A Hidden Gem: Game Ranch by Goldschmidt Vineyards – An Exquisite Napa Valley Treasure

Written by: Hunter Ham, House Sommelier

“As the sommelier and wine director at Porters Dining and Butcher, I have the distinct pleasure of discovering and sharing exceptional wines with our esteemed clientele. Today, I am excited to introduce you to a remarkable wine that has captivated my palate: the Game Ranch by Goldschmidt Vineyards.

Goldschmidt Vineyards, nestled in the illustrious Oakville AVA in the heart of Napa Valley, is a boutique winery run by esteemed winemaker Nick Goldschmidt and his family. With over 30 years of international winemaking experience under his belt, Nick has a keen understanding of terroir, varietal expression, and the delicate art of crafting fine wines.

The Game Ranch vineyard, a relatively small parcel of land situated on the eastern hills of Oakville, boasts an exceptional combination of well-draining rocky soils and a unique microclimate. This specific terroir provides the ideal environment for growing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes with great intensity, complexity, and structure.

Upon uncorking a bottle of Game Ranch by Goldschmidt Vineyards, you are immediately greeted with an alluring bouquet of ripe blackberries, cassis, and subtle hints of toasted oak and spices. The deep ruby color, almost opaque in its intensity, invites you to take that first sip.

As the wine cascades onto your palate, a symphony of flavors comes alive. Luscious dark fruit notes of blackberry, plum, and blackcurrant intertwine with hints of dark chocolate, tobacco, and cedar, harmoniously blending into a rich, velvety texture. The wine’s robust structure and powerful tannins are beautifully balanced by its vibrant acidity, creating an impressively long finish that leaves you yearning for more.

Game Ranch by Goldschmidt Vineyards is an age-worthy wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared for up to 15 years. Decanting is recommended for optimal enjoyment, allowing the wine to breathe and reveal its full complexity.

At Porters Dining and Butcher, we take pride in offering our guests a curated wine list that showcases the best of the world’s wine regions. As a sommelier, I am always on the lookout for those hidden gems that demonstrate the passion, skill, and dedication of the winemakers behind them.

This wine is truly one such treasure. This Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers a sublime marriage of power and finesse, a testament to the meticulous attention to detail applied in both the vineyard and the winery. It is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, from robust steaks and braised meats to rich, savory stews.

I invite you to join us at Porters Dining and Butcher and discover the enchanting world of Game Ranch by Goldschmidt Vineyards for yourself. Let this outstanding wine transport you to the sun-kissed slopes of Napa Valley, where the Goldschmidt family’s passion for winemaking shines through in every sip.

As always, our knowledgeable and passionate team is here to guide you through your wine journey, eager to share the stories behind the bottles and elevate your dining experience. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Cheers,

Hunter Ham, Sommelier and Wine Director at Porters Dining and Bar”