Featured Press & News

Gayot

May 2024

The 15 Best Mother’s Day Wines in 2024

Baldacci, 2021 Red Blend | Napa Valley: Baldacci Family Vineyards is located in a beautiful part of the Napa Valley just off of the Silverado Trail (west side) slightly south of the Yountville Cross Road. Records show the property was originally planted with grapevines in 1888; it was purchased by Tom & Brenda Baldacci in 1998. For approximately six years, the family sold grapes, including to notable producers such as Rombauer, Shafer Vineyards and Clos du Val. Eventually, Tom decided to build a winery rather than selling the property. Perhaps his family heritage had something to do with his decision, being the grandson of Italian immigrants who made their own wine.

A deep garnet color shows in the glass. The bouquet draws you in with scents of fresh berries, spices and a touch of oak. These impressions repeat on the palate, helped by soft tannins to deliver a round and balanced, ready to drink wine.

Beverage Media Metro NY

May 2024

Wine Buzz: Inspired by Bordeaux

Enamored with the estate Merlot, Baldacci Family Vineyards winemaker Michael Baldacci set out to craft a Napa Valley cuvée showcasing the five traditional Bordeaux varieties. The result is the Proprietary Red Blend 2021, a well-structured berry- and baking spice-laden wine fusing 30 percent Merlot, 27 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Cabernet Franc, 15 percent Malbec, and eight percent Petit Verdot.

Lonely Planet

April 2024

A first-timer’s guide to Napa Valley

We recommend clustering each day’s reservations in the same area so you won’t have to rush between wineries. For instance, in the Stag’s Leap District, Cliff Lede Vineyards and Baldacci Family Vineyards are only a mile apart. At Baldacci, the Cave Tour and Tasting Experience includes a cave tour and barrel tasting followed by a seated tasting paired with seasonal appetizers.

JamesSuckling.com

March 2024

Baldacci Family Vineyards 2021 Vintage

2021 Proprietary Red Blend, 91 points
2021 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon, 91 points
2021 Ruppert Cabernet Sauvignon, 92 points
2021 Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon, 92 points
2021 Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon, 93 points
2021 Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, 93 points

JebDunnuck.com

March 2024

Baldacci Family Vineyards 2014 Winemaker’s Collection

2014 Brenda’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, 95 points
2014 Ruppert Cabernet Sauvignon, 93 points
2014 Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon, 91 points

Edible Marin

March 2024

Discover Baldacci Family Vineyards’ Estate Tasting & Cave Tour

Situated in the picturesque Stags Leap District, the winery’s Estate House seamlessly blends wine country luxury with the rustic allure of the surrounding rural landscape, sprawling vineyards, and rugged Stags Leap Palisades. During the exclusive Cave Tour & Estate Tasting, guests relax into comfortable lounge-style seating after touring the vineyards and 19,000+ square-foot wine cave.

Drinkhacker

March 23, 2024

Review: Baldacci 2021 Proprietary Red Blend and 2022 Carneros Chardonnay

2022 Baldacci Chardonnay Carneros Napa Valley – Lively and light, this Chardonnay kicks off with notes of lemon and white flowers before pivoting to a palate big on tropical fruit and lemon cream. There’s a slight touch of minerality and oak on the finish, but it’s never too obtrusive or threatens to spoil the party. This is an incredibly well-balanced and clean Chardonnay that could easily be enjoyed as an aperitif with friends on a cooler evening.

2021 Baldacci Proprietary Red Blend Napa Valley – This blend scales back the Cabernet Sauvignon (down from 2021 Fraternity’s 73%) and allows the Merlot to take center stage. The results are highly rewarding, with aromas of dark fruit and baking spice leading to a palate filled with generous notes of plum, vanilla, and blueberry. The tannins are ripe and there’s plenty of depth on display through the finish, where earthier notes of tobacco leaf, oak, and a slight touch of balsamic deliver a compelling conclusion.

Visit California

March 2024

What’s New in California

Baldacci Family Vineyards Wine & Chocolate Tasting Experience: The tasting experience commences with a splash of brut-style Pops Sparkling Wine, and a guest journey through three delicious wines each thoughtfully paired with three distinct signature chocolates.

Visit Napa Valley

March 11, 2024

Winery Cave Tours & Tastings in Napa Valley

Baldacci Family Vineyards features over 19,000 square feet of wine caves in their hillside knoll, where their wines are crafted and barrel aged. The private Cave Tour & Estate Tasting experience begins with a splash of brut sparkling wine before journeying through the spectacular wine cave. Guests have the chance to taste wine directly from the barrel and see behind the scenes of the winery’s production area. This experience concludes in the Estate House with an indoor seated tasting.

Robb Report

March 2024

Sneak Peek: The Best Napa Valley Wines Coming This Year

Having tasted through more than 150 wines in the span of three days, we can assure you that the 2022 vintage from Napa is one that will satisfy most palates. Oftentimes pre-release pours’ unintegrated tannins render them difficult to fully assess, but we found many wines that are drinking well right now, especially at a tasting of Stags Leap District producers that included standouts from Silverado, Pine Ridge, Baldacci Family, Chimney Rock, and Merus.

Wine Enthusiast

February 2024

April 2024 Buying Guide

2018 Thomas Collection, 95 points
2021 Fraternity, 94 points

The Mercury News

February 2024

Napa Valley’s mustard season celebrations include wine forays, restaurants and spa treatments

One of the first signs of spring in wine country is mustard season, when the rolling hills and long valleys that host the vineyards are swathed in brilliant blankets of yellow bloom. Baldacci Family Vineyards on Napa’s Silverado Trail is doing tastings that include small bites celebrating mustard season. Tastings typically start at $65.

Wine Country This Month

February 2024

Mustard: Napa Valley’s Best Kept Secret

Mustard season is one of the best times to visit Napa Valley. With generally fewer people in the region, late January through March is the ideal time to explore…

Wine Country This Month

February 2024

Cozy Destinations for Fireside Wine Tasting

In Napa Valley, the Monarch Stag Room at Baldacci Family Vineyards is reserved for their Cave Tour & Estate Tasting, and seats 2-4 people. It can be closed off from the adjoining room, and has an intimate, private feel in a luxurious setting with leather couches and a beautiful stone fireplace.

Forbes

February 2024

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide 2024: Big Reds For Big Hearts

Baldacci Family Vineyards, 2021 Proprietary Red Blend $70

Winemaker Michael Baldacci decided to craft this inaugural wine from the 2021 vintage because he wanted to showcase the exceptional Merlot fruit from their estate vineyards and longstanding grower relationships in Napa Valley. Thirty-percent Merlot comes together with 27 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Cabernet Franc, 15 percent Malbec, and 8 percent Petit Verdot in this Bordeaux-style blend that utilizes all five of the classic, Bordeaux grape varieties. With 20 months aging in French oak barrels, this bold red is an ideal Valentine’s Day gift for those who have partners with a taste for rich, silky reds full of berry, baking spice, and savory flavors.

The Drinks Business

February 2024

Napa winemakers collaborate for exclusive auction

A major draw will be 12 exclusive collaborations between joint Napa winemakers. Also on the roster is a partnership between four producers from the Stags Leap district: Baldacci Family Vineyards, Chimney Rock Winery, Pine Ridge Vineyards and Quixote Winery.

Food & Beverage Magazine

January 2024

Editor’s Top Pick: Products to Watch in 2024

The Baldacci Family Vineyards Discovery Collection ($60) comes in a Napa artist-illustrated gift box with a trio of 100-ml glass bottles of 2021 vintage wines from the Baldacci Family Vineyards portfolio. Each glass bottle is a single-serving size (3.4 oz), making this set ideal for gifting, wine tasting parties, multi-course meals, and more.

The Wine Independent

January 2024

2018 Baldacci Family Vineyards The Thomas Collection Cabernet Sauvignon, 95 Points

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 The Thomas Collection Cabernet Sauvignon needs a swirl or two to coax out compelling scents of creme de cassis, blackberry preserves, and black raspberries followed by hints of cedar chest, graphite, and Indian spices. The fullbodied palate is jam packed with black fruit preserves and earthy layers, supported by firm, fine-grained tannins and well-knit freshness, finishing long and spicy.

The Tasting Panel Magazine

January/February 2024 Issue

Publisher’s Picks

Baldacci Family Vineyards 2021 Elizabeth Pinot Noir, Carneros, Napa Valley ($65) Publisher’s Picks
Ripe, big-bodied, and elegant, with a fierce, natural beauty. Glossy on the palate, with earthy underpinnings, this well-tailored red offers mouth-filling flavors of soy sauce, basil, and rosemary. The spicy, woodsy finish is streamlined. 95

Baldacci Family Vineyards 2021 Fraternity Red Wine Blend, Napa Valley ($85) Publisher’s Picks
Bold, dusty notes of plum skin, slate, new leather, and blackberry preserves masterfully spread across the mouth. Acidity is notably keen, allowing the powdered tannins to texturize the palate. A pedigreed red. 96

Jeb Dunnuck

December 2023

2018 Baldacci Family Vineyards The Thomas Collection Cabernet Sauvignon, 95 Points

A tiny production release, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon The Thomas Collection is all varietal that spent 22 months in barrel before bottling, and is held back in bottle before release. Its saturated plum/purple hue is followed by a terrific nose of smoky black fruits, chocolatey oak, iron, and leafy herbs which turns slightly more floral and exotic with time in the glass. It’s rich, full-bodied, has beautiful mid-palate depth, and nicely integrated tannins and acidity. It’s a big, rich, powerful wine that will benefit from another 2-3 years of bottle age and I suspect evolve for 15 years.

Visit California

December 2023

Zero Kilometer Culinary Experiences

Baldacci Family Vineyards is a family-owned winery in Napa Valley that passionately supports local businesses. The family works with fruit from their estate-grown vineyards and other local grape growers with whom they have had longstanding relationships to craft their extensive portfolio of fine Napa Valley wines. In fall 2023, to support more local businesses and to offer a unique wine-tasting experience, Baldacci Family Vineyards launched their Wine & Chocolate Tasting. The tasting pairs their estate-grown wines with artisan chocolate crafted by local Napa Chef Holly Peterson of Flourish Chocolate.

Napa Valley Register

December 2023

Winemakers give back to community

Baldacci Family Vineyards has selected Napa CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) to be this year’s donation recipient for its annual holiday donation. This year’s donation will exceed $17,000.

“It is with great pleasure that we support and donate to a local nonprofit each year and we feel strongly about selecting Napa CASA as this year’s recipient,” said winemaker Michael Baldacci, in a news release.

Brit + Co.

December 2023

These Foodie Gift Ideas Are Like Nothing They’ve Ever Seen Before

Second best to a trip to Napa Valley is a collection of its most popular wines, curated in these sweet glass vials and boxed for gifting. It’s perfect for your holiday host and features a Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Red Wine Blend.

HELLO! Magazine

December 2023

5 extravagant alcoholic drinks ideal for bringing to a holiday party

These hand-picked drinks also show we have similar drinking tastes and all enjoy high-quality alcohol, and are willing to pay a little bit more for the perfect tipple. This is why Baldacci – a family run vineyard – made it on here twice. We simply couldn’t enjoy it more if we tried!

Gayot

December 2023

2023 Holiday Gift Ideas

Crafted by winemaker Michael Baldacci, the inaugural release of The Thomas Collection is a bold and captivating expression of two of their exceptional vineyard sites. The wine shows a deep ruby red color with a nose marked by dark berries, spices, cigar box and a touch of oak. The mouthfeel is rich, with velvety tannins, ripe berries and chocolate, all enveloped in well-measured oak and finishing long and exquisitely balanced.

Drinkhacker

December 2023

Review: 2018 Baldacci Vineyards Thomas Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

It could very well be one of the best Napa Valley reds to emanate from the region in recent years. Do not hesitate or deliberate if you are ever fortunate to have in your presence a soul generous enough to offer to open a bottle. Extraordinary stuff.

Brit + Co.

December 2023

This Beef Short Ribs With Vegetables Recipe Is The Coziest Winter Meal

A medium to full-bodied wine, like this Baldacci red wine blend, pairs perfectly with this dish and is special enough for a holiday dinner.

South Florida Reporter

December 2023

Why Premium Wines Cost So Much

Baldacci Family Vineyards The Thomas Collection Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2018 ($1,000 for a three-bottle set). This is the inaugural edition of this special cabernet sauvignon from grapes grown in the estate’s Stags Leap District and Diamond Mountain District – two areas known for their concentrated, rich wines. Named in honor of winemaker Michael Baldacci’s father, it is a profound wine aged for 22 months in all new French oak barriques designed with a proprietary oak and toast profile.

Forbes

November 2023

This 3-Bottle Gift Set Of Cabernet Sauvignon Will Win Christmas

If you’re looking for a holiday gift that will wow the wine lover in your life, look no further than The Thomas Collection, 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, sold as a limited 3-bottle set.

MarketWatch

November 2023

Baldacci Family Vineyards Releases The Thomas Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

This inaugural, limited-release Cabernet Sauvignon brings together skillful winemaking, a remarkable vintage, and the family’s most distinguished vineyard blocks.

Cision PRWeb

November 2023

Baldacci Family Vineyards Releases The Thomas Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

Just in time for the holiday season, Baldacci Family Vineyards is releasing the inaugural vintage of The Thomas Collection: an exclusive, three-bottle set of 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon crafted from the family’s most-prized estate vineyard blocks in Stags Leap District and Diamond Mountain District.

Aubrey’s Kitchen

November 2023

Best Holiday Wines & Spirits

2021 Fraternity Red Wine Blend is the perfect wine to ring in the holiday season! Boasting aromas of blackberry, cherry, blueberry, vanilla, baking spices, and flavors of dark berry, toffee, dark cherry and black tea, it celebrates complexity in Napa Valley.

MSN

November 2023

2023 Holiday Gift Guide

The 2021 Fraternity Red Wine Blend from Baldacci Family Vineyards is a decadent Cabernet-dominated wine that shows of all the complexity and approachability of an older wine without all the age. It brings strength and richness on the palate with flavors of blackberry, cherry, and vanilla. It’s a masterfully crafted Napa red that will please all palates at big holiday gatherings, and promises to pair well with your favorite holiday cuisine.

Forbes

November 2023

The Perfect Holiday Wines For Every Occasion

The Thomas Collection 2018: If you want to pick up just one bottle for any oenophiles on your gift list, make it this inaugural limited release from Baldacci Family Vineyards. It will drink well now or years in the future and is sure to grab anyone’s attention.

Gayot

November 2023

The 14 Best Thanksgiving Wines of 2023

Baldacci, Stella Knight Vineyard, 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon: A deep garnet color gives way to aromas of ripe berries, spices, cigar box and toasted oak. The mouth feel is rubenesque with loads of ripe, fresh red fruit, ripe tannins and a long, well-balanced, elegant finish.

Wine Searcher

November 2023

Napa Cabernet Verticals on the Block

Surprisingly, as of Tuesday afternoon, the leading lot isn’t from a big name. Instead, Baldacci Family Vineyards has a $7000 bid for a four-night stay for eight people at the estate, along with dinner at a local restaurant and a 3-liter bottle of wine.

Wine Industry Advisor

November 2023

Bidding Opens November 9 for Napa Valley Fine Wines and Experiences Auction

Lot highlights include: Overnight stays in winery private accommodations at Baldacci Family Vineyards and B Cellars.

Home Business Magazine

November 2023

Holiday Wine Gifts to Delight Your Business Clients

Baldacci’s 2018 Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon makes a bold statement to your business clients, both new and established. This stunning estate-grown cabernet sauvignon is Baldacci’s specialty.

Food & Beverage Magazine

November 2023

Trending Products: 2021 Fraternity

The Fraternity red wine blend shows off the quality and craftsmanship of the Baldacci Family Vineyards collection. From a family that has been crafting wine in the iconic Stags Leap District for 25 years, this bottle offers luxury at an accessible price-point.

JebDunnuck.com

November 2023

Up From The Cellar No. 22

2013 Baldacci Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, 94 points: All from the Stags Leap District, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon is drinking brilliantly today, with a full-bodied, opulent, layered style that has tons to love.

2013 Baldacci Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Ruppert, 96 points: The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Ruppert is released as an homage to Paul Ruppert Baldacci, the father of the current proprietor Thomas Baldacci. It’s another incredibly rich, powerful wine that certainly isn’t showing any signs of fatigue now at age 10.

2013 Baldacci Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Brenda’s Vineyard, 98 points: A smaller release, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Brenda’s Vineyard is a tour de force that will compete with anything out there…This is pure Napa Valley magic that could come from nowhere else. It benefits from a short decant and will evolve gracefully for another two decades.

Brit + Co

November 2023

This Crab Cake Recipe Is The Fancy Feast To Serve This Holiday Season

But you don’t have to live in SF or anywhere near it to enjoy this amazing recipe from the peeps at Napa-based Baldacci Family Vineyards. This skillet-seared recipe has a kick to it and pairs perfectly with their bright and citrusy 2021 Carneros Estate-Grown Chardonnay. Whether you’re looking to impress a date, host friends for a girls night, or want to start your own annual Crabby Christmas, try this recipe to please a crab-loving crowd.

Sonoma Magazine

October 2023

Scenic Ride Returns to Calistoga, Plus More News from Napa Valley

Bubbles and vegetarian bites: The new Cave Tour & Tasting ($125) at Baldacci Family Vineyards starts with bubbles and is followed by a barrel tasting in the wine cave and then a seated tasting of three wines paired with herb-marinated feta, barbecue mushroom skewers with red wine reduction, buttermilk scones with pecorino and black pepper, and beet tartare infused with oolong tea and whole grain mustard.

Napa Valley Register

October 2023

Napa Valley harvest report: A hectic week

Michael Baldacci, director of winemaking and vineyards at Baldacci Family Vineyards, reports, ‘Made the big push this week and going to wrap up the end of next week with the estate fruit. What a week! The quality is stunning.’

World Atlas

October 2023

9 Must-Visit Towns In The Napa Valley

Dining at top-of-the-line restaurants isn’t a huge factor for everyone, but if that’s something that matters to you, Yountville is a Napa Valley town to visit. The Michelin-star restaurants visitors will find in Yountville are classy, chic, and full of delectable menu items. A few of the impressive restaurants to order food include the French Laundry, Bistro Jeanty, and La Calenda. Founded in 1998, Baldacci Family Vineyards is also nearby for wine tastings.

DuJour

October 2023

The Best Wines for The Fall Season

2021 Fraternity Red Wine Blend, $85

She’s Single Magazine

October 2023

15+ Awesome Gifts to Buy This Christmas

2021 Fraternity Napa Valley Red Wine Blend, $85

Visit California

October 2023

Napa Valley Wines & Wineries: Where to find top vineyards in Napa wine country

For those who like to indulge in the twin passions of wine and chocolate, make a beeline for Baldacci Family Vineyards—their Wine & Chocolate Tasting event pairs Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and a red blend with chocolates from local purveyor Flourish Chocolate.

Life & Style

October 2023

Autumn Magic

Subtle Luxury: Notes of berries, vanilla, and baking spices bring the Baldacci Family Vineyard’s Fraternity Napa Valley Red Wine Blend to the forefront of autumnal reds. This Napa Valley stunner is a people pleaser, and yet is full of subtle surprises, so raise a glass to approachable luxury.

Drinkhacker

September 30, 2023

The Top 10 Wines for Winter 2024

2021 Baldacci Family Vineyards Fraternity Napa Valley Red Blend: This wine is big and chewy, with a lot of the characteristics that emerge from oak aging (vanilla, spice, pepper) all well represented. It emerges as a red blend that stands above a rather large cohort; this one is for a special occasion with a roaring campfire accompaniment.

Robb Report

September 15, 2023

The 7 Best Wines to Pair With Your Favorite Tacos

Well-seasoned shrimp tacos blend the perfect flavors of delicate sweet, briny shrimp, cilantro, and lime juice and that’s why Baldacci’s Carneros Chardonnay pairs so perfectly. It has aromas of lime zest, fresh herbs, and just a whiff of caramelized sugar with creamy flavors of lemon curd, Granny Smith apple, and a nice splash of acidity in the finish to make your mouth ready for the next delicious bite.

Home Business

August 25, 2023

Wine Gifts for Business Clients

Baldacci Family Vineyards’ 2021 Fraternity Napa Valley Red Wine Blend is a decadent Cabernet-dominated (73%) red blend that brings strength and richness to your client’s table or cellar.

Food & Wine

August 2023

Love Champagne? Try These 25 Bottles of American Sparkling Wine

Baldacci Family Vineyards “Pops” Sparkling Wine: Estate-grown in Napa Valley, this Pinot Noir-based rosé sparkler sees two years on the lees prior to disgorgement, which lends toastiness and pastry notes to the generous, sweet flavors of wild strawberries, orange marmalade, and quince paste. It finishes dry and stony, with a lovely lift of nectarines.

MassLive.com

August 2023

Wine Press: 3 outstanding California chardonnays for summer

2021 Baldacci Family Vineyards Chardonnay: The result – another fresh, lively wine with hints of citrus, lemons, pear and caramel, without being too sweet. A truly charming California chardonnay.

Tripadvisor

July 2023

#3 of 201 things to do in Napa

Travelers’ Choice 2023

Drinkhacker

July 27, 2023

Wines of Baldacci Family Vineyards, Summer 2023

Big and chewy on the palate, the dark fruit is complemented by notes of toasted hazelnut and a touch of pepper. It drinks wonderfully unaccompanied, but also pairs well with a rich and hearty dinner.

Forbes

July 26, 2023

Sheep Reduce Need For Mowers In Winemaking

“Something I have focused on greatly during my tenure at the family winery is sustainability and how we can always improve our efforts in the vineyards and beyond,” says Michael Baldacci, winemaker for Baldacci Family Vineyards. “We strive to be respectful stewards of the land, making sure our vineyards function as all-encompassing ecosystems with clean, organic practices and small carbon footprints.”

Decanter

July 2023

96 Points – 2019 Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

Very pretty graphite and tobacco notes charged with bright black fruit aromas and a pop of capsicum.

Basil & Salt Magazine

July 2023

FFNW Grilled Blue Cheese & Bacon Burgers with Caramelized Onions

Big Flavors call for a big wine
Our choice: Baldacci Family Vineyards Fraternity Red Blend

Wine Business

July 2023

Packaging Survey Report: Cost Rises to Top of Packaging Concerns

In terms of the general strategy for packaging, Duckhorn said when she joined the winery as general manager in 2015, she sought to reduce the overall number of packaging vendors the winery worked with while also building long-term relationships with suppliers committed to sustainability.

Forbes

July 18, 2023

Wine and Chocolate Are Perfectly Paired At Baldacci Family Vineyards

The pairing showcases the structure, complexity and bold flavors of this Bordeaux-style red. This was one of my favorite red wines I’ve ever tasted. The chocolate had a more subtle impact here perhaps because I was so blown away by this red blend to begin with!

Decanter

July 2023

94 Points – Fraternity Red Blend

A burst of freshness follows intense savoury black olive, cedar, vanilla bean, and woodsmoke. Medium to full-bodied, showing the vintage’s freshness but imbued with more finesse than density, more energy than power, and resplendent savoury qualities like green tobacco, capsicum, and olive.

Observer

July 11, 2023

Summer Entertaining Must-Haves

No party is complete without a quality glass of wine, so might we suggest this absolutely delightful bottle of 100 percent cabernet from Baldacci? It has a bright, not-too-heavy mouthfeel, with notes of strawberry, plum, vanilla bean and espresso.

Vinography

June 17, 2023

Vinography Unboxed: Week of 6/11/23

2019 Baldacci Family Vineyards “Black Label” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California: Very dark garnet in the glass, this wine smells of rich black cherry and oak. In the mouth, rich cherry and toasted oak flavors mix with mocha and cola. Very good acidity keeps things lively on the palate, and the tannins are fine-grained and relatively restrained as they grip the edges of the palate.

CBS Bay Area News

June 15, 2023

Napa Valley winemakers know wildfire risk still present even after winter’s heavy rains

On a June Day at Baldacci Family Vineyards in Napa Valley, the remnants of rare rainfall could be seen on Michael Baldacci’s grapevines during his routine walk to inspect his vineyard.

“The vines are really showing a lot of energy,” he said.

Wine Industry Advisor

May 22, 2023

Napa Valley’s Future Leaders Begin Their Journey

Last week the third cohort of the tailor-made Napa Valley Vintners Leadership Program began their nine-month journey. The custom initiative is designed for driven professionals with a desire to grow personally and professionally, while contributing to the greater wine community. It is unique in the world of wine.

Pursuitist

May 11, 2023

More Luxe Gifts for Mom This Mother’s Day

Baldacci Family Vineyards 2018 Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon ($125): If mom is a wine lover, consider family-owned Baldacci Family Vineyards in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley. Headed by Winemaker Michael Baldacci, the classic and elegant 2018 Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon is perfect for Mother’s Day Dinner, with its approachability, complexity and balance of fruit and acidity.

Forbes

May 11, 2023

Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Red Blends

Baldacci Family Vineyards Fraternity Red Blend, $85: This combination brings forward a complex and balanced palate that showcases the strength of Cabernet Sauvignon, the soft texture of Merlot, the rich, savory flavors of Syrah, and the bold color and distinct aromatics of Cabernet Franc, with flavors of dried strawberries, toffee, and black olive.

Modern Luxury

May 10, 2023

9 Family-Owned Wineries To Visit In California

As you would gather from the name, family is truly at the epicenter here. When Thomas and Brenda Baldacci purchased the Stags Leap property almost two decades ago, they knew it would become a place for their family to stay connected across generations. Now, 11 years after graduating college, their son Michael leads as winemaker and has crafted a cabernet sauvignon portfolio that is equal parts approachable and complex.

Beverage Media Metro NY

May 2023

Wine Buzz – Lighter Step: Pops Sparkling

Made from estate-grown Pinot Noir grapes, the dry bubbly tastes of green apple, plum, and toasted bread.

The Tasting Panel

May/June 2023

Sparkle Motion: Pops Sparkling

Pale shell-pink in the glass, where it sports a lasting bead, this blanc de noirs marries liveliness and class.

Signature Wines US

May 2, 2023

Stags Leap, Napa’s Bounding AVA

The Baldacci Family Vineyards 2019 Stags Leap District Brenda’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($200) was one of the more vivid, athletic and expressive wines of the day, showering the palate with all sorts of aromatic and flavorful suggestions, from Bing cherries and vanilla to tobacco and tar, all welcome and enticing. “Brenda” would be Brenda Baldacci, mother of the estate’s director of winemaking and vineyards, Michael Baldacci, and wife of founder Tom Baldacci.

Food & Beverage Magazine

May 2023

Editor’s Top Picks: Wine & Spirits – 2019 Stella Knight Calistoga

The Baldacci Family Vineyards 2019 Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon is a well-structured wine with ripe fruit, fine tannins, and a pleasant mineral-driven finish.

Robb Report

April 27, 2023

8 Outstanding Cabernet Sauvignons From Napa Valley’s Storied Oakville Region

Winemaker Michael Baldacci uses less new French oak for his Oakville Cabernet than he uses for his Stags Leap District Cab. He stated the oak “adds a bit of weight in the mid-palate, without overwhelming the smooth and graceful structure” of the wine. This alluring wine is garnet colored with a nose of blackberry, red plum, and cedar shavings. It is well rounded with silky tannins and flavors of ripe black fruits, river rock, cocoa powder, and espresso bean. Michael recommends drinking now (as do we) to enjoy the expressive fruit flavors.

Robb Report

April 9, 2023

16 of Napa’s Stags Leap Wineries Came Together to Make a Special-Edition Cabernet

Each winery aged Cabernet Sauvignon in new French oak barrels for one year before they were submitted to a group of five winemakers for selection, blending, and further aging, with only four barrels produced as a final wine.

That master blending team was composed of Michael Baldacci of Baldacci Family Vineyards, Robbie Meyer from Malk Family Vineyards, Robert Smith of Quixote Winery, Elizabeth Vianna from Chimney Rock Winery, and Pine Ridge Vineyards’ Josh Widaman, all of whom were chosen by their colleagues.

Fabulous California

April 3, 2023

21 Stunning California Wines for Spring

Baldacci Pops Sparkling Wine

Bright and crisp, Pops is special in that it is the only wine produced from the vineyard’s 2020 harvest. The nose on this wine is a stunning combination of red apple and raspberry with a hint of cherry blossom, and flavor profile offers notes of green apple and citrus zest.

Scottsdale Airpark News

April 2023

Spring in a Bottle

Baldacci Pops Sparkling Wine

Food & Wine

April 3, 2023

41 Cabernet Sauvignons Worth Splurging On

2018 Baldacci Family Vineyards Stella Knight Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

This unabashedly opulent red drips with hoisin sauce, caramel, candied orange peels, and cassis, all finding balance and harmony alongside tea-like tannins whose ripeness and integration make this excellent to drink now, yet still capable of aging for another decade or more.

Wine Bulletin

March 28, 2023

Baldacci Family Vineyards: A Heartwarming Story of Family, Sustainability, and Exceptional Wines in Napa Valley

Under Michael’s leadership, the winery has also embraced sustainability and organic practices to improve the quality of their wines, including integrated pest management, beekeeping, grazing with sheep and goats, efficient wastewater reuse systems, and active participation in recycling and composting programs.

James Suckling

March 23, 2023

2019 Vintage Reviews

93 Points – Baldacci, 2019 Fraternity Red Blend

93 Points – Baldacci, 2019 Ruppert Cabernet Sauvignon

Gayot

March 9, 2023

The 10 Best Barbecue Wines of 2023

Baldacci, 2019 Syrah | Carneros, Napa Valley

This deep red wine with purple hues reveals a bouquet of blackberries with hints of spices. The palate flashes lush dark red berries, a well-measured touch of oak, fine tannins and a savory, long finish.

South Florida Reporter

March 6, 2023

Special Times Call for Some Luxurious Wines

Baldacci Fraternity Red Wine Napa Valley 2019 ($70)

Cabernet sauvignon makes up 46 percent of this blend with the balance coming from merlot, syrah and cabernet franc grapes. With this breadth, the wine is fittingly broad-shouldered with blue fruit and olive aromas, strawberry and pomegranate flavors, and long in the finish. The tannins are big here, so decant or age.

Vinography

February 25, 2023

Napa’s Best Cabernet: Tasting the Superb 2021 Vintage at Premiere Napa Valley

2021 Baldacci Family Vineyards “Assemblage V” Red Table Wine, Napa Valley

Blackberry and black cherry, chewy tannins.

Marin Living

February 24, 2023

Flash Forward: How Local Wineries Are Shifting Toward Sustainability

“We are a proud part of a community,” says Baldacci Family Vineyards estate winemaker Michael Baldacci. “It’s more difficult to find someone not farming sustainably. Because what you do doesn’t just affect you, it affects your neighbors, too.”

Modern Luxury

February 23, 2023

The Ultimate Guide To Seeing California’s Blooming Season

With a patio that overlooks the estate, Baldacci Family Vineyards is a picturesque place for wine tasting. Alongside a glass of wine in hand, guests relish in sights of the mountain range, blue skies and bountiful wild mustard.

The Wine Independent

February 16, 2023

2019 Vintage Scores

Baldacci Cabernet Sauvignon, Fraternity Red Blend, Chardonnay

JebDunnuck.com

February 16, 2023

2019 Vintage Scores

Baldacci Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine Enthusiast

February 2023

2019 Vintage Scores

Baldacci Cabernet Sauvignon + Fraternity Red Blend

NBC News

February 15, 2023

Follow the Mustard Map to Find Floral Treasure Around Napa Valley

Some of the stop-by-and-see spots include Bennett Lane Winery, V. Sattui Winery, and Baldacci Family Vineyards, if you’d like to think about incorporating a tasting or some shopping.

Drinkhacker

February 7, 2023

Review: 2019 Baldacci Family Vineyards Stags Leap Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon

“It’s already primed and ready to be enjoyed in its full splendor right now. However, if you can wait, you’ll have much more restraint than I would ever care to exhibit. This is a refined expression exhibiting classic Cabernet signatures firing on all cylinders and is an absolute stunner from start to finish, and will turn heads in almost any situation where it is presented.”

Forbes

February 7, 2023

The Best Wines for Galentine’s Day

If you and your gal pals are planning on indulging in chocolate, then this intentionally crafted Pinot Noir would be a perfect match. Rich, with dark fruit aromas and full-bodied in style, it pairs beautifully with dark chocolate better than many pinots. It’s perfect for toasting your friendship.

Fabulous California

January 30, 2023

Winery of the Week: Baldacci Family Vineyards

It took one special family and a big leap of faith to take Baldacci Family Vineyards from dream to world-class destination in the heart of Napa.

Observer

January 18, 2023

The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for the Most Stylish Woman

Baldacci 2019 Carneros Pinot Noir

Treat her to a special bottle of red for Valentine’s Day, like this lovely pinot noir from Baldacci. It’s rich but not too heavy, and happens to pair quite well with a chocolate-y dessert.

Wine Spectator

January 2023

Los Carneros Pinot Noir, 92 Points

Alluring, with generous steeped raspberry and boysenberry notes infused liberally with black tea and wood spice, this maintains cut and focus through to the finish, where the fruit lingers prettily and is offset by a subtle mineral edge.

San Francisco Examiner

January 12, 2023

Rains are right on time for winegrowers

As sheets of rain and hail pounded parts of San Francisco Tuesday, Michael Baldacci, owner and winemaker at Baldacci Family Vineyards, looked out his window at the renowned Stags Leap District in Napa County and saw his cover crops coming to life.

Although intense storms continue to wreak widespread damage across the state, the wet weather is a boon for winemakers, who have long been waiting for the rain.

“It just feels like we’ve been kind of praying for this,” said Baldacci. “The rains really have been something that we’ve welcomed the last couple of weeks.”

San Francisco Chronicle

January 12, 2023

One thing the California storms are good for: vineyards

Of course, there could theoretically be a point of too much rain. Winegrowers’ big worry during a major storm is erosion. But no one I spoke to reported any erosion issues so far. “It seems to be the big drink we’ve been looking for, without any of the bad effects,” said Michael Baldacci, director of winemaking and vineyards at Baldacci Family Vineyards in Napa.

Marin Living

January 2, 2023

Discover Baldacci Family Vineyards, Napa’s Rising Star

“The Baldacci Family Vineyards Estate House, which underwent a full rebuild in the summer of 2021, offers luxury and comfort. It’s equipped with multiple tasting spaces, several of which can privately accommodate large groups, while other more lounge-like spaces invite guests to mingle with each other and share their thoughts on the wines.”

Read the Newsletter

Boise City Lifestyle

January 2023

Small Town Luxurious Getaway

“Baldacci Family Vineyards sits at the intersection of Yountville and Stag’s Leap, and its Perfect Pairings program is just that. The nibble-heavy experience explores the science of how wine and food amplify each other and even offers suggestions of what to pair with your personal favorite bites and sips.”