Derek Beitler is back Operatives, with yet another one of his ‘Made at Caymus’ tiny production JDB jewels. This time it’s a Wine Spies Exclusive red blend, made with the same passion and attention to detail that our previous offerings of Cerro and Skyhook showed in every drop. Bodega Rancho is a tribute to the original land grant that led to the Bear Flag Republic era of the 1800s, before California joined the union. Its historic boundaries overlap with the modern-day Sonoma Coast appellation and Bennett Valley is one of the coolest sub-regions within. The two vineyards that contribute equally to this are coveted sources for top wineries. The quality you’re getting here for 24 bucks is a tremendous value and will sell out!!

Deep, vibrant ruby-crimson with black-cherry accents aglow on the glass staining rim. Plum and wild berries are joined by coffee bean, zesty dark chocolate, and spicy cinnamon on the inviting aromatics. Soft, ripe and juicy, with a plush texture, red currant and a touch of mineral and graphite adorn the palate. Strikes a long-lasting balance between ripe fruit supported by firm tannins and acidity while remaining an easy-drinking red that finely straddles the line between simplicity and complexity. The fruit purity here is off the hook, making it ideal for a charcuterie and cheese board or a hearty pasta salad.

As Caymus founder Charlie Wagner’s grandson, Chuck Wagner’s nephew, and Joey Wagner’s cousin, Derek Beitler’s wines are truly worthy of the Wagner family legacy, with high quality and artisan production from long-term vineyard contracts he established and maintained for decades. In the 80s and the 90s, Caymus Vineyards opened the eyes of wine connoisseurs to a red style that was infinitely complex with fine-grained tannins that combined elegance and approachability at an early age. Before that era, famous ‘big reds’ delivered in brawn and depth while requiring years of cellaring to be enjoyable. As a Caymus spin-off, JDB carries this style forth, and with a 40% Wine Spies one day only savings, Bodega Rancho genuinely over-delivers.