Rodrigue Molyneaux

2019

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Merlot

This may be Rodrigue Molyneaux’s final vintage of this particular red as a standalone varietal bottling from Thatcher Bay Vineyard—a real pity, because there’s so much to like. Juicy, spicy, and savory, this Merlot offers hints of violets, wood spice, and licorice on the nose. The full-bodied palate is plush with plummy fruit, yet maintains terrific tension thanks to its vibrant spice, bright lift, and a surprising amount of structure. A compelling farewell, if indeed it is the last. -JR

Red

2020

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Nebbiolo

A blend of 94% Nebbiolo, 3% Barbera, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot, all sourced from the Tabby Cat Vineyard. The nose is a striking homage to Piedmont, with classic notes of sour cherry, dried herbs, tobacco leaf, and dried blood orange. That vibrant sour cherry character carries through to the full-bodied palate, where it meets lively acidity, a meaty texture, wood spice, and a delicate flourish of dried rose petals. -JR

Red

2021

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Barbera

This 100% Barbera comes from the Rodrigue Molyneaux estate and was aged in 16.5% new French oak, with the remainder in neutral barrels. It’s like the Italian countryside you’ve seen from your car window but never stepped out to explore—until now. Red berry fruit is interlaced with minty nuances and eucalyptus character, building with intensity on the medium-bodied palate. It’s framed by iron-scented minerality and salty, firm tannins with a subtle cherry wood polish. An intriguing and transportive wine from the Livermore Valley; you don’t have to go to Italy to *feel* like you’re there.

Red

2021

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Cabernet Franc

This 98% Cabernet Franc from Casa de Viñas in the Livermore Valley was aged in 17.5% new French oak, 25% third-use Hungarian oak, and 67.5% neutral barrels. It’s a more subtle, refined expression of the variety, with sagebrush nuances, black currant, plum, and accents of new wood cedar. Medium-bodied, it shows zesty blood orange acidity and emerging notes of pine, mint, and eucalyptus that add an unexpected—but very welcome—freshness.

Red

2021

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Il Segreto

The “Il Segreto” is a blend of 50.5% Sangiovese from Crackerbox Vineyard, along with Cabernet Sauvignon and Barbera from the Rodrigue Molyneaux estate, aged in 22.5% new French oak (with nearly one-third aged in stainless steel). This is a delightfully juicy and pleasing red blend, with crunchy red fruit, graphite minerality, and a medium-bodied palate framed by apple skin tannins. It finishes long, with a sleek wet river stone character that adds tension and finesse.

Red

2024

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Pinot Blanc

This blend of 80% Pinot Blanc from Buttner Vineyards and Sunol Highlands Vineyard, with 20% Fiano from the Rodrigue Molyneaux estate, was fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel. Fragrant lime blossoms intermingle with white peach notes, building across a light- to medium-bodied palate and finishing with salted and candied lime peel, and lemon zest. It’s the wine equivalent of your beachside margarita with salt on the rim—so after a shot of tequila and a squeeze of lime, don’t be afraid to sip this while staring off into the sunset, wherever you are.

Cristaldi Scores

Vintage

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Color

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Merlot

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Nebbiolo

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Barbera

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Cabernet Franc

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Il Segreto

Rodrigue Molyneaux

Pinot Blanc

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