2015 · Alexander Valley Merlot

Matanzas Creek is a California producer in Bennett Valley, founded in 1977. Long a fixture of the local wine scene, the estate changed ownership in 2000 when it was purchased by Jess Jackson of Kendall-Jackson. The winery is noted for a boutique approach, including four Sauvignon Blanc bottlings and the limited-edition Journey series made from select blocks and barrels. The transition in ownership also brought a notable shift in winemaking leadership, with longtime winemakers Susan Reed and Bill Parker departing shortly after the acquisition.