Beau Vigne, Haypress Zinfandel Napa Valley, 2022

Founded in 2002 by Ed Snider, Beau Vigne (French for "Beautiful Vine") quickly rose to "cult" status, largely due to its focus on small-lot, luxury Cabernet Sauvignon from the Atlas Peak region. In 2019, the brand was acquired by Charles Bartlett, who brought in world-renowned winemaker Julien Fayard (formerly of Château Lafite-Rothschild). Under Fayard’s direction, the winery has shifted toward a "vineyard-centric" approach, emphasizing terroir and French finesse in every bottle. Their guiding motto is "Great wines are grown, not made." This principle reflects the winery’s belief that the ultimate quality of the wine is determined in the soil and the vineyard management, with the cellar serving only to polish what nature provided. The wine is made of 100% Zinfandel. Historically sourced from high-elevation sites like the Grist Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley or select Napa Valley blocks, known for volcanic soils that impart a distinct minerality. The wine is aged in French Oak barrel for 14 to 18 months. The oak is used judiciously to provide "warmth" (vanilla, cedar, and baking spice) without masking the vibrant, jammy fruit characteristic of the Zinfandel grape. The wine opens with a bouquet of lush blackberry jam and dark cherry aromas lead to a palate of smoky cracked pepper and cocoa. It’s rich and opulent, with velvety tannins and a long, spiced finish. Pairs beautifully with slow-smoked BBQ beef brisket or a hearty wild boar ragu.