Jesse Katz, a seasoned winemaker with nearly two decades of experience, has honed his craft at internationally acclaimed wineries such as Chateau Petrus. Throughout his journey, he has garnered invaluable insights while working alongside esteemed winemaking teams at renowned establishments like Screaming Eagle, Robert Foley Winery, and Viña Cobos.

In a remarkable feat, Jesse, at the youthful age of 25, assumed the role of lead winemaker at Lancaster Estate in 2010, solidifying his status as one of the industry’s rising stars. His remarkable talent and dedication have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his recognition as a 40 Under 40 Tastemaker by Wine Enthusiast and being named the first winemaker on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list.

The Setting, under Jesse’s visionary leadership, achieved a groundbreaking milestone by crafting the most expensive single bottle of wine ever sold at auction. This historic moment unfolded with the sale of a six-liter bottle of The Setting Glass Slipper Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, fetching a staggering $1,000,000 at Emeril Lagasse’s annual charity wine auction.

The Setting sources grapes from the most coveted vineyards in Sonoma and Napa Valley to produce an exceptional line of luxury wines. The winery is particularly enamored with their 2021 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, heralding it as a standout among their offerings.

Crafted entirely from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sourced from the highly regarded Battle Family and Stuhlmuller Vineyards, the 2021 vintage showcases the harmonious interplay of two distinct microclimates. The result is a wine of exquisite texture, vibrant acidity, and bold, expressive flavors. A testament to exceptional quality, this Cabernet has earned a coveted 97-point rating from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, making it an extraordinary value at under $100.

Tasting Notes: “Dark red/purple, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley spent 22 months in 80% new French oak and is more aromatic on the nose, with notes of pine sap, boysenberry, mint, sage, and cigar box. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and rounded with sweet tannins, and it has good, balanced lift, a rich, plush texture, and notes of mocha on the finish. Drink 2025-2037.”
95 Points | Audrey Frick | JebDunnuck.com

Tasting Notes: “The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley was matured for 22 months in 80% new French oak. The nose features maraschino cherries, dark chocolate, aniseed, violet and a singular array of exotic spices. The medium-bodied palate is surprisingly light on its feet, with a frame of silky tannins and seamless acidity that highlights pretty floral and chocolaty tones on the finish. It has depth and complexity without weight and drinks beautifully straight from the bottle. 650 cases were made.” 97 Points | Erin Brooks | RobertParker.com

CAYMUS VINEYARDS
50th ANNIVERSARY
2022 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
NAPA VALLEY
$89.99 (One-Liter bottle)

The 2022 Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 50th Anniversary stands as a testament to the potential of well-executed extended hang-time. This vintage particularly highlights how this technique can enhance the textural qualities of the wine, making it immensely enjoyable in its youth while also promising excellent aging potential. Collectors and casual drinkers alike treasure Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon for its consistency, quality, and ability to evolve, making it a standout choice for any wine enthusiast’s cellar.