TEXAN WINE

Phamus Wines

Pronounced like “famous” this is a new project by Chris Klein, who grew up working at his parents’ winery, Allora Vineyards. Chris and I met through Instagram, and I first tried his wines when I bought a sample pack of five 4-ounce pours. I loved this format, and I wish more wineries did it, because it provides wine lovers an easier way to taste a portfolio without the financial commitment of full bottles. While we had planned to meet for lunch and share some wines, an unexpected conflict prevented this. Luckily, a close friend stepped in to host us for a private tasting at Chris’ home nestled in the hills above Saint Helena. Sitting on the porch overlooking the valley, on a beautiful spring Napa day, we enjoyed six PHAMUS wines.

The wines are fine examples of everything you would expect from Napa Valley, and I enjoy reading the small vignettes about the wine names on the back of the bottle. Chris has gotten creative with wine names like The Host, The Traveler, The Conqueror, The Sister, The Pioneer, and The Instructor. I’m looking forward to following Chris’ progress as he continues to forge his own path in Napa. In addition to PHAMUS, that path now includes his recent acquisition of the boutique Howell Mountain winery, Red Cap Vineyards. Noted winemaker Rudy Zuidema already crafts both wines, so the high quality at Red Cap is certain to continue under Chris’ leadership.