Gundlach-Bundschu Estate Vineyard 'Mountain Cuvee' Red Blend, Sonoma Valley, California

Dark berry fruit and cedar spice lead the first impression, with a firm, mountain-shaped structure that feels both generous and composed. The 2023 Gundlach-Bundschu Estate Vineyard Mountain Cuvée Red Blend draws from organically farmed Rhinefarm estate fruit alongside hand-selected lots from sustainable mountain vineyards, assembled to emphasize depth, lift, and polish. Guided by a multi-generational estate philosophy and a modern, detail-driven cellar approach, it is built to deliver immediate pleasure while staying true to the winery’s long-standing commitment to thoughtful farming and balanced, food-ready wines.

Product Details:

• Winemakers: Joe Uhr and Keith Emerson
• Varietal Composition: 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec
• Vineyard Sources: Organically farmed Rhinefarm estate fruit, plus hand-selected fruit from sustainable vineyards along the Mayacamas Mountain Range
• Farming Practices: Organically farmed estate vineyards and sustainably farmed partner vineyards
• Aging: 8 months in 20% new French oak
• Alcohol: 14.50%
• pH: 3.74
• TA: 5.6 g/L
• Production Volume: 7,799 cases

Sensory Description:

The 2023 Mountain Cuvée opens with black cherry, blackberry, and plum skin layered with mocha, graphite, and dried herbs. Cabernet Sauvignon drives the core with dark fruit concentration and firm tannin, while Merlot broadens the midpalate with supple texture and a round, polished feel. Cabernet Franc adds savory lift and aromatic detail, Petit Verdot contributes color depth and structure, and Malbec brings a subtle violet-toned richness. Eight months in French oak, including a measured portion of new barrels, adds notes of cedar, vanilla bean, and baking spice without overwhelming the fruit. The finish is structured and persistent, with mountain fresh tension and a clean, dry taper.

Winemaker’s Background:

Gundlach Bundschu is one of California’s longest continuously family-owned wineries, stewarded by the Bundschu Family with a deep focus on estate farming and responsible land management. Their winemaking approach favors balance, texture, and site expression, pairing organically farmed estate fruit with carefully selected vineyard partners to build blends that are consistent, expressive, and built for the table.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit in a large Bordeaux-style glass to broaden aromatics and soften the wine’s mountain-driven structure. Excellent with grilled steak, smoked brisket, rosemary roasted lamb, mushroom ragù, or aged cheddar and alpine style cheeses. A brief decant of 20 to 30 minutes helps integrate oak spice and amplify the wine’s dark fruit core.