{"title":"Pico \u0026","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"pico-vine-russian-river-valley-pinot-noir","title":"Pico \u0026 Vine Russian River Valley Pinot Noir","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePico \u0026amp; Vine Russian River Valley Pinot Noir\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 750ml, 100% Pinot Noir from Sonoma County's acclaimed Russian River Valley AVA. Awarded 94 points by Mad og Monopolet, who called it \"simply excellent Pinot Noir,\" this bottling from Purple Wines + Spirits delivers well above its weight class with serious winemaking technique behind every glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir  |  Origin: Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California  |  Aged 11 Months in French Oak (30% New)  |  Producer: Purple Wines + Spirits\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePurple Wines + Spirits ranks among the 30 largest wine producers in California, yet this Russian River Valley expression reflects focused, small-lot winemaking principles. Grapes are harvested during late evening and early morning hours to preserve acidity and freshness — a detail that shows in the wine's vibrant structure. After destemming, the fruit undergoes cold maceration to extract color and primary fruit character before fermentation proceeds with five to seven days of skin contact. The finished wine then ages for 11 months in French oak barrels, 30% of which are new, balancing fruit purity against subtle oak influence without overwhelming the grape's varietal character.\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 Ripe dark cherry and plum lead the nose, followed by earthy layers of roasted mushroom and damp forest floor. A gentle thread of baking spice and vanilla from the French oak aging emerges as the wine opens in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is generous with red and dark berry fruit — cherry and plum dominate early, giving way to a mid-palate of warm spice and subtle vanilla. The body is medium-weight with a lively, fresh acidity that keeps the ripe fruit in check and provides genuine structure rather than simple softness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Silky and smooth, the finish lingers with restrained tannins and echoes of dark cherry and light oak spice. It closes clean without bitterness, inviting the next sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe between 55–60°F for the best balance of fruit and acidity. A brief 20-minute decant can open up the earthy secondary aromas. This wine shines at the dinner table — try it alongside roasted duck breast, where its acidity cuts through the richness of the skin; with wild mushroom risotto, which mirrors the wine's forest-floor character; or alongside herb-crusted salmon, where the Pinot's red fruit complements the fish without overpowering it.\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 genuine Russian River Valley quality without reserve-level pricing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a Pinot Noir enthusiast who appreciates Sonoma County terroir\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA dinner party centerpiece red that pairs across multiple courses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExploring California Pinot Noir from one of the state's most respected AVAs\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 Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e This wine leads with ripe cherry and plum flavors supported by warm baking spice and vanilla, all carried by a silky texture and bright acidity. Earthy undertones of mushroom and forest floor add complexity beyond straightforward fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir compare to La Crema Russian River Valley Pinot Noir?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both source from the Russian River Valley AVA and emphasize fruit-forward Pinot Noir with French oak aging. Pico \u0026amp; Vine tends toward a slightly earthier profile with its cold maceration technique, while La Crema is widely recognized as a benchmark for approachable, fruit-driven Russian River Pinot.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the balanced acidity, moderate tannins, and layered fruit make it thoroughly enjoyable without food. Serving it slightly cool, around 55–60°F, brings out the aromatic complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is produced by Purple Wines + Spirits, one of California's 30 largest wine producers, using 100% Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Russian River Valley AVA within Sonoma County, California.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir?\u003c\/strong\u003e Roasted duck breast works beautifully, as the wine's acidity balances the rich fat. Wild mushroom dishes echo the earthy aromatics. Grilled salmon benefits from the red-fruit complement without clashing. Aged Gruyère amplifies the wine's savory side, and charcuterie boards with cured meats and dried fruit highlight its versatility.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is a 750ml bottle, which is the most widely available format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as a mid-range Russian River Valley Pinot Noir that delivers detail and technique — cold maceration, selective French oak aging, careful harvest timing — more commonly associated with higher-priced bottlings from the same appellation. Its 94-point score from Mad og Monopolet suggests strong critical validation relative to its tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Pico \u0026amp; Vine Pinot Noir?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRussian River Valley commands respect as one of California's premier Pinot Noir appellations, and this expression earns its place through deliberate winemaking rather than prestige pricing alone. The combination of pre-dawn grape harvesting, cold maceration for color and flavor extraction, and measured use of new French oak (30%) produces a wine with genuine complexity — not just ripe fruit in a glass. A 94-point rating from Mad og Monopolet and 93 points from Flaskehalsen confirm that the quality here is not accidental. For drinkers seeking Russian River Valley character with real structure and an earthy dimension, this bottling from Purple Wines + Spirits delivers a compelling argument.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Pico \u0026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837497340073,"sku":"27453","price":17.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Pico--Vine-Russian-River-Valley-Pinot-Noir__02777.jpg?v=1730484556"},{"product_id":"pico-vine-chardonnay-sonoma","title":"Pico \u0026 Vine Chardonnay Sonoma","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay Sonoma\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Sonoma County, California Chardonnay bottled at 14.1% ABV in a standard 750ml format. This fruit-forward white leads with bright orchard fruit character and a crisp, refreshing finish that distinguishes it as an approachable everyday Sonoma Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 14.1%  |  Origin: Sonoma County, California  |  Varietal: Chardonnay  |  Producer: Pico \u0026amp; Vine\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePico \u0026amp; Vine sources its Chardonnay from Sonoma County, one of California's most respected appellations for the varietal. Sonoma County's Pacific-influenced climate—marked by cool morning fog and warm afternoon sunshine—creates favorable growing conditions that allow Chardonnay grapes to ripen fully while retaining natural acidity. Specific winemaking details such as barrel regimen or fermentation vessel have not been publicly documented by the producer, though the wine's restrained oak presence and bright fruit profile suggest a lighter-touch approach to the varietal.\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 clean apple and ripe pear before moving into brighter citrus fruit tones. Subtle hints of vanilla and warm nutmeg emerge underneath, adding gentle complexity to an otherwise fruit-driven bouquet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the palate, the apple and pear aromatics follow through immediately, arriving fresh and well-defined at entry. The mid-palate broadens with soft citrus and a whisper of vanilla spice, maintaining a lively acidity that keeps the wine balanced and engaging. There is no heavy oak or butter character here—the fruit stays at the center throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is crisp and refreshing with moderate length. Lingering citrus and a faint mineral quality leave a clean, appetizing impression.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe chilled to around 50–55°F to let the fruit aromatics express themselves without muting the acidity. This Chardonnay is highly enjoyable on its own but also adapts well to lighter mixed wine drinks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhite Wine Spritzer:\u003c\/strong\u003e The wine's crisp acidity and fruit brightness hold up beautifully against sparkling water, making a simple, refreshing warm-weather pour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKir:\u003c\/strong\u003e A small measure of crème de cassis paired with this Chardonnay creates an elegant aperitif; the pear and apple notes complement the blackcurrant liqueur naturally.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhite Sangria:\u003c\/strong\u003e The orchard fruit character and moderate body provide a solid foundation for a citrus- and stone-fruit sangria without overpowering the fresh ingredients.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinner pairing when a quality Sonoma white is wanted without ceremony\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSummer entertaining and patio pours with friends\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to Sonoma County Chardonnay without an intimidating price tag\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLight lunch gatherings featuring salads, seafood, or charcuterie\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 Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It delivers a fruit-forward profile led by apple, pear, and citrus, accented by light vanilla and nutmeg, finishing crisp and refreshing rather than heavy or oaky.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay compare to Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay?\u003c\/strong\u003e Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve carries a broader California appellation and is widely noted for its tropical fruit and toasty oak character, while Pico \u0026amp; Vine specifies a Sonoma County origin and leans toward brighter orchard fruit with less prominent oak influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes—its balanced acidity and clean fruit make it an easy, pleasant sipper chilled, particularly in warmer weather or as an aperitif before dinner.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay is produced from grapes grown in Sonoma County, California, a premier coastal wine region north of San Francisco known for high-quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled or roasted chicken benefits from the wine's orchard fruit and acidity. Pan-seared white fish like halibut or sole complements its clean, citrus-driven finish. Soft cheeses such as brie or fresh chèvre echo the wine's gentle creaminess. Caesar salad works well because the wine's brightness cuts through the richness of the dressing. Lightly seasoned shrimp or crab cakes match the moderate body without overwhelming delicate shellfish flavors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay is available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as an accessible, entry-level Sonoma County Chardonnay, delivering genuine appellation character and clean fruit expression at a value-friendly tier within the Sonoma category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Pico \u0026amp; Vine Chardonnay?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSonoma County Chardonnay carries real cachet, and Pico \u0026amp; Vine delivers on the regional promise at an approachable level. The wine's defining strength is its fruit clarity—apple, pear, and citrus arrive without being buried under heavy oak or excessive malolactic richness, a trap that many budget California Chardonnays fall into. At 14.1% ABV, it maintains enough body to feel satisfying at the table while keeping enough acidity to pair broadly with food. For anyone seeking a straightforward, honest Sonoma Chardonnay that lets clean fruit and cool-climate freshness do the talking, this bottle fills that role reliably.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Pico \u0026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837531418793,"sku":"27454","price":17.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Pico-Vine-Chardonnay-Sonoma__04588.jpg?v=1730485546"},{"product_id":"pico-vine-cabernet-sauvignon","title":"Pico \u0026 Vine Cabernet Sauvignon","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Napa Valley 100% Cabernet Sauvignon bottled at 750ml, showcasing the dark-fruit intensity the region is known for. This expression balances structure and finesse, with a suppleness that makes it approachable now while carrying the backbone to age gracefully over the coming decade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: ~13.5%  |  Origin: Napa Valley, California  |  Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon  |  Style: Full-Bodied Red\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePico \u0026amp; Vine sources fruit from Napa Valley, one of the world's most celebrated Cabernet Sauvignon growing regions. The warm days and cool evening fog of Napa create conditions that allow Cabernet grapes to develop deep concentration while retaining balancing acidity. The resulting wine is described as having both structure and finesse — a hallmark of well-made Napa Cabernet — with enough tannic framework to reward cellaring yet sufficient fruit richness for current enjoyment.\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 Ripe blackberry and cassis dominate the nose, leading into deeper layers of dark chocolate and a thread of anise. The aromatics are generous without being heavy, suggesting the fruit quality of the Napa Valley source material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate opens with concentrated black fruit — blackberry and black currant — that carries through the mid-palate with good density. Chocolate and subtle spice notes emerge as the wine develops in the glass, supported by fine-grained tannins that provide structure without astringency. The overall impression is one of richness held in check by careful balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish extends with lingering cassis and a touch of bittersweet chocolate. Tannins persist in a measured way, leaving a dry but smooth conclusion that invites another sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe at 60–65°F for optimal expression; decanting for 20–30 minutes will open the aromatics and soften the tannin structure. This is a Cabernet that rewards attention on its own but also has the body to stand up to food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Sangria:\u003c\/strong\u003e The dark fruit profile and chocolate undertones create a rich base when combined with brandy, citrus, and seasonal fruit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCabernet Reduction Sauce:\u003c\/strong\u003e Use a small pour to build a pan sauce for steak — the cassis and anise notes complement charred beef beautifully.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo:\u003c\/strong\u003e For a casual warm-weather serve, the bold fruit and tannins hold their own against cola in this classic Basque mixed drink.\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\u003eWeeknight steak dinners where you want Napa quality without ceremony\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a short-term cellar with age-worthy California Cabernet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a red wine lover who gravitates toward full-bodied, fruit-forward styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a blind tasting of Napa Valley Cabernets at various price tiers\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 Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet Sauvignon leads with ripe blackberry and cassis flavors, supported by layers of dark chocolate and anise, framed by fine-grained tannins and a smooth finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet compare to Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are accessible Napa Valley \/ California Cabernets aimed at everyday drinking, but Pico \u0026amp; Vine leans toward a more structured, age-worthy profile with prominent cassis and chocolate. Josh Cellars tends toward a softer, more immediately fruit-forward style with less tannic grip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the balance between ripe fruit, chocolate undertones, and moderate tannins makes it well-suited for drinking neat, especially after a brief decant to open the aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from grapes grown in Napa Valley, California, one of the most recognized Cabernet Sauvignon regions in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled ribeye steak pairs naturally with the dark fruit and tannin structure. Braised short ribs complement the chocolate and anise notes. Aged cheddar or Gouda echoes the wine's richness. Dark chocolate desserts mirror the cocoa undertones. Herb-crusted lamb chops work well with the cassis and spice layers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet Sauvignon is available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Pico \u0026amp; Vine positions as an accessible, value-tier Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, making it a competitive option for drinkers who want genuine Napa character without paying premium single-vineyard prices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Pico \u0026amp; Vine Cabernet?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNapa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon carries some of the highest expectations in the wine world, and Pico \u0026amp; Vine delivers on the fundamentals: concentrated black fruit, layered complexity from chocolate and anise, and enough tannic structure to develop with time. Its dual personality — drinkable now yet built for aging — gives it unusual versatility at its price tier. For anyone looking to explore what Napa Cabernet can deliver without committing to a collector-level bottle, this expression represents a straightforward, well-made entry point into the region's signature grape.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Pico \u0026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837616976041,"sku":"27452","price":19.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Pico--Vine-Cabernet-Sauvignon__49688.jpg?v=1730488307"},{"product_id":"pico-vine-meritage","title":"Pico \u0026 Vine Meritage","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Merlot-led Bordeaux-style red blend from Napa County, bottled at 14.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. Built from all five classic Bordeaux grape varieties — Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, and Malbec — it earned 87 points from Tastings.com on the 2014 vintage, underscoring its quality-to-value ratio within the Meritage category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 14.5%  |  Origin: Napa County, California  |  Style: Meritage (Bordeaux Blend)  |  Producer: Purple Wine + Spirits\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePico \u0026amp; Vine is produced by Purple Wine + Spirits under the direction of winemaker Joe Tapparo. The wine qualifies as a true Meritage — a designation reserved for blends composed exclusively of the noble Bordeaux grape varieties grown in the United States. The Merlot-dominant cuvée draws fruit from Napa County vineyards, and the production model prioritizes vineyard-to-bottle quality without the overhead of a destination winery facility, allowing the wine to deliver Napa County pedigree at an accessible price tier.\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 Black cherry leads the nose, followed by ripe plum and blueberry. The fruit is generous and clean without heavy oak influence, creating an inviting opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark fruit flavors dominate the entry, with layers of black cherry and plum expanding across the mid-palate. Hints of vanilla and cedar emerge as the wine opens, adding subtle complexity. Tannins are firm yet supple, providing structure without harshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is lingering and dry, with dark fruit and a trace of cedar persisting. The balanced tannin structure carries the wine through a satisfying close.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis Meritage drinks well at a slight chill — around 60–65°F — and benefits from 15–20 minutes of air after opening. It holds up in a classic \u003cstrong\u003eBordeaux-style glass\u003c\/strong\u003e that concentrates its dark fruit aromas.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSangria:\u003c\/strong\u003e The ripe fruit profile and dry finish give body to a traditional red sangria without becoming jammy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMulled Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e Firm tannins and dark berry character stand up well to warming spices like cinnamon and clove.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Spritzer:\u003c\/strong\u003e The wine's clean fruit and moderate weight make a surprisingly refreshing warm-weather serve with sparkling water and citrus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\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 Napa quality without opening an expensive bottle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to the Meritage category and Bordeaux-style blending\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCasual dinner parties with grilled meats or charcuterie boards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a case of reliable, food-friendly reds under a modest budget\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 Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with generous black cherry and plum fruit, supported by touches of vanilla and cedar. Tannins are firm but approachable, and the finish is dry and lingering.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage compare to other value Napa red blends?\u003c\/strong\u003e Unlike many budget California red blends that use non-traditional grape varieties, Pico \u0026amp; Vine is a true Meritage composed exclusively of the five classic Bordeaux grapes. This distinction gives it more structural complexity and a closer resemblance to Left Bank Bordeaux than a typical California \"red blend\" label.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the Merlot-led composition makes it approachable with softer tannins than a Cabernet-dominant wine, while the five-grape blend adds enough complexity to reward attentive tasting.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is produced from Napa County, California vineyards by Purple Wine + Spirits, a California-based wine production company led by winemaker Joe Tapparo.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled ribeye steak complements the firm tannins and dark fruit. Aged cheddar or Gruyère echoes the wine's hints of cedar. Braised short ribs mirror its depth and supple structure. Roasted lamb with herbs pairs naturally with the Bordeaux-style blend. A simple mushroom risotto highlights the wine's vanilla and earthy undertones.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Positioned as a value-tier Napa County Meritage, it delivers a genuine five-grape Bordeaux blend at a fraction of what most Napa Meritage labels command, making it a strong value within the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Pico \u0026amp; Vine Meritage?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTrue Meritage designation requires a blend made exclusively from the noble Bordeaux varieties, and many wines in this price range simply don't qualify. Pico \u0026amp; Vine checks that box with all five grapes represented — Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, and Malbec — sourced from Napa County. The 87-point score from Tastings.com on the 2014 vintage confirms that the wine performs above its weight class. For anyone seeking an authentic, well-structured Bordeaux-style blend from one of California's most respected appellations without a premium price tag, this bottle delivers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Pico \u0026","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837669404841,"sku":"29017","price":17.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Pico-Vine-Meritage___96060.jpg?v=1730490040"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/pico.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}