{"title":"Charles Smith","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"charles-smith-kung-fu-girl-riesling","title":"Charles Smith Kung Fu Girl Riesling","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCharles Smith Kung Fu Girl Riesling\u003c\/strong\u003e is a dry, 100% Riesling from Washington's Columbia Valley AVA, bottled at 12–12.5% ABV in a 750ml format. A repeat selection on Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines list — earning that distinction two years running and a \"Best Value\" nod five consecutive years — this remains one of the most critically recognized Rieslings produced in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 12–12.5%  |  Origin: Columbia Valley, Washington  |  Dry Riesling  |  Producer: Charles Smith Wines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCharles Smith Wines was founded in 1999 in Walla Walla, Washington, by former rock band manager Charles Smith, who brought an iconoclastic approach to winemaking in the Pacific Northwest. Kung Fu Girl is sourced from Evergreen Vineyard in the Ancient Lakes AVA, a sub-appellation on the western edge of the Columbia Basin near Quincy. The vineyard's complex soils — basalt and sedimentary bedrock layered with Quincy loam and windblown loess — give the fruit a distinct mineral backbone. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks to preserve the grape's natural aromatics and acidity, resulting in a bright, unoaked expression of Washington Riesling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honeysuckle and citrus blossom open the glass, followed by ripe peach, melon, and a thread of green fruit. The aromatics are full and enveloping without heaviness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e White peach and mandarin orange arrive immediately on the palate, joined by apricot and lychee through the mid-palate. A firm core of minerality drives the wine forward, while crisp, clean acidity keeps the riper stone-fruit flavors taut and focused. Subtle hints of honey and a faint nutty character emerge as the wine opens up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is long and vibrant, carrying lingering citrus and mineral notes. It closes fresh and precise, with enough energy to invite another sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Kung Fu Girl Riesling\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe lightly chilled to around 45–50°F; this wine is built for drinking without fuss, and a slight chill amplifies its aromatic lift and acidity. A \u003cstrong\u003eSpicy Thai Basil Cocktail\u003c\/strong\u003e riff using Riesling as a base plays well with the wine's natural lychee and citrus character. A classic \u003cstrong\u003eWhite Wine Spritzer\u003c\/strong\u003e — Kung Fu Girl, soda water, a twist of lime — makes an excellent warm-weather serve that highlights the wine's brightness. For a more structured drink, try it in a \u003cstrong\u003eRiesling Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e with sliced peach, mandarin, and fresh mint, which mirrors the wine's own fruit profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing a Riesling skeptic to the varietal's dry, mineral-driven side\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinners featuring Southeast Asian or spicy cuisine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStocking a versatile house white at a serious quality-to-value ratio\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBringing a crowd-pleasing bottle to a casual gathering or potluck\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Kung Fu Girl Riesling taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Kung Fu Girl is a dry Riesling dominated by white peach, mandarin orange, and apricot, underpinned by bright acidity and a pronounced mineral streak from its Ancient Lakes AVA vineyard source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Kung Fu Girl compare to Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are dry Washington Rieslings, but Kung Fu Girl draws from a single AVA (Ancient Lakes) and tends to show more overt minerality and exotic fruit character, while Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling is sourced more broadly from the Columbia Valley and often presents a softer, more approachable profile at a similar price point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Kung Fu Girl good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Its clean acidity, approachable fruit-forward palate, and dry style make it an excellent entry point for anyone new to Riesling or looking to explore Washington State wines without a steep investment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Kung Fu Girl made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Kung Fu Girl is produced by Charles Smith Wines, based in Walla Walla, Washington, using 100% Riesling grapes grown at Evergreen Vineyard in the Ancient Lakes AVA on the western edge of the Columbia Basin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Kung Fu Girl?\u003c\/strong\u003e Thai green curry — the wine's acidity and stone fruit cut through coconut-rich heat. Seared scallops — minerality and citrus complement the shellfish's sweetness. Pork banh mi — the bright acidity balances pickled vegetables and rich pâté. Sushi and sashimi — clean, dry fruit enhances raw fish without overwhelming it. Aged Gruyère — the wine's hint of honey and nutty character echoes the cheese.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Kung Fu Girl come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Kung Fu Girl Riesling is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Kung Fu Girl worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Kung Fu Girl positions squarely in the value tier, yet consistently earns scores of 89–91 points from Wine Enthusiast and 90 points from Wine Spectator — performance that outpaces many wines at twice its price bracket, which is precisely why it has earned five consecutive \"Best Value\" recognitions from Wine Spectator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Kung Fu Girl?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFew sub-$15 wines anywhere in the world have matched Kung Fu Girl's track record of critical recognition: repeated Wine Spectator Top 100 selections, a 90-point score from that same publication, and five straight years as a \"Best Value\" pick. That consistency starts in the vineyard — specifically, the basalt-rich soils and cool-climate conditions of Evergreen Vineyard in the Ancient Lakes AVA, one of Washington's most distinctive Riesling sites. Stainless steel fermentation preserves every ounce of that terroir, delivering a wine that is simultaneously mineral, aromatic, and refreshing. In a category crowded with sweet, indistinct Rieslings, Kung Fu Girl stands as proof that dry American Riesling can compete on a global stage.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Charles Smith","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837407359145,"sku":"21702","price":10.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Charles-Smith-Kung-Fu-Girl-Riesling__61791.jpg?v=1730481218"},{"product_id":"charles-smith-band-of-roses-rose","title":"Charles Smith Band Of Roses Rose","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCharles Smith Band Of Roses Rosé\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Washington State rosé wine bottled at 12.5% ABV in a 750ml format, built on a distinctive white grape-dominant blend. Awarded 90 points by Wine Enthusiast, it stands apart from conventional rosés by leading with 81% Pinot Gris rather than the red varieties that anchor most pink wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 12.5%  |  Origin: Washington State, USA  |  Style: Dry Rosé  |  Producer: Charles Smith Wines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCharles Smith Wines, founded by former rock band manager Charles Smith, has become one of Washington State's most recognized producers, known for bold label art and unconventional blending decisions. Band of Roses is composed of 81% Pinot Gris, 13% Riesling, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon — a blend that leans heavily on aromatic white varieties rather than the Grenache or Mourvèdre typical of Provençal-style rosés. The wine is fermented in stainless steel over approximately three weeks, then rests on stirred lees for two months, a technique that builds a creamy mouthfeel without introducing any oak influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with a vibrant, penetrating perfume of lilac and dried flowers before giving way to ripe guava, tangerine peel, and passionfruit. Subtle pear and sage notes add an herbal dimension underneath the tropical fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On entry, the palate is fresh and fruit-forward, with guava, nectarine, and cherry meeting soft acidity. The mid-palate broadens with a noticeable creaminess — a direct result of the extended lees contact — while a touch of minerality emerges toward the peak. Red fruit complexity from the small Cabernet Sauvignon component threads through the finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium in length with a clean, textured fade. Lingering notes of apricot, dried flowers, and a faint mineral edge keep the wine engaging after each sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Band of Roses\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe well chilled, between 40–45°F, to let the aromatic complexity open gradually as the wine warms in the glass. Band of Roses is equally rewarding as a standalone pour or as a cocktail base.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrosé:\u003c\/strong\u003e The guava and passionfruit notes blend seamlessly into this frozen rosé cocktail, adding tropical depth without extra sweetener.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRosé Spritz:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mixed with sparkling water and a splash of elderflower liqueur, the wine's floral character amplifies beautifully.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrench Spring Punch:\u003c\/strong\u003e The creamy texture and soft acidity hold up well alongside citrus, fresh herbs, and light spirits in a batch punch format.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarm-weather patio drinking with friends who appreciate wine beyond the obvious\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to someone who enjoys rosé but wants to try a non-Provençal style\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing at casual dinner parties built around grilled seafood or summer salads\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing wine drinkers to Washington State's range beyond Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Band of Roses taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Band of Roses delivers a tropical and floral profile dominated by guava, tangerine, passionfruit, and lilac, supported by a creamy texture from two months on stirred lees. Soft acidity and a touch of minerality keep the wine balanced and refreshing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Band of Roses compare to Whispering Angel?\u003c\/strong\u003e Whispering Angel is a Provence rosé built on Grenache and Cinsault with a pale, mineral-driven style, while Band of Roses uses a Pinot Gris-led Washington State blend that delivers bolder tropical fruit and a creamier mouthfeel. Both sit in a similar quality tier, but they represent fundamentally different approaches to rosé winemaking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Band of Roses good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the combination of aromatic intensity, creamy texture, and balanced acidity makes it a rewarding standalone pour, especially when served well chilled on a warm day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Band of Roses made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Band of Roses is produced by Charles Smith Wines in Washington State, drawing on the state's diverse growing regions for its Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Cabernet Sauvignon components.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Band of Roses?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled shrimp or prawns complement the wine's tropical notes; goat cheese salads echo its tangy acidity; Thai green papaya salad mirrors the guava and citrus flavors; seared salmon works with the creamy texture; and charcuterie boards with mild cured meats let the floral aromatics shine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Band of Roses come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Band of Roses is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Band of Roses worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Band of Roses positions as an accessible, everyday rosé that punches above its price tier — the 90-point Wine Enthusiast rating and the added complexity from extended lees contact deliver more character than many comparably priced competitors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Band of Roses?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 81% Pinot Gris backbone is genuinely unusual in the rosé category, where red grape varieties almost universally dominate. That structural choice, combined with two months of stirred lees aging in stainless steel, creates a wine with more body and textural interest than the pale, crisp rosés that crowd the market. The 90-point Wine Enthusiast score and silver medals at both The Global Masters and Dan Berger's International Wine Competition confirm this isn't just an unconventional blend for novelty's sake — it delivers measurable quality. For drinkers who find most rosés interchangeable, Band of Roses offers a genuinely distinct point of view from Washington State.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Charles Smith","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837718491305,"sku":"30576","price":10.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Charles-Smith-Band-Of-Roses-Rose__46912.jpg?v=1730491790"},{"product_id":"charles-smith-velvet-devil-red-blend-375ml-can","title":"Charles Smith Velvet Devil Red Blend 375ML Can","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCharles Smith Velvet Devil Red Blend 375ML Can\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Merlot-based red blend from Columbia Valley, Washington, packaged in a portable 375ML can at approximately 13.5% ABV. The 2020 vintage earned 93 points from Tastings.com, reinforcing Charles Smith Wines' track record of over 300 scores of 90 or above from major publications including Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, and Wine Enthusiast.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: ~13.5%  |  Origin: Columbia Valley, Washington State  |  Red Blend (Merlot-dominant)  |  Producer: Charles Smith Wines\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCharles Smith Wines operates out of Prosser, Washington, drawing fruit from numerous American Viticultural Areas across the vast Columbia Valley. The Velvet Devil blend is composed of 89% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 1% Malbec, whole-berry fermented using native yeast — a technique that preserves bright primary fruit character while building textural depth. The wine sees 10 months in French oak (30% new), lending structure without overwhelming the fruit. Part of Charles Smith's Modernist Project, the Velvet Devil line prioritizes immediate drinkability and varietal expression, and the 375ML can format extends that philosophy to settings where glass bottles are impractical.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark cherry and ripe plum lead, followed by subtle floral overtones and a whisper of toasty oak. As the wine opens, hints of cedar and tobacco emerge beneath the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is plush with black cherry and red plum, giving way to a mid-palate layered with bittersweet cocoa and cassis. Cabernet Sauvignon adds backbone, while the small portion of Malbec contributes a soft, round quality. Blue-fruit flavors surface toward the finish, keeping the profile fresh and direct.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium in length with a velvety texture true to its name, trailing off with smoky cedar and lingering dark fruit. The tannins are fine-grained and approachable, requiring no additional aging.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Velvet Devil\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePour into a glass if conditions allow — even from the can, this blend benefits from a little air to open up its aromatics. Slightly below room temperature (60–65°F) is ideal. For cocktails, the Merlot-driven profile works well in a \u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo\u003c\/strong\u003e (red wine and cola over ice), where its dark fruit and cocoa notes complement the cola's sweetness. A \u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Spritzer\u003c\/strong\u003e with a splash of sparkling water and citrus keeps things light for warm-weather drinking. It also holds up in a \u003cstrong\u003eNew York Sour\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the wine float showcases its plummy depth against bourbon and lemon.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOutdoor gatherings where glass bottles are restricted — poolside, beach, golf course, or camping\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinners that call for a serious red without committing to a full 750ML bottle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePacking a picnic or tailgate cooler with quality wine in a durable, portable format\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to Washington State Merlot in a low-commitment, approachable serving size\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Velvet Devil taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Devil delivers a plush, fruit-forward profile dominated by black cherry, red plum, and cassis, layered with bittersweet cocoa, cedar, and a touch of smoke. The tannins are soft and velvety, making it immediately drinkable.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Velvet Devil compare to Underwood Red Blend in a can?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are canned red blends from the Pacific Northwest, but Velvet Devil leans into a richer, oak-influenced Merlot character from Columbia Valley, while Underwood by Union Wine Co. tends toward a lighter, more fruit-driven style from Oregon. Velvet Devil's 10 months of French oak aging gives it noticeably more structure and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Velvet Devil good for casual sipping?\u003c\/strong\u003e Absolutely — the canned format and soft tannin structure make it ideal for relaxed, everyday drinking without any decanting or fuss. It drinks well slightly chilled or at cool room temperature.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Velvet Devil made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Devil is produced by Charles Smith Wines in Prosser, Washington, using grapes sourced from vineyards across the Columbia Valley AVA, one of Washington State's largest and most diverse wine regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Velvet Devil?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled burgers or braised short ribs match the wine's dark fruit and smoky oak. Margherita pizza works with its balanced acidity, while roasted mushrooms echo the earthy undertones. Semi-firm cheeses like aged Gouda complement the cocoa and cedar notes, and dark chocolate desserts mirror the bittersweet mid-palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Velvet Devil come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Devil is available in a standard 750ML bottle and the 375ML can format, making it one of the more versatile options in Charles Smith's lineup for different serving occasions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Velvet Devil worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Devil positions as an accessible, everyday-tier wine that punches above its weight — the 93-point Tastings.com score on the 2020 vintage suggests quality that outperforms many wines at a similar price point, especially in the canned wine category where serious winemaking is still relatively uncommon.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Velvet Devil?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat separates Velvet Devil from most canned wines is the production behind it: whole-berry native yeast fermentation and 10 months in French oak are techniques more commonly associated with ambitious bottled wines, not portable formats. Charles Smith Wines has built a reputation on over-delivering at every price level, backed by 66 individual scores of 95 points or higher from top-tier publications. The Merlot-dominant blend draws from one of the world's most compelling regions for the grape — Columbia Valley — where warm days and cool nights produce fruit with both ripeness and structural integrity. In a canned wine market crowded with simple, forgettable options, Velvet Devil stands out as one with genuine winemaking substance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Charles Smith","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837947670697,"sku":"35606","price":5.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Charles-Smith-Velvet-Devil-Red-Blend__47517.jpg?v=1730501987"},{"product_id":"charles-smith-velvet-devil-merlot","title":"Charles Smith Velvet Devil Merlot","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCharles Smith Velvet Devil Merlot\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Columbia Valley, Washington red wine blending 89% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 1% Malbec at 13.5% ABV in a 750ml bottle. Named to Wine Enthusiast's Top 100 Best Buys list at #23 in 2016, this bottling has earned consistent critical attention for delivering concentrated dark fruit, cedar, and tobacco character well above its price tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: Columbia Valley, Washington  |  Style: Red Blend (Merlot-dominant)  |  Winery: Charles Smith Wines, Prosser, WA\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCharles Smith Wines operates out of Prosser, Washington, in the heart of the Columbia Valley — one of the state's most prolific winegrowing regions. The Velvet Devil undergoes whole-berry fermentation with native yeast, followed by extended maceration of 30 days or more. After malolactic fermentation completes, the wine is left on remaining uncrushed grape skins with no racking, a technique that builds texture and depth uncommon in value-tier Merlots. Aging takes place in French oak barrels (30% new) for 10 months, contributing structure without overwhelming the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with ripe blackberry and blueberry, layered with sweet pipe tobacco and cedar. A subtle undercurrent of cherry pastry and balsa wood adds complexity as the wine breathes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is plush and immediate, coating the palate with concentrated dark plum and bittersweet cocoa. At mid-palate, flavors of cassis and espresso emerge alongside a savory, almost smoky quality. The Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec in the blend provide a backbone of tannin that keeps the richness in check without turning austere.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is smooth and medium-long, with lingering notes of blue fruit, lemon peel, and a whisper of applewood smoke. The texture stays satiny throughout, living up to its name.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Velvet Devil\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVelvet Devil rewards pouring at cellar temperature — around 60–65°F — with 15 to 20 minutes of air to let the darker aromatics open up. Its fruit-forward, plush profile also makes it a strong cocktail and sangria base. A \u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e built on this Merlot benefits from the concentrated dark berry core. A \u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo\u003c\/strong\u003e (red wine and cola) works surprisingly well here, as the wine's richness and low bitterness keep the drink balanced. A \u003cstrong\u003eMulled Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e preparation draws out the existing tobacco and baking spice notes into something warming and aromatic.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinners where you want more complexity than a basic table wine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to Washington State reds without a steep price commitment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSteak night or backyard grilling with friends\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a case of reliable, food-friendly reds for everyday rotation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Velvet Devil taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Devil delivers concentrated blackberry, dark plum, and bittersweet cocoa with accents of cedar, pipe tobacco, and espresso. The texture is notably satiny and smooth for a wine in its price range.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Velvet Devil compare to Columbia Crest H3 Merlot?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are Columbia Valley Merlots positioned as everyday drinkers, but Velvet Devil's extended maceration and native-yeast fermentation tend to produce a richer, more textured mouthfeel. Columbia Crest H3 typically leans lighter and more fruit-forward with less oak influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Velvet Devil good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its plush tannins and layered dark-fruit profile make it an easy standalone pour, particularly with a few minutes of air to open the aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Velvet Devil made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Devil is produced by Charles Smith Wines in Prosser, Washington, using fruit sourced from the Columbia Valley AVA, a large and diverse winegrowing region in eastern Washington known for warm days and cool nights.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Velvet Devil?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled ribeye steak complements the wine's smoky cedar notes. Braised short ribs mirror its richness and dark fruit. Aged cheddar or Gouda amplify the cocoa and tobacco undertones. Mushroom risotto plays off the wine's earthy, savory side. Dark chocolate desserts echo the bittersweet cocoa on the palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Velvet Devil come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Devil is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Velvet Devil worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Devil positions squarely as a value-tier red that consistently over-delivers — its Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Best Buys placement and repeated scores of 88–90 points confirm that it punches above its weight class for an everyday Columbia Valley Merlot.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Velvet Devil?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat separates Velvet Devil from the crowded field of sub-premium Merlots is process. Extended maceration of 30-plus days with no racking after malolactic fermentation is a production commitment you rarely see at this price point — it builds the kind of satiny, mouth-coating texture that typically requires a much larger investment. The result has earned recognition from Wine Enthusiast on multiple occasions, including a 90-point score and a spot on their Top 100 Best Buys. For drinkers who wrote off Merlot after the \"Sideways\" era, Velvet Devil is a compelling argument that Washington State never got that memo.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Charles Smith","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44897583759529,"sku":"29609","price":10.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/CharlesSmithVelvetDevilMerlot.png?v=1732400497"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/charles-smith.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}