At a glance

Producer

Vérité

Region

Sonoma County, California, USA

Grape variety

Bordeaux blend (primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$250

Tasting profile

Notes of cassis, ripe blackberry, graphite, tobacco leaf, and cedar with hints of vanilla and spice from French oak aging.

Evolution: Fruit will integrate further, tannins soften gradually, tertiary notes like earth, leather, and forest floor will emerge.

At peak: Complex layered aromas and flavors of dark fruits, minerals, and subtle toasted oak with smooth, velvety tannins.

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, bright

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

Excellent, at least 20-25 years from vintage due to classic Bordeaux blend structure and high-quality viticulture.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2053

Optimal window

2022 to 2056

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Wine currently shows great structure with evolving complexity; tannins are still firm but well-integrated.

The 2016 vintage in Sonoma County was excellent, with ideal ripening conditions to produce concentrated, balanced fruit. The wine is built on firm tannins and vibrant acidity, allowing prolonged aging to develop complexity without losing freshness or structure.

Food pairing

Pairs well with rich dishes such as grilled ribeye steak, braised short ribs, game meats, mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow the complex aromas to fully open up before serving.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Vérité is known for low-intervention winemaking, sustainable vineyard practices including water conservation, cover cropping, minimal chemical inputs, and selective hand harvesting.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, their sustainable farming and energy use practices, along with attention to reducing water use and careful vineyard management, grant them a solid sustainability score. Import carbon footprint reduces it slightly but is mitigated by winery sustainability policies.