Invigorating aromas of fresh raspberries, cranberries and a touch of vanilla fill the nose. The palate reveals notes of brown spices, dark fruit flavors and a peppery finish. Smooth, silky tannins and a long finish round out this delightful wine that is perfect for any occasion.

91 Point Review - Somm & Wine Critic Chris Sawyer With the health craze now in full-swing, people have started to eat healthier and live longer. One of the leading proponents of this movement is Gary Erickson, a talented chef who was known for working with fresh ingredients at the Kali’s Sweet and Savories bakery in the late 1980s. The continued success of Gary’s wholesome foods eventually led to the establishment of Clif Bar & Company, the leading producer of organic energy foods and drinks.

Beyond his skills at baking, bicycling and business, Gary and his wife Kit Crawford are also passionate for fine wines. So after the getting the Clif Bar brand up and running in the 1990s, Gary and Kit moved to Napa Valley where they began growing fruit trees and vegetables on the Clif Family Farm and started the Clif Family Winery in St. Helena with the intent of making wines that compliment delicious food on a daily basis.

The latest example is the Clif Family 2010 The Climber Red Wine, a complex blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown on some of the finest vineyards in the Oak Knoll, Howell Mountain, Rutherford, and St. Helena appellations in Napa valley. At less than 500 cases produced, this limited release features aromas of ripe red fruits, cardamom, and a hint of oak. On the palate, the wine is highlighted by big, juicy flavors of ripe cherry, raspberry, cranberry and red currants; bright acidity; and smooth texture. In short, it’s a wine designed to dazzle your senses and fill the mouth with flavor.

With food, think fresh and sassy. Instead of being a wine limited to pairing with heavy dishes, the bright flavors make this a great wine to serve with gourmet pizzas, salads with fresh berries, grilled salmon, pomegranate chicken, duck confit, pork chops, and roasted red meats. Healthy and tasty!