Wood Family Vineyards “The Takeoff”: Livermore Valley

Grapeful Reds Score: 92/100

Alright, let’s buckle up; because “The Takeoff” from Wood Family Vineyards just cruised in at 30,000 feet with a Bordeaux-style blend that’s smoother than my uncle’s jazz sax solo at Thanksgiving (and far less awkward).

We paired this with a filet mignon that was cooked so perfectly, I considered proposing to the chef... and by chef, I mean our buddy Dave with a meat thermometer and a YouTube degree. Either way, the pairing worked like a charm.

Now, this wine? It's Cabernet Franc-heavy, which means it's got backbone. Malbec brings that dark, leathery swagger like it just walked off a motorcycle, and Merlot? She’s the therapist friend who smooths everything out and makes sure nobody gets kicked out of the party.

In the glass, it’s medium-dark crimson with the kind of legs that say, “Yeah, I do Pilates.” The nose is a bouquet of blackberry, cherry, dark plum, and, because this wine has its life together - violet and rose. Honestly, it smells like a classy garden party where someone’s grilling steaks and quoting poetry.

On the palate, it’s mellow and well-integrated. No drama. Just soft-edged fruit, a whisper of tobacco and spice, and a finish so smooth you’d think it practiced. The vanilla note at the end? Like the wine saying, “You’re welcome.”