California wine production has a rich viticulture history that dates back to 1680 when Spanish Jesuit missionaries planted Vitis vinifera vines native to the Mediterranean region in their established missions as a way to produce wine for religious services. The state’s diverse terrain and microclimates allow for an incredible range of red wine styles, and unlike tradition-bound Europe, experimentation is more than welcome here. California wineries range from tiny, family-owned boutiques to massive corporations, and price and production are equally varied. As the world’s fourth-leading wine producer, California truly is the Golden State when it comes to wine. From cool coastal areas to warmer valleys, California’s mild year-round weather is perfect for wine production. We will sample:

Bench Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 — While Sonoma County is acclaimed—and rightfully so—for its Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Zinfandels, it also produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. This varietal has a rich history in Sonoma, and some of its Cabernet Sauvignons and Cabernet-based blends rival the best from Napa Valley. This Bench is inky ruby/purple in color, the nose is intensely aromatic with concentrated black plum, notes of rhubarb, menthol, and dry herbs. The palate is opulent and silky with firm tannins. Earthy, forest fruit and loam are further layered in veins of blackberry, black cherry, and baking spices. 13.8% ABV. $28.99/$7.50

Liberty School Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 — As Paso Robles, California, has soared in number of wineries and gained in popularity, Cabernet Sauvignon has firmly taken root as the region’s number one varietal. Alone, it accounts for just over 40% of plantings and is grown throughout both the western and eastern sides of the appellation. Though viticulture here dates back to the 18th century, Cabernet Sauvignon didn’t emerge as a significant grape here until the 1970s. But since then, it has made up for lost time. Liberty School wines are made in a traditional style. Fruit-driven, they are crafted to reflect true varietal character. The wines are barrel-aged, employing very little new oak. Oak is used as a building component rather than a flavoring agent. This Cab is a warm rich ruby color; the aroma fills the glass with hints of vanilla bean, fresh cedar, and dense black currants. On the palate, earthy notes mingle with crushed pepper corn, sweet oak, and dark fruit. This medium-bodied wine is balanced with dusty tannins and a soft lingering finish. 13.5% ABV. $32.99 (regularly $37.50)/$11

Band of Vintners Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 — One of the most prestigious wines available worldwide, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today, Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. “ ‘Life is too short to drink bad wine’ (—anonymous); yet drinking Montrachet every day is just not real life for most of us.” This notion inspired a group of Napa Valley friends with more than four decades of diversified winemaking knowledge to create a label based on the simple fact that high-quality wines can be delicious and affordable. To make this possible, they pooled resources, talents and invaluable relationships to access some of Napa Valley’s best, sustainably farmed fruit and all the winemaking necessities to get their wine into bottle. In this Cab, baking spices awaken the olfactory senses followed by sandalwood, lightly toasted oak barrels, a slice of warm brioche, and violets. The acidity and tannins work together to deliver a clean and smooth texture on the palate with notes of blueberry and anise, as well as an earthiness reminiscent of an old-world profile. Blend: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc. 14.5% ABV. $44.99 (regularly $54.99)/$15

See you Friday!