Some wines are delicious. Others are delicious and quietly instructive. The 2022 Ridge Vineyards Frediani Ranch falls squarely into the latter camp—a wine that is not only distinctive and satisfying, but one that also offers a glimpse into a chapter of Napa Valley history that predates luxury tasting rooms, destination dining, and what some now…
Tag: Napa Valley
The Golden Hue of Curiosity — 2021 Matthiasson Ribolla Gialla
It glows in the glass like late-afternoon sun caught in amber — not white, not red, but something beautifully in between. At first glance, it looks like a contradiction. But take a sip, and you realize: it’s harmony. This week’s Wine of the Week is the 2021 Matthiasson Ribolla Gialla, a quietly profound expression of…
Wine Of The Week; 2015 Bedrock Wine Co. Oakville Farmhouse
Each week, I spotlight a wine that delivers—whether through character, story, or sheer pleasure in the glass. This week’s pick, the 2015 Bedrock Wine Co. Oakville Farmhouse, is one I saved for a special occasion—my birthday. And what a fitting choice it turned out to be. In a Napa Valley landscape dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon,…
Wine of the Week: 2020 William Harrison Cabernet Franc
Each week, I spotlight a wine that truly captivates—whether for its distinctive character, compelling backstory, or the simple joy it brings in the glass. This week’s feature, the 2020 William Harrison Cabernet Franc, delivers on all counts. Once considered just a supporting player in Bordeaux blends, Cabernet Franc has stepped into the spotlight in recent…
Wine of the Week; 2020 Domaine Carneros Blanc de Blancs
Each week, I spotlight a wine that truly captivates—whether for its distinctive character, compelling backstory, or the simple joy it brings in the glass. This week’s feature, the 2020 Domaine Carneros Blanc de Blancs, carries both a personal connection and a lasting impression. A few years ago, during a visit to Domaine Carneros, we tasted…
Wine of the Week; 2014 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V.
Each week, I spotlight a wine that truly captivates—whether for its distinctive character, compelling backstory, or the simple joy it brings in the glass. This week’s feature, the 2014 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V., delivers all of that and more. It’s not just a remarkable tasting experience—it’s a taste of history, rooted in…
Wine of the Week; 2016 Smith-Madrone Riesling
Each week, I spotlight a wine that truly captivates—whether for its distinctive character, fascinating story, or the sheer delight it brings to the glass. This week’s feature: the 2016 Smith-Madrone Riesling, a wine that stands apart for all the right reasons. In a region famed for bold Cabernet and opulent Chardonnay, this mountain-grown Riesling is…
Wine of the Week; 2023 Matthiasson Vermentino Cressida Vineyard
Each week, I love spotlighting a wine that truly stands out—whether for its unique personality, compelling backstory, or the sheer joy it brings in the glass. This week’s pick is all three: the 2023 Matthiasson Vermentino from the Cressida Vineyard, a vibrant expression of a lesser-known grape that deserves more attention. Matthiasson Wines Based in…
Wine of the Week; 2013 Heitz Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
Each week, I spotlight a wine that stands out—whether for its distinctive character, compelling story, or the pure joy it brings to the glass. This week, I’m thrilled to feature the 2013 Heitz Wine Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon, a beautifully structured wine that was gifted to me and instantly transported me back to fond memories of…
Wine of the Week; 2019 St. Supéry Petit Verdot Dollarhide Estate
Each week, I feature a wine that stands out—whether for its distinctive character, compelling story, or the sheer joy it brings to the glass. This week, I’m thrilled to feature the 2019 St. Supéry Petit Verdot Dollarhide Estate, a wine that perfectly embodies all three. In celebration of the inaugural International Petit Verdot Day on…