I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Madrigal Family Winery tasting room in Sausalito, CA and the experience did not disappoint! Of course, the visit was for a private concert organized by my brother-in-law(Arjun) and I which made for an even more memorable visit. The space is a small, gallery-type with beautiful art to accompany the tasting bar. Centrally located in downtown Sausalito, it is a perfect stop for locals and tourists alike.

The event featured good friend and musician, Michael Pearsall. Michael is the lead singer of a band named Honor By August and has been traveling around the country playing small solo shows recently so we figured it would be a great opportunity for us all to get together when he came through the bay area. PS. Michael also played my wedding which is still a highlight for my wife and I. Check him out. You won’t be disappointed.

Ok so now on to the wines…

Arjun had worked with Madrigal to select a great variety of wines for the event starting with a crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. The lone white was followed by 4 great, easy-drinking reds. Tempranillo, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon. All were fantastic and great for the event but the standout for me was the cabernet. Big and fruit-forward, but still showing some tannin so as to tempt you to lay it down for a bit if you could hold off. Price point for all of the wines was under $45 with some below $30 which is a bargain for such high quality juice.

So those wines were great but I was also offered the chance to try a few of their designate cabernets inclusive of the Atlas Peak and the Las Vinas del Senor which was a real treat. The Atlas($80) is well rounded and bold. It was too young to get a good handle on but I think this one could be laid down for 5-15 years without issue. The big winner for me was the Las Vinas del Senor($100). This wine is just beautiful. Big and bold yet round and smooth. This would be one that could be laid down for the 5-15 and then some.

The next time you head across the Golden Gate(or ferry across the bay) make sure to stop in the little hamlet of Sausalito. It has so much to offer from tasting rooms, restaurants and more. Just be sure to swing by Madrigal and check out the art over a glass of vino.

Cheers!