Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/86618
"There is something really special here," claims Fine, who mentioned this story during a planning meeting with company COO Mike Jaeger and Marketing VP Paul Englert. The group was already engaged to launch a brand whose price category would lie between the upscale Charles Krug and value-tier CK Mondavi labels. Englert conducted the research and was convinced it was a compel- ling—and true—story. "Once we had our messaging developed, we were committed to producing high-quality wines consistent with the family's repu- tation for quality. Marc has successfully divined water throughout California, so we explored the best sub-appellations in the state. The family already has a strong reputation in Napa, so we focused on other appellations in our attempt to produce the highest quality wine we could deliver with our $19 per bottle suggested retail price. We tried Chardonnay from every region in California, from Santa Barbara to Mendocino." For the Divining Rod Chardonnay, the team finally decided on the Santa Lucia Highlands, the much respected high-end sub-appella- tion in Monterey County. For Divining Rod Cabernet Sauvignon, the team considered an equally diverse range of growing regions. In the end, fruit from Sonoma's Alexander Valley was deemed worthy for the pretty-fruited Divining Rod Cab, with its lush, earth-meets-sunshine character. "Divining defines a real experience," insists Mondavi. "I do it successfully. Believe it, or not." october 2012 / the tasting panel / 61 TASTING NOTES The Divining Rod 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley ($19) This Cab is possessed with the ability to exhibit juicy, red cher- ries, sprinkled with cinnamon and a touch of earth. 90 points. —Meridith May The Divining Rod 2010 Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands ($19) Smooth and bright with minerals, tangy fruit and racy acidity; supple, structured and neatly balanced between acid and richness; a complete and lovely wine. 91 points. —Anthony Dias Blue