How many of their wines have we sold over the years? So many. Still, not enough! Always popular, always a terrific value, and this one is no different.

But it’s NOT for those wanting a light, delicate Merlot. Expect a stocky, deeply extracted, unabashed fruit bomb with the structure and personality of a Cabernet. At our price though it’s hard to find a Cabernet that competes.

A sweet spot in Sonoma wine country, Chalk Hill is paradisical for Bordeaux varietals like Merlot. Home of prominent names such as Chalk Hill Estate, Lancaster, Rodney Strong surrounded by Alexander Valley, Knights Valley, and Russian River Valley, which it overlaps with. The unique chalky white volcanic ash soils set it apart, resulting in wines with distinct personalities.

Jason DeLoach represents the current generation of this clan’s winemaking legacy, having grown up in vineyards during the heyday of DeLoach Vineyards. Building his reputation upon studies at SRJC and UC Davis, he cut his teeth in Chile and at Balletto Vineyards before taking the helm at Hook & Ladder. Jason has his pick of fruit from more than 148 acres of vineyards farmed by his grandfather and family patriarch Cecil DeLoach since 1970. This enviable access to Russian River Valley and Chalk Hill’s most sought-after grapes provides Jason with the “spice rack” of options necessary to craft elegantly balanced wines of extraordinary expression, depth, and complexity.

Deep and oozing with ripe blueberry and black plum, those signature ‘chalky’ Chalk Hill tannins, melted milk chocolate, and a touch of nutmeg or cardamom. The new French oak is prominently displayed with sweet vanillin, and it lends a wonderful structure and texture. This all carries into the lengthy finish, with lingering smooth tannins, sappy fruit, and spices. Seriously drinkable, and a treat at our price!

Twenty-five bucks?! Have at it! While it lasts, at least…