We begin the evening with the Acolytes Chardonnay from Dave Phinney’s newest winery, Our Lady of Guadalupe in Santa Barbara County. This estate is designed with the same vision and attention to detail that has defined his career. The site benefits from the cool Pacific influence of the Santa Rita Hills, where coastal fog and steady breezes allow Chardonnay to ripen slowly, developing layered flavors while retaining vibrant acidity. The Acolytes Chardonnay opens with aromas of citrus and stone fruit, followed by subtle notes of vanilla and toasted oak. On the palate it is both rich and refined, with a silky texture and a crisp, lingering finish. Serving as the first wine of the evening, it captures the spirit of Our Lady of Guadalupe and introduces guests to the next chapter of Dave Phinney’s winemaking journey.

The second wine of the evening comes from the same estate, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and showcases the Acolytes Pinot Noir. This was created by Dave Phinney to highlight the unique character of Santa Barbara County, where cool coastal air and marine soils provide ideal growing conditions for Pinot Noir. The wine opens with bright aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry, and a touch of spice, reflecting the purity of fruit that the region is known for. On the palate it is silky and elegant, with layers of red fruit, earth, and subtle oak that build to a smooth, lingering finish. The Acolytes Pinot Noir embodies both the grace of Santa Barbara Pinot and Phinney’s signature style of crafting wines with depth and distinction, making it a perfect continuation of our journey through his portfolio

Next in our lineup is Advice from John Merlot from Orin Swift, Dave Phinney’s newest label. Orin Swift has built its reputation on bold, expressive wines with memorable names and labels, and this Merlot is no exception. Crafted from carefully selected vineyards in California, Advice from John highlights the grape’s plush character while carrying Phinney’s unmistakable signature style. Aromas of blackberry, plum, and mocha rise from the glass, layered with hints of cedar and spice. On the palate, it is smooth and full-bodied, delivering ripe dark fruit balanced by polished tannins and a long, velvety finish. This wine demonstrates how Phinney can take a classic varietal and give it a modern edge, offering guests both familiarity and surprise in every sip.

We conclude the evening with the Painted Scars Red Blend from Department 66, Dave Phinney’s acclaimed project in the rugged Roussillon region of Southern France. The vineyards here are defined by ancient vines, rocky soils, and a Mediterranean climate that produces intensely concentrated fruit. Painted Scars is a bold yet balanced blend that reflects both the power of the region and Phinney’s artistry as a winemaker. It opens with aromas of dark berries, fig, and baking spice, leading into a palate of ripe black fruit, licorice, and hints of cocoa. The wine is full-bodied and structured, yet polished, with a lingering finish that captures the essence of this dramatic landscape. As the final wine of the evening, it embodies the depth and character that have made Department 66 a cornerstone of Phinney’s international portfolio and provides a memorable close to our dinner