Hello To All Those Who Imbibe,

This week I want to take time to tell you about a pioneer in Napa Valley history, Peter Newton.

In 1964, Englishman Peter Newton was working as an executive for the Sterling International Paper Company  when he founded Sterling Vineyards in Napa Valley.  In 1969, he hired 25-year-old U.C. Davis graduate Ric Forman as winemaker for their inaugural vintage.  In 1977, Peter Newton and his partners sold Sterling Vineyards.  That same year he started Newton Vineyards on top of Spring Mountain, one of the region's first wineries.  Ric worked with Mr. Newton until 1982 and later founded Forman Vineyards, which is one of the finest wine producers in the Valley.

Today, Newton is still making some outstanding wines. I recently purchased what are called their Red Label wines: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Claret.  These are wines that stand with the Imbibe philosophy of over-delivering for the money and are easily some of the finest values in the wine world today.

2009 Newton Red Label Chardonnay $16.99

This Chardonnay is sourced from Sonoma and Napa Country fruit.  All Newton wines showcase purity of fruit, and this Chardonnay has ripe fruit characteristics of gala apple, pear and apricot with a wonderfully balanced finish.

2008 Newton Red Label Claret $16.99

Claret meaning blend, contains Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. This wine has always been a favorite of mine. A little softer then the Cabernet the wine shows lots of current and black cherry flavors that finishes nicely and would be a great match with any red meat dish.

2008 Newton Red Label Cabernet $18.99

This Cabernet is vibrant, lush and has intense fruit flavors of current, cassis and plum. This wine is silky without being thin.  A superb value Cabernet from Napa Country. This is one of my house selections.

   Until next time, keep pullin' those corks! 

- David