You know how much we love a great Cabernet Sauvignon, dear Operatives. And you also know how much we love a great value too. As the reputation of the “King of Grapes” continues to rise, it’s getting increasingly difficult to find BOTH of our loves in the same bottle. But we followed our heart and soul to Dry Creek Valley, most famous for its concentrated Zinfandels with Cabernet-like complexity, where we found this White Hart, or did White Hart find us?

Vivid ruby with a translucent rim showcasing a shade to purple, while opaque in the core. Ripe with blackcurrant, cherry, cedar and wet earth aromas are evident on the expressive nose and are penetrating the aromatic lift. Firm yet laced on the palate with silky tannins and lots of chocolate, currant, and berry coming through. Surprisingly full-bodied as it wraps it all up, with integrated subtle oak, flawlessly long on the flavorful finish. This seriously good wine that is shockingly affordable too, would be ideal with a grill party outdoors, from bacon-wrapped scallops to chicken wings to steaks. Invite your family and friends and enjoy to your Hart’s content!

With Alexander Valley to its east and Rockpile to the north, Dry Creek Valley is surrounded by reputable Cabernet vineyards and it’s no coincidence to see this grape shine here. Move it just a few miles from where its grown and the price would double! A. Rafanelli Winery here leads with scarcity and desirability, and even their Cabs go for under $100. While this little winery remains under the radar, Wine Spectator once pointed out that; “Though familiar names offer tried-and-true bottlings, new discoveries like White Hart deliver great value. Made in a variety of styles and fetching a range of price tags, these releases are sure to strike your fancy.” Throw in the unprecedented 55% savings we were able to somehow pull out of our hat, and you have a Cab miracle at $17 a pop, which is less than what a pound of filet mignon costs these days!