Left Bend
Left Bend produces wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains, a region defined by elevation, fog influence, and mineral-rich soils that shape distinctive aromatics and structure. The winery's portfolio centers on two single-vineyard whites—Redwing Vineyard Riesling and Black Ridge Vineyard Viognier—each expressing the particular terroir of its site. The Riesling demonstrates the variety's characteristic balance of acidity and stone fruit; the Viognier showcases the richness and floral complexity Viognier achieves in cooler coastal conditions. Sierra Morena, a Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, rounds the range. Wine Enthusiast and Wine Advocate have both assessed the winery's output, with the single-vineyard whites earning particular recognition. The Santa Cruz Mountains' elevation and maritime influence create conditions suited to both aromatic white varieties and structured red blends, a duality Left Bend's selections reflect.
Critics
Wine Enthusiast, Wine Advocate