Everyone has heard of St. Francis Winery but only a few are familiar with Tom Mackey Cellars. That, Operatives, is a good thing for those of us undercover. Let’s keep it our dirty little secret as the wines are awesome and they make 2, 3 or tops 4 barrels of each only. Starting in the early 1980s as their first winemaker, Tom Mackey, for 3 decades, helped put St. Francis on the map. So much so that the Wine Spectator named him ‘Master of Merlot’ at one point in his remarkable career of award-winning wines. This insanely well-made red just will not disappoint.

Gorgeous deep, dark ruby bordering purple with a dense inky black core that light just can’t penetrate through. Black cherry, blackberry, dried plums, freshly cracked Tellicherry peppercorns, graphite, and spices are all palpable in the chiseled aromatics. On the palate, it offers an enthralling perplexity; rich with mountain tannins as if from Napa, yet simultaneously balanced, fresh, and sophisticated like a Bordeaux. The power of Petit Verdot echoes effortlessly on the gorgeous finish, hand in hand with chocolatey Cabernet and Malbec. Enjoy this cellar-worthy red with roasted meats, rich pasta sauces, smoked sausages, aged cheeses, and more, it’s highly versatile and ready for many food pairings.

When Mackey retired from St. Francis, his favorite growers would not stop knocking on his door. Of all his new contracts with old friends, we are most grateful for the one he kept with the Stemach Family, growers of extraordinary Petit Verdot. This Bordeaux grape can get a bit too much on its own, but when farmed right, it takes over the palate with stunning depth and authority. Add to all that the opportunity to experience this masterfully crafted red blend at HALF OFF and there you have it, the deal of the week? The month? Get in on it, now.

93 Points, Best of Class - 2021 West Coast Wine Competition

Gold Medal - 2021 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition