Five Friday Finds: A Napa Valley Legend Relaunches, Cool-Climate Rhônes & a Sentimental Sip of Stag’s Leap
A riverside romance and a Napa Valley Cabernet throwback worth sipping slowly highlight this week's Finds.
Every bottle tells a story—and some of them stick with you. Whether it’s a nostalgic label reimagined, a Rhône blend thriving where Pinot usually reigns or a Cabernet that’s been there since your first-ever wine trip, there’s something about wine that connects memory to place, to people and to the land itself.
This week’s Five Friday Finds are rooted in character and balance. From a poetic Sauvignon Blanc with a riverside love story to a spice-laced Sonoma blend that defies expectations, each bottle earns its place at the table. Let’s pour, reflect and explore.
Next week: we dive into an aged Napa Cabernet, a Cabernet Franc from Santa Ynez Valley, and a trio of exotic white wines that stretch the imagination—and the palate.
Anaba Turbine Red Blend, Sonoma County 2022 ($48)
This Rhône blend flirts with exotic spice on the nose—think allspice—that lingers throughout the glass. Black and red fruits swirl around the spice on a medium-bodied frame with a pop of fresh acidity. It’s mysterious, elegant, and proof that Rhône varietals can thrive in a cooler climate where Pinot Noir has already staked its claim.
Gamble Estates Sauvignon Blanc, Yountville, Napa Valley 2024 ($60)
The relaunch of Tom Gamble’s brand is as thoughtful as the wine itself.
Inspired by a family legacy rooted in Napa Valley and a deep commitment to preserving nature for future generations, the rebrand nails both aesthetic and intention. Gone is the childhood image of Gamble; in its place, a river flows between two trees. One trunk is etched with the initials of Gamble and his wife. The right-side tree appears to form a heart. If these trees were human, they’d be holding hands. Birds dot the landscape, and the hills in the distance are lined with vines.
“What keeps us in Napa Valley is family and a deep and abiding affection for the land,” Gamble said. “There’s an emphasis on nature in the label. The vineyard is out in the background a bit. The vineyard is secondary. It depends on the river running through the valley and all the natural elements that are there. The two trees are emblematic of Napa Valley but also of the founders—my wife and myself. The initials in the tree and the branches that look like a heart are neat items to bring a little contemplation into the wine label.”
This Sauvignon Blanc invites contemplation. Picture it at sunset, paired with white cheese, crackers, and olives. It carries a kiss of California sunshine, subtle tropical notes, green melon, and a whisper of fresh green herbs. The mouthfeel is delicate, with a fresh thread of acidity weaving it all together.
Gamble Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2024 ($100)
A balanced beauty from a third-generation Napa Valley farmer turned vigneron. Black currant, dark fruit and whispers of dark chocolate lead the way. Then comes a spice note—anise and clove—that hints at cigar box and aged tobacco. Layered, elegant and worth savoring.
Ram’s Gate Estate Pinot Noir 2021 ($85)
Joe Nielsen, Ram’s Gate General Manager and Director of Winemaking, knows how to showcase the Carneros estate. Bright red fruits—raspberry, strawberry and cherry—are lifted by subtle vanilla and earthy notes. It’s a Pinot that speaks clearly and confidently of its origin.
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars “Artemis” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2021 ($65)
My first-ever wine trip, almost 25 years ago, featured this iconic winery. Founded in 1970, it’s never missed a beat.
“Artemis” greets you with juicy plum, violet and currant aromas that echo beautifully on the palate. Cinnamon stick, dusty espresso and licorice add complexity. It’s the kind of bottle that reminds you why you fell in love with wine in the first place.