Matchbook 'Pillars of Hercules"

The Giguiere family have lived and farmed in Yolo County since the 1850s. Under the label Matchbook Wines, they produce some of our - and our customers' - favorite California bottlings, including Arsonist Chardonnay, and Black's Station Cabernet. But with their newest bottling, the 2019 Pillars of Hercules, they might just have outdone themselves.

A blend of 63% Petite Sirah, 24% Petit Verdot, and 13% Teroldego (a rare Italian grape), Hercules sets a new bar for what California red under $20 can be. Just like its namesake, the wine is muscular and strong, offering dense flavors of blueberry, black plum, and vanilla that are highlighted by notes of purple flowers and chocolate. Full-bodied and rich, it brings firm, oaky tannins that lead into a long and powerful - yet somehow silky smooth - finish.

This inaugural vintage earned a well-deserved 92 Point score from Anthony Dias Blue, famed Wine & Spirits Editor for Bon Appetit. "An eclectic blend of Petite Sirah, Petite Verdot, and Teroldego yields a deep lovely wine that’s smooth, juicy and seamless, lush with ripe berry fruit and a long finish."