Beverage of the Week (BOW)

Product Story

Sauvignon Blanc is one of our favorite varietals as it says so much about the place where it is grown and the people who coax it into wine. Regardless of these factors, this great varietal is almost always aromatic and, when done properly, sprightly and refreshing. The grapes for the Davis Bynum Virginia's Block Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley 2024 hail from their five-acre plot in the heart of the Russian River Valley, named for Davis’ wife, Virginia. The gravely soils and abundant afternoon sun conspire to create fruits that are rich while incredibly balanced, featuring vibrant acidity. The grapes were picked on October 9, about a month later than usual due to late bud-break and cooler than typical temperatures. Post fermentation in stainless steel, the wine is briefly aged in a unique oak regimen of 42% seasoned French oak, 29% new Acacia barrels, and 29% seasoned Acacia. The resulting wine is supple while vibrant with complex flavors.

Brand Story

Davis Bynum left the publishing world after years of making wine at home to start his winery in the late 1960s. After purchasing an 82-acre property on Westside Road near Healdsburg in 1973, Bynum transformed it into a rustic winery and tasting room in Sonoma County. Davis Bynum Winery was among California’s first producers to release a single vineyard Pinot Noir labeled with a Russian River Valley appellation, debuting the landmark 1973 Rochioli Vineyard Pinot Noir. Today, Pinot Noir is widely loved and has gained a cult following, but in the 1970s, Pinot was a hard sell. Now, under owner Tom Klein and winemaker Greg Morthole, the winery remains true to Bynum’s philosophy of minimal intervention—wild fermentations, unfiltered bottling, and a strong focus on terroir and sustainability. Drawing exclusively from Russian River Valley estate and partner vineyards—most notably its River West Vineyard—the winery produces small lot Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and other varietals that “let the land speak,” offering a true sense of place.