Chris Hamilton knows something about beating the odds. From a childhood of economic hardship, to becoming an amateur race car driver, to a Napa Valley vintner, he's made a career of “turning right when everyone turns left.” This red is the ultimate outsider's play on Napa Valley’s most rarefied terroirs. Unapologetically fruit-driven- deep black cherries come with dusty raspberries, chocolate, purple flowers, and minerals, leading to waves of warm cassis, black raspberries, and currants.

This wine is sourced from prime vineyards in Napa Valley, especially from Yountville and Oakville—sites known for clay-loam soils and a mild climate, producing wines that balance richness with fresh acidity. The estate works with organic and dry-farming practices, focusing on low-yield, expressive sites.

Chris Hamilton Cellars is a family estate founded by Chris Hamilton, inspired by the
region’s greats and Napa Valley’s pioneering spirit. Sarah Donley, formerly of Colgin and Wheeler Farms, has served as head winemaker since 2023, emphasizing meticulous site selection and sustainability throughout the process.

The 2023 blend features a Merlot-based core with Cabernet Franc in a supporting
role. Grapes are fermented in stainless steel and barrel, then aged in a mix of French
oak, balancing purity of fruit with layered complexity.
 
It pours a deep ruby color with perfumed aromatics of violet, lavender, black cherry, and plum, and secondary notes of dried herbs, bay leaf, and subtle baking spices. The palate offers ripe red and dark fruit, supple tannins, lively acidity, and a long, mineral finish. Glossy texture and nuanced structure make this a perfect “modern classic”—drinkable now, but structured enough to age for at least 5–7 years.