It’s always a great time to have wine. Regardless of the season, wine is a mysterious, social, and enjoyable beverage to be shared anytime with friends and family or as a treat to yourself. And the best part of enjoying wine year-round is pairing it with the weather and seasonal foods to elevate the experience. As we enjoy the tail end of winter and look forward to summer’s warm, sunny days, learn more from Cornerstone Cellars about the best wines and food to pair them with to bring out the best flavors.

Best Wines for Winter

Characteristics of Winter Wines

There’s something truly unique about enjoying wine during the cold and snowy months. After a day out skiing, settle in with a cozy and warm bottle of wine that’s full-bodied and offers bold flavors of fruit and spice. Their high tannin levels give them even more depth, ideal for sipping slowly and swirling into their complexity. Often served at room temperature or slightly warmed, it’s best to let them breathe a bit to bring out the complete flavor or aroma of the wine.

Top Wine & Food Pairing Recommendations for Winter

Should winter wines go with pasta or a salad? If you’re looking for wine and food pairing recommendations and not sure where to start, consider these options:

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its richness and bold dark fruit flavors like blackberry and cherry, this wine goes well with hearty meats. You can’t go wrong with a grilled steak or a tender roasted lamb. Cabernet is obviously a favorite of Cornerstone Cellars as we offer an entire portfolio of single vineyard Napa Valley bottlings.
• Syrah/Shiraz: Spicy and full of flavors such as peppers, tobacco, or coffee, a Syrah/Shiraz is ideal for pairing with a stew or potato gnocchi with red sauce.
• Malbec: A favorite in the winter, this type of wine is known for its smooth, dark fruit flavors such as plum. Savor this wine with a roasted pork or skirt steak.
• Chardonnay (Oaked): Don’t pass on a white wine during the winter. Often buttery and toasty, this delectable wine is best paired with chicken alfredo or even a creamy mac and cheese.
• Port and Dessert Wines: Sweet, rich, and perfect for holiday desserts, enjoy a glass of Port or Riesling to cap off the night.

Best Wines for Summer

Characteristics of Summer Wines

Swap full-bodied wines for light, refreshing wines as the days become longer and warmer. For the ultimate summer experience, sip on an acidic, crisp wine by the pool or pour yourself and your friends a glass while enjoying a picnic by a lake. Best served chilled and typically fruity, summer wines are the perfect refreshment and turn any day into a celebration.

Top Wine & Food Pairing Recommendations for Summer

Exchange hearty meals for light, fruit-forward dishes that bring out the flavor of each wine. Draw some inspiration from these wines and foods to pair with them:

• Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp, citrusy, and known for its vibrant flavors of honeydew and grapefruit, this wine is an excellent choice with summer salads, chicken, or even an eggplant dish. Our Sonoma Mountain Sauvignon Blanc has long been a club member favorite for its versatility and palate-pleasing presence.
• Rosé: Iconic for a hot summer day, rosé wines are versatile, ranging from light and minerally to rich and savory. Pair these wines with a nice pesto pasta dish or a lobster roll.
• Pinot Grigio: Bursting with fruit flavors of lime, lemons, and more, this wine pairs perfectly with slightly roasted vegetables and would be an excellent choice for a charcuterie board.
• Sparkling Wines: Perfect for celebrations, toast with a glass of sparkling wine. From Prosecco to Champagne, these wines range anywhere from dry and zesty to fruity and floral. They’re great to pair with a wide selection of food, such as oysters, smoked salmon, salted nuts, and more.
• Beaujolais: A rustic red, this easy-to-drink wine gives off notes of pomegranate and blackberry. This versatile partner can go along with roast chicken, fish, or even cooked sausages. Look for Beaujolais Nouveau right before the Thanksgiving holiday.

Explore Seasonal Wine Pairing at Cornerstone Cellars

Maximize each season with unique varieties of wine. Experimenting with different styles throughout the year can be fun and an opportunity to bring out flavors in the food you pair it with. Although you may be excited for warmer weather and summer wines, enjoy these last weeks and months of winter by popping open winter wines and relishing hearty meals.

At Cornerstone Cellars, we want you to taste the best wine every season. Browse our range of wines to find your favorite for summer, winter, and everything in between. From Cabernet Sauvignons to Pinot Noirs to Sauvignon Blancs, we offer delectable holiday wine selections sourced from acclaimed AVAs across California. Discover our Yountville tasting room, where creative and exciting experiences await. Book a tasting today to reserve your spot. We can’t wait to give you a taste of Yountville.

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These are all common questions that many of us face. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a waiter, or someone who wants to learn more about the varieties of wine, many of us would enjoy making an informed choice that aligns with our preferences and what’s being served. Cornerstone Cellars can help, and we love nothing more than to share our knowledge and help you find your favorite. Learn more about what makes each wine distinct and when to reach for a specific variety.

Understanding the Types of Red, White, and Rosé Wines

What Is Red Wine?

Red wine is a classic favorite amongst wine lovers. Iconic for its deep purple and burgundy hues, red wine’s characteristics, color, flavor, and texture from grape skins. Winemakers create these beloved wines by pressing the grapes and allowing the juice to ferment with the grape skins and seeds. Grapes with thinner skin produce lighter red wines, resulting in Pinot Noir and Garnache. On the other hand, if a grape’s skin is thicker, those grapes produce darker wines, known for being robust and fuller bodied. Those wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Tempranillo, and more.

What Is White Wine?

White wine offers a lighter flavor profile, typically sweeter and more refreshing than full-bodied red wines. Generally made with light-skinned grapes (although white wine can be achieved with red or black grapes), white wine gives off a pale or honey color. Instead of keeping the seeds and skins left on during the red wine fermentation process, white wine winemakers discard those items, and the end product is a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, aromatic Albariño, Chardonnay, and countless other varieties.

What Is Rosé Wine?

A delicious mix between red and white wine, rosé wine can be fruity or dry and has a distinct dragon fruit or salmon pink hue. Made with red or purple grapes, after crushing the grape skins, they are left macerating with the juices for a few hours or even up to a couple of days. The juices and flavors embody the color of the skin, giving it its color and profile. Typically, the shorter the maceration period, the lighter the color. Well-known rosé wines include a bold Syrah, savory Tempranillo, spice-forward Cabernet Sauvignon, and more.

Aging a Wine to Perfection

Aging is a huge part of winemaking for red, white, and rosé wine, which is why winemakers are extremely meticulous about how they want to age their products. Two of the preferred options are oak barrels or stainless steel tanks.

Oak Barrels

Oak has several advantages for winemakers. It can add layers of complexity to a wine, adding notes of vanilla, spice, or nuttiness. Since it allows for oxygenation, oak barrels can also smooth and round out the flavors of the wine. Additionally, these barrels can add tannins over time to the wine, so it’s important to know when to stop barreling the wine and start bottling. Oak barrels are often used for red wines and even white wines that need a bit more flavor enhancement.

Stainless Steel Tanks

Unlike oak barrels, stainless steel preserves the wine’s original characteristics and wine sweetness levels. Not adding any additional flavors, this form of aging is ideal for winemakers who want to maintain the freshness of a wine, such as a white wine or rosé. Since steel tanks are airtight, winemakers can control the speed of oxidation, having more control on how the wine will taste over the years.

Choosing the Right Wine for the Occasion

At the end of the day, it’s important to choose the wine that satisfies your cravings. But if you’re interested in pairing wine with food, an event, or even the weather, here are some occasions for wine!

Red Wine Occasions

• Romantic dinner
• Fall or winter evening
• Formal event
• Meals involving hearty food such as beef, venison, duck, pasta, or stews

White Wine Occasions

• Spring or summer gatherings
• Meals involving lighter fare such as seafood, chicken, or pasta
• Brunches
• An aperitif before a meal

Rosé Wine Occasions

• Summer picnics
• Poolside gatherings
• Meals involving tapas, charcuterie, desserts, or fruits and vegetables
• Bridal showers

Get to Know Our Wines

From white to red, we have a variety of unique boutique wines that are approachable and delightful. We invite you to learn more about the Cornerstone Cellars wine club and choose the best option for you. Our Classic, Collectors, and Case options are designed to go deeper into our portfolio and experience the complexity of each variety of wine.

As you plan your 2025 calendar, come visit us in Yountville for a tasting. Whether you pick our Taste of Cornerstone or our Pairings Flight, get ready for a day full of delightful sipping. Our knowledgeable staff will even be happy to discuss the difference between white, red, and rosé wine with you. We look forward to seeing you soon!

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Winemaking and sustainability do go hand-in-hand. As global warming continues to change our planet, eco-friendly winemaking practices are more important than ever before. Winemakers around the world have the opportunity to implement practices that support the Earth and make a difference. At Cornerstone Cellars, we partner with farmers to implement sustainable agriculture in winemaking. We invite you to learn more about winemaking and sustainability practices and their benefits. Cheers!

What is Sustainable Winemaking?

Sustainable winemaking leverages environmentally friendly practices that help minimize waste, water use, chemical inputs, and more to preserve our planet. It often centers around economically practical methods, environmentally conscious practices, and improved working conditions for those making the wine. Since harmful pesticides are typically avoided, vineyards that strive for sustainability have a higher potential for ensuring healthier soil and energy efficiency.

Eco-friendly Winemaking Practices

Sustainable winemaking begins in the vineyard. Winemakers must pay close attention to how the land is managed and watch closely for any chemicals or other harmful properties that may cause damage to the soil or ecosystem. It’s recommended that wine makers use natural methods such as cover crops or compost to bring nutrients to the vine. These methods can even enhance each wine bottle’s flavor profile, expressing the grapes’ unique terroir. At Cornerstone Cellars, we prefer to partner with growers utilizing natural methods, which in our opinion more closely connects our wine to their land.

Once the grapes are ready for harvest and fermentation, winemakers can incorporate sustainable practices into their process. For example, using energy-efficient machinery and water recycling during production can improve the reduction of waste. Even using lightweight packaging materials when shipping bottles can lead to lower emissions during transportation.

Advantages of Eco-Friendly Winemaking for Sustainability

Implementing sustainable winemaking practices goes a long way. The benefits reach far beyond the vineyard, impacting those around you and changing how we think about wine.

1. Protecting the Environment: To achieve carbon-neutral wine production, simply reducing the amount of water used or using cover crops can make a long-term difference. It protects air quality, preserves ecosystems, encourages biodiversity in the soil, and lowers your carbon footprint.
2. Ensures Brand Quality and Authenticity: Sustainable wine tastes extremely flavorful, as it concentrates distinct terriers grapes are grown in. Additionally, consumers desire more sustainable wines, disrupting traditional wine production. Brands that advertise as sustainable or organic will draw consumers, particularly a younger audience, and have the potential to gain brand recognition and trust.
3. Promotes Sustainability Efforts: We all have a social responsibility to the earth, and the more we practice sustainability, the stronger the movement becomes. The push towards sustainability helps set the standard that more wineries aim to achieve.

Obstacles to Achieving Sustainable Winemaking

While efforts are being continually made, winemakers face a variety of challenges.

1. Balancing Economics and Sustainability: There’s no denying that sustainable practices can be costly. For example, production costs can rise 25-30% above the cost of traditional winemaking just through higher utility products that are perceived to be healthier and environmentally friendly. Companies often have to balance what fits within their budget vs. what supports greener initiatives.
2. Education and Training: Many staff members may not have experience with sustainable wine practices. This lack of knowledge can cause delays in implementation since education and training can take a considerable amount of time. The sooner sustainable practices are encouraged, the better.
3. Environmental Changes: Climate change is rapidly changing grape quality and the winemaking industry itself. As the years pass, winemakers will be forced to reevaluate their process and create new practices that drive sustainability.

Support Sustainable Green Wineries

Consumers have the unique opportunity to help steer the wine industry. Conscious choices to support sustainable winemakers and their products can drastically change the industry and bring eco-friendly wines to the spotlight. When looking for a bottle to enjoy, keep an eye out for wines that have the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) certification or the Sustainable Wine Ltd, to name a few. 

At Cornerstone Cellars, we remain committed to creating wines that spark joy and capture the essence of unique vineyards. Come out to our Yountville, CA, tasting room for your chosen tasting experience. Our staff would love to take you on an exceptional journey into the world of Napa Valley wines and explain in more detail our winemaking process. Book a reservation with us today.

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Getting to Cornerstone Cellars 

No visit to the area is complete without a scenic drive through Napa Valley. We recommend planning your route prior to your visit and consider starting early or late to avoid traffic. Drive along Highway 29 or Silverado Trail for stunning vineyard views, using the scenic pullouts along the way that allow you to get out of the car and fully enjoy the landscape before stopping in charming Yountville and one of the best Napa Valley wineries.

Our town is known for its charming atmosphere and excellent culinary scene, so you may just want to extend your day trip into a weekend getaway. When it comes to overnight accommodations, we have a few favorites in the area. For an ultra-luxury experience, opt for the nearby Poetry Inn. It’s well worth a weekend stay, as it offers a high-end experience in the heart of Napa Valley. If you prefer a boutique hotel experience, we recommend Hotel Yountville, which features elegant rooms, a spa, and beautiful grounds. Lastly, The Estate Yountville is a classic choice, as it provides you with a quintessential Napa Valley experience complete with cozy rooms and an outdoor pool.

The Wine Tasting Experience at Cornerstone Cellars

At Cornerstone Cellars, we offer two signature experiences: our classic Taste of Cornerstone, a personalized selection of five wines for $50 per guest, and our seasonally available Pairings Flight with small bite accompaniments at $95 per guest. We take pride in the fact that we go beyond the typical wine tasting experience, as our knowledgeable staff tailors each wine tasting in Yountville to your preferences, ensuring a delightful discovery for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers. 

Our vineyard sites capture many distinct terroirs of the Napa Valley, influencing the character of the wines produced here. The cool fog and consistent breezes rolling off the San Pablo Bay extend the growing season, allowing grapes to develop intense flavor profiles while retaining balanced acidity. This translates to elegant, nuanced wines that wineries in Yountville are renowned for.

You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the Cornerstone Cellars wine tasting experience. We’ll share with you the keys to an ideal tasting, like starting by taking small sips and swirling the wine to release its aromas, focusing on identifying the different scents and flavors, and considering the wine’s body and finish. Feel free to ask questions—our team loves to share their knowledge about our wines and Yountville’s offerings in general.

Creating the Perfect Itinerary for Your Day Trip 

In search of more day trip ideas in Napa Valley? In addition to a vineyard tour, explore the area’s hiking trails at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park or the nearby Alston Park. Or, pair your tasting with a day of local art galleries, like the Yountville Art Walk and the Jessel Gallery, before picnicking at Yountville Park. For any history buffs, we recommend checking out Napa Valley Museum or taking a historic wine train ride, combining the natural beauty of the area with a bit of culture.

Why Cornerstone Cellars Is a Must-Visit

Cornerstone Cellars is known for its California wines and its Southern hospitality—the perfect blend. From the start, we set out to make wines that have familiar qualities but still pleasantly surprise the palate. In part, we owe this to our hands-on winemaker Kari Auringer who gladly immerses herself in all aspects of the winemaking process, from vineyard to bottle. If you don’t find her tasting barrel samples in the winery, she is probably kicking the dirt in a vineyard. Here, we are committed to producing great wines from great vineyards and making the kind of wines that we want to drink. In short, you’ll find a wine you adore at Cornerstone Cellars. Our team’s creativity and craftsmanship are what makes our wines unique—and so lovable.

Join Us at Cornerstone Cellars

Ready to enjoy a wine tasting experience in Napa? Regardless if you’re a regular member or a traveling visitor, we look forward to welcoming you to our community. Browse our wine club offerings and upcoming events to get to know more about us and what we offer. When you’re ready, book a tasting for your next trip to Yountville. We can’t wait to provide you with an exceptional journey into the world of Napa Valley wines.

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About Cornerstone Cellars in Yountville

Like a lot of grand adventures, the Cornerstone story started with a conversation between friends over a glass of wine. The three friends found a common desire to make terroir-driven wines, which led Dr. Mike Dragutsky to purchase a few tons of fruit from longtime vintner, Randy Dunn in 1991. Over the past thirty-three years, Cornerstone Cellars has evolved as a boutique producer focused on creating a rich variety of quality wines in small lots. Under the leadership of our winemaker Kari Auringer, we remain stubbornly distinctive and invite tasters and members alike to gather over a glass in our elevated and comfortable Tasting Salon in Yountville.

Our Tasting Room: A Journey For Your Senses

Rooted in Southern hospitality, tasters can expect to feel comfortable and welcome at our Tasting Salon. Visitors can choose between two signature experiences, from our classic Taste of Cornerstone, a personalized selection of five wines for $50 per guest, or our seasonally available Pairings Flight with small bite accompaniments at $95 per guest. Surrounded by ambiance and friends and family, tasters embark on a sensory experience that asks them to be present with the bursting flavors in their glass and those around them.

What to Expect During Your Wine Tasting

At Cornerstone Cellars, you can expect more than your average Napa Valley wine tasting experience. Upon your arrival, you can expect our knowledgeable staff to tailor each wine tasting to your individual preferences. As you delight in vibrant grape profiles, we encourage you to ask detailed questions about our wine and the production process. Each of our staff members will be more than happy to explain the science of winemaking, ensuring a delightful discovery for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers.

How to Make The Most of Your Yountville Wine Tasting

Before you come over to our Yountville wine tasting room, we encourage you to make a reservation. Especially in summer and fall, when we are exceptionally busy, it helps to have an appointment to make your experience much more enjoyable. Arriving on time will also allow our staff to create a personalized tasting experience that you’ll cherish for years to come.

During your tasting, don’t forget to snack along the way. Snacking not only helps your body process the wine slowly but gives you a unique opportunity to experience the flavor profiles of our distinctive wines. Indulge in small bit accompaniments such as chocolate espresso truffles with a glass of Cabernet or creamy goat cheese with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. By combining food and wine, you’ll open a new world of curiosities and bliss.

Book Your Cornerstone Cellars Wine Tasting Experience

Our team at Cornerstone Cellars brings decades of experience in all facets of wine making and hospitality—and it makes a difference. We care deeply about the quality of our wine and nothing brings us more joy than giving you the best wine tasting experience in Yountville and Napa Valley.

Whether you’re a regular member or happen to be visiting, you’re invited to book a tasting at Cornerstone. Simply let us know how you prefer to enjoy your stay with us and how we can accommodate your needs. Once confirmed, explore our other offerings including our wine club, upcoming events, and more. From all of us at Cornerstone, we look forward to welcoming you to our community.

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