Next-Level Wine Tasting

Here at Ruby Hill Winery, we love to make wine tasting approachable and fun for all of our guests and members. Since wine tasting may appear intimidating to some, we wanted to share some of our favorite tips and techniques for swirling, sniffing, and sipping to appreciate the layers in your favorite wines. One key aspect of a wine tasting journey is identifying the different aromas and flavors that make up a wine's profile. These layers are usually categorized as primary, secondary, and tertiary notes, and understanding them can enhance your tasting experience. 

Primary: The Grape's Gift

Most primary aromas are derived directly from the grape itself. These are the fresh, fruity, floral, and herbaceous characteristics that are present from the moment the grapes are crushed and are less affected by individual winemaking techniques. They are often the most immediately noticeable and provide a foundation for the wine's overall character.

Examples of primary aromas include: 

Fruits, which can range from fresh berries like strawberry and raspberry in Sangiovese, to citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit in Sauvignon Blanc, to stone fruits like peach and apricot in Chardonnay.

Flowers or “floral” notes like rose petals in Rosé, violet in Petit Verdot, or honeysuckle in some Chardonnays add complexity and elegance.

Herb and spice character, such as clove in Petite Sirah, bell pepper in some Zinfandels or Cabernet Franc, sage in some Barberas or black pepper in Syrah.

Secondary: The Winemaker's Touch

Secondary aromas are usually a mark of the winemaking technique and process. These include the smells and flavors that develop during fermentation, aging, and other winemaking techniques. They add layers of complexity and can significantly influence the wine's style, contributing to the unique fingerprint of a wine from your favorite winery. 

Examples of these secondary aromas include:

Yeast-derived aromas, which can include bready, brioche-like, or biscuity notes from lees aging (common in traditional Champagne), or buttery or creamy aromas from malolactic fermentation (often found in Chardonnay).

Oak notes, sometimes referred to as “oakiness” refers to notes of vanilla, toast, smoke, cedar, or spice (like clove or cinnamon) imparted by aging in oak barrels. Oak of different origin, such as French, Hungarian, and American, lends different flavor and character to the wine as it ages. 

Tertiary: The Factor of Time

Tertiary aromas develop during bottle aging. Unique to wines which have had time to mature in a proper environment, these are complex and nuanced aromas that evolve over time. They are often described as earthy, nutty, or savory.

Examples of tertiary aroma include:

Oxidative aromas, if the wine has been stored properly, can be pleasantly nutty aromas like almond or hazelnut, dried fruit aromas like fig or raisin, or savory notes like leather or tobacco.

Reduction aromas are more earthy, with notes like mushroom or forest floor, woodsy cedar, or mineral notes like flint or wet stone.

The Most Important Note

When you’re tasting wine: take your time, and have fun. If you want to explore the layers, start with the primary aromas, identifying the fruit, floral, and herbaceous notes—the most prominent and fresh of the profile. Then, consider the secondary aromas, looking for hints of yeast, oak, or other winemaking influences. Finally, if the wine has been aged, explore the tertiary aromas that have developed over time.

By training your nose to recognize these different layers, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and complexity of wine. You'll be able to not just taste the wine, but truly understand its story, from the vineyard to the bottle and finally, to your glass.

Want to explore a great collection of wines? Take advantage of our mixed case sale, available for a limited time!

 

Festive Sparkling Wine Pairings

This year, elevate your holiday feast with your favorite bubbly! This time of year should be filled with celebration, joy, and of course, delicious food and wines. Champagne and other sparkling wines add a touch of elegance and excitement to a festive spread, with effervescence and bright acidity that complement a wide range of flavors, making it a versatile choice for Christmas dinner and beyond.

Sparkling Wine is a holiday must-have, and here at Ruby Hill, we love to welcome our guests and members with a splash of sparkles. If you need that special something to bring your holiday meals to the next level, pop open a bottle of bubbly with appetizers, dinner, or dessert. There are some special pairings that will bring the blissful harmonies of flavor that special occasions deserve. We’ve assembled a quick guide below!

Appetizers:

Oysters: The briny, oceanic flavors of oysters are a perfect match for the crisp acidity of Sparkling Wine.
Smoked Salmon: The rich, smoky flavors of smoked salmon are balanced by bright, refreshing notes.
Cheese Platter: We especially love fresh cheeses like burrata with this wine, but a variety of cheeses, from creamy brie to sharp cheddar, can be paired with Sparkling Wine. The signature acidity meets the richness of the cheese, and the bubbles help to cleanse the palate between bites. Charcuterie board, here we come!

Main Course:

Roasted Turkey: The acidity of sparkling wine can cut through the richness of roasted turkey (slathered in gravy, of course), while its touch of sweetness can complement the savory flavors of the bird.
Roasted Ham: The salty, sweet flavors of ham are a great match for Sparkling Wine, presenting a very enticing interplay.
Seafood: If you opt for surf over turf for your celebrations, the brightness of a Sparkling Wine can enhance the delicate flavors of seafood, especially lobster or shrimp.
Seitan: For our vegan or plant-based friends, a savory and scrumptious seitan dish such as stuffed seitan roast, offers a great profile for enjoying with a delicate Sparkling Wine. 

Dessert:

Fruit Tart: The sweet, fruity flavors of a tart are a perfect match for the refreshing, bubbly character of our Sparkling Wine. We recommend an apple or pear tart in particular,
White Chocolate Truffles: The rich, decadent flavors of white chocolate truffles are balanced by the acidity of  Sparkling Wine, while ingredients like orange zest and coconut provide delicious harmony. 
Mimosas: If you want to keep it simple and festive, Mimosas are a fun and easy way to play with your Sparkling Wine! Go classic with orange juice or consider cranberry juice for a Christmas twist!
 
Happy Holidays, friends! This December has filled us with festive joy. Between the Christmas lights and the music on the radio, we’re surrounded by good cheer and a special kind of beauty. Enjoy the festive effervescence of our Sparkling Wine with notes of pear, fresh pineapple, green apple, and a light flourish of coconut on the finish. This is the season for Sparkling so get yours now while the sale is on!

A Wine Enthusiast's Holiday Guide

This week, we are celebrating six new scores from Wine Enthusiast! These critics’ ratings provide a helpful guide to the delicious wines we offer here at Ruby Hill Winery. Of course, everyone has their go-to wines, but we hope this quick guide will give you confidence to explore phenomenal wines and varietals that are worth discovering and featuring alongside your holiday festivities (or under the tree for someone lucky)! 

93 points - 2021 Jewel Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

This wine is smooth, spicy, with aromas of black currant confiture, black plum, cardamom, dried florals, and notes of orange vanilla cream on the nose. The flavors on the palate are Black raspberry, blackberry jam, spiced dark chocolate, interlaced with ginger, earth, and a dry, juicy finish. Decant and enjoy. — Tonya Pitts

Earning critical acclaim vintage after vintage, this stunning Cabernet is an absolute knockout. Rich, deep, and with lots of aging potential, we recommend Jewel Cabernet Sauvignon for memorable meals. Pair with peppery, earthy, and dense foods. 

93 points - 2021 Jewel Collection Zinfandel

A lively nose, characteristic of our Zinfandel, brings notes of cherry and berry alongside dried plums and ripe currants. This complex nose flows seamlessly into the vibrant and fruit-packed flavor profile. A satisfying velvety body shines with bright acidity, perfect for enjoying with food. Elegant structure makes this wine delicious now and a great candidate for aging.

Another standout from our Jewel Collection, this varietal is juicy and enticing. Zinfandel is an ideal pairing for all the smoked, glazed, and spiced dishes across your holiday spreads, offering a sumptuous complement to these dishes. Of course, you can always pour a glass and enjoy it on its own!

92 points - 2021 Jewel Collection Chardonnay

Classic Chardonnay notes put on a lovely performance in this vintage. The complex choreography of peach, pear, stone fruit, flint and vanilla notes dance through the aroma and into the flavor. A very luscious mouthfeel that lingers in the long and truly luxurious finish. Caramel and baking spice notes enrich the palate, giving way into a soft, buttery quality.

Yet another phenomenal wine from the Jewel Collection, this classic white wine varietal is the go-to for Thanksgiving, pairing delightfully with turkey, yams, mashed potatoes, sweet corn, pumpkin pie, and more. We’re hungry already! Enjoy this elegant vintage in good cheer.  

92 points - 2021 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 

An enticing aroma beckons with harmonious fruit and oak notes. Dark plum and blackberry spread gracefully over a backdrop of baking spices, cocoa, and vanilla. The mouthfeel is very smooth, making each sip a delight. The finish on this vintage is on the shorter side, but remains fruity and flavorful. A very enjoyable, complex, and satisfying wine.

Cabernet is classic for a reason. Delicious by itself and alongside your favorite autumn or winter meals, this approachable and delightful Cabernet is the kind of wine you can always have around. 

92 points - 2023 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc

A tropical serenade of guava, pomelo, pink grapefruit, and citrus zest notes opens up the aroma, with a vibrant crescendo on the palate joined by accents of crème anglaise, fading seamlessly into a fruity finish. A medium body on the palate, with a succulent acidity and perfectly balanced sip. Serve chilled.

Golden and tropical, this white wine is stepping into the spotlight with crisp and refreshing appeal. A great companion for citrus-infused dishes, greens, white meat, and seafood, you’ll fall in love with each graceful and alluring sip. 

92 points - 2021 Cuvée Dray

A smooth and complex aroma offers notes of blackberry, ripe red fruit, and floral accents. The flavor profile exemplifies balanced mixed fruit. Juicy, elegant, and cohesive on the palate, this wine has a nice tannin profile, silky texture, and a flavorful finish. This wine will hold up for years to come.

This wine is ideal for pairing with just about everything. This special Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet, Petit Verdot, and Merlot, is crafted in honor of our beloved pets and the ways they enrich our lives. To share the joy, $10 for every bottle of this wine sold is donated to the Valley Humane Society.

We hope you’ll visit the tasting room soon to enjoy these remarkable wines. This weekend only, take an extra 10% off all Jewel Wines to commemorate this critically acclaimed collection, in addition to member and case discounts! This discount is applied automatically. Happy shopping!

The Magic of Merlot

        November 7th is International Merlot Day! If you think you would rather forego Merlot, we hope you’ll reconsider. Here at Ruby Hill Winery, we believe in crafting unique, approachable wines that marry the styles and flavors of classic wines, while creating innovative combinations you can’t get anywhere else.  The wines shown above encompass a wide range of styles, profiles, and price, and yet they share one thing in common. A single, unsung varietal plays a supporting role: the everyday hero of this story is Merlot. 

        When you enjoy our current vintages of Grapeful Red, Cuvée Dray, Reserve Mirage, Patchwork, Reserve Cabernet, Jewel Cabernet or Odyssey, you enjoy some percentage of Merlot—a percentage that is there for a reason. Why does this varietal play a part in so many of our wines?

Merlot & Its Blends

        Merlot is an early-ripener with a soft flesh, and is very commonly found alongside the classic late-ripening, fiercely tannic Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is the most widely planted varietal in France, where it is oven blended with Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and other varietals to add both body and softness. France’s legendary Bordeaux blends are divided into two designations, right bank and left bank. A left bank Bordeaux is generally Cabernet Sauvignon-forward, while a right bank Bordeaux is Merlot-forward. In Italy, Merlot is used for softness in some Sangioveses and other traditional high-acid Italian varietals. 

Merlot in Pop Culture

        In the US, the story of Merlot has been heavily influenced by pop culture. Merlot saw a wild rise in popularity after 60 Minutes reported on the French Paradox—the observation that heart disease is low in France, even though cheese and red wine make up a large proportion of the average diet. As a traditional French wine, this boosted Merlot’s public appeal. The film Sideways, released in 2004, featured a Pinot Noir snob who famously rejected Merlot in all of its forms. This film has been subsequently credited with an undeserved decline in the popularity of Merlot!

Merlot in California

        When Merlot came to California, it was often bottled alone as a single varietal wine. Though this is not uncommon now, Winemakers are more likely to reach back to the Merlot’s roots as a blending wine. Merlot adds delicious full-bodied softness as well as a toothsome fruitiness wherever it is featured. When used in slightly higher percentages, such as in our premium Odyssey red wine, Merlot also adds a detectable delicate aroma and freshness.

        Single varietal wines and red blends are a collaboration of flavors, aromas, textures, and more. At its core, Merlot works well as a refined and delicate supporting actor, working in the background so that other varietals can put on their best show. At the same time, giving Merlot a chance to take on the spotlight makes unforgettable wines. We encourage you: don’t forget about the little hero Merlot!

Shop our blends and single varietals with Merlot support:

Cuvée Dray · Reserve Mirage · Grapeful Red · Patchwork · Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon · Jewel Cabernet Sauvignon · Odyssey

Want to learn more about our estate-grown Merlot and the Odyssey red wine? Consider booking our Odyssey Experience! Click here for more info, or reach out to us at 925-931-9463 or info@rubyhillwinery.net

Odyssey Experience: A New Luxury Tasting

We are delighted to unveil an all-new wine tasting experience at Ruby Hill Winery. In this encounter, you will enter the world of Odyssey, our most premiere and exclusive wine, and enjoy a wine tasting in the heart of the estate vineyard, under expansive historic oak trees. Read on to learn more!

About Odyssey

An icon in the making, the Odyssey Red Wine is a premium blend, crafted in the style of a right-bank Bordeaux wine. Odyssey celebrates the rich history and winemaking legacy of the Ruby Hill Winery’s estate vineyard, from 1885 to present day and beyond. Each vintage honors a historic chapter in our story and has very limited production so we can protect the quality and luster of each and every bottle. As of 2024, we have released the first two chapters and anticipate new and delicious editions each year. 

Odyssey Experience

After meeting your ambassador in the tasting room for a Sparkling Wine toast, you will board our all-new, customized shuttle. Designed for this experience, this welcoming vehicle shuttles our guests to the Harvest Table in comfort and style.

The Odyssey Experience tasting takes place in the heart of the vineyard, where all of our wines get their start. Handcrafted for our guests’ enjoyment, the Harvest Table is nestled under old oak trees, bordered by vines, creating a picturesque sanctuary. This place of beauty and peace in the estate vineyard is ideal for a luxury tasting experience. 

The Odyssey Experience features an exclusive flight of wines you can’t get anywhere else. Your ambassador walks you through each of the varietals that play a part in the Odyssey Red Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, providing an opportunity to taste each of these varietals on their own. The menu culminates in a phenomenal vertical tasting of the vintages of Odyssey. Alongside these sumptuous libations, this experience offers ample charcuterie so you may enjoy delicious savories with each wine. 

How to Book

Bookings for the Odyssey Experience are available now! This offering is available for groups of 6-12 people, and it must be booked at least a week in advance. For members of Ruby Hill or Rubino Estates Winery, tickets for this experience are $60, and for non-members, tickets are $75 per person. When you book, you may select a start time anytime between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm.

All bookings can be made through the Ruby Hill Tasting Room at 925-931-9463 or info@rubyhillwinery.net

Book now and be among the very first guests and members to enjoy the luxurious Odyssey Experience! 

 

Cozy October Wine Pairings

The fall weather is finally settling into the Livermore Valley, and we welcome it with open arms! We are starting off this season with two mixed cases: one with red wines and one with white wines. For this blog, we consulted our winemaker’s notes to give you the essence of what’s in each bottle of the lovingly-crafted, estate grown wines inside each case. Plus, to really get into the spirit of this time of year, we are pairing each wine with a comforting recipe.

Mixed White Wine Case

Sparkling Wine with Truffle Mac & Cheese

A pairing powerhouse, this Sparkling Wine has notes of green apple and lemon zest, but the bubbles are the main attraction. Elegant alongside any dish, we selected this wine to pair with Truffle Mac and Cheese, because classy comfort food is a high priority. 

Reserve Sauvignon Blanc with Lemony White Bean Soup

This wine brings sunshine, even when skies are gray. A medium body boasts perfect acidity, with notes of pink grapefruit and crème anglaise. This fall, we recommend enjoying this with a Lemony White Bean Soup, which is like a hug in a bowl. 

Reserve Chardonnay with Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

A classic Chardonnay with floral allure, citrus and stone fruit essences, and toasted oak influences, this unctuous wine is perfect for fall. We recommend this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta recipe, with a silky and delicious sauce made with the luscious flavors of pumpkin, mascarpone, and parmesan. Plus, for anyone thinking ahead, Chardonnay is a perfect wine for pairing with Turkey!

Grapeful Rosé with Walnut & Rosemary Crusted Salmon

Refreshing acidity with light floral and red fruit notes make this wine reminiscent of summer, but the Sangiovese fruit gives this dry Rosé enough body to be delightful all year. This Walnut & Rosemary Crusted Salmon recipe is a perfect autumnal take on seafood, and we’d serve this with roasted broccoli and potatoes for a hearty meal. 

Mixed Red Wine Case

Sangiovese with Margherita Chicken

A bombastic aroma leads to strawberry and floral notes on the palate. This light red wine is perfect for weeknights and absolutely shines alongside Italian dishes! Balanced acidity also makes this wine an ideal companion for a range of comfort food. We recommend this Margherita Asparagus Stuffed Chicken.

Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon with Beef Wellington

This vintage is layered with harmonious fruit and oak notes, with a touch of spice and vanilla. Cabernet and steak are the perfect match, and with a wine this good we’re recommending the tenderloin. To elevate the comforting vibes even more, try a Classic Beef Wellington.

Reserve Petite Sirah with Eggplant Parmesan

Our Petite Sirah is rich and deep, with notes of dark fruit, cocoa, and tea leaf. To us, Petite Sirah is the essence of autumn, providing a cozy blanket of tannin and touches of warming spices. Enjoy this full-bodied wine alongside this recipe for All-American Eggplant Parmesan. 

Cielo Viola with Lamb Kofta

Crafted for our wine club members, this blend brings together the best of Petite Sirah and Zinfandel, with plush notes of chocolate, wild berry, and plum sorbet. We suggest a delightful Lamb Kofta to compliment the approachable complexity of this beloved blend. 

Take your opportunity to enjoy these mouthwatering wines this fall and shop the case sale now! Whether you’re looking for a mix of White Wines or Red Wines, this sale is the perfect chance to get your cellar and wine fridge prepped for a fall and holiday season of great food and stellar sipping.

 

Making the Most of Autumn

We have passed the equinox and fall has officially begun here in the Livermore Valley. Autumn is spreading its picturesque colors across the estate vineyard with vibrant hues of red and gold, which wakes up our appetite for cozy cuisine and particularly luscious wine pairings. In this blog, we are capturing the essence of the harvest season by selecting a few favorite fall treats to recommend and a wine to enjoy alongside it. 

Favorite Fall Recipes & Wine Pairings

        One standout dish to try this fall is roasted butternut squash soup. We recommend featuring locally sourced squash blended with aromatic spices and topped with a swirl of cream (we like this one). This comforting dish kicks off soup season with satisfaction and pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine like our Jewel Chardonnay, with light notes of cream and butterscotch that complement the sweetness of the squash.

        Another autumn-inspired dish we can’t get enough of is brown butter gnocchi with sage--or anything with brown butter and herbs, for that matter! Try making a sage & brown butter sauce (like this recipe here) to pour over squash, veggies, ravioli, and more. It’s delicious year round, but it always tastes better in fall. We recommend a Sangiovese for its high acid and approachable flavor as a complement. 

        We appreciate hearty and savory dishes that play with the sweet flavors of the season, like pork chops with apples and bacon. (We suggest this recipe from Food and Wine). Warm your home and your appetite with this easy one-pan meal that brings all the flavors you could wish for. This dish is divine alongside a bottle of Peacock Patch Zinfandel. 

        As you create comforting dishes, take advantage of the season. Fall is the perfect time to explore local farmers' markets, where you'll find a treasure trove of fresh, seasonal produce. Look for crisp apples, sweet pears, wholesome cabbages, and hearty squash that are ideal for cozy fall recipes. We also like to stock up on warming spices, especially for sweet treats like pumpkin pie and pecan snickerdoodles. 

        We believe that no autumn experience is complete without spending some time at a picturesque winery. Visit us at the Ruby Hill Tasting room where you can enjoy our estate-grown wines with a stunning background of vineyards blanketed in fall foliage. If you want to celebrate the spookiness of the season, members can join us for our annual Halloween Party!

Get your tickets now and come boogie with us on October 25th. 

        Whether you’re indulging in farm-fresh dishes or sipping local wines, we hope you’ll take time to celebrate the beauty of autumn in one of California’s most vibrant valleys. Cheers to the flavors and fun of fall!

 

The Story of Odyssey

The roots of our estate vineyard reach back to the first vines planted on this land in 1885. Established in 1887, Ruby Hill Winery has persevered through more than a century of historic events, changing proprietorships, years of plenty, and years of little. To honor our history and the legacy of winemaking on our estate, we crafted Odyssey, a limited-production premium wine, rich with story. 

An odyssey is “a long and eventful or adventurous journey or experience” which perfectly captures the many excitements throughout our estate’s story. Each vintage of Odyssey honors an individual chapter of this chronology. Our Odyssey is a red wine blend, crafted with a balance similar to right-bank Bordeaux wines. Starting with the premiere vintage, 2020, each vintage of this wine represents a new chapter in our story. Read on to get a peek at these chapters and to learn more about the launch of Odyssey Chapter 2, the 2021 vintage, which will be hosted on September 21st!

2020 Odyssey

Chapter 1 - In the Beginning

Debuted in 2023, the premiere vintage of Odyssey celebrates our early roots. In 1885, the first vineyards were planted on our estate into rich red-clay soil, from which we earn the name "Ruby Hill." Developing this 450-acre property in the Pleasanton Township ignited a story that continues on our property today. Our Odyssey exists to honor and carry on this tradition. 

2021 Odyssey

Chapter 2 - Brick By Brick

The star of this Release, the 2021 vintage celebrates the second chapter of our estate's story. Founder John Crellin completed construction of the original Ruby Hill Winery building and distillery in 1887. Crellin’s winery was regarded as a state-of-the-art facility at the time, producing wines that were considered among California’s best.

Members: Acquire your Ticket to Join us for the Release Party of our 2021 Odyssey Red Wine!
Saturday September 21st, 7:00-9:00 at the Ruby Hill Winery Tasting Room.

Celebrate the history and legacy of our estate as we debut the 2021 vintage of our Odyssey Red Wine, a premium small-lot wine that emulates a right-bank Bordeaux. Space is limited, so secure your ticket today!

Each ticket includes admission for two people, a set of three bottles of the 2021 Odyssey in an elegant wooden box to take home, Grazing Station and Passed Hors d’oeuvres provided by Casa Real Event Center, barrel sampling of the component varietals, and tasting of the 2021 Odyssey.  

Event Details

The event will be held on Saturday, September 21st, 7:00-9:00 pm at the Ruby Hill Winery Tasting Room, located at 400 Vineyard Avenue, Pleasanton, CA, 94566.

Tickets to the Odyssey Release Party are $300 and include a boxed set of 3 bottles of Odyssey to take home. Additionally, tickets include admission for two people, Grazing Station and Passed Hors d’oeuvres provided by Casa Real Event Center, barrel sampling of the component varietals, and tasting of the 2021 Odyssey. 

 

Strawberry Crumble & Grapeful Rose

 

No matter where you’re at, August sunshine calls for fresh and exciting meals and your favorite light wines. This week, to commemorate our Wine of the Month, we’re making whole-grain strawberry crumble bars which complement our delectable 2022 Grapeful Rosé. This wholesome summery treat involves ripe summer strawberries, a few pantry staples, and comes together in no time. It also boasts a lovely comforting quality that gives just a hint of the autumn season to come. 

Strawberry Crumble Bars

INGREDIENTS

• Base & Crumble:
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ¾ cup white whole wheat flour
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Berry Filling:
• 2 cups small-diced strawberries
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, divided
• Vanilla Glaze (Optional):
• ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 375 degrees F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper so that the paper overhangs two sides like handles.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, ginger, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until it forms clumps and the dry ingredients are evenly moistened. Set aside 1/2 cup of the crumble mixture, then press the rest into an even layer in the bottom of the prepared pan. Press very firmly so the crust holds together (you can also use the back of a measuring cup to help press it into an even later).
3. Scatter half of the strawberries over the crust. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the top, then sprinkle on the lemon juice and 1/2 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Scatter on the remaining berries, then the remaining 1/2 tablespoon sugar. Sprinkle the reserved crumbs evenly over the top. You will have some fruit showing through.
4. Bake the bars for 35 to 40 minutes, until the fruit is bubbly and the crumb topping smells toasty and looks golden. Place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely (you can speed this process along in the refrigerator).
5. While the bars cool, prepare the glaze: In a medium bowl, briskly whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Feel free to add more milk if a thinner consistency is desired. Using the parchment-paper handles, lift the bars from the pan. Drizzle with glaze, slice, and serve.

Recipe from Well Plated by Erin

 

Now, grab an ice bucket and your favorite picnic blanket and head outside! Crafted from our Estate-grown Sangiovese grapes, Grapeful Rosé is stunning and the aromas and flavors are a delight. There's nothing more perfect for summertime than a sip of this alongside a sweet strawberry treat. Enjoy this pairing in your favorite spot in the shade on a warm day. Thinking of giving this recipe a try? Let us know @rubyhillwines!

 

The Crown Jewel Tasting Experience at Ruby Hill

If you love Jewel Cabernet, then you’re in good company. Consistently phenomenal, vintage after vintage, this wine is worth celebrating! To honor our Jewel Cabernet and commemorate our newly constructed Harvest Table, we are hosting a Crown Jewel Tasting Experience. Read on to learn more!

The details - 

On August 23rd, 24th, and 25th, we are offering a brand new tasting experience featuring an exclusive menu that you won't want to miss. Savor a truly luscious vertical tasting of our 2019, 2020, and 2021 vintages of Jewel Cabernet Sauvignon, along with our 2020 and 2021 vintages of our limited-edition Odyssey Red Wine.

The location - 

The Crown Jewel experience begins in the Ruby Hill Tasting room, but your wine ambassador will soon transport you to the Harvest Table in the heart of the vineyard. This beautiful handcrafted table near the familiar Ruby Hill water tower yearns to welcome you to the vineyard. Perfect for a picturesque wine tasting, it sits under a canopy of historic oak trees, nestled among Chardonnay vines, ready to host a luxurious estate experience. 

The wines - 

2021 Jewel Cabernet Sauvignon

88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, & 5% Merlot.
A luscious medley of rich fruit graces the aroma, with black cherry, plum, strawberry, and mixed berry. These fruits flow onto the palate, accented by allspice and vanilla nuances from oak aging. A velvety texture and weighty mouthfeel, with rich body and integrated acidity. The finish presents a smooth touch of tannin, supporting an excellent and satisfying structure. Enjoy now or let this vintage age!

2020 Jewel Cabernet Sauvignon

92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, and 4% Merlot.
An aroma rich with marionberry, blackberry, and French plum is accented by swanky oak notes of cloves and vanilla. Seductive flavors evolve on the palate within a balanced velveteen mouthfeel. The finish is subtle but lengthy, laden with romantic vanilla and violet notes.

2019 Jewel Cabernet Sauvignon

85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 5% Petite Sirah, 5% Petit Verdot.
A gorgeously complex aroma opens with a mix of fruits, including mulberry, boysenberry, and the familiar blue fruit notes of our Estate Cabernet. The flavors match the aromas, bringing the dark fruit to the front. This vintage boasts age-worthy tannins and an approachable profile. The finish is smooth and clean, emphasizing the berry flavors, accented by a hint of oak toast.

2020 & 2021 Odyssey Red Wine

The Odyssey Red Wine is a premium blend, made in the style of a right-bank Bordeaux wine. Odyssey celebrates the rich history and winemaking legacy of the Ruby Hill Winery’s estate vineyard, from 1885 to present day and beyond. Each vintage honors a historic chapter in our story and has very limited production. 

As you are guided through this luxurious flight, the wines will be accompanied with assorted food offerings. Your wine ambassador will provide insight and information about these two wine programs and answer questions as you enjoy the tasting. 

The Crown Jewel Tasting Experience will be hosted on the following days and times:
Friday, August 23rd at 2:30pm
Saturday, August 24th at 12:00pm and 2:30pm
Sunday, August 25th at 12:00pm and 2:30pm

Tickets are sold individually—no group required. Come alone, bring a friend, or grab some loved ones! This experience is $75 per person, $65 per club member. There are only 10 tickets available per time slot available, so act fast. If purchasing online, please log in with your member credentials to take advantage of the discount.