Friday Night Tasting: Michael Cruse of Cruse Wine Co. at Wine on Piedmont | 11.7.25

“Against a landscape that often feels dominated by either top-shelf Cabernet or acidic European emulations, the Cruse wines aim to reimagine what “table wine” can be: fruity, quaffable, affordable. And more than anything, they’re intensely loyal to their California origins.” –Esther Mobley, SF Chronicle

We're thrilled to host giant of California winemaking - though he'd be the first to cringe at that label -  Michael Cruse at our back bar on 11/7. 

He's collaborated with some of the greatest growers in Champagne, the most respected vineyard managers in California to carve out a niche for California sparkling wine through his Ultramarine and Cruse Wine Co. labels, paving the way for producers like Carboniste. And he does it all with a sense of humor and a refreshing understatement, simply describing Cruse Wine Co. in its site as "A small winery in Petaluma dedicated to making uniquely Californian wine for your table. Often with bubbles."

We'll be pouring 4 wines:

• Something with bubbles TBD (too many good ones to chose from)
• his flagship red blend, Monkey Jacket (the name inspired by an old, British sailor song) a blend of Valdiguie, Carignan, Tannat, St Laurent 
• a gorgeous single vineyard Valdiguie that is made for your Thanksgiving table
• his Rorick Vineyard Chardonnay that will even the haters believe in this variety again

Price: $20 ($15 club)

As always, all featured wines will be available for sale at 10% off. 

Bread and cheese will be provided.