Oh, sweet Valentina, you’ve swept us off our feet. Valentine’s Day is nowhere near but today dear Operatives, is Valentina’s Day! We are head over heels in love with its knee-weakening coastal perfume, moved deep in our souls with its dazzling flavors. Charlie Heintz grows some of the best fruit out there, no wonder why he has renown winemakers knocking on his door every harvest, and obvious here that he hoards some of his best picks for himself. Some of the top wineries of Sonoma County, including DuMol, Williams Selyem, and Littorai, have put together astounding wines from the highly prized Charles Heintz Vineyard.

A bright ruby core and the crimson edge mesmerize into a dreamy state as aromas emerge with a swirl. The sensational bouquet offers exceptional fragrance and appeal with pure strawberry and forest floor. Killer flavors and sweet tannins bloom with ripe red raspberries, Bing cherry, crushed rocks, and rose petals. Stunning, flamboyant and exuberant, with the wonderful opulence and richness on the persistent finish. The ideal pairing is wild salmon grilled to perfection, if you can get Copper River as it is now in season, or any sockeye fillet.

Located right at the sweet spot juncture just inland from the Pacific, where Sonoma Coast meets the cool Green Valley of Russian River (fun fact, wines from here can be labeled under either of these 3 AVAs), the Heintz family has been growing their grapes in the same place since 1912 - over 100 years. Charles Heintz as the iconic winegrower, partners with veteran winemaker Hugh Chappelle, of Flowers, Lynmar, and Quivira fame. Heintz’s estate vineyard is so famed, that it was recognized by Wine Enthusiast as a “Grand Cru” site, comparing it to France’s top vineyards.

Here’s what the wine press has to say:

90 Points – Wine Enthusiast - “From the Heintz Estate, this is a floral, herbal wine with an edge of carbonic brightness and acidity to it, which works well in its light-bodied frame. Lithe on the palate, it offers a subtle take on pomegranate, rhubarb, and black tea.”