Helen Keplinger is one of Napa’s most sought-after superstars: She’s graced the cover of Wine Spectator and was named Food & Wine magazine’s Winemaker of the Year. She’s consulted for wineries like Grace Family Vineyards, crafted a 98-point wine for Bryant Family Vineyard, and even notched a 100-pointer under the Carte Blanch label. Needless to say, you shouldn’t be able to avail yourself of Helen’s skills for less than $100. But her spectacular 2021 Vermillion Red Wine—which Jeb Dunnuck calls “a beautiful wine well worth seeking out”—comes at a fraction of that.
James Laube, Wine Spectator, praised her ability to create “captivating and uniquely styled wines that are stretching the boundaries,” of distinctive California reds, adding her label is “one of the most exciting and innovative wineries to emerge in California in years.”
The wine is a blend of vineyards from Sonoma County to the Sierra Foothills. She is famous for finding great terroir, great single vineyards and she has done this to create this gorgeous red blend. Collectors don’t hesitate to pay hundreds for her bottles. You’ll be glad you got this one for under $31 a bottle. The wine has developed quite a following and will move quickly
“The 2021 Vermillion is packed with dark cherry, plum, spice and licorice. The 2021 is a blend from vineyards in the Sierra Foothills, Santa Barbara and Paso Robles, with the Paso fruit very much pushed forward. Black fruit, mocha, spice and licorice give this juicy blend tons of character. The 2021 is not exactly subtle, but it sure is a delicious bottle of wine.” Antonio Galloni Vinous Media 92 points Drink 2024-30
Look for exotic wild raspberry jam, cinnamon, clove, and earthy tones. The palate is juicy and plush and will knock the socks off of any Rhône hound. This is a wine for every night, every dish, any time.