Rediscover The Californian Way

Hello July, although one would be forgiven for thinking it was March or April from where we're sitting. However, it's not entirely bleak. With the 4th of July around the corner, we think this is the perfect opportunity to transport ourselves via our glass to the sunshine state of California. We can imagine driving down Highway 101, past oak-studded hillsides, green valleys, and rugged coastal cliffs, while basking in glorious sunshine and savouring the quality and diversity of California's wines.

The sheer size and variety this region has to offer may make it seem like a bit of a minefield. With over 4000 wineries and 110 different grape varieties, it's hardly surprising. So, we've done some of the leg work for you. Check out some of our best-selling wines below. From bold Cabernet Sauvignon and earthy Syrah to delicate Pinot Noir or zesty Chardonnay, California's winegrowers have something for everyone.

Our full range of sunshine wines can be viewed at the bottom.

Predator Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel 2021

€26.95

Predator Zinfandel is sourced from 50+ year old vines that produce rich and intensely flavoured fruit. It is robust and assertive, showcasing the hallmark velvety texture of "old vine," spice, and lively varietal notes. Enjoy delightful scents of chocolate espresso bean, smoked bacon, and baked berries in this wine. Its medium-to-full body is silky and fruity yet dry, leading to a seamless finish driven by juicy raspberry, cherry, mocha, and spice flavours.

De Loach Chardonnay, 'Heritage Collection'  Sonoma County, 2021 

€26.95

De L0ach, an established winery in Russian River Valley near San Francisco, collaborates with eco-friendly winegrowers for the 'Heritage Collection' - offering high-quality, value wines. This Californian Chardonnay is classy and restrained with orange blossom and honeydew melon aromas giving way to a tropical mouthful of pineapple and mango.

Louis M. Martini, Monte Rosso Vineyard, Gnarly Vine Zinfandel, 2015

€99.95

If you're planning on treating yourself this Gnarly Vine Zinfandel is a great choice. Big, full-bodied with rich blackberry and pepper aromas that lead to a sweep of dark fruit flavours.  The intense fruit blends with layers of spice notes ranging from fresh peppercorns to clove and baking spices. The vibrant and robust wine is balanced by velvety tannins and the spice and minerality characteristic of Monte Rosso’s iron-rich volcanic soils. The extraordinarily long, luxurious finish includes hints of vanilla, pepper and molasses.

Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley 2020

€49.95

Since its founding in 1973, Cakebread Cellars has developed a reputation for producing world-class wines while maintaining its traditional values.  This delicious Sauvignon is reminiscent of a very fine white Bordeaux. It's vibrant, wonderfully fresh aromas of pink grapefruit, melon and white peach introduce zesty flavors of Meyer lemon, lime, guava, gooseberry and juicy melon. Lively acidity accentuates the wine’s flavor intensity and animates its long, harmonious finish, which features succulent citrus and mineral tones.

l'usine, Pinot Noir, Annapolis Ridge Vineyard, Sonoma Coast 2018

€159.95

Hailed by Wine Spectator Magazine as 'one of the most influential and innovative winemakers in California’, Dave Phinney is most famous for Orin Swift and The Prisoner. His stunning unique wines are matched by the individuality of his labels. No longer a prisoner though Phinney has created a new label exploring a connection between Andy Warhol, his factory (l'usine) and wine.

Nuance and intrigue characterize the wine, starting with a dark crimson and a ruby rim but manifested by the aromatics: white pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, pine resin and crème de menthe. An entry dominated by a bright acidity, the mid-palate explores flavours of rhubarb, savoury and a hint of wild strawberry with a long finish indicative of graceful aging.

All Californian Wines