While Grega, a sharp-dressed Iraq-war veteran, helped Ames craft seven 100-point bottles, he also built one of the best Rolodexes in the business. That was essential when he launched his own brand, AVA Vintners.

Davids 2019 AVA Calistoga Cabernet comes from one of the north-valleys most coveted sites, where red volcanic soils merge with eroded volcanic ash to produce complexity and a Derrick Henry-level blend of power and grace.

Calistoga is known for names like Eisele, Larkmead, and Chateau Montelenaand the 2019 AVAs quality and $150 winery price would fit in nicely in that company. But we've known David for a long timeour Master Sommelier, Sur Lucero, was in a tasting group with him long before Sur earned his red-and-gold pinso weve negotiated an exclusive discount. Our members pay just $40: $110 OFF.

But all the sites in the area arent created equal, and David Grega tapped a top block in one of the best Calistoga vineyards for his Cabeven if were not allowed to share the specific location. A mixture of decomposed volcanic ash and reddish volcanic clay build complexity into the finished wine, while its location near the base of its hill allows cooler air to pool, preserving freshness that allows David to ripen the fruit for power in the finished wine.

2019 was an outstanding vintage in Napaa long, warm summer led to a mild fall and perfect conditions to pick grapes. Wine Advocate called the wines classic, ripe, plush and beautifully expressive in their glowing vintage report, and the AVA shows off those traits in spades.

After harvesting his beautifully ripe fruit, David treated it to a perfectly judged extraction on the skins, before a luxurious stay in 60% new French oak for a full 20 months. That allowed the tannins to soften to a plush silkiness, building complexity and the allure required of its $150 price tag. At our discount, its an astounding bargain. Lay in a case and revel in your good fortune for a decade.