIER WINERY Peltier 2018 Triomphe Premium Red Blend Lodi Rules Sustainable Winegrowing Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other Red Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Lodi Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Tasting oak; round; easy. peltierwinery.com
PELTZER FAMILY CELLARS 2019 Meritage
Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: California Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Nice harmony; pepper; nicely balanced; nice tannins; great medium body. peltzerwinery.com
PENNYROYAL FARM 2020 Pinot Noir Eye of the Needle Vineyard Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $59 Tasting Notes: Nice oak; vanilla; consumer friendly; balanced. www.PennyroyalFarm.com
2019 Blanc de Noir Traditional Method Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $49 Tasting Notes: Elegant; mouthwatering; honors Pinot fruit; Ranier cherry; pink grapefruit; citrus blossom. www.PennyroyalFarm.com
PERNOD RICARD USA PRW Kenwood Vineyards 2020 Kenwood Vineyards “Six Ridges” Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $16.99 Tasting Notes: Oak well integrated; real tropical; balanced; meyer lemon; nice length. kenwoodvineyards.com
Kenwood Vineyards 2019 Rugged Elements Green Valley Vineyard Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Green Valley of Russian River Valley Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Creamy buttery tones. Pineapple and guava. Rich creamy baked ripe apple. kenwoodvineyards.com
QUIXOTE WINERY Panza 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Stags Leap District Price: $75 Tasting Notes: Luscious; lush & rich; gripping black fruit. www.quixotewinery.com
PICCHETTI WINERY 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Arroyo Seco Price: $24.95
Tasting Notes: Salty sweet melon; complex and dynamic finish. www.picchetti.com
POPE VALLEY WINERY 2019 Faultline Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $72 Tasting Notes: Good acidity red cherry fruit; spicy; rich mid palate; leather; earthy character; walnut. www.popevalleywinery.com
R. STUART AND CO. 2021 Love; Oregon Pinot Noir;Reserve Cuvee Reserve Cuvee Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Big fruit; balanced; bright; black and red fruit. www.rstuartandco.com
RAGTAG WINE CO.
PRESSLEY VINEYARDS
2022 Rosé Single Vineyard
2019 Coombsville Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged
Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Edna Valley Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Yeasty biscuity character; fig forward fruit with Jolly Rancher taste. www.RAGTAGWINECO.com
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa County; Coombsville Price: $55 Tasting Notes: Soft fruit; great velocity; softer mouth feel; long finish.
PRUETT FARMS 2021 Reverie Reserve Chardonnay Barrel fermented and aged Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit; California style; creamy; oaky. Nice. www.pruettwine.com
RANGELAND WINES 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Unfined; Unfiltered Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Adelaida District Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Black Fruit; dense; silky; smooth tannins; hint of vanilla; elegant. www.rangelandwines.com
2021 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Nicely integrated oak; good acid; great mouth feel. www.rescuedogwines.com
REUSTLE PRAYER
ROCK VINEYARDS 2021 Syrah Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Umpqua Valley Price: $38 Tasting Notes: Cinnamon and cherry tones. Juicy and balanced. Fennel seed.
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold Rescue Dog Wines 2021 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $33.99 Tasting Notes: Nicely integrated oak; good acid; great mouth feel. www.rescuedog wines.com
RESCUE DOG WINES WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
65
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
www.reustlevineyards.com
RM WINERIES Rhody 2022 Rosé Estate Grown Category: Rosé Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Ancient Lakes Price: $18.99 Tasting Notes: Pretty pink; floral; lovely. RMWINERIES.COM
ROCKY POND ESTATE WINERY 2020 Malbec Rocky Reach AVA Category: Malbec Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Elegant; standout wine; ripe plums. www.rockypondwinery.com
RODNEY STRONG WINE ESTATES Rodney Strong Vineyards 2020 Chalk Hill Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Chalk Hill Price: $22 Tasting Notes: Peppery; big bright; long sultry finish. www.rodneystrong.com
Rodney Strong Vineyards 2018 Symmetry Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00
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Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Sonoma County; Alexander Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Fine; delicate; still precise varietal character; blackberry; spice; round tannins; soft; supple. www.rodneystrong.com
ROSS RANCH VINEYARDS Ross Ranch 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Single Vineyard Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Knights Valley Price: $25 Tasting Notes: Zippy; minerality; delicate. www.rossranchwine.com
SALVESTRIN WINERY 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: St. Helena Price: $35 Tasting Notes: Gooseberry and rich; well made from start to finish. salvestrinwinery.com
SANTORI WINES 2020 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Howell
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Mountain Price: $140 Tasting Notes: Earthy; pencil lead; cider; cigar; bread; blueberry pie; baked fruits. www.santoriwines.com
SCOTT HARVEY WINES Scott Harvey 2020 Barbera Mountain Selection Category: Barbera Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Amador County Price: $30 Tasting Notes: Bright red fruits; notes of black cherry; roasty-toasty well balanced; fruit integrated; sensitive on the finish. www.scottharveywines.com
SEAN MINOR WINES Sean Minor 2021 Grenache - Rossi Ranch Invited Series Category: Grenache Award: Double Gold Score: 98 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Raspberry sorbet; balanced floral; spicy. www.seanminorwines.com
Sean Minor 2021 Chardonnay; Signature Series Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Sonoma Coast (Sonoma) Price: $28 Tasting Notes: Bright tangerine; ginger; good acid; California style. www.seanminorwines.com
SERRES RANCH WINE Serres Ranch 2019 Watriss Estate Grown Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $85 Tasting Notes: Lively red fruit; in control tannins. www.serresranchwine.com
SODA ROCK WINERY Soda Rock 2020 Boar D’eaux Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $40 Tasting Notes: balanced; perfumey; rich; lengthy dry finish. www.sodarockwinery.com
Soda Rock 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon; Mercantile Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $46 Tasting Notes: Big tasting Cab; bright; ripe; tasty; lush; likeable. www.sodarockwinery.com
Soda Rock 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon; Spur Hill Spur Hill Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Alexander
Valley Price: $46 Tasting Notes: Chocolaty Oak; dense; powerful; chocolate covered cranberry; raspberry; bran. www.sodarockwinery.com
Soda Rock 2019 Malbec; Reserve Runway Reserve Category: Malbec Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $49 Tasting Notes: Pretty; oak; spice; pomegranate; eucalyptus; sweet spices. www.sodarockwinery.com
Soda Rock 2020 Zinfandel Wentworth Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $40 Tasting Notes: Under-ripe blueberry; good acidity; personality. www.sodarockwinery.com
Soda Rock 2020 Zinfandel Wedding Cake Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $36 Tasting Notes: Black currant; volcanic ash. Blue notes of un-sugared cocoa. Dried blueberries. www.sodarockwinery.com
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@clinecellars
jacuzziwines.com |
@jacuzziwines
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
SONOMA-CUTRER VINEYARD 2021 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $23 Tasting Notes: Golden apple; magnolia blossoms; fruit citrus. www.sonomacutrer.com
STE MICHELLE WINE ESTATES Spring Valley Vineyard 2019 Katherine Corkrum Cabernet Franc Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Double Gold Score: 97 Appellation: Walla Walla Valley Price: $60 Tasting Notes: Structured classic Bordeaux style balanced. Nice tannin; dark
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fruit; long finish. www.ste-michelle-wineestates.com
ST. ANNE’S CROSSING 2020 Angelo Zinfandel Angelo Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $46 Tasting Notes: Bursting with flavors. Awesome Wine! stannescrossing.com
STONEHOUSE CELLARS 2019 Cabernet Savignon; Mimulus Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Lake County Price: $95 Tasting Notes: Nice balance; soft tannins; classic; beautiful oak integration; notes of spice. www.stonehousecellars.com
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon;
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Extra Sticky Monkey Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Lake County Price: $120 Tasting Notes: Intensity; cassis; nice fruit; leather; cigar box; well balanced; everything a Cab should be. www.stonehousecellars.com
STORRS WINERY & VINEYARDS; LTD. Storrs 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Monterey Price: $24 Tasting Notes: Total package as a Sauv Blanc. Limey; tart; flavorful finish; concentration of fruit. storrswine.com
SUMMERLAND WINE BRANDS Summerland 2021 Fiddlestix Pinot Noir “Clone 115” Fiddlestix Vineyard Winemaker’s Reserve Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Raspberry luminescence; fruity; garnet color; wild berry. www. summerlandwinebrands. com
SYCAMORE RANCH VINEYARD & WINERY LLC 2021 Grenache Tierra Alta Vineyard Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Grenache Award: Double Gold
Score: 97 Appellation: Ballard Canyon Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Crowd pleasing; spicy; strawberries; honey. www.sycamoreranch.com
2021 Primitivo Barrel aged Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Primitivo Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Paso Robles; El Pomar District Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Great depth; richness. Deep, rich and complex. www.sycamoreranch.com
TALISMAN WINE 2018 Gunsalus Vineyard Pinot Noir Gunsalus Vineyard Single Vineyard Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 98 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $65 Tasting Notes: Well
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
integrated oak; pleasant and intriguing; great salinity; coastal influence. www.talismanwine.com
THE WINE GROUP Imagery 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: California Price: $19.99 Tasting Notes: Sweet and savory with long dry finish. www.thewinegroup.com
TRUJILLO WINES LLC 2022 Madelyn Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $24 Tasting Notes: Juicy; raspberry; star fruit; citrus; spicy; well balanced; floral with little touch of spice. www.trujillowines.com
2019 Trujillo Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Price: $90 Tasting Notes: Cherry pit; tomato stew; coffee grinds; juniper; pencil shavings; graphite. www.trujillowines.com
VANZ WINES 2018 Cabernet Barrel Aged Reserve Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Napa Valley; St. Helena Price: $120 Tasting Notes: Elegant; floral notes; cassis; tobacco; soft and easy on the mouth. vanzwines.com
VARA WINERY & DISTILLERY Vara 2020 Gold Tempranillo
Category: Tempranillo Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Spain Price: $30 Tasting Notes: Rioja; expansive medium body; layered; cerebral. varawines.com
WAITS-MAST FAMILY CELLARS Waits-Mast 2019 Pinot Noir Mariah Vineyard Single Vineyard Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Mendocino Ridge Price: $47 Tasting Notes: Lengthy finish; coppery after a rain; very pretty; floral. www.waitsmast.com
WASHINGTON WINE GROUP
Milbrandt Family 2022 Rosé Sustainable Farming Methods; Vegan; Gluten-Free Estate Grown Category: Rosé Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $14.99 Tasting Notes: Beautiful porch pounders; great acid. https://washingtonwine group.com/
WILLIAM HERITAGE WINERY William Heritage 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Estate Reserve Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Outer Coastal Plain Price: $38 Tasting Notes: lemon balm and a hint of meringue; boxwood; bright acidity; nice viscosity and mouth feel www.heritagewinenj.com
WILSON CREEK WINERY & VINEYARDS INC. 2020 Double Dog Red Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Other Red Blends Award: Double Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Temecula Valley Price: $69.99 Tasting Notes: Rich fruit; dense mouth coat. Lingering finish. Earthy. www.wilsoncreekwinery.com
WILSON WINERY OF DRY CREEK 2021 Zinfandel/Ellie’s Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Double Gold Score: 96 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $42 Tasting Notes: Hickory; huckleberry; wild and untamed. Black tea. www.wilsonwinery.com
WINE ISSUE 2023 • SUNSET
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R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
GOLD, BEST OF CLASS
BRONCO WINE COMPANY Orogeny 2021 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir =< $20.00 Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 45.99 Tasting Notes: Bright; fresh; clean; nice balance; tart ripe raspberries; full mouth; nice finish. classicwinesofcalifornia.com
CINDER WINES Cinder 2022 Dry Riesling Category: Riesling dry 0.0 0.9% rs Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 94 Appellation: Snake River Valley Price: $ 23 Tasting Notes: nice fruit-pronounced; balanced; seamless; nice finish. www.cinderwines.com
Tasting Notes: Good beginning; middle and finish; crisp. www.ejgallo.com
FOLEY FAMILY WINES Ferrari-Carano 2021 Sonoma County Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 91 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 27 Tasting Notes: Ripe apples; pear; toast; little spice note. www.foleyfamilywines.com
FORIS VINEYARDS WINERY Foris 2022 Moscato Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Muscat Varietals >5.1% rs Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 94 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $ 15 Tasting Notes: Floral; gardenias; carnations. Tropical fruit-guava. Spritzy. www.foriswine.com
E&J GALLO WINERY
HEDGES FAMILY ESTATE
Black Box NV Chardonnay
CMS 2020 CMS Cabernet Sauvignon
Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 90 Appellation: California Price: $ 19.99
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Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 91 Appellation: Columbia Valley
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Coffee; pepper. Well integrated. www.hedgesfamilyestate. com
complex. Cherry; spice. Fascinating blend. www.ironstonevineyards.com
HUSCH VINEYARDS
J. LOHR VINEYARDS & WINES
2022 Late Harvest Gewurztraminer Estate Bottled
2021 J. Lohr Estates South Ridge Syrah
Category: LH White Varietals Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 94 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Well made; pops fruit; balanced. www.huschvineyards.com
IDLE HOUR WINERY & KITCHEN Idle Hour 2022 Grenache Blanc La Presa Vineyard Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 94 Appellation: Santa Ynez Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Succulent mouthfeel; floral; vanilla and rosé petals. www.idlehourwinery.com
IRONSTONE VINEYARDS Granite Hill 2022 Granite Hill Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir =< $20.00 Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 92 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 15.99 Tasting Notes: Nose is
Category: Syrah/ Shiraz =< $20.00 Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 90 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 15 Tasting Notes: Plumy; dried apricot; earthy; bold. https://www.jlohr.com
LONE OAK WINERY 2021 Marquette Star Port style dessert wine Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 91 Appellation: Minnesota Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Spicy and pleasant. www.LoneOakWinery.org
PENROSÉ HILL Weelderige Velde 2022 100% Chenin Blanc Sur lie Old Vines Category: Chenin Blanc Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 94 Appellation: Paarl Price: $ 47 Tasting Notes: Classic varietal; tealeaf; sweet earth.
PORTLAND CIDER COMPANY NV Original Gold Hard Cider Category: Hard Cider Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 91 Appellation: Yamhill County Price: $ 12.99 Tasting Notes: Wax; seed; honeysuckle; fresh; sweet apple. www.portlandcider.com
SEAN MINOR WINES Sean Minor 2021 Red Blend; Nicole Marie; Signature Series Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 93 Appellation: North Coast Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Juicy; complex and spicy. Chocolate; blackberries. www.seanminorwines.com
THE WINE GROUP Chloe Wine Collection NV Prosécco Category: Prosécco Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 92 Appellation: Italy Price: $ 17.99 Tasting Notes: Tropical; fun bubbles; dried peaches; nicely balanced with nice lingering finish. www.thewinegroup.com
W I N E M A K E R P H I L S TA E H L E
Every bottle captures the exceptional character of Sonoma. 2018 ANSAR Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County 99 pts, Best of Class
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County 97pts, Best of Class
2019 Pinot Noir, Tina Marie Vineyard, Russian River Valley 95pts, Double Gold
enkiduwines.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
THE WINE GROUP Franzia NV Dark Red Blend Vintner Select Category: Boxed Red Wines Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 92 Appellation: American Price: $ 6.99 Tasting Notes: Appealing; medium body; fruity red wine. www.thewinegroup.com
VEGAS VALLEY WINERY 2022 Subtle Blonde Category: Riesling sweet >4.1% rs Award: Gold, Best of Class Score: 92 Appellation: Suisun Valley Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Good varietal; lengthy finish; lemon verbena. www.vegasvalleywinery.com
GOLD
ABACELA 2022 Albarino Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Umpqua Valley Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: nice mouth feel; crisp acid. www.abacela.com
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ACQUIESCE WINERY & VINEYARDS
ALEXANDER VALLEY VINEYARDS
2021 Belle Blanc Lodi Rules Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
2019 Alexander School Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Category: White Rhone Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Lodi; Mokelumne River Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Minerally; full mouth feel; lush palate; ripe pineapple. www.whitewinewinery.com
ADRICE WINES 2020 J2 Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Walla Walla Valley Price: $ 39 Tasting Notes: Pleasant and rich with redeeming acidity. Red fruit with a little pepper. www.Adricewines.wine
AIMEE 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Concentrated fruit rounded palate; brightness green fruit and citrus. aimeewines.com
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Heavy fruit; licorice; ripe; lingering finish. avvwine.com
ALEXANDER VALLEY VINEYARDS 2022 Dry Rosé of Sangiovese Sonoma County Sustainably Farmed Grapes Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Rosé petal; bright fruit; long finish. avvwine.com
2021 Pinot Noir Sonoma County Sustainably Farmed Grapes Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Well balanced; blue fruit and black cherry notes. avvwine.com
2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: spice box and earthiness; ripe expression. avvwine.com
ALEXANDRIA NICOLE CELLARS 2019 Jet Black Syrah Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Horse Heaven Hills Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Big bold bad ass. Restraint and finesse; sharp tannins; pleasing finish. www.alexandrianicole cellars.com/
AMADOR CELLARS 2020 Syrah Unfined & Unfiltered Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Spicy note; peppery; opens nicely to true self. www.amadorcellars.com
2019 Tempranillo Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 90
Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Complex; chalky; balanced; black fruit. www.amadorcellars.com
AMATERRA WINES 2019 Amaterra Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Ranier cherry; watermelon; ripe plum; good mouth feel.
AMI AMI NV vin blanc Category: Boxed White Wines Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Limoux AOC Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Nice acid; honey; refresh; lemongrass.
AMPHORA WINERY 2019 Cabernet Franc Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Spicy; cigar box; herbaceous; pepper; nice balance. www.amphorawines.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
ANAM CARA CELLARS 2021 Riesling; Nicholas Estate Estate Category: Ice Wine Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Chehalem Mountains Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Honey; good acid; aromatics are good. www.anamcaracellars.com
ANAYA VINEYARDS 2019 Albariño Barrel Aged for 12 months and 12 months on bottle Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Clements Hills Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Great nose; floral; soft creamy finish. www.anayavineyards.com
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 72 Tasting Notes: Rich; dynamic; well made. www.ancientpeaks.com
ANDANTE VINEYARD 2019 Estate Chardonnay Van Duzer Corridor AVA; LIVE Certified vineyard Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Well integrated oak; light. https://www.andantevineyard.com
ANCIENT PEAKS WINERY
ARATAS WINE
2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Margarita Ranch AVA; SIP Certified Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 58 Tasting Notes: Blackberries and blueberries; cinnamon and cedar; brown sugar, maple. www.AratasWine.com
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Big tannin; rich; hint of herbal notes. www.ancientpeaks.com
2020 Pearl Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Margarita Ranch AVA; SIP Certified Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
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2018 Shake Ridge Ranch Single Vineyard
ASCENSION CELLARS 2018 Trinity GSM Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Geneseo District Price: $ 59 Tasting Notes: Silky tannins; red fruit focused - grenache dominant; herbalious – delightful. www.ascensioncellars.com
AVINODOS WINES 2018 AvinoDos Cabernet Sauvignon - Diamond Mountain District Founder’s Reserve Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Diamond Mountain District Price: $ 125 Tasting Notes: Deep dark and delicious; nice elegant nose; nice acidity; black currant. www.AvinoDos.com
AVINODOS WINES 2018 AvinoDos Cabernet Sauvignon - Atlas Peak Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Atlas Peak Price: $ 95 Tasting Notes: Engaging aroma; cassis; earthy notes; integrated tannins; great fruit. www.AvinoDos.com
BAILY VINEYARD & WINERY 2022 Riesling Estate Bottled
Category: Riesling semisweet 2.1 - 4.0% rs Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Temecula Valley Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Lemon meringue pie; very well made. bailywinery.com
BALDACCHINO CELLARS 2019 Cugini Sangiovese Category: Sangiovese Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 48 Tasting Notes: Wild berries; spicy; approachable; good structure. www.baldacchinocellars.com
BALDASSARI WINES 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Barrel Fermented Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Knights Valley Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: very true to style; nice viscosity; lingering finish. www.baldassariwines.com
BALISTRERI VINEYARDS 2021 Cabernet Franc Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: American Price: $ 30
Tasting Notes: Great deep fruit; solid middle; explosive finish. BalistreriWine.com
BALLETTO VINEYARDS, INC. 2020 Chardonnay Burnside Road Vineyard Burnside Road Vineyard Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Opulent creamy lemon curd. Butterscotch; soft integrated oak. www.Ballettovineyards.com
2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Good nose; delicate wine; pretty aroma; strawberry and cream. www.Ballettovineyards.com
2020 RRV - Pinot Noir Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Nicely balanced. Good fruit. www.Ballettovineyards.com
2023 SUNSET INTERNATIONAL WINE COMPETITION
2021 Pinot Noir STA. RITA HILLS
2021 Pinot Noir SAVERIA VINEYARDS
2021 Pinot Noir SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS
2021 Jules DE BRUT Blanc de Blanc
lightpostwinery.com / 408-762-7225 / Tasting room open Wed-Sun 11am-6pm in Morgan Hill, CA
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
BARLOW VINEYARDS 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Napa Valley; Calistoga Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Lovely balance of fruit & tannin. www.barlowvineyards.com
BARRA OF MENDOCINO Barra 2021 Pinot Noir Estate Grown / Made With Organic Grapes Reserve Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $ 26 Tasting Notes: Pomegranate; feminine; voluptuous. www.barraofmendocino. com; www.girasolevineyards.com
Girasole Vineyards 2021 Charlie’s Blend Made with organically grown grapes/Vegan friendly Estate Grown Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $ 18 Tasting Notes: Vanilla; berry; sweet cherry; crowd pleaser. www.barraofmendocino. com; www.girasolevineyards. com
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BARTHOLOMEW ESTATE WINERY 2021 Zinfandel Garden Block Estate Grown Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 48 Tasting Notes: Deep fruit; long finish; chocolatey; mocha. www.bartholomewestate. com
BAYERNMOOR CELLARS 2022 Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Horse Heaven Hills Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Strawberry & fig notes. https://bayernmoor.com/
2022 White Pinot Noir Clone Precoce Estate Grown; Estate Bottled Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Puget Sound Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Mineral; wet stone; lovely food wine; balanced acid; nice finish. https://bayernmoor.com/
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
BEE HUNTER WINE 2019 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $ 48 Tasting Notes: Big; fat burgundy taste. Bright cherry. www.beehunterwine.com
2018 Perli Vineyard Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel >$75.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $ 80 Tasting Notes: Purple grape. Generous notes. www.beehunterwine.com
BELLAGRACE VINEYARDS 2021 Amador Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Blue fruit; boysenberry; ripe blackberry. Allspice. www.BellaGraceVineyards. com
2022 Estate Vermentino Estate Category: Italian White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Pretty; peach melon; stone fruits; floral. www.BellaGraceVineyards. com
BELLA LUNA ESTATE WINERY 2019 Estate Riserva Unfined & Unfiltered Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Italian Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Templeton Gap District Price: $ 58 Tasting Notes: Balanced; cherry; strawberry; creamy; good acidity; soft tannins. www.bellalunawine.com
BELTANE RANCH 2021 Zinfandel Heins Block Estate Grown Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 54 Tasting Notes: Ripe blackberry & black cherry; dense color; graceful finish. www.beltaneranch.com
BERRYESSA GAP VINEYARDS 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Yolo County Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Round; full; zippy. Citrus finish. www.berryessagap.com
BIG OAK RANCH LLC DBA LIGHTPOST WINERY Lightpost Winery 2019 Sparkling Jules de Brut Reserve Brut Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: San Luis Obispo County Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Well balanced; warm pastry; nice acidity; length extended; great for a wedding. lightpostwinery.com
Lightpost Winery 2021 Pinot Noir SRH Vintage Reserve Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills Price: $ 58 Tasting Notes: Spice; citrus; red raspberry. lightpostwinery.com
BLUEBIRD HILL CELLARS 2021 Chardonnay Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Light; crisp; good food wine; oysters. www.bluebirdhillcellars.wine
c r a ft ing a w ard winning wines
v. 2021
v.2 02 2
v.20 21
v.2020
v.2021
v.2021
2 0 2 3 I N T E R N AT I O N A L W I N E C O M P E T I T I O N MARKETD BY B RONCO WINE CO. | BRONCOWINE.COM
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
BOGLE FAMILY WINE COLLECTION
Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Bright fruit; very quaffable; crisp. www.boissetcollection.com
Bogle Family Vineyards 2020 Petite Sirah Barrel Aged
Raymond Vineyards 2020 Reserve Selection Merlot
Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: California Price: $ 11 Tasting Notes: Blackberry; spice. full bodied; well balanced. www.boglewinery.com
Category: Merlot > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Smooth; fruit juicy; tannins tight but will age well. www.boissetcollection.com
BOISSET COLLECTION
BOKISCH VINEYARDS
American Vintage 2020 Chardonnay
2022 Albariño Terra Alta Vineyard Estate Bottled & Produced
Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 13 Tasting Notes: Sweet floral fruit; lemon. Well balanced. www.boissetcollection.com
LVE: Legend Vineyard Exclusive 2019 Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: North Coast Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Good food wine; good acid; long finish. www.boissetcollection.com
LVE: Legend Vineyard Exclusive 2021 Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Languedoc AOC
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Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Clements Hills Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Good spice; fruit-driven; enticing; crisp acidity; good finish. www.bokischvineyards.com
BOYD FAMILY VINEYARDS 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon; Moulds Family Vineyard Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley; Oak Knoll District Price: $ 180 Tasting Notes: Classic; cocoa; cassis; finished elegantly. www.boydwine.com
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon; Oak Knoll District Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Napa Valley; Oak Knoll District Price: $ 95 Tasting Notes: Bright fruit; deeply layered with spice; intense herbal notes; perfect oak integration; fabulous. www.boydwine.com
BREATHLESS WINES NV Breathless Late Disgorged Brut Methode Champenoise Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 75 Tasting Notes: Lovely example of late disgorged; intriguing and complex. www.breathlesswines.com
BRECON ESTATE 2022 Last Sandwich Category: Other White Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Floral; aromatic. www.breconestate.com
2022 True Acacia Head Albariño Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Central Coast
Price: $ 43 Tasting Notes: Rosé water; balanced; seamless finish. www.breconestate.com
BRIAN CARTER CELLARS 2022 Abracadabra Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Good citrus; excellent color. briancartercellars.com
2018 Solesce Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Black Cherry; spice; medium bodied; well balanced; lovely finish. briancartercellars.com
2018 Trentenaire Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Blackberry; spice; oak; balanced. briancartercellars.com
BRONCO WINE COMPANY Big Guy Wine Cellars 2021 Red Wine
Paws for Purple Hearts Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 15.99 Tasting Notes: Easy drinking wine; nice fruit and finish. classicwinesofcalifornia.com
Montpellier Vineyards 2020 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: California Price: $ 6.99 Tasting Notes: Bright cherry; licorice; easy on palate; food friendly; great with charcuterie plate. classicwinesofcalifornia.com
Picket Fence 2022 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 21.99 Tasting Notes: Mineral driven; smooth; youthful; balanced. classicwinesofcalifornia.com
Rare Earth Organic Winery 2021 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 14.99 Tasting Notes: Well integrated; balanced fruit. classicwinesofcalifornia.com
SILVER METAL WINNER
SILVER METAL WINNER
DOUBLE GOLD METAL WINNER
SILVER METAL WINNER
96 POINTS
SUSTAINABLY GROWN WINES THAT CELEBRATE EVERYDAY PROUDLY GROWN IN THE BEAUTIFUL CALIFORNIA DELTA.
pressleyvineyards.com | @pressleyvineyards
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Rosénblum Cellars NV Vintner’s Cuvee Zinfandel Vintner’s Cuvee Lot No. 42 Category: Zinfandel =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: California Price: $ 15.99 Tasting Notes: Nice and dry. classicwinesofcalifornia.com
CAMARADERIE CELLARS 2020 Grace Winemaker Select Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Blackberry; black currant; smoke; balanced; rich tannins; long finish. www.camaraderiecellars.com
CARBOY WINERY 2020 Teroldego Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Grand Valley Price: $ 39 Tasting Notes: Great notes; great body; great texture; clean and vivid; juicy fruit. carboywinery.com
CAROL SHELTON WINES 2021 Coquille Rouge Category: Rhone Type Red Blends
80
Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $ 27.99 Tasting Notes: Juicy; rich; fruity and full. Undeniable delicious character. Balancing spices. www.carolshelton.com
2020 Wild Thing Zin Organically grown Old Vine Category: Zinfandel =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $ 19.99 Tasting Notes: Fruity; prunes; dark cherry. www.carolshelton.com
CASINO MINE RANCH 2021 Vermentino Estate Grown Category: Italian White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Shenandoah Valley (Amador) Price: $ 26 Tasting Notes: Grassy; apple-pear; lime zest. Nice minerality. www.casinomineranch.com
CASITA DE BRAVO WINES 2019 Sangiovese Category: Sangiovese Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Santa Ynez Valley Price: $ 40
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Tasting Notes: Big plum cake; bright fruit; refreshing tartness; baking spices. www.casitadebravo.com
CASQUE WINES Le Casque 2020 Adrian Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Sweet earthy character; dark chocolate; medium roast coffee. www.casquewines.com
Le Casque 2020 Petite Sirah Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Fruit. complexity; slight jamminess. Very approachable. www.casquewines.com
Le Casque 2020 Syrah Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Carmel flavor with vibrant fruit; well integrated; subtle. www.casquewines.com
CASS WINERY 2019 C*A*B Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00
Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Geneseo District Price: $ 29 Tasting Notes: Black pepper and cassis; black currant; age worthy. www.casswines.com
2022 Marsanne Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Paso Robles Geneseo District Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Honeysuckle; guava; melon; granite; minerality. www.casswines.com
2022 Oasis Mouvedre/Grenche Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Geneseo District Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Aromatic; red fruit; fresh; balanced. www.casswines.com
CAZADERO WINERY 2021 Chardonnay Catie’s Corner Vineyard Barrel Fermented Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 38.99 Tasting Notes: Deep broad and complex; grapefruit; peach and melon. www.cazaderowinery.com
CBC BEVCO Twisted Cedar 2021 Moscato Certified Sustainable through Lodi Rules; Vegan. Category: Muscat Varietals 0.0 - 5.0% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Clarksburg Price: $ 15 Tasting Notes: Juicy; honey flavor. http://twistedcedarwines .com/
CASTLE ROCK WINERY CELLAR 13 WINERY 2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Monterey County Price: $ 11 Tasting Notes: Good acid; highly aromatic delicate balance; melon with thyme. www.castlerockwinery.com
2018 Chardonnay
Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $ 26 Tasting Notes: Butterscotch; apple pie; great food wine. http://www.Cellar13Winery. com
Best of Class 96 Double Gold
Isla Rose Brut Rosé
96 Double Gold
97 Double Gold
98 Double Gold
2021 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
2021 Kick Ranch Grenache
2021 Special Selection Pinot Noir
In addition to being an award winning wine, our Isla Rose Brut Rosé represents our newest campaign - Sip With Purpose. For each bottle of Isla Rose purchased we will donate $5 to the V Foundation in support of cancer research. Scan the QR code to learn more and get involved!
www.bricoleurvineyards.com | 7394 starr road, windsor, ca
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
CHATEAU LILL Lill Family Wines 2020 Baron de Massy Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Columbia Valley; Horse Heaven Hills Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Classic
Meritage; powerhouse with depth. www.chateaulill.com
CHRONIC CELLARS INC. 2021 Suite Petit Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold Clif Family Winery 2021 Sonoma Valley Grenache Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Stewed notes; cranberries. www.cliffamily.com
Price: $ 16.99 Tasting Notes: Lavendar and violets. White pepper; graphite. www.chroniccellars.com
CINDER WINES 2021 Malbec Category: Malbec Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Snake River Valley Price: $ 37 Tasting Notes: Figgy; lactic rich; creamy. www.cinderwines.com
CINNABAR VINEYARDS & WINERY 2020 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $ 44 Tasting Notes: Creamy butterscotch; soft oak integration. Meyer lemon. cinnabarwinery.com
CLIF FAMILY WINERY 2021 Sonoma Valley Grenache Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Stewed notes; cranberries. www.cliffamily.com
2022 Rosé of Grenache Category: All other Varietal
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SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Rosés Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Melon. great mouth feeling; long finish. www.cliffamily.com
CLOS DE LA TECH 2016 Domaine Lois Louise “Cote Sud” Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $ 95 Tasting Notes: Earthy notes of espresso; wild berry; Asian Fusion flare. www.closdelatech.com
2016 Domaine Valeta “Sunny Slope” Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $ 95 Tasting Notes: Earthy fruit tones with fresh herbs. www.closdelatech.com
CLOS DU VAL WINERY 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 55 Tasting Notes: Typical Sauv Blanc. Grassy; complexity with full palate. www.closduval.com
2019 Yettalil Estate Grown and Produced Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Stags Leap District Price: $ 200 Tasting Notes: Good tannins; nice dry finish. www.closduval.com
COMSTOCK WINES 2020 Sauvignon Blanc / Dry Creek Valley Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Cut and dried grass; gooseberry nice minerality. comstockwines.com
2020 Blanc de Blanc Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 55 Tasting Notes: Nice minerality; full bodied. comstockwines.com
2018 Merlot / Dry Creek Valley Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Merlot > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Great wine; leathery; smooth delivery of fruit. comstockwines.com
Savor the Essence of the Sonoran Desert
award winning wines for every palate 2018 REAL DE TERRENATE - DOUBLE GOLD/BEST OF CLASS/97 POINTS 2021 ROSÉ OF GRENACHE - SILVER 2020 MOURVÈDRE - BRONZE 2016 PETITE SIRAH – SILVER 2018 REAL DE SAN BERNARDINO - SILVER 2020 REAL DE SANTA CATARINA - SILVER
www.SONORANWINES.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
COOPER-GARROD ESTATE VINEYARDS 2021 Chardonnay French Oak aged; 10 months Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Appellation Price: $ 43 Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit; integrated oak; creamy and soft. http://www.cgv.com
COOPER’S RIDGE 2021 2021 Cooper’s Ridge Syrah Barrel Aged Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Pleasant oak notes; appropriate use of oak; rich tannins; plummy. www.camarillocustom crush.com
COVENTINA VINEYARDS 2016 Tempranillo Reserve Estate Grown Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Complex; juicy. https://www.coventinavineyards.com
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COX VINEYARDS
2022 Life is a Rosé Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
Boeket 2022 Rosé of Carignane Cox Family Vineyards Estate Grown; Old Vine
Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Horse Heaven Hills Price: $ 21 Tasting Notes: Juicy; well balanced; great finish. coyotecanyonwinery.com
Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Great balance of fruit. Nice finish. coxfamilyvineyards.com
COYOTE CANYON WINERY Coyote Canyon 2022 Roussanne Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Horse Heaven Hills Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Apricot and jasmine tones; apple seeds and Anjou pear; clean and crisp. coyotecanyonwinery.com
Coyote Canyon 2022 Albarino Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Horse Heaven Hills Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Fruit sweet entry. coyotecanyonwinery.com
Coyote Canyon
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
CRU WINERY 2020 GSM Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Sweet red fruit; red pepper; pineapple pizza. www.cruwinery.com
D & L CARINALLI VINEYARDS 2021 Pinot Noir Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Dried strawberry. Well made. www.dlcarinallivineyards. com
D’ARGENZIO WINERY 2019 Sagiovese De Natale Vineyard Reserve
Category: Sangiovese Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 52 Tasting Notes: Rich; smells like Tuscany; nice texture; pretty nose. www.dargenziowine.com
DANCING CROW VINEYARDS 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Big Valley District Price: $ 19.99 Tasting Notes: Honeydew melon; herbal; lemon; mandarin orange. www.dancingcrow.com
DANZA DEL SOL WINERY 2019 Barbera Category: Barbera Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Temecula Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Flavors of red and black fruits. Pink peppercorn. www.danzadelsolwinery.com
2022 Grenache Blanc Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Temecula Valley Price: $ 37
Tasting Notes: Lemon citrus note; creamy mouth feel; pleasing finish; nutty aroma. www.danzadelsolwinery.com
DAVIS FAMILY VINEYARDS 2020 Syrah - Soul Patch Soul Patch Vineyard Estate Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Bright red fruit. Pleasing finish. Well made. Nice oak and fruit. www.daviswines.com
2019 Throne Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 48 Tasting Notes: Spicy; sweet pepper. www.daviswines.com
DAYLIGHT WINE AND SPIRITS Alpine Rift 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Marlborough Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Grapefruit; green bell pepper; grassiness; lemon grass; long finish.
Nestled in the stunning Central Oregon landscape, Faith Hope & Charity Winery is a must-visit destination. Our outdoor music venue hosts weekly live music events, drawing locals from Bend and Redmond. Families can explore our welcoming vineyard, while adults savor wine tastings on our spacious patio. Plus, our picturesque winery serves as an exquisite wedding venue, showcasing Oregon's natural beauty.
Faith Hope & Charity is honored to be awarded multiple medals from the Sunset International Wine Competition. Visit us in person or order from our website to try our unique offerings for yourself.
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
DELICATO FAMILY WINES Diora 2022 La Belle Fête Rosé Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: San Bernabe Price: $ 19.99 Tasting Notes: Character from Syrah and Grenache whimsical; good blend from both grapes. www.delicato.com
Noble Vines 2022 515 Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $ 12 Tasting Notes: Nice quaffing wine; delicate; watermelon notes; pretty. www.delicato.com
Noble Vines 2022 152 Pinot Grigio Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Monterey County Price: $ 12 Tasting Notes: Lovely aromas floral. www.delicato.com
RELAX 2021 QbA Riesling Category: Riesling semisweet 2.1 - 4.0% rs Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Germany Price: $ 12 Tasting Notes: Sunshine in a glass; classic. www.delicato.com
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DENIER-HANDAL VINEYARDS 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Tamari; miso; caramel; dark chocolate; Lovely finish. www.denier-handal.com
2020 Family Blend Special Selection Category: Proprietary (House) Red Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: North Coast Price: $ 33 Tasting Notes: Grippy; bright. www.denier-handal.com
DNA VINEYARDS 2019 Coro Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $ 39.99 Tasting Notes: Nice sweet fruit; soft tannins. www.dnavineyards.com
DOMAINE DE BROGLIE 2018 Block H - Pommard Clone Méthode Champenoise Brut Rosé Estate Grown; Single Clone Methode Champenoise Category: Sparkling Rosé <2.5% rs
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Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Dundee Hills Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Beautiful pale pink hue; red cherry; raspberry; blood orange; brilliant acidity; vibrant throughout. www.domainedebroglie.com
DOUBLE FORTE WINE The Magistrate 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Adelaida District Price: $ 16.88 Tasting Notes: Ripe berries; easy drinking; soft tannins; fab.
Myles & Moore 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 19.88 Tasting Notes: Classic California Cab; excellent.
The Recipient 2020 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Russian River Price: $ 24.88 Tasting Notes: Wet rocks; smooth; dry strawberry; earthy on nose; balanced.
Storyteller 2021 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00
Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 21.88 Tasting Notes: Earthy; smooth.
www.drycreekvineyard.com
The Magistrate 2020 Chardonnay
2020 Zinfandel
Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Santa Barbara County Price: $ 16.88 Tasting Notes: Grassy; lovely tropical fruit.
DRYTOWN CELLARS WINERY Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Amador County; Sierra Foothills Price: $ 21 Tasting Notes: Viscous; raspberry; plush; lush. Drytowncellars.com
DRY CREEK VINEYARD E&J GALLO WINERY 2022 Petite Zin Rosé Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Dusty strawberries; pixie sticks; sunset color; tart red fruit; well made. www.drycreekvineyard.com
2022 Dry Chenin Blanc Category: Chenin Blanc Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Clarksburg Price: $ 17 Tasting Notes: Lots on the nose; vibrant fragrance. www.drycreekvineyard.com
2022 Fumé Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Spice; citrus; granite; nice wine.
Alamos 2021 Malbec Category: Malbec Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Mendoza Price: $ 13 Tasting Notes: Lavender rosémary. Chestnut red plum. www.ejgallo.com
Barefoot Cellars NV Riesling Category: Riesling dry 0.0 0.9% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 6.99 Tasting Notes: sweet fruit; honey www.ejgallo.com
Barefoot Fruitscato NV Lemonade Category: Fruitscato Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: American Price: $ 6.99
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Tasting Notes: lemon sorbet; palate cleansing; refreshing; lemon drop. www.ejgallo.com
Black Box 2021 Riesling Category: Riesling dry 0.0 0.9% rs Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: California Price: $ 19.99 Tasting Notes: Bright floral apricot; structured honeysuckle. www.ejgallo.com
Dark Horse 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 7.99 Tasting Notes: Nice nose; long; rich. www.ejgallo.com
Dark Horse 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 9.99 Tasting Notes: White pepper; kumquat; bright flavors of fresh squeezed pomelo. www.ejgallo.com
Whitehaven 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Marlborough Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Classic Marlborough; grapefruit peel
gooseberry; amped up citrus. www.ejgallo.com
EBERLE WINERY, LTD. 2021 Vineyard Selection Vineyard Selection Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Ripe rich cherries; anise; hints of vanilla; hint of baking spices. www.eberlewinery.com
2021 Sangiovese Category: Sangiovese Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Sweet ripe berries; cherry cola; very petty wine. www.eberlewinery.com
2021 Barbera Category: Barbera Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Lush mouth feel. Black fruit and roast fig. www.eberlewinery.com
2022 Chardonnay Estate Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Balanced; good oak; young; bright. Excellent. www.eberlewinery.com
EDIO VINEYARDS AT DELFINO FARMS 2020 Frank’s Blend Barrel Fermented and Aged; low intervention winemaking; sustainable farming; Estate Blended Barrel Fermented Reserve Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: El Dorado County Price: $ 62 Tasting Notes: Captures rhone funkiness with fresh cut rubber hose and balanced minerality. delfinofarms.com
EFESTE 2022 Evergreen Riesling Category: Riesling dry 0.0 0.9% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Columbia Valley; Ancient Lakes Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Floral fragrant aromas; peachy. www.efeste.com
EHRET FAMILY WINERY 2019 Merlot Bavarian Lion Vineyards Category: Merlot > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Knights Valley Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Rich; good red fruit; nice finish. www.ehretwinery.com
2022 Sauvignon Blanc Bavarian Lion Vineyards
2021 Chardonnay
Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Knights Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Lemon blossom; puts a smile on my face; linear and pure; nice green classic expression of SB character. www.ehretwinery.com
ELK COVE VINEYARDS 2022 Rosé Estate Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Lovely fruit; perfumed nose; strawberries and cream. www.elkcove.com
FATHERS + DAUGHTERS CELLARS 2019 Ella’s Reserve Ferrington Vineyard Estate Grown Reserve Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $ 55 Tasting Notes: Cherry color; light red berries; nice palate. www.FandDCellars.com
FIOR DI SOLE
Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 12.99 Tasting Notes: Bright; citrus; banana cream pie. www.fiordisole.com
Iter NV Sparkling Rosé Category: Sparkling Rosé <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 11.99 Tasting Notes: Lively; crisp green apple; strawberry underlay; wakes up the palate. www.fiordisole.com
Iter NV Sparkling White Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 11.99 Tasting Notes: Christmas; tropical fruit notes; good structure and balance. www.fiordisole.com
Long Barn 2021 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: California Price: $ 11.99 Tasting Notes: Nice cherry; full mouth; well balanced; spice; great value. www.fiordisole.com
Iter
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
FLAMBEAUX WINE 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 75 Tasting Notes: Explosive
nose; richness; sweet fruit; elegant. www.flambeauxwine.com
2020 Chardonnay San Giacomo Vineyard Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Sonoma Coast (Sonoma)
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold Piper Sonoma NV Piper Sonoma Brut; Methode Traditionnelle Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 23 Tasting Notes: Fresh; lively; slightly spicy; lovely, luscious strawberry; nice mouthfeel. www.foliowine.com
Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Long finish; flirty; Burgundian; buttery. www.flambeauxwine.com
FOLEY FAMILY WINES Ferrari-Carano 2021 Dry Sangiovese Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Very floral; pomegranate; honeysuckle; well balanced. www.foleyfamilywines.com
Banshee NV Ten of Cups Brut Methode Champenoise Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 24.99 Tasting Notes: Citrus; yeasty; long crisp finish; toasty. www.foleyfamilywines.com
Banshee 2021 Sonoma County Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 24.99 Tasting Notes: Lively fresh; loaded with blue fruit; lavender; floral. www.foleyfamilywines.com
Chalk Hill 2021 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Sonoma Coast
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SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
(Sonoma) Price: $ 29 Tasting Notes: Big round and delightful. www.foleyfamilywines.com
Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery 2019 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County; Alexander Valley Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Nice expression of fruit. Textbook California cab. Silkiness; green fruit; cassis. www.foleyfamilywines.com
FOLIO FINE WINE PARTNERS Piper Sonoma NV Piper Sonoma Brut Methode Traditionnelle Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 23 Tasting Notes: Fresh; lively; slightly spicy; lovely, luscious strawberry; nice mouthfeel. www.foliowine.com
FOUR LANTERNS WINERY 2018 Kharis Willow Creek District for Syrah Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 93
Appellation: Paso Robles; Templeton Gap District Price: $ 67 Tasting Notes: Soft; easy; great richness; juicy. www.fourlanternswinery.com
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Paso Robles; Templeton Gap District Price: $ 68 Tasting Notes: Black licorice; dark fruit; berries; cinnamon and spice on the finish. www.fourlanternswinery.com
FREIXENET MIONETTO USA Gloria Ferrer 2015 Gloria Ferrer Royal Cuvée Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Carneros; Sonoma Price: $ 72 Tasting Notes: Lovely nose; citrus; fresh bread; floral notes. www.freixenetmionetto usa.com/
Gloria Ferrer 2013 Gloria Ferrer Carneros Cuvée Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Carneros; Sonoma Price: $ 94 Tasting Notes: Citrus; fresh bread; matchstick. www.freixenetmionetto usa.com/
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Gloria Ferrer NV Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut
Chardonnay Barrel Select
Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Carneros; Sonoma Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Bursting tropical flavors; almond nut. www.freixenetmionetto usa.com/
Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Golden delicious; nice balance; Great acidity. www.fritzwinery.com
FRESH VINE WINE NV Sparkling Brut Rosé Category: Sparkling Rosé <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $ 24.95 Tasting Notes: Honeycrisp apple; thread of minerality; very pretty wine. freshvinewine.com
FREY VINEYARDS Frey Biodynamic 2021 Syrah Estate Grown and Bottled; Gluten Free; No Sulfites Added
FULLDRAW VINEYARD 2018 Fulldraw Vineyard FD2 Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Paso Robles Willowcreek District Price: $ 55 Tasting Notes: Smells like chocolate cake batter with soft tannins; dark fruit and baking spices. fulldrawvineyard.com
GAINEY VINEYARD 2022 Estate Sauvignon Blanc Estate Bottled & Produced
Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Blueberry; tangy; long finish; classic for varietal. www.freywine.com
Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Santa Ynez Valley Price: $ 18 Tasting Notes: Fresh mellow; mouth feeling; sensation. www.gaineyvineyard.com
FRITZ UNDERGROUND WINERY
GALI VINEYARDS
2021 Russian River Reserve
Category: Pinot Noir Rosés
2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir Estate Grown
Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Immediate grapefruit thru nose; full mouth flow; rosé aromatic on nose. galivineyards.com
GIVICH VINEYARDS, INC. 2019 Zinfandel Vintage Selection Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 95 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Medley of wild herbs. Very bright; sassafras. Licorice. www.givichvineyards.com
GRAFTED CELLARS 2022 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Santa Maria Valley Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Lively flavors of fresh peach papaya and nutmeg with bright acidity at the end. www.graftedcellars.com
- $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Lovely texture. Floral aromas. Sweet fruit. www.greenwoodridge.com
2021 Zinfandel Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
- $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Raisins; balanced. Long finish. www.greenwoodridge.com
Category: Zinfandel > $20.01
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold Gloria Ferrer 2015 Gloria Ferrer Royal Cuvée Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Carneros; Sonoma Price: $ 72 Tasting Notes: Lovely nose; citrus; fresh bread; floral notes. www.GloriaFerrer.com
GREENWOOD RIDGE VINEYARDS 2021 Dragon Reserve Zinfandel Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Zinfandel > $20.01
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R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
2022 Pinot Noir Rosé Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Lush floral; refreshing with finish of sweet fruit. www.greenwoodridge.com
2021 Pinot Noir Temptation Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Floral & complex. Palate live & rich. www.greenwoodridge.com
GWINLLAN ESTATE 2017 Blanc de Noirs Methode Champenoise Estate Grown Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Fair Play Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Honeysuckle aromatics; raspberry and brioche; bright with great length. gwinllanestate.com
HALTER RANCH VINEYARD 2020 CDP Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Rhone Type Red
90
Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Adelaida District Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Cardamom; clove; soy sauce. www.halterranch.com
HAMILTON CELLARS 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Family owned; barrel aged Estate Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Red Mountain Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Likeable; high tone earth tone; pretty; tastes very good; very well made. www.hamiltoncellars.com
2019 Cabernet Franc Family owned; barrel aged Estate Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Red Mountain Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Bell pepper; red cherry; faint tint of gunpowder tea. www.hamiltoncellars.com
HANDLEY CELLARS 2019 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Sweet corn. Well Balanced. www.handleycellars.com
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
HANNAH NICOLE VINEYARDS 2019 Grenache Barrel Aged Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Contra Costa County Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Big red cherry; fruity; nicely evolved. www.hnvwines.com
HARNEY LANE WINERY 2020 Tempranillo Home Ranch Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Lodi; Mokelumne River Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Dried plum; smooth; long finish; dried sage. www.harneylane.com
2020 Zinfandel; Scottsdale Vineyard Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Ceylon cinnamon; lots of ripe fruit; big; rich; balanced; savory. www.harneylane.com
HEAVEN’S GATE VINEYARD Van Vliet Vineyards
2020 Anna Marie’s Blend Estate Grown and Produced Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Borden Ranch Price: $ 49 Tasting Notes: Delightful mouth. Bright lively; nice finish.
Van Vliet Vineyards 2020 Teroldego Estate Grown and Produced Category: Italian Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Borden Ranch Price: $ 49 Tasting Notes: Soft meaty fruit. Violets; inky; dense; floral; cherry.
HERTELENDY VINEYARDS 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 150 Tasting Notes: Dark fruit; nutmeg; smoked paprika; pepper. www.hertelendy.com
HERZOG WINE CELLARS Baron Herzog 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 13
Tasting Notes: Outstanding nose; well integrated; oak on finish. www.herzogwinecellars.com
Herzog Lineage 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 19.99 Tasting Notes: Jolly Rancher; light herbs. www.herzogwinecellars.com
Herzog Special Reserve NV Méthode Champenoise Brut Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Juicy; pretty; nice everyday wine; nice citrus profile; touch of nectarine; nice finish. www.herzogwinecellars.com
Herzog Special Reserve 2020 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 44 Tasting Notes: Nice; lively; minerally; graphite; excellent. www.herzogwinecellars.com
HIGH CAMP WINES 2021 High Camp Wines 2021 Estate Petit Et Grand Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Paso Robles Estrella District Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Deep black fruit; jammy. highcampwines.com
- $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 70 Tasting Notes: Touch of quince; oaky from tannins. www.housefamilyvineyards. com
HOLESINSKY WINERY
HUSCH VINEYARDS
2022 Stainless Steel Chardonnay Estate Grown and Produced
2022 Sauvignon Blanc Sustainably Farmed
Category: Unoaked Chardonnay Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Snake River Valley Price: $ 18 Tasting Notes: quite elegant and complex; light sulfur matchstick; Chablis style; Meyer lemon; classic characteristic Burgundian. www.holesinsky.com
Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $ 18 Tasting Notes: Well balanced; herbal; lemon lime zest. www.huschvineyards.com
HOLLY’S HILL VINEYARDS NV Rockbound Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: El Dorado Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Nice mix of red & black fruit. www.hollyshill.com
HOUSE FAMILY VINEYARDS 2019 Saltonstall Vineyard Pinot Noir Single Vineyard Category: Pinot Noir $40.01
IMAGERY ESTATE WINERY 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Blackberry; sweet fruit; nicely balanced; well done. www.imagerywinery.com
2020 Barbera; Upper Ridge Estate Produced and Bottled Category: Barbera Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Pine MountainCloverdale Peak (Sonoma) Price: $ 49 Tasting Notes: Long dry; lavish; black fruits. Bittersweet
cocoa. www.imagerywinery.com
INDIAN LEAP WINERY 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Single Vineyard Estate Grown Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 55 Tasting Notes: Peppery; upfront fruit; great velocity lingerer. www.indianleapwinery.com
INTERCOASTAL WINE COMPANY Intercoastal Vineyards 2021 Pinot Grigio Lodi Rules Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Clarksburg (Sacramento) Price: $ 27 Tasting Notes: Classic; Herbaceous; savory herbs; crisp finish. intercoastalwine.com
Intercoastal Vineyards 2022 Vermentino Category: Italian White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 27 Tasting Notes: Apricot blossom; honeysuckle. Long finish; nice viscosity. intercoastalwine.com
Intercoastal Vineyards
2019 Petite Sirah Estate Grown Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Spicy. Jammy; rich. Great structure. Balanced. intercoastalwine.com
IRONSTONE VINEYARDS Obsession Wines 2021 Obsession Symphony Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 14 Tasting Notes: White pepper and nectarine; agave and orange bloom tones. www.ironstonevineyards.com
J. LOHR VINEYARDS & WINES 2020 J. Lohr Carol’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: St. Helena Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Lovely; dark fruit; black plum; weighty texture. https://www.jlohr.com
2020 J. Lohr Pure Paso Proprietary Red Wine Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 27
Tasting Notes: Berry nose; cherry; cola; firm tannins. https://www.jlohr.com
2019 J. Lohr Shotwell Vineyard Malbec Category: Malbec Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Ripe; youthful; citrusy. www.jlohr.com
J. RICKARDS WINERY 2020 Malbec - Zanzi Curve Estate Category: Malbec Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma County; Alexander Valley Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Blueberry Pie. Very nice. Spice bath. www.jrwinery.com
2020 Petite Sirah Brown Barn Estate Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Sonoma County; Alexander Valley Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Plum; Boysenberry; Chocolate. www.jrwinery.com
2019 Syrah Furlong Vineyard Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Meaty; savory; cola; mouth-watering; great tannins. www.jrwinery.com
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
2021 Grenache - One Lone Row One Lone Row Estate Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma County; Alexander Valley Price: $ 37 Tasting Notes: Balanced; lush; soft midpalate; shaved coconut. www.jrwinery.com
2022 Rosé of Grenache - Ava Rae Unoaked Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 29 Tasting Notes: Aromatic; fresh fruit. well balanced. www.jrwinery.com
JAXON KEYS 2021 Grenache; Jon Vincent Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Big; smooth; long finish; black currant. www.jaxonkeys.com
NV JaxZin Reserve Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Food friendly style. Notes of licorice; Blue fruit; floral old school. www.jaxonkeys.com
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JULIETTA WINERY 2018 Tempranillo Barrel Aged Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Clarksburg (Yolo) Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Earthy; menthol. juliettawinery.com
2021 Grenache Estate Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Clarksburg Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Aromatic; bright raspberry; fresh; blood orange. juliettawinery.com
JUSTIN VINEYARDS & WINERY Justin 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Classic clean style of cabernet; not overdone; controlled; ripeness. www.justinwine.com
Landmark 2022 Demaris Reserve Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Sonoma Coast
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Crisp and Clean. Classic apple and pear www.justinwine.com
KARAMOOR ESTATE 2017 Meritage Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Pennsylvania Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Oak driven; pretty red fruit. www.karamoorwines.com
KELSEY SEE CANYON VINEYARDS 2021 Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Ripe; big; extract. www.kelseywine.com
2021 Improvisation Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 39 Tasting Notes: Intense citrus bloom; guava notes; slight petrol in nose. www.kelseywine.com
KING ESTATE WINERY Inscription 2021 Pinot Noir
Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Lovely; fresh; elegant; violet. kingestate.com
2021 Domaine Pinot Gris Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Minerally; floral; crisp; a classic; honeydew melon. kingestate.com
2021 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Chablis style;notes of peach and melon. Bright lean and perky. kingestate.com
2018 Brut Cuvée Estate grown Methode Champenoise Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Beautiful apple flavors; complex. kingestate.com
KOBRAND
CORPORATION Caposaldo 2022 Pinot Grigio Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Delle Venezie DOC Price: $ 12 Tasting Notes: Honeysuckle; crisp; well balanced; creamy. http://www.kobrandwineandspirits.com/
KOEHLER WINERY 2022 Rosé of Grenache Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Santa Ynez Valley Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Lemon grass; quince. Balanced. koehlerwinery.com
KUKERI WINES 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 59 Tasting Notes: Dark fruits mixed with red berries. Elegant; sophisticated. Napa Valley style; great! www.kukeriwines.com
Petar 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Oak Knoll
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
District Price: $ 59 Tasting Notes: Young; bright; fresh. Drinkable now. www.kukeriwines.com
LA PRENDA WINES 2021 Malbec Category: Malbec Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma Coast Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Smooth finish. Cranberry and plum. Great texture. www.laprendawines.com
Fifth Hill 2021 Syrah Parmelee-Hill Vineyard- Durell Clone Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Easy drinker; good varietal flavor. www.laprendawines.com
LACEWING CELLARS NV Scruffy Head Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 18 Tasting Notes: Smooth fun floral; rich mouth feel. lacewingcellars.com
LAKE CHELAN WINERY 2020 Malbec Bell Barrel Aged
Category: Malbec Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 49 Tasting Notes: Meaty (grilled) pepper; smokey. www.lakechelanwinery.com
2020 Tempranillo Hill Vineyard Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Chelan Price: $ 48 Tasting Notes: Very caramel; generous oak; smooth. www.lakechelanwinery.com
LANGETWINS FAMILY WINERY 2022 Chenin Blanc Merrill Vineyard Single Vineyard Category: Chenin Blanc Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Clarksburg Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Blossomy; well balanced; pleasant finish. www.langetwins.com
Ivory & Burt 2021 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Golden straw color; nice reduction. www.langetwins.com
Ivory & Burt
2020 Old Vine Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Stewed prunes; Milk Duds. www.langetwins.com
LAWER FAMILY WINES
Lingering finish. www.levignewinery.com
LEDSON WINERY AND VINEYARDS
Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Howell Mountain Price: $ 68 Tasting Notes: Nice aromatics; yummy; chunky. www.ledson.com
2019 Zinfandel Estate Grown; Old Vine Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00
Lawer Estates 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon; V600 Vineyard 600 Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Calistoga Price: $ 80 Tasting Notes: Minty; veggie stew; earthy; bramble berries. www.lawerfamilywines.com
LE VIGNE WINERY 2022 Rosé of Sangiovese Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Great aromatics. Work well with food or not. www.levignewinery.com
Le Vigne Estate 2019 Petite Sirah Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold Fifth Hill 2021 Syrah Parmelee-Hill Vineyard- Durell Clone Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $45 Tasting Notes: Easy drinker; good varietal flavor. laprendawines.com
Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 51 Tasting Notes: Blackberry.
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
LETO CELLARS 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 75 Tasting Notes: Tastes like Cab; pepper; hazelnut; age worthy. letocellars.com
LIONSTONE INTERNATIONAL Avera 2020 Touriga Nacional Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 23.99 Tasting Notes: Minty-ness; earthiness; blue fruit & toasted nuts.
Boule 2022 Brut Sparkling Wine Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Yakima Valley Price: $ 29.99 Tasting Notes: Perfect example of Chardonnay; apple notes; easy quaffable wine.
Deeply Rooted 2021 Merlot Category: Merlot =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 17.99 Tasting Notes: Juicy; nutmeg; dried orange peel;
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velvety tannins; balanced and bright.
CA-BEAR-NAY 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 17.99 Tasting Notes: Rich; jammy; serve with friends at poolside or whenever.
Drawbridge 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 15.99 Tasting Notes: Good crowd pleaser; easy drinking; fab.
Hayrick 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: California Price: $ 15.99 Tasting Notes: Frank; fresh, zippy; melon with notes of key lime pie.
Seleccion Numerada 49 Navarra 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Navarra DO Price: $ 16.99 Tasting Notes: Dark fruit; cocoa powder; delivers what the nose promises.
Silver Puffs 2021 Sauvignon Blanc
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 0 Appellation: California Price: $ 15.99 Tasting Notes: Aromatic notes of jasmine and spring flowers; papaya.
Paterson Point 2020 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 29 Tasting Notes: Grapefruit; peaches and melon
The Assist 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 16.99 Tasting Notes: Bright; juicy; good fruit; lingering finish.
The Clink 2021 Red Blend Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 16.99 Tasting Notes: Chewy and dense.
LITTLE VINEYARDS FAMILY WINERY NV Band Blend Track 14 Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma
County; Sonoma Valley Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Balanced smooth crowd pleaser. Good BBQ. Seamless littlevineyards.com
Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Lovely fruit; likeable wine; typical of grape; pleasant; cherry jolly rancher. www.lucidwinery.com
2020 Syrah
2022 Flying Lesson Albarino Estate Produced and Bottled
Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Elegant; dark fruit; dusty quality; seamless. littlevineyards.com
Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Balanced; delightfully refreshing; hazelnut component. www.lucidwinery.com
LONE OAK WINERY
LULA CELLARS
2022 Rosé’ Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir
Category: Hybrid Rosé Blend Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Minnesota Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Expresses the Marquette; spicy; well balanced. www.LoneOakWinery.org
LUCID WINERY 2022 The Sower Tannat Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $ 48 Tasting Notes: Character & personality; fig compote. www.lucidwinery.com
2022 Mourvedre Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sierra Foothills
Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $ 26 Tasting Notes: Brilliant fruit; crisp; very well balanced. www.lulacellars.com
LUMOS WINE CO. Lumos 2017 Double Barrel Barrel Select Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Eola-Amity Hills Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Late season tarte; smooth; long finish. www.lumoswine.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
M2 WINES 2021 Old Vine Zinfandel Soucie Vineyard Old Vine Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Mokelumne River Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Juicy; jammy; true to varietal; nicely balanced. www.m2wines.com
MACCHIA 2021 Adventurous Linsteadt Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Pretty; focused with textural quality; beautiful fruit; pleases every palate. www.macchiawines.com
2021 Devious Barrel Aged Category: Primitivo Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 26 Tasting Notes: Big ripe with juicy red fruit. www.macchiawines.com
2021 Righteous Linsteadt Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Barbera Award: Gold Score: 92
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Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 26 Tasting Notes: Big ripe and grapy. www.macchiawines.com
2021 Tremendous Teroldego Barrel Aged Category: Italian Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Great fruit; earthiness; warm spice; bright; hint of strawberry; consumer friendly. www.macchiawines.com
2021 Sumptuous West Side Barrel Aged Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Violets; Elegant & still spicy. www.macchiawines.com
2021 Voluptuous Maley Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 27 Tasting Notes: Elegant; well structured; great varietal flavor; spicy; great fruit. www.macchiawines.com
2021 Oblivious Barrel Aged Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Score: 94 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 27 Tasting Notes: Blueberry; cherry; bright; slightly jammy; lovely lingering finish. www.macchiawines.com
MAISON JUSSIAUME WINES
2021 Rebellious Barrel Aged
Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Honeycrisp apple; hint of lemon; lingering flavors last beyond the final sip. www.MaisonJussiaume.com
Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Blackberry and blueberry; juicy; black tea; graphite aromas; soft tannins. www.macchiawines.com
MAGITO & COMPANY Meadowcroft Wines 2020 Sangiovese; Speedy Creek Vineyard Single Vineyard Selection Category: Sangiovese Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Knights Valley Price: $ 55 Tasting Notes: Sweet fruit; good tannins; cherry cordial; spicy; rich; nice acid.
Meadowcroft Wines 2022 Napa Carneros Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley; Carneros Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Clean; crisp; good acid; nice nose; floral.
2019 Maison Jussiaume Blanc de Blancs Methode Traditionnelle
MARCHESI VINEYARDS 2021 Primitivo Riserva Riserva Category: Primitivo Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Savory; spices; cherries. Fantastic balance. www.marchesivineyards.com
MATCHBOOK WINE COMPANY 2020 The Arsonist Red Blend Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Dunnigan Hills Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: cherries; pine nuts; woody. www.matchbookwines.com
MATRIX WINERY 2021 Six Hands Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma Coast Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Layered tart fruit; integrated www.matrixwinery.com
2021 Bacigalupi PN Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 56 Tasting Notes: Upfront fruit; extremely well integrated; very well balanced. www.matrixwinery.com
2021 Matrix Estate Reserve Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Wood is present. Long and lingering finish; fruity. www.matrixwinery.com
MAZZOCCO SONOMA WINERY 2020 Zinfandel Maria Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Ripe; fun; big fruit. Well balanced. www.mazzocco.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
2020 Zinfandel Aguilera Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Rich; earthy; plum; great example. www.mazzocco.com
MCFADDEN FARM Blue Quail 2022 Sauvignon Blanc North Coast; Ca. Mendocino County Estate Vineyards Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Potter Valley Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Fresh; pretty and elegant. www.bluequail.com
Blue Quail 2022 Pinot Gris North Coast; Ca. Mendocino County Estate Vineyards Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Potter Valley Price: $ 18 Tasting Notes: Floral; sour melon; Crisp mineral; crunchy; mouthwatering finish. www.bluequail.com
Blue Quail 2021 Dry Riesling Estate Grown Category: Riesling dry 0.0 0.9% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Potter Valley Price: $ 19
Tasting Notes: Finishes so well; spicy Asian food wine. www.bluequail.com
NV Sparkling Cuvee Brut Rosé Methode Champenoise Category: Sparkling Rosé <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Potter Valley Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Consumer friendly; true to variety; raspberry/strawberry notes. www.bluequail.com
NV Cuvee Brut Methode Champenoise Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Mendocino County; Potter Valley Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Pretty nose; easy yummy on the palate; nice kick of lemon. www.bluequail.com
MCGRAIL VINEYARDS AND WINERY 2020 Shamus Patrick Red Blend Lucky 8 Vineyard Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $ 46 Tasting Notes: Violets; rich dark fruit. Long finish. www.mcgrailvineyards.com
MCKENZIE-MUELLER VINEYARDS AND WINERY
elegant nose; soft tannins; mouthwatering sensation; concentrated flavors on palate; pleasant long finish; ideal for food pairing. http://www.middleridge.com
MONSERATE VINEYARDS AND WINERY
2018 Napa Jazz Cabernet Sauvignon Unfiltered Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
MIRAFLORES WINERY
2021 Montepulciano Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Nice fruit upfront; pepper; herbal; lingering finish. www.mckenziemueller.com
2019 Estate Grenache Estate Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: El Dorado Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Raw fruit; good structure; black plum; pepper. mirafloreswinery.com
MERRIAM VINEYARDS MIRAFLORES WINERY 2018 Windacre Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Single Vineyard Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Tight; pretty; elegant; with long finish. www.merriamvineyards.com
MIDDLE RIDGE WINERY 2017 Mourvedre Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Temecula Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Very clean
2020 Mision 1853 Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Concentrated favor; deft winemaker; red cherry; Chambord; blueberry cream pie. mirafloreswinery.com
MIRO CELLARS 2021 Cuvee Sasha Chevalier Vineyard Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Dried cranberry; strawberries; perfume; simple. mirocellars.com
Category: Italian Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: San Diego County Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Well made; firm tannin; earthy; well balanced. monseratewinery.com
MONTE FERRO WINERY 2021 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Umpqua Valley Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Juicy; caramel; structured; pretty; strawberry. winesbymonteferro.com
NAPA DE ORO WINERY 2019 Red Blend Barrel Aged Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 85 Tasting Notes: Substance with backbone; oaky; nice blend; cooling sensation. napadeoro.com
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
NATIVE FLORA 2021 Strawberry Blonde Estate Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Dundee Hills Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Vibrant; zippy mouth feel. www.nativeflora.com
NEW CLAIRVAUX VINEYARD 2022 Moschofilero St. James Block Single Vineyard Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Tehama County Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Perfume; fragrant; good acidity; floral; lemon cream. newclairvauxvineyard.com
2022 Syrah Rosé St. James Block Single Vineyard Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Tehama County Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Alpine strawberries; white pepper; dark coral color. newclairvauxvineyard.com
2022 Albarino St. James Block Single Vineyard Category: Spanish White Award: Gold
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Score: 93 Appellation: Tehama County Price: $ 19 Tasting Notes: floral-tuber rosé; lemon blossom. newclairvauxvineyard.com
2022 Assyrtiko St. James Block Single Vineyard Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Tehama County Price: $ 21 Tasting Notes: Nice finish; great nose aromas. newclairvauxvineyard.com
2022 Barbera Rosé Poor Souls Block Single Vineyard Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Tehama County Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Watermelon; juicy; lively; bright. newclairvauxvineyard.com
NICHELINI FAMILY WINERY 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Estate Bottled Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Sharp with bitterness; perfumed nose; sweet fruit. Full body rich. www.nicheliniwinery.com
NV Chiles Valley Red
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Estate Bottled Category: Proprietary (House) Red Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 44 Tasting Notes: Very green; fennel; anise; forest floor. www.nicheliniwinery.com
NOTRE VUE ESTATE WINE GROUP 2019 Estate Red Certified Sustainable Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Chalk Hill Price: $ 85 Tasting Notes: Toasty yet tight; some softness. www.notrevueestate.com
O’CONNELL VINEYARDS 2021 Chardonnay Pratt Vineyard Single Vineyard Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Butter; lemon; clean; apples; stone fruit finish.
O’NEILL VINTNERS & DISTILLERS Instigator 2021 Instigator Chardonnay
Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 12.99 Tasting Notes: Guava; ripe tropical fruits; nice. www.ONeillWine.com
Rabble 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 17.99 Tasting Notes: Lots of citrus; little spice; apple; cherry. www.ONeillWine.com
OAK FARM VINEYARDS 2022 Grenache Rosé Certified Green & Sustainable under Lodi Rules Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Lodi; Mokelumne River Price: $ 19 Tasting Notes: Strawberry; watermelon; sweet. lingering finish. www.oakfarmvineyards.com
2022 Fiano Certified Green & Sustainable under Lodi Rules Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Italian White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Lodi; Mokelumne River Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Store fruit; floral; lemon zest; mandarin
blossoms and good length. www.oakfarmvineyards.com
OAK RIDGE WINERY Blazon 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Soft delivery; chocolate; cherries; finishes wonderful. www.oakridgewinery.com
OLD YORK CELLARS 2021 Vidal Blanc Category: White Hybrid Varietals Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: New York State Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Clean; nice wine; well-balanced florals; citrus blossom; pear. www.oldyorkcellars.com
OLIVIA BRION WINES Cantadora 2019 The Healer Organically farmed; not certified Barrel Aged Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Amador County; Sierra Foothills Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Forest floor; wet moss; nice blue fruit from Mourvèdre. Syrah is nice compliment. www.oliviabrion.com, www. cantadora.wine
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
P HARRELL WINES 2021 P.J. Rosé Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: California Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Honey and fruit; slight edges at finish; salted cantaloupe rind. https://www.pharrellwines. com/
PALAZZO WINE 2018 Cuvée Blanc Reserve Reserve Cuvee Category: White Bordeaux Type Blends Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Pretty; bright; nice nose. www.palazzowine.com
PALAZZO WINE 2019 ‘Left Bank’ Master Blend Red Cuvee Winemaker Select Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Lingering finish; balanced; plush tannins; nice mouth feel. www.palazzowine.com
2019 Right Bank’ Reserve Proprietary Red Blend Special Reserve Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends > $75.01 Award: Gold
Score: 92 Appellation: Napa County; Carneros Price: $ 90 Tasting Notes: Show of tannins. www.palazzowine.com
PAPAPIETRO AND PERRY, INC. DBA PAPAPIETRO PERRY WINERY 2020 Papapietro Perry Leras Family Vineyards Pinot Noir Single Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 66 Tasting Notes: Steak sauce; black cherry; nice palate. www.papapietro-perry.com
2020 Papapietro Perry Nunes Vineyards Pinot Noir Single Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 66 Tasting Notes: Big fruit; cola; bit of plum; good soil. www.papapietro-perry.com
2020 Papapietro Perry Peters Vineyard Pinot Noir Single Vineyard Barrel Aged
Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 66 Tasting Notes: Tomato vine; funk on nose; fresh cherry; forest floor; medium; pleasant acidity. www.papapietro-perry.com
PARADISE RIDGE WINERY 2019 Sparkling Wine 100% Chardonnay Reserve Brut Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Pretty; lemon lime notes; green apple. www.prwinery.com
PEACHY CANYON WINERY 2020 Westside Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Jammy; well balanced; consumer friendly. peachycanyon.com
PELIO VINEYARDS 2018 Chardonnay Estate
Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Monterey Price: $ 52 Tasting Notes: Granny smith apple; lemon bright acidity; clean finish.
2019 Pinot Noir Estate Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Monterey County Price: $ 57 Tasting Notes: Dark fruit without being heavy; plummy; earthy.
2021 Pinot Noir Rosé Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Carmel Valley Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Light blossoms on nose; delicate grapefruit.
PELTIER WINERY 2022 Vermentino Lodi Rules Sustainable Winegrowing Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Italian White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 18 Tasting Notes: Crisp apple; clean; meyer lemon; quince. peltierwinery.com
PELTZER FAMILY CELLARS
2019 Syrah Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: California Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Good aromas; good oak and barrel. Sexy with a pleasing finish. peltzerwinery.com
PENNYROYAL FARM 2022 Pinot Noir Rosé Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Anderson Valley Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Full; good varietal characteristics. Juicy; good length. www.PennyroyalFarm.com
PENROSÉ HILL Firth & Vale 2021 Shiraz Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: McLaren Vale Price: $ 52 Tasting Notes: Pleasing clove aroma; well integrated; long finish; minty.
Kuier 2020 Shiraz Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Western Cape Price: $ 23 Tasting Notes: Cocoa powder; well made; full body; husky.
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Padrino Viengracia 2021 Tempranillo Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Spain Price: $ 43 Tasting Notes: Broody; black fruity; clean; day drinking; spice box.
PERNOD RICARD USA PRW Kenwood Vineyards 2019 Kenwood Vineyards “Jack London” Dry Farmed Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Farmed Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma Mountain Price: $ 55 Tasting Notes: Blackberry; sweet fruit; nicely balanced.
Kenwood Vineyards 2019 Rugged Elements “Yoakim Bridge” Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel aged Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 52 Tasting Notes: Meaty in mouth; juicy; delicious with anything off the grill; or alone.
Kenwood Vineyards 2019 Kenwood Vineyards “Six Ridges” Cabernet Sauvignon 100
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Alexander Valley Price: $ 21.99 Tasting Notes: Warm red fruit; supple tannins; good wine making.
PEZZI KING VINEYARDS 2020 Century Vine Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 44 Tasting Notes: Big fruit; oak; texture. Well integrated. www.pezziking.com
PIANETTA WINERY 2020 Petite Sirah Barrel Aged Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: El Pomar District Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Spicy. Big ripe fruit. www.pianettawinery.com
PICCHETTI WINERY 2022 Mattie Rosé Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 16.95 Tasting Notes: Captures the varietals; great acidity; dried cherry; well balanced; aromatics draws you in. www.picchetti.com
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
PUR NOIRE URBAN WINERIES
PWR WINES
2013 Reservere Merlot Reserve
Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Capay Valley Price: $ 19 Tasting Notes: Chalky; good mouthfeel; earthy; juicy. pwrwines.com
Category: Merlot > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 64 Tasting Notes: Peppery notes; violet; floral. www.purnoirewines.com
PURPLE BRANDS Four Vines 2021 The Biker Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 17.99 Tasting Notes: Black caviar; salty. purplebrands.com
PURPLE HANDS WINERY 2021 Haakon/Lenai Vineyard Pinot Noir Barrel Aged; Barrel Select; Estate Vineyard; Single Vineyard; Unfined & Unfiltered; Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Dundee Hills Price: $ 70 Tasting Notes: Nice aroma; unfiltered; meaty; sweet. www.purplehandswine.com
2021 Grenache Barrel Aged
QUINTESSENTIAL Ironstone Vineyards 2020 Old Vine Zinfandel Barrel Aged Category: Zinfandel =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 13.99 Tasting Notes: Ripe Bing cherry; sweet oak; nutty. www.quintessentialwines. com
Ironstone Vineyards 2021 Petite Sirah Barrel Aged Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Lodi Price: $ 13.99 Tasting Notes: Spectacular fruit; velvety; supple texture. www.quintessentialwines.com
RAFFALDINI VINEYARDS & WINERY LLC 2021 La Dolce Vita Category: Sparkling White over 5% RS
Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Swan Creek Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Floral. Minerality. Pineapple. Herbal tea. www.raffaldini.com
RAGING BULL VINEYARD 2021 The Matador Barrel aged; Winemaker select Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Tehama County Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Cocoa; dark plum; menthol; woody. ragingbullvineyard.com
2021 Malbec Barrel aged Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Malbec Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Tehama County Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Black tea, french bread. ragingbullvineyard.com
RAMONA RANCH WINERY 2019 Tannat Certified Sustainable Vineyard & Winery Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Ramona Valley
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Price: $ 48 Tasting Notes: Concentrated raspberry; strawberry & rosé; soft velvety texture; beautiful long finish. www.ramonaranchwines.com
Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Ripe red fruit; chocolate; grape; malty. www.rellikwinery;com
RATHBONE WINE GROUP
Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $ 33 Tasting Notes: Broad midpalate; fruit forward. www.rellikwinery;com
Mount Langi Ghiran 2020 Mount Langi Ghiran Cliff Edge Shiraz Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Grampians Price: $ 24.99 Tasting Notes: Minty nose; bright fruit; slight dill on the finish.
RED THREAD WINES 2021 Red Thread - Chardonnay Starscape Vineyard Barrel Aged Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 56 Tasting Notes: Creamy vanilla; elegant texture; refined classic Chardonnay. www.redthreadwines.com
RELLIK WINERY 2020 Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93
2020 Tempranillo
REUSTLE PRAYER ROCK VINEYARDS 2022 Grüner Veltliner Estate Selection Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Umpqua Valley Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Mineral note; rich flavors; grippy. www.reustlevineyards.com
2022 Grüner Veltliner Green Lizard Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Umpqua Valley Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Classic grapefruit Muscat tones; green almond; very floral. www.reustlevineyards.com
2019 Tempranillo Winemaker’s Reserve Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold
Score: 94 Appellation: Umpqua Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Super traditional; tropical notes. www.reustlevineyards.com
RIOS WINE COMPANY 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley; Stags Leap District Price: $ 75 Tasting Notes: Sweet palate; chocolate covered cherry; baking chocolate; lovely! rioswinecompany.com
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Napa Valley; Stags Leap District Price: $ 100 Tasting Notes: Amazing; incredible texture; true varietal example; perfect oak integration. rioswinecompany.com
RM WINERIES Caliche 2022 Albariño Estate Grown Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Ancient Lakes
Price: $ 18.99 Tasting Notes: Sweet fruit; honey; pleasant mouth feel. RMWineries.com
ROCK AND CLAY WINES LLC 2020 Tannat Single Vineyard Category: Other Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Fruitcake & roasted nuts; beautiful velvety tannins; ripe bordelaise aromas. www.rockandclaywines.com
RODNEY STRONG WINE ESTATES Rodney Strong Vineyards 2022 Sonoma Coast Rosé of Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma Coast Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Taste of rosé pedals; pinot came through; crushed seashells; minerality. www.rodneystrong.com
Rodney Strong Vineyards 2021 Sonoma County Merlot
refreshing; black currants; bread fruit. www.rodneystrong.com
Rowen Wine Company 2018 Rowen; Red Blend Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Mouth filling; well balanced. www.rodneystrong.com
ROLLING HILLS VINEYARD AND WINERY 2020 Sangiovese Barrel Fermented Category: Sangiovese Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Idaho; Snake River Valley Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Nice berry notes; cherry cola; resolved tannins. Rolling Hills Vineyard and Winery 2020 Tempranillo Barrel Fermented Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Idaho; Snake River Valley Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Spicy; balanced; smooth; age well.
Category: Merlot > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Juicy;
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
RUSSIAN RIVER VINEYARDS 2019 Austin Estate Estate Category: Pinot Noir > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Russian River
Valley Price: $ 85 Tasting Notes: Dark fruit; very complex; some forest floor; clean; very well balanced. www.russianrivervineyards. com
ST. ANNE’S CROSSING 2020 Bacigalupi Zinfandel
Bacigalupi Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Russian River Price: $ 44 Tasting Notes: Black pepper; youth; energetic. Filled with spice. stannescrossing.com
2020 Zinfandel Harris Kratka Harris Kratka
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold St. Francis Winery & Vineyards 2020 Old Vines Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $22 Tasting Notes: Good use of oak. www.stfranciswinery. com
Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 46 Tasting Notes: Juicy; jammy; varietally correct; berries; supple hint of spice. stannescrossing.com
2019 Este Cabernet Sauvignon Este Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Sonoma Valley Price: $ 47 Tasting Notes: Classic Sonoma Valley style. Cherries and mineral notes. Long finish. stannescrossing.com
2020 Sonoma County Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Raspberry/ blackberry; nice spice; consumer friendly. stannescrossing.com
2020 Old Vine Zinfandel
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SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Red raisins; plum; earth. stannescrossing.com
ST. FRANCIS WINERY & VINEYARDS 2020 Old Vines Zinfandel Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Good use of oak; vanilla creme. www.stfranciswinery.com
2019 Lagomarsino Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 72 Tasting Notes: Fabulous nose; Forceful; bittersweet chocolate; red fruit. www.stfranciswinery.com
SAKURA VINEYARD AND WINERY Sakura Winery’s Aphelion NV Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $ 45
Tasting Notes: Young; elegant and vibrant. www.sakurawinery.com
Sakura Winery’s Aphelion 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Pretty; young and easy to please; lovely finish. www.sakurawinery.com
Sakura Winery’s Aphelion 2018 Tempranillo Estate Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Dark and broody; plum; nice oak; coconut. www.sakurawinery.com
SAN JOAQUIN WINE COMPANY Aunar 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Aged Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: California Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Balanced; drinkable; bright fruit; great value. www.sjwineco.com
Aunar
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
2022 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: California Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Banana; bright aromatics. www.sjwineco.com
SANDAR & HEM WINES 2022 Bates Ranch Grenache Rosé Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Appellation Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Balanced; good acid; earthy; delicate. www.sandarandhem.com
2021 Mountain Winery Vineyard Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains Appellation Price: $ 52 Tasting Notes: Apple; lemon; vanilla; balanced oak. www.sandarandhem.com
SARACINA VINEYARDS 2019 Pick & Shovel Zinfandel Estate Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Nice spice character; blackberry; blueberry; medium body; Good
finish. www.saracina.com
SASS WINERY 2022 Gamay Noir Rosé Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: White pepper; dry cherries; aromatic wine; good. SassWinery.com
SCARLETT WINES 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Napa Valley; Rutherford Price: $ 85 Tasting Notes: Lavendar/ rosé; rosémary; herbal; rich finish. scarlettwines.com
2022 Sauvignon Blanc Estate Grown Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Napa Valley; Rutherford Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Citrus; grapefruit. Phenolic finish. scarlettwines.com
2019 Petit Verdot Estate Grown Category: Petit Verdot Award: Gold Score: 94
Appellation: Napa Valley; Rutherford Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Black pepper; piney aromas; stone fruit; full throated tannins. scarlettwines.com
SENTIVO VINEYARDS AND WINERY 2017 Syrah Estate Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: El Dorado; Fair Play Price: $ 44 Tasting Notes: Oil cured olives; blackberry leaf; black pepper. Tomato skins. sentivovineyards.com
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Fair Play Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Fruit balanced; compote; excellent. sentivovineyards.com
SEVEN BRIDGES WINERY 2018 Quintessence Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Barrel Reserve Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Red Mountain Price: $ 58
Tasting Notes: Upfront fruit; weighty velocity; crisp finish. www.sevenbridgeswinery. com
SODA ROCK WINERY 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon; Five Star General Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sonoma County; Alexander Valley Price: $ 68 Tasting Notes: Rich & round; lots of fruit; lifted with cherry; long finish. www.sodarockwinery.com
2020 Chardonnay; Mendocino Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Very floralwhite peach. Clean and focused. Rich; creamy; finish. www.sodarockwinery.com
2017 Rockpile Cabernet Sauvignon RSV Single Vineyard Reserve Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Rockpile Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Tasty; elegant; long lingering finish; great nose. www.sodarockwinery.com
Twisted Rail Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Alexander Valley Price: $ 54 Tasting Notes: Smoky bacon; big; full; rich; concentrated. www.sodarockwinery.com
SONOMA-CUTRER VINEYARD 2020 The Cutrer Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Deep rich flavors of Mango and Peach. Nice finish. www.sonomacutrer.com
2020 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir Grown; Vinted and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Russian River Valley Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Woody; bright; red fruit. www.sonomacutrer.com
2020 Cabernet Sauvignon; Twisted Rail
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
SOUTH COAST WINERY 2022 Grenache Noir Rosé Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: South Coast Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Watermelon; nicely balanced. www.southcoastwinery.com
2021 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Temecula Valley Price: $ 19 Tasting Notes: cantaloupe; peach. www.southcoastwinery.com
STAGE PASS ESTATE 2021 Pinot Noir Estate Grown Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Rogue Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Spice rack; Ranier cherry; tomato leaf; blackberry; boysenberry yogurt; bramble; long finish.
STARFIELD VINEYARDS 2022 Che Moscato! Estate Grown Category: Muscat Varietals 0.0 - 5.0% rs Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: El Dorado Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Stone fruit;
104
lanolin. www.starfieldvineyards.com
STE MICHELLE WINE ESTATES Liquid Light 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Washington State Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Apple; pear; soft; nice acid balance; pretty nose. www.ste-michelle-wineestates.com
Northstar 2020 Columbia Valley Merlot Category: Merlot > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Big mouth feel but still soft; lush; fruity. www.ste-michelle-wineestates.com
STEINER FAMILY VINEYARDS 2021 Barbera “Cooper Ranch” Category: Barbera Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 32 Tasting Notes: Big ripe and voluptuous. Notes of blue fruits and clove. Blood orange peel. red19wine.com
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
2022 Rosé “Cooper Ranch” Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Amador County Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Wildflower; red cherry; balanced; aromatic. red19wine.com
Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Ribbon Ridge Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Balanced and lovely; saturated; abundance of red and dry notes.
STONEHOUSE CELLARS
SYCAMORE RANCH VINEYARD & WINERY, LLC
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon; Hella Sticky Monkey Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled
2021 GSM Barrel aged Estate Bottled & Produced
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Lake County Price: $ 95 Tasting Notes: Elegant; beautiful tannin; beautiful oak. www.stonehousecellars.com
STORRS WINERY & VINEYARDS; LTD. 2021 Grenache Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Woody; well made; hearty; big fruit; spice. storrswine.com
STYRING VINEYARDS Styring Signature 2018 Styring Signature Estate Estate Grown and Produced
Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Ballard Canyon Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Plum cherry; Bing cherry cola. www.sycamoreranch.com
THE MEEKER VINEYARD 2019 Cabernet Franc Pedroni Vineyard Reserve Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 65 Tasting Notes: Mineral-iron ore. Blended Tannins; well done. www.meekerwine.com
THE MILL KEEPER 2019 Red Wine Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold
Score: 94 Appellation: Napa Valley Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: garnet; sweet cedar; walnuts. https://themillkeeper.com/
THE WINE GROUP Benziger Family Winery 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: California Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Pretty fruit; blueberry aroma. Nice winemaking. www.thewinegroup.com
Charles Smith 2021 Boom Boom Syrah Category: Syrah/ Shiraz =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Washington Price: $ 14.99 Tasting Notes: True to it’s name; Great Flavor; lingering finish. www.thewinegroup.com
Chloe Wine Collection 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: North Coast Price: $ 17.99 Tasting Notes: Smooth; licorice; cherry; good complexity. www.thewinegroup.com
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Chloe Wine Collection 2021 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Monterey County Price: $ 16.99 Tasting Notes: Pineapple; lemony; bright acidity. Long creamy finish. www.thewinegroup.com
Chloe Wine Collection 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Martinborough Price: $ 16.99 Tasting Notes: Gooseberry; smooth; great acid; new world classic. Lemon verbena lime. www.thewinegroup.com
Concannon Vineyard 2019 Clone 7 Cabernet Sauvignon Clone 7 Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $ 95 Tasting Notes: Pure and elegant; pleases any palate; depth to this wine; long finish. www.thewinegroup.com
Franzia NV Rich & Buttery Chardonnay Vintner Select Category: Boxed White Wines Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Australia Price: $ 11.99
Tasting Notes: Caramelized; nice oak integration; balanced. www.thewinegroup.com
Chloe Wine Collection 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: North Coast Price: $ 17.99 Tasting Notes: Smooth; licorice; cherry; good complexity. www.thewinegroup.com
Chloe Wine Collection 2021 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Monterey County Price: $ 16.99 Tasting Notes: Pineapple; lemony; bright acidity. Long creamy finish. www.thewinegroup.com
Chloe Wine Collection 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Martinborough Price: $ 16.99 Tasting Notes: Gooseberry; smooth; great acid; new world classic. Lemon verbena lime. www.thewinegroup.com
THE WINERY AT HOLY CROSS ABBEY As Above So Below NV The Theurigist
Category: Red Hybrid Vinifera Blends Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: American Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Ripe fruit; raspberry; nice balance; nice underlying oak. www.abbeywinery.com
2022 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Monterey Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Clean fresh apple; orange blossom; nice lengthy finish. www.abbeywinery.com
NV Sangre de Cristo Nouveau Category: Native American Vinifera Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: American Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Juicy; true to varietal; nice floral notes with a touch of black pepper. www.abbeywinery.com
As Above So Below NV The Theurigist Category: Red Hybrid Vinifera Blends Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: American Price: $ 16 Tasting Notes: Ripe fruit; raspberry; nice balance; nice underlying oak. www.abbeywinery.com
2022 Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Monterey
Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Clean fresh apple; orange blossom; nice lengthy finish. www.abbeywinery.com
NV Sangre de Cristo Nouveau Category: Native American Vinifera Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: American Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Juicy; true to varietal; nice floral notes with a touch of black pepper. www.abbeywinery.com
THEOPOLIS VINEYARDS 2021 Cortada Alta Vineyard; Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Santa Lucia Highlands Price: $ 50 Tasting Notes: Chalky cocoa tannins; dark fruit; dried sour cherry. http://theopolisvineyards. com
THIBIDO WINERY 2021 The Bedfellow Estate Bottled & Produced Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Willow Creek Price: $ 58 Tasting Notes: Intense flavors-ripe; plummy; cocoa and vanilla. https://thibidowinery.com/
TINTE CELLARS
2022 Viognier Category: Viognier Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 38 Tasting Notes: Green papaya; very floral; orange blossom; honeysuckle. https://tintecellars.com/
2020 Irish Eyes Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 48 Tasting Notes: Very pretty; volatile; woody. https://tintecellars.com/
2020 Syrah Category: Syrah/ Shiraz > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Berry compote; pleasing fruit; good acid with balance. https://tintecellars.com/
TOAD HOLLOW VINEYARD 2021 Chardonnay Francines Selection Unoaked Category: Unoaked Chardonnay Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Mendocino County Price: $ 15 Tasting Notes: Golden apple; mace; medium bodied.
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
www.toadhollow.com
TONGUE DANCER WINES The Departure 2020 Red Blend Winemaker Select Category: Red Bordeaux Type Blends $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Sonoma County Price: $ 49 Tasting Notes: Nice color-garnet & chocolate; coffee; big wine. tonguedancerwines.com
TOWNSHIP 7 VINEYARD & WINERY 2019 seven stars Polaris Methode Traditionnelle Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: British Columbia; Okanagan VQA Price: $ 39.97 Tasting Notes: Honeycomb notes; bright fresh lemon; silky texture. www.township7.com
TRECINI WINERY 2016 Montepulciano D’Abruzzo Barrel Aged Category: Italian Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Colline Teramane DOCG Price: $ 30
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Tasting Notes: Red fruits; good minerality; well balanced; plush tannins. www.trecini.com
FAMILY ESTATES
Sutter Home NV Cabernet Sauvignon
2020 Late Harvest Tannat Clarksburg Estate Grown; Late Harvest
SEAGLASS 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 12.99 Tasting Notes: Menthol aroma; blueberry; pleasant finish; good winemaking. www.tfewines.com
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: California Price: $ 6 Tasting Notes: Boysenberry; flavorful spicy note. www.tfewines.com
Category: LH Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Yolo County Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: True to varietal. Elegant; well balanced; long finish. www.trecini.com
TRENTADUE WINERY La Storia 2020 La Storia Petite Sirah Estate Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Cassis; Wildberry; inky; peppery; briary; intense fruit; juicy. www.trentadue.com
La Storia 2021 Zinfandel Block 303 Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Alexander Valley; Sonoma County Price: $ 26 Tasting Notes: Spice box; cocoa; velvety; blackberry notes. www.trentadue.com
TRINCHERO
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
SEAGLASS 2021 Pinot Grigio Category: Pinot Gris/ Grigio Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Santa Barbara County Price: $ 12 Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit. Long finish. www.tfewines.com
SEAGLASS 2021 Riesling Category: Riesling semisweet 2.1 - 4.0% rs Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Monterey County Price: $ 12 Tasting Notes: Key lime pie; great balance between acidity and sweetness. www.tfewines.com
Sutter Home NV Sweet Red Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: California Price: $ 6 Tasting Notes: Lilac; blossom. Floral; bright fruit. www.tfewines.com
Fre NV Chardonnay Category: No alcohol white Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: California Price: $ 6 Tasting Notes: White peach; asparagus. www.tfewines.com
Menage a Trois 2021 Silk Soft Red Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: California Price: $ 12 Tasting Notes: Elegant; balanced. Lingering. www.tfewines.com
TRUJILLO WINES LLC 2022 2022 Madelyn White Cuvee Category: Other White Blends Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Mendocino Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Edgy and bold; lemongrass. www.trujillowines.com
TWO MOUNTAIN WINERY
Brothers 2018 Brothers Cabernet Sauvignon Copeland Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $40.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Yakima Valley Price: $ 75 Tasting Notes: Smooth; elegant and sophisticated; excellent. www.twomountainwinery. com
VARA WINERY & DISTILLERY NV Silverhead Brut Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Ancient Lakes Price: $ 25 Tasting Notes: Great job of capturing varietal; green apple; expressive; Meyer lemon. varawines.com
2020 Gold Garnacha Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Spain Price: $ 28 Tasting Notes: Warm cherry pie; raspberry jam; long finish. varawines.com
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
VEGAS VALLEY WINERY 2022 Mist Category: Muscat Varietals 0.0 - 5.0% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Suisun Valley Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Sweet; yellow rosé; tupalo honey. Www.vegasvalleywinery.com
2022 La Rosa Category: All other Varietal Rosés Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Suisun Valley Price: $ 24 Tasting Notes: Peachy; white flowers; good balance. Bright acidity. Www.vegasvalleywinery.com
VEZER FAMILY VINEYARD LLC 2022 Verdelho / Franci Estate Category: Other White Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Suisun Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Honeycomb; summer in a glass. www.vezerfamilyvineyard. com
VILLA CREEK CELLARS Cherry House Wines 2022 Cherry House Rosé Barrel Aged Category: Rosé Blends
Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 20 Tasting Notes: Raspberries and cream; nice wine; well rounded. http://www.villacreekwine. com/
VILLA VALLECITO VINEYARDS INC. 2020 Cabernet Franc Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Cabernet Franc Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Calaveras County Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Nice cassis; long finish. Suede texture on palette. Herbaceous finish integrated with black fruit. villavallecitovineyards.com
2019 El Rey Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Calaveras County Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Big; ripe red fruit; cherry coke; spice cake; crowd pleaser; very approachable. villavallecitovineyards.com
VINA MODA 2020 Grenache Category: Grenache Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $ 40 Tasting Notes: Chunky; bright balanced subtle oak.
www.vinamoda.com
VINA ROBLES VINEYARDS & WINERY 2022 Rosé Grown; produced and bottled Estate Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Geneseo District Price: $ 26 Tasting Notes: Melon aroma; floral; nice mouth feel. www.VinaRobles.com
VINO VARGAS Vargas 2020 Tres Bien Barrel Aged Category: Rhone Type Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 34 Tasting Notes: Petrol; floral; racy. www.vinovargas.com
Vargas 2022 Aha Single Vineyard Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 29 Tasting Notes: kiwi flavor; balanced; well made; fruit to varietal. www.vinovargas.com
Vargas 2020 Si Single Vineyard
Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Paso Robles Price: $ 39 Tasting Notes: Astounding fruit. sweet berry fruit. rich. www.vinovargas.com
VINTAGE WINE ESTATES Clos Pegase 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Category: Sauvignon Blanc > $20.01 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: California Price: $ 24.99 Tasting Notes: Good finish; softness on palate.
Cosentino 2022 Moscato Category: Muscat Varietals 0.0 - 5.0% rs Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: California Price: $ 24.99 Tasting Notes: Very drinkable. Juicy fruity character.
Girard 2022 Meritage Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: California Price: $ 24.99 Tasting Notes: Dusky; bramble; blueberry.
WASHINGTON WINE GROUP
Sustainable Farming Methods; Vegan; Gluten-Free; Estate Grown Category: Sparkling White <2.5% rs Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Washington State Price: $ 14.99 Tasting Notes: Fun; wild apple blossom; peach; Absolutely delightful; enjoyable. https://washingtonwinegroup.com/
Lulu 2022 Rosé Sustainable Farming Methods; Vegan; Gluten-Free; Estate Grown Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Washington State Price: $ 12.99 Tasting Notes: Juicy; hammock wine; vibrant nose. https://washingtonwinegroup.com/
Milbrandt Family 2021 Chardonnay Sustainable Farming Methods; Vegan; Gluten-Free; Estate Grown Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 14.99 Tasting Notes: Juicy; thirst quenching guava; myer lemon; nice length. https://washingtonwinegroup.com/
Lulu NV Blanc de Blanc
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Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Ryan Patrick 2022 Rosé Sustainable Farming Methods; Vegan; Gluten-Free; Estate Grown Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Columbia Valley Price: $ 12.99 Tasting Notes: Fresh strawberry; excellent balance; pleasant acidity. https://washingtonwinegroup.com/
Simply... 2022 Riesling Sustainable Farming Methods; Vegan; Gluten-Free Estate Grown & Bottled Category: Riesling semi-dry 0.91 - 2.0% rs Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Washington State Price: $ 9.99 Tasting Notes: Floral fragrant; superb mouth feel; Tuber Rosé. https://washingtonwinegroup.com/
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Simply... 2020 Red Blend Sustainable Farming Methods; Vegan; Gluten-Free Estate Grown Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Washington State Price: $ 9.99 Tasting Notes: Spicy; nice fruit; soft tannins. https://washingtonwinegroup.com/
WENTE FAMILY ESTATES Wente Vineyards 2020 Wetmore Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $ 35 Tasting Notes: Nice glass of Cab solid; cab sauv; good
SUNSET • WINE ISSUE 2023
wine making. www.wentevineyards.com
Wente Vineyards 2021 Riva Ranch Vineyard Chardonnay Estate Grown Category: Chardonnay $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Arroyo Seco Price: $ 22 Tasting Notes: Autumn Chardonnay; pumpkin spice. Lovely finish. www.wentevineyards.com
Wente Vineyards 2021 Morning Fog Chardonnay Category: Chardonnay =< $20.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Central Coast Price: $ 18 Tasting Notes: Butter popcorn; wet stone; tasty. www.wentevineyards.com
2018 Artiest Series Sonata Estate Grown and Produced Category: Other Red Blends Award: Gold
Score: 91 Appellation: Livermore Valley Price: $ 60 Tasting Notes: Spicy and fun; dark chocolate finish. www.wentevineyards.com
WESTERN DRIVE WINES; LLC Brockmeyer Family Wines 2022 Albariño Otis Vineyard Category: Spanish White Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Yakima Valley Price: $ 21 Tasting Notes: Wonderful nose; good acid; lemon zest. brockmeyerwines.com
WHITEHALL LANE WINERY 2019 Leonardini Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Vineyard Single Vineyard
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Napa Valley; St. Helena Price: $ 125 Tasting Notes: Espresso tones; toffee; black fruits; well done. whitehalllane.com
WILLAMETTE VALLEY VINEYARDS 2022 Whole Cluster Rosé of Pinot Noir Category: Pinot Noir Rosés Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Willamette Valley Price: $ 19.99 Tasting Notes: Good color; floral perfume nose; honeysuckle. www.wvv.com
WILLIAM HERITAGE WINERY 2022 White Blend
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold GOLD MEDAL AND ABOVE WINNERS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Estate Reserve Category: Other White Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Outer Coastal Plain Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: sweet; juicy; well-integrated www.heritagewinenj.com
2022 Grenache Syrah Rosé Estate Reserve Category: Rosé Blends Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Outer Coastal Plain Price: $ 36 Tasting Notes: Tuber rosé; long finish; pleasant. www.heritagewinenj.com
WILSON WINERY OF DRY CREEK 2021 Zinfandel/Snake Patch RSV Single Vineyard Reserve
2021 Zinfandel/Wedding Cake Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: Alexander Valley Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Brazen red fruit. Lovely; energetic. www.wilsonwinery.com
2021 Zinfandel/Carl’s Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 42 Tasting Notes: Rich mouth feel; fresh; big. www.wilsonwinery.com
2021 Zinfandel/Buzz Single Vineyard Selection
Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 44 Tasting Notes: Sweet berry, chocolate flavors; medium bodied; rich; good balance. www.wilsonwinery.com
2021 Zinfandel/Conte Single Vineyard Selection Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 93 Appellation: Chalk Hill Price: $ 44 Tasting Notes: Beautifully textured; boysenberry; blackberry; classic; underlining herbs; great nose. www.wilsonwinery.com
WINEPLAYGROUND Fiftyrow 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Alice Block Single Vineyard Category: Cabernet Sauvignon > $75.01 Award: Gold
Score: 92 Appellation: Napa Valley; Rutherford Price: $ 90 Tasting Notes: Very ripe and clean; chocolate covered cranberries; great fruit. www.fiftyrow.com
WISE VILLA WINERY 2020 Petite Sirah Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Petite Sirah Award: Gold Score: 94 Appellation: Sierra Foothills; Placer County Price: $ 37 Tasting Notes: Persistent fruit. Really good acidity. Tannins very well managed. www.wisevillawinery.com
2021 Tempranillo Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Tempranillo Award: Gold Score: 90 Appellation: Sierra Foothills Price: $ 45 Tasting Notes: Bright acidity; dried fruit. www.wisevillawinery.com
WOLFF VINEYARDS 2021 Teroldego Italian variety Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Italian Red Varietals Award: Gold Score: 92 Appellation: San Luis Obispo County; Edna Valley Price: $ 39 Tasting Notes: Intense; bold; blackberries; well balanced; backbone of tannins. www.wolffvineyards.com
YAMHILL VALLEY VINEYARDS 2021 Pinot Noir Estate Estate Grown; Produced and Bottled Category: Pinot Noir $20.01 - $40.00 Award: Gold Score: 91 Appellation: McMinnville Price: $ 30 Tasting Notes: Dry cherry; balanced. www.yamhill.com
GUTTER CREDIT
Category: Zinfandel > $20.01 - $75.00 Award: Gold Score: 92
Appellation: Dry Creek Valley Price: $ 62 Tasting Notes: Floral nose; juicy; blackberry; pristine acids; nicely balanced; elegant. www.wilsonwinery.com
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The Essence of Place, Expertly Crafted Legendary J. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon. Our very best vineyard blocks
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold 2020 J. LOHR CAROL’S VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON
and artisan craftsmanship result in one of the appellation’s flagship reds. Simply put, our Vineyard Series’ Hilltop release has, for twenty-six vintages, defined Cabernet from Paso Robles. R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Gold 2020 J. LOHR PURE PASO® PROPRIETARY RED WINE
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION
Double Gold
R NAT I ON IN T E WINE AL COMPETITION Best of Class
2021 J. LOHR ESTATES SOUTH RIDGE SYRAH
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