Two Squared Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2022 750ml +14%

Winery: Two Squared is the "second label" of Alpha Omega Winery, a well-regarded Rutherford Bench producer in Napa. Launched in 2009, it follows the classic Bordeaux model — top châteaux have long made a more approachable "second wine" from younger vines alongside their flagship — sourced from small, lesser-known "hidden gem" Napa vineyards, made to drink well immediately rather than age for a decade. It now sits under the "Alpha Omega Collective" umbrella alongside Tolosa (Central Coast), with production centered in San Luis Obispo. For 2022 specifically, a significant portion of the fruit came from the Oak Knoll AVA.

Tasting notes: Deep to opaque ruby red. Nose of ripe plum, dark cherry, and boysenberry with worcestershire and cedar notes. Palate is medium-full bodied — cassis, red currant, dark earth, dried tobacco, toast, firm structured finish. Fermented in stainless, aged 9 months in French oak (20% new). 15% ABV. (75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Petit Verdot, 9% Malbec)

Critic score: 93 points, Wine Enthusiast (Elaine Chukan Brown) — "generous, full-bodied and bold... plush... fine, firm tannins carry through a persistent finish." The brand also has some pedigree behind it: Wine Spectator's James Molesworth featured the Two Squared Red 2021 in "8 Amazing West Coast Cabernets at $50 or Less."

Food pairings: Given the structure and tannin — grilled steak, braised short rib, lamb chops, aged cheddar or gouda.