Direct from the mountains and into your glass. In 1976 Dr. Thomas Fogarty, a practicing heart surgeon and noted inventor of medical devices, decided that he would dedicate his approximately 350 acres in the north end of the Santa Cruz Mountains to open space. For inclusion in the “Williamson Act”, the property would need an…
Legendary Oregon wines born of greatness. Jean-Nicolas Méo and Jay Boberg became friends in 1988, when Jean-Nicolas was studying abroad in the United States. Over the years, Jean-Nicolas immersed himself in Méo-Camuzet, his family’s renowned domaine, and Jay built IRS Records into a seminal indie label. Throughout that time, they shared an interest in the…
The fun starts here, so Vif your face off. Created by French-born winemaker Xavier Arnaudin (of Union Sacré fame), Vin Vif is working to put under-appreciated varieties into your glass. Located in the Central Coast, they emphasize a “vif” (energetic/lively) philosophy, to go with your “vin”, rather than the overly precious overly expensive experience that…
When you want more for less and you want to look cute while you’re doing it. A delightfully fabulous project from the team at Valkyrie (Marine Layer/Valravn, etc), Pavette is an incredible value from all around California, made and priced to brighten up any night of the week. PEACOCK :: Genus name Pavo páv (croatian)…
Shine Bright Like an (Oregon) Diamond. North Valley Vineyards was originally a partnership between Tony Soter (of Soter Vineyards and Mineral Springs Ranch) and his head winemaker, James Cahill (formerly of Beaux Freres and Elk Cove). James is now the full owner and driving force behind North Valley Vineyards and its two estate sites. The…
What is shorthand for delicious, affordable, and fun? Joseph-Jibril. Bobby Joseph and Jaam Jibril put their middle names on the label to emphasize their personal commitment and involvement. From the cellar to the vineyard, all the way to marketing, it’s just them. They met when they were both young winemakers working at Kosta Browne, and…
When you dream the impossible dream, and it’s Cabernet. Cliff Lede (pronounced like “lady”, as in, “GaGa” or “and the Tramp”), is a benchmark example of what hard work can do. Cliff came from construction, but he knew he wanted to be part of the wine business magic, so twenty years ago he got his…
This is Napa Valley history, the fun way Shypoke Estate vineyard is located in the north-western corner of the Napa Valley. In 1904, winemaker/owner Peter Heitz’ great grandparents immigrated from Alsace and created bonded winery #130 for the production of fine wines. Five generations later, Peter and Meg Heitz carry the torch forward with wines…
An Icon that holds up and slam dunks Fred Scherrer is relentless. With an early interest in alcohol (he began at age 15), Fred began to tinker and he simply cannot seem to stop. Why do it any other way than the best way? As his wife and business partner Judi has noted, “Fred has…
All that is good about Napa, without the price tag. Four Dimes is a wine company deeply rooted in the personal history of Springboard co-owners/sisters and long-time food and beverage professionals, Sybil Ajay Sanford and Elizabeth Corsini. They grew up with very little, and the name Four Dimes is not only a nostalgic nod to…
California grown Italian varietals like you’ve never seen them before. Tansy Wines was founded in 2020 by three friends with a few key things in common. A love of Italian wine, Italian varietals, and of California bounty. Shelley Lingren of A16 restaurant in San Francisco (known for introducing southern Italian wines to diners for the…
When History and Family come together in the best possible way A family affair since 1977, Bethel Heights sits in the heart of the Willamette Valley amidst the geologically complex hillside soils and directly impacted by the powerful Aeolian winds. These are highly energized wines with firm backbones, depth of character, and distinctive personalities. Current…