Red Stitch Wine Offer

Last Thursday evening, we hosted Rich and Amy Aurilia of Red Stitch Wines for a Winemaker Dinner at the Club, and Chef Matt knocked it out of the park. (Apologies, I had to. Baseball humor. Spencer would be proud.)

It really was a great night—exceptional wines, a thoughtful menu from Chef Matt, and a chance to spend some time with Rich and Amy hearing the story behind Red Stitch. The room had that kind of energy you hope for at these dinners; people engaged, asking questions, and really enjoying what was in the glass. Chef even had a little fun with it, with his “Two-Seam Wellington” as a nod to Rich’s baseball career, which was a nice touch.

We’re always looking for producers that overdeliver, and this was one of those nights where everything just clicked. Great people, great stories, and wines that clearly have a lot of intention behind them. It’s also always fun to taste these wines in this kind of setting first—it gives a little more context before we bring them into the cellar and onto your tables.

These wines have been great out of the gate, but there’s a new star in the lineup (I’d promise to stop with the corny jokes, but I’m not going to). Winemaker Erich Bradley has joined the roster, and the wines have never been better. We had the chance to jump in on a few new releases—some so new they came in shiners. If you were at the dinner, you know what that means. These wines are ready for the show!

We all love a Chard wine with power and umph—who doesn’t? However, the trick is to create balance. Erich does that in spades with this one. It’s a food wine, bright and crisp with the stuffing to hold on. Red Stitch may have to rethink its lock on Pinot Noir, because this Chardonnay is a stunner.

Winemaker Erich Bradley has brought a whole new vision to the vineyards that Red Stitch has been working with for years. This is serious stuff. Chatting with Rich, he tells me that as they’ve grown with the vineyards, they’re dialing in the fruit and seeing new sides of it. Whereas previously, Rosella’s brought the power, they’ve found a new elegance this year. For the first time, Rosella’s has brought a lighter definition and balance than the Soberanes Vineyard. Perfect with Chef Matt’s baseball-shaped “Two-Seam Wellington.”

A change-up pitch—this year, it’s the Soberanes that brings the power. Darker, brooding even, but with that newfound grace we find from the new vintage. A first for everyone—but Mayacama gets it before it even hits the Red Stitch Wine Club! A sneak peek at spring training?

Thank you, as always, for supporting the Mayacama wine program. We’re excited to share these wines with our Members, and I’m always happy to talk through the selections or help with your order. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Cheers!

Jared Hooper, Wine Director

WINES BEING OFFERED: (3-bottle minimums per wine)

2024 Red Stitch, Chardonnay, Sierra Mar Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands ($55)

2024 Red Stitch, Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands ($75)

2024 Red Stitch, Pinot Noir, Soberanes Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands ($75)