Cruse Wine Co. 'Monkey Jacket' North Coast Red Blend 2022

Winemaking

Cruse Wine Co. is known for crafting approachable, food-friendly wines that prioritize balance and drinkability without compromising quality. The team sources fruit from prime North Coast vineyards and favors a restrained hand in the cellar, letting the terroir and varietal character shine through rather than masking them with heavy oak or extraction.

Tasting Notes

The Monkey Jacket opens with inviting aromas of ripe dark berries and plum, with a whisper of toasted oak and white pepper in the background. On the palate, you'll find a supple blend that layers blackberry and cocoa flavors across a silky mid-palate, held together by fine-grained tannins and enough acidity to keep everything lively and fresh. The finish lingers with that same fruit-forward character—clean, unhurried, and left wanting another sip.

Producer

Cruse Wine Co. operates as a quality-focused, value-conscious producer drawing from North Coast sources, blending wines that punch above their price point. The winery emphasizes sustainable practices and relationships with premium vineyard partners across the region's diverse microclimates.

Terroir

The North Coast appellation spans Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino counties, a region blessed with maritime influence that moderates daytime heat and extends the growing season. The blend likely draws from vineyards planted in the varied soils—from volcanic hillsides to alluvial benchland—that give North Coast reds their signature ripeness balanced with structure and freshness.

Food Pairings

Try this with a casual weeknight burger topped with caramelized onions and aged cheddar, or pair it with something more composed like herb-brined pork chops with roasted root vegetables and a pan sauce. It's also a natural alongside a charcuterie board heavy on aged cheeses and cured meats, where the wine's acidity and smooth tannins will cut through the richness beautifully.