Stop by this charming boutique off the beaten path in downtown Napa for a wonderfully personalized experience! The wines are delicious, the atmosphere is casual but trendy, and they have a great partnership with the Michelin rated restaurant next door- you can skip the line there and have a plate delivered right to the tasting room! Definitely worth a visit.

While collectors have made Marilyn Merlot one of the fastest-appreciating wines on the market, it is wine enthusiasts with a sense of humor who have long enjoyed the playful spirit behind Marilyn Merlot wines that are now also seeking the Marilyn Merlot because of the emphasis on making a notable wine from prized Napa Valley grapes. While the concept and engaging label of these wines has given these bottles a degree of fame, it is the wine in the bottle that merits the enthusiasm of those who seek it out every year.

On the sun-soaked, vine-dappled slopes of Napa Valley, overlooking the town of St. Helena, a family took a chance. Driven by an unshakable desire to create something truly their own and to leave a lasting impression, they embarked on a journey to craft a signature wine worthy of their name. It was 1993, and the world of wine shimmered with possibility.

Winemaking is a blend of mystery and mischief, and with this alchemy, they produced not just one but two proprietary blends. The first was Bacio Divino—a “divine kiss” composed primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, enhanced by Sangiovese and, occasionally, other varietals. In 1999, its vivacious younger sibling, Pazzo, made its debut—an exuberant Sangiovese-centric blend enriched by Merlot, Syrah, and a touch of estate Cabernet.

Ever curious, they expanded their vision, venturing into single-varietal wines. This evolution led to the creation of their namesake wines: Janzen (2004), Vagabond (2004), and Lucie (2009).

Now, twenty vintages into their small, family-run venture, they take great pride in each bottle. Every accolade humbles them, yet the drive to single out, blend, taste, and create remains unwavering. Through hard work and dedication, many dreams have been realized. They invite others to discover a favorite among their offerings, with the hope that the enjoyment of each will come effortlessly.

Artwork by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski – Agata Art Gallery

Gallery | Agata Art Gallery

Don and Deedee Sodaro moved to southern California in 1966 from Chicago, Illinois, the city Giuseppe Sodaro had adopted as his home in America over 70 years earlier. Though the Sodaro passion for wine ran deep, it would be another thirty years before they would be able to realize their dream of starting a winery to carry on the family namesake in the New World. In 1996, their opportunity finally arrived, and so began their search for the perfect terroir. After an extensive nine month search through the central and north coasts, Don and Deedee came upon a magnificent property set among the hillsides and alluvial terraces of the south-east Napa Valley, and immediately they knew they’d found someplace special. Gorgeous estate located in the Coombsville District, so its a close jaunt to downtown Napa. Fabulous views, and some of the best reds I have had the pleasure of tasting! A reservation is required, but definitely worth the planning to experience this romantic vineyard.