Once & Future Vintners Blend Now 2022

2022 Once & Future “Vintner’s Blend Now” — North Coast Red Blend
This is not your average “house red.” It’s a time capsule of old-school California winemaking from the legendary Joel Peterson (yes, that Joel Peterson of Ravenswood fame). The 2022 Vintner’s Blend Now is an artfully chaotic mix of Merlot, Petite Sirah, Mourvèdre, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Sauvignon — a bit like a band of misfits that somehow plays in perfect harmony.

Black cherry and red plum lead the charge, followed by hints of cedar, spice, and that “just rained on stone” minerality that makes you feel fancy saying terroir. Medium-bodied, juicy, and balanced, it’s got enough structure for dinner but smooth enough for Wednesday night takeout.

Once & Future is all about honoring California’s winemaking roots — and this bottle proves that the past and present can play very nicely together.

37% Merlot/32% Petite Sirah/ 16% Mourvedre/ 8% Petite Verdot/ 7% Cabernet Sauvignon