From Napa, California, to Grapevine, Texas, the West is overflowing with producers offering some of the best wines in the world. Here are some recommendations for a variety of occasions, whether you’re celebrating a 50th anniversary or making it through another Monday.
2017 Notorious Pinot Noir, Patricia Green Cellars
Willamette Valley, Newberg, Oregon
One sip from the only offering from Patricia Green Cellars’ portfolio that is aged in 100 percent new French oak barrels will tell you why the winery distinguishes the offering with a green label. $85
2017 Texas Gold Chocolate Cherry Dessert Wine, Cowtown Winery
Fort Worth, Texas
Mocha, espresso, and dark chocolate notes play over a ripe black-cherry melody in this sweet but strong (at 16 percent ABV) flavored wine. $29.99/375 mL
2016 Bourbon Barrel-Aged Red Blend, Federalist Vineyards
Rutherford, California
Described as complex, smoky, smooth, and spicy, this is a fine example of a recent booming trend: bourbon barrel-aged wines. Traditionalists claim these barreled wines aren’t “real” wines, and to that, we say: So what? They’re delicious anyway. $21.99
2017 Tall Tales Syrah, Dusted Valley
Walla Walla, Washington
Named for the incredible stories told by owner-winemaker Corey Braunel’s grandfather, this bottle is believably described by the winery as “earthy, gamey, aromatic and concentrated with a medium body.” $62
2017 Renegade, Ancient Peaks Winery
Paso Robles, Santa Margarita, California
Named for the gunslingers and outlaws who used to ride the rugged terrain of the working cattle ranch that is home to the winery, this bold red blend spends 19 months in French and American oak barrels. $26
2017 Cabernet Franc Reserve, Becker Vineyards
Fredericksburg, Texas
Founders Richard and Bunny Becker visited the southern Rhone River Valley of Provence and were reminded of the climate and soil at their Texas Hill Country vineyard, where they also grow several varietals of lavender in addition to making award-winning wines like this one. $40
For more from our Taste of the West feature …
Spirits of the West
Cocktails
Whiskey Warrior
Photography: Images courtesy Shutterstock, Wineries
From our October 2020 issue.
