Introduction:
The 2023 Venge Vineyards Scout’s Honor North Coast is a bold yet polished California red blend that reflects Kirk Venge’s signature balance of power, precision, and approachability. Sourced from select vineyards across California’s North Coast, this wine delivers layered dark fruit, supple tannins, and savory depth, making it equally compelling for immediate enjoyment or short-term cellaring.

Terrior:
The North Coast appellation encompasses a mosaic of premium vineyard sites benefiting from cooling marine influences, diverse elevations, and varied soil profiles ranging from volcanic and gravelly loam to clay-based alluvium. These conditions moderate ripening, preserve acidity, and contribute complexity. By blending across sites, Scout’s Honor captures regional balance rather than a single-vineyard expression, emphasizing harmony, richness, and consistency.

Appearance:
Deep ruby to inky garnet with a dark, opaque core and youthful purple highlights. The wine shows pronounced viscosity, suggesting concentration and ripeness.

Nose:
Expressive and layered, with aromas of blackberry, black cherry, and cassis. Secondary notes of cocoa powder, vanilla bean, toasted oak, and baking spice emerge alongside hints of graphite and dried herbs, adding savory nuance.

Palate:
Full-bodied and smooth, with plush dark-fruit flavors supported by fine-grained, well-integrated tannins. Blackberry compote, ripe plum, and blackcurrant are complemented by mocha, cedar, and subtle spice. Balanced acidity keeps the wine lively despite its richness, delivering a polished, crowd-pleasing profile.

Finish:
Long and velvety, with lingering dark fruit, cocoa, and gentle oak spice. The finish is smooth and warming, leaving a satisfying impression without harsh edges.

Food Pairings:

• Meat: Grilled ribeye; smoked brisket; lamb burgers with rosemary

• Vegetarian: Mushroom stroganoff; black bean enchiladas; roasted eggplant with miso glaze

• Charcuterie Board: Aged cheddar; gouda; soppressata; dark chocolate

Overall Impression:
Bringing together its diverse North Coast terroir, inky appearance, dark-fruited and spice-laced aromatics, plush and balanced palate, and smooth, lingering finish, the 2023 Venge Vineyards Scout’s Honor is a bold yet refined red blend built for immediate pleasure. It shines with grilled meats and richly flavored dishes, offering modern California generosity with polish and restraint.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.8%
Farming Practices: Sustainably farmed vineyard sources
Producer Name: Venge Vineyards
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: North Coast, California
Grape Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon–based blend (with complementary Bordeaux varietals)
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Still red; full-bodied; rich; polished
Winemaking Techniques: Small-lot fermentation; extended maceration; aging in French oak barrels
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Bordeaux-style bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork

Sources:

• Venge Vineyards producer and Scout’s Honor technical information
• North Coast AVA and California viticultural references