Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon

Punk Dog Wines

vines in the autumn colors

Punk Dog Wines represents an adventurous approach to winemaking. The goal is to craft wines with immense character, bold flavors, and unconventional blends. Fully embodying a Californian spirit, Punk Dog Wines refuses to be constrained by traditional blends or preconceived notions.

The name "Punk Dog" is inspired by Sophie, a small dog with a larger-than-life personality. Mischievous and strong-willed, Sophie is known for her playful antics, like running around with a stolen sock and rewarding her pursuers with enthusiastic kisses.

When establishing the winery, the founders questioned the necessity of using grapes from the same region or adhering to conventional blending practices. They explored the effects of combining varietals that might not traditionally be paired and blending grapes harvested at varying ripeness levels.

The philosophy behind Punk Dog Wines was influenced by a cellar master’s advice during the founder’s first vintage. After enduring long days of labor, the cellar master remarked in his Bulgarian accent, “Eric, smile! You’re making wine!” This perspective of taking winemaking seriously while maintaining a sense of fun has become central to their approach.

Sophie, with her bold and adventurous nature, is the perfect mascot for the winery. Reflecting the same spirited attitude and sense of adventure, the team’s goal is to create outstanding wines while enjoying the process. With the work done and the “cows home,” the invitation is simple: relax, enjoy the wine, and share in the fun.

Frias Family Vineyards

sipping wine

You really do feel like family at Frias Family Vineyard. Had the opportunity to taste here with a car service we hired and were greeted by Manny. It was a rainy December day so we tasted indoors, but Manny pointed out to the vineyard where there are chairs on the hillside to taste when it's sunny. Definitely need to come back to taste with that view. Manny is also a bit of a comedian which pairs well with the wine! The Frias wines we tasted across the board were darn good. From the Chardonnay to the Rose to the many Cabs, it's all well done

Lockwood Vineyard

two women at table with wine

Lockwood Vineyard’s founders, Paul Toeppen, Phil Johnson, and Butch Lindley, first released Lockwood Vineyard in 1989 with the belief that world-class-estate-produced wines are attainable through ideal vineyard locations and quality winemaking.

Today, Lockwood Vineyard continues to be devoted to producing high-quality wines that are a reflection of the expansive Central Coast and its diverse terroir and cool climate. Focusing on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon, vineyards are carefully selected and evaluated to produce the finest wine at an incredible value, staying true to the vision of the original founders.

Buoncristiani Family Winery

barrel room, wine cave

This is a Famly business run by four Brothers, all native residents of Napa, and all grew up making wine in their garage as kids.... Needless to say they produce some outstanding wine! The brothers take turns conducting private tours at a cave winery in the southeastern hills of the Napa Valley. It's a great tour and a REAL Napa Winemaking experience.

6 North Cellars

Artwork by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski – Agata Art Gallery

6 North Cellars wines are crafted from some of Napa Valley's finest vineyards. As of this writing they have a number of Cabs and one Malbec. You can purchase wines online. - Artwork by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski – Agata Art Gallery

Peachy Canyon Winery

autum in the vineyard and sundown

The Peachy Canyon "Old Schoolhouse" tasting room, situated in the heart of Paso Robles' wine country along Highway 46 West, is a landmark attraction. The historic Old Bethel Schoolhouse, dating back to 1886, is a must-visit destination. Guests can enjoy tasting the world-famous Estate Zinfandels, along with over 15 other handcrafted small-batch Rhone and Bordeaux varietals that are exclusive to this location.

The last available guided-tasting session is at 4:00 PM, with a by-the-glass option offered until 4:30 PM.

Please note that while reservations are recommended, they are not required. Walk-ins are welcome as long as a team member is available. There is also a new dog policy: while dogs are beloved, they are not allowed inside the tasting room. Well-behaved and properly socialized dogs on a leash are permitted in the designated "dog area" with their owners. However, dogs that bark, growl, or are off-leash will be asked to leave. Tasting service in the dog area is limited to flight service, or one person from the group can come inside to receive the next wine pour.

A. Rafanelli Winery

painting friends with wine

The A. Rafanelli Winery was founded in the early 1900's and this unique winery is still family owned and operated.  The founder, Alberto Rafanelli, was an Italian immigrant who settled in the Healdsburg, California area and started making wine.

In the 1950's the winery was moved to the Dry Creek Valley and by 1970 had established the current label. This winery specializes in Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot producing only 11,000 cases annually.  The philosophy is quality over quantity.

Tasting and purchases are by appointment only. Wines are only available through direct purchase or through selected fine restaurants. - Art work by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski – Agata Art Gallery

Pezzi King Vineyards

red wine pouring into wine glass

Hidden Jewel of Sonoma County. Pezzi King Vineyards Family owned since 1993. Winemaker Chris Barrett is a native to the Sonoma County wine country. He has seen this area grow from a few wineries to the prestige that the area holds today.

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