Press
TOP 25 WINERIES 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024
–SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE
TOP 100 WINERIES WORLDWIDE –WINE & SPIRITS MAGAZINE 2021
Hendry Ranch
"Honest, flavorful wines, offered at what can only be called consumer-friendly prices when compared to other Napa Valley wines."
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve- 96
2023 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay- 91-93
2021 Chardonnay Reserve- 92
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon- 92+
2022 Pinot Noir- 92
2022 Primitivo- 91
2022 Zinfandel Blocks 7&22- 92
2023 Albariño- 90
The Hendry family's connection to their property in southern Napa goes back to 1939, when George W. Hendry purchased 120 acres from the Buhman family. Hendry—a professor of agronomy who split his time between Berkeley and Davis—evidently thought the ranch had potential. Back then, it was mostly pastureland and a prune orchard, but there was a six-acre vineyard. He died just five years after purchasing the ranch, leaving his wife, Margaret Munn Hendry to manage the property and raise their two young boys, George O. and Andrew.
George O. Hendry has since expanded the ranch to encompass 203 acres, and grape plantings have also grown, now totaling 114 acres under vine. Much of the vineyard expansion can be traced to the 1970s, with the grapes being sold to Robert Mondavi and Opus One, among others. Kent Rosenblum bought the Zinfandel for years and even vineyard-designated it. In 1992, Hendry launched the family wine business while still holding down a day job designing cyclotrons. He remains the owner and winemaker, with nephew Mike Hendry handling much of the day-to-day farming and operations. The family continues to sell a portion of their crop, roughly 25%, while the rest goes into the Hendry wine program. "After 85 years of farming here, I'm the first family member to have a career in the wine business," mused Mike as we toured some of the vineyard blocks.
The ranch's location, on a gentle slope squeezed between Carneros and Mount Veeder, results in a climate that's pretty flexible when it comes to grape varieties, depending on exposition and soil. Chardonnay and Albariño are the main whites, while Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel/Primitivo are the main red varieties. These are honest, flavorful wines, offered at what can only be called consumer-friendly prices when compared to other Napa Valley wines. -Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate October 2024
Wine Advocate
This winery in Napa Valley seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety.
The family operated Hendry Winery's Chardonnay Napa Valley Hendry Vineyard Reserve 2021 is a luxurious and classically California chardonnay with notes of lemon tart, biscuits and flint on the nose. The Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Hendry Vineyard Reserve 2019 is deeply scented and perfumed, with a savory edge. Check the score for these wines in the Weekly Tasting Report at jamessuckling.com
JamesSuckling.com
We are so proud to be selected to be among the Chronicle's Top 25 Wineries list for the fourth year in a row! Thanks to Esther Mobley and her team of writers and researchers, who personally vetted every single recommendation. You are sure to find a place you can taste some well-made wines, and more importantly, feel at home, among this carefully chosen list of Bay Area wineries.
"Hendry Ranch flies under the Radar, but anyone who loves Napa wine should seek out a visit here."
San Francisco Chronicle
"This unassuming family-run estate is one of Napa's best-kept secrets."
HENDRY RANCH FLIES UNDER THE RADAR, but anyone who loves Napa wine should seek out a visit here. Driving into the property, a sprawling 200-acre estate hidden within a residential neighborhood at the base of Mount Veeder, feels like an amazing surprise.
You’ll learn about the history of the Hendry family, who have farmed this land since 1939, and taste their uncommonly diverse wine offerings like Albariño and Primitivo, all grown here at the estate.
The staff here is among the most knowledgeable of any tasting room attendants in Napa Valley, and the guided tastings on the front porch of the farmhouse-like winery strike the perfect balance of casual and informative. If it’s available, see if you can try a taste of Hendry’s Mission, a spicy, savory, lighter-bodied red that’s a rarity in Napa.
NAPA VALLEY GETS a lot of flak for being too touristy and too flashy, a Disneyland for adults, according to its critics. It’s true that this Bay Area region has become glitzier in recent years, and the cost of spending a weekend here has undoubtedly risen, with many wineries’ tasting fees stretching over $50 or even $100. But anyone who levels the Disneyland charge clearly hasn’t seen how dynamic, varied and charming today’s Napa really is. You just have to know where to look. Many of the most pleasant stops lie beyond the valley’s two busy main arteries, Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail. We believe this list represents the best of Napa Valley right now, in the summer of 2021, and has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing oasis for a reunion with friends or an intensive wine education. Spend a little time here, and the appeal to all those tourists will become clear: Napa Valley is a classic for a reason." -Esther Mobley
SEE THE CHRONICLE'S TOP 25 WINERIES
Esther Mobley - San Francisco Chronicle
WINE & SPIRITS TOP 100 WINERIES OF 2021
"We award this honor based on Hendry’s outstanding performance in our blind tastings across a range of wines—outshining the competition within its region. We have continued to sustain our basic tasting tenets—assessing the wines without knowledge of their brand or price, and with the input of knowledgeable tasters in the trade. We are proud of the depth and breadth of our 2021 Top 100 and we are excited to include Hendry among the award-winning wineries."
VIEW PDF
As always, Wine & Spirits will be profiling their Top 100 Wineries in the Annual Buying Guide and, this year, once again, they'll be celebrating their Top 100 Wineries in a series of tasting events, starting in San Francisco on October 14.
35th Anniversary Buying Guide Print Edition available October 12, 2021
Wine & Spirits
Your WINE BUCKET LIST
Thank you, Esther Mobley, and the dedicated tasting team at the San Francisco Chronicle, for naming Hendry among the "52 California Wineries You Need to Visit in 2019!"
With over 400 wineries in Napa Valley alone, it's an honor to be included in this distinguished company-- only eleven Napa Valley wineries were selected by their tasting panel, who visited wineries anonymously and at their own cost to compile this list of must-visit wineries throughout the state.
"Here at The Press, our team of wine experts has been busy visiting tasting rooms from Mendocino County to Paso Robles, determining which offer the highest-quality wines, the most fun experiences and the best bang for your buck. As always, we conduct these visits according to the same principle with which our parent publication, The San Francisco Chronicle, would conduct a restaurant review: We visit anonymously and pay our own way. The fruits of that labor are the hundreds of independently conducted, expert-written winery reviews published on The Press.
The Press’ team of wine experts is led by me, Esther Mobley, and includes Virginie Boone, Matt Kettmann, Chris Macias, Sara Schneider, Tim Teichgraeber and Bryce Wiatrak. All of our work contributed to this feature.
Hendry: Nestled in the Mayacamas foothills, Hendry Ranch crafts a more diverse range of wines than most Napa wineries — and all from its estate, no less. That makes Hendry a good place to taste Albarino, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir in Napa, though the winery’s greatest strength really is Zinfandel. (Separately, it also produces Primitivo, a clone of Zin.) Basic tastings are available, but the best way to experience this family farm is by booking a property tour."
See the full article and list here.
San Francisco Chronicle
“Straightforward, delicious, and priced with an eye toward value, the Hendry wines offer an unpretentious counterpoint to an increasingly precious Napa Valley. The operation remains firmly in family hands, and the already impressive quality seems to improve with each passing year.” --Napa Valley Then and Now, by Sommelier Kelli White
Napa Valley Then and Now
Albariño
90 POINTS
Hendry's 2023 Albariño steers clear of any oak influence, leaving the variety's floral and lime notes to shine at full force. Melon and pear notes round out the silky, medium-bodied palate, which then tightens up and delivers a crisp, refreshing finish. Drink 2024-2027. - Joe Czerwinski, October 2024
Wine Advocate
HENDRY 2020 ALBARIÑO
Aromas of fresh peach, apricot and white-tea spice. Medium-bodied with an oily texture. Nicely balanced and focused on the palate. Fresh and open finish. Drink now. Screw cap.
James Suckling: jamessuckling.com
2019 HENDRY ALBARIÑO NAPA VALLEY: GOLD - 94
2016 HENDRY CABERNET SAUVIGNON NAPA VALLEY: GOLD - 93
2017 HENDRY ZINFANDEL BLOCKS 7 & 22 NAPA VALLEY: GOLD - 94
"To have a wine receive a medal here is no small achievement! Our competition is considered to be one of the most respected, and has the honor and distinction of recognizing the best wines produced internationally. This contest drew top-level wines and hand-picked top-notch judges to determine which wines stood out and are worthy of recognition. To receive a medal in a competition of this caliber truly showcases the level of wines produced. Wines were judged from a field of over 2900 entries. Only wines rating 90+ points were awarded Gold medals."
Sunset International Wine Competition
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL, 96 points, Hendry Ranch 2019 Hendry Vineyard Albariño, Napa Valley, USA
About the San Francisco International Wine Competition:
The SFIWC is one of the largest—and most influential—wine competitions. Now celebrating its 39th year, it’s one of the oldest international wine competitions in the world. Year after year, the SFIWC takes great pride in maintaining The Tasting Alliance’s commitment to these three founding principles:
LEGACY
Founded in 1980, the SFIWC is one of the oldest competitions of its kind. With over three decades of experience, our operation has become a fine-tuned masterpiece that blends passion and professionalism.
INTEGRITY
Throughout our judging process, we emphasize integrity and impartiality. Our blind tasting process guarantees that every entry is judged fairly and given equal consideration.
EXPERIENCE
The SFIWC has become one of the world’s most respected wine competitions due in large part to our esteemed judges. Each with a distinct story and trusted palate, these seasoned experts are one of the reasons a SFIWC medal indicates the highest caliber of quality.
San Francisco International Wine Competition 2020
98 + DOUBLE GOLD + BEST OF CLASS - 2019 Hendry Albariño
HENDRY 2020 MEDAL WINNERS
95 + DOUBLE GOLD - 2016 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon
97 + DOUBLE GOLD - 2017 Hendry Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
SILVER - 2016 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22
SILVER - 2018 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay
SILVER - 2015 Hendry RED
View All Hendry Medal Winners PDF
North Coast Wine Challenge 2020
Wine competition results
2018 Hendry Albariño Napa Valley Double Gold
2016 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Double Gold
2017 Hendry Chardonnay Napa Valley Unoaked Silver
2016 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley Silver2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
89
The 2018 Albarino opens with expressive peach juice, fresh lemon and lime blossom scents plus touches of wet pebbles and dill seed. Light to medium-bodied, the palate delivers intense citrus and stone flavors with a racy backbone and an alluring zesty purity to the finish. --Lisa Perotti-Brown
10/31/19, Issue 245
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
With 63 judges, 38 Sommelier Retreat members, 80+ team members, and 3,278 entries, this TEXSOM International Wine Awards was one of the largest and most diverse in the history of the competition.
The Journal of Wine Economics recently published a paper in which the TEXSOM International Wine Awards figured prominently based on the competition's ability to differentiate quality and offer judging consistency year-on-year. At the same time, the paper noted that, of the competitions evaluated, TEXSOM IWA is the most selective. The high level of our judges, their broad experience and global perspective leads to a more selective, and more meaningful medal distribution, judged by some of the most discriminating and knowledgeable palates in the industry.
GOLD MEDAL & ZINFANDEL VARIETY JUDGES SELECTION AWARD | Hendry 2014 Zinfandel Blocks 7&22
Silver Medal | Hendry 2015 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented
Silver Medal | Hendry 2016 Chardonnay Unoaked
Bronze Medal | Hendry 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
Bronze Medal | Hendry 2016 Albariño
Instagram: @TexsomIWA
Twitter: @texsomiwa
Facebook: TEXSOM International Wine Awards
Texsom International Wine Awards
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition
Best of the Year 2017
92 Points
Hendry 2016 Albariño
Fermented in stainless steel, this is a dry, crisp expression of the variety from the southern ends of the appellation. Flinty and stony in minerality, it offers lasting acidity that refreshes alongside a distinct green apple note.
Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide
2016 Hendry Albariño, Napa Valley: GOLD MEDAL, Best of Class, 92 Points
2015 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay, GOLD MEDAL, Best of Class
http://www.sonoma-marinfair.org
17th Annual North Gate Wine Competition
Wine Competition results
2015 Hendry Albariño Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Silver
2015 Hendry Chardonnay Napa Valley Unoaked Bronze
2013 Hendry Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Napa Valley Double Gold
2013 Hendry Primitivo Napa Valley Silver
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Block 28 Napa Valley Silver
2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
96 | Gold Medal: Hendry 2015 Albariño, Napa Valley
"96 points--astounding wine. Balanced, spiced apple, Easter bonnet in a parade. Buy no less than a case."
Press Democrat 2016 North Coast Wine Challenge
For the fourth consecutive year, Vineyard & Winery Management has had the honor and distinction of recognizing the best wines produced from California’s prestigious North Coast wine region. This contest draws top-level wines and hand-picked top-notch judges to create a sophisticated and enthusiastic wine experience that is considered second to none. Wines judged here are considered to be a cut above the rest – simply put, the Best of the Best.
Wines were judged from a field of nearly 1,050 entries. Only wines rating 90+ points were awarded gold medals.
4/25/16
Press Democrat 2016 North Coast Wine Challenge
This 100% varietal wine, fermented and aged in stainless steel, is silky and creamy, with a medium body and texture that retains a sizzle of freshness on the palate. Well-balanced, it offers melon, green apple and lemon, with a tease of fresh-cut peach, ending crisp and clean.
Wine Enthusiast 2015 Buying Guide
A Wine & Spirits BEST BUY: A broad and grapey albariño, this wine’s lime and lime pith flavors have a leesy, slightly tannic feel. This is cucumber-crisp, with a potent acidity that needs shellfish to bring it into line.
August 2015
Wine & Spirits
Brisk and alive, this Spanish-inspired white offers refreshing bites of ripe apple and bright citrus around the medium-bodied palate. It offers a subtle texture and a hint of minerality.
Wine Enthusiast | February 2015
BRONZE MEDAL, 2014 PRESS DEMOCRAT NORTH COAST WINE CHALLENGE
view the press release
EDITORS’ CHOICE
Even in the cool 2011 vintage, this wine really shines. It’s bone dry, low in alcohol and high in acidity, making it a delicious accompaniment to a range of foods. Complex citrus, white flower and mineral flavors carry it over the goal line. This is one of the best Albariños of the vintage.
Wine Enthusiast | December 2012
One doesn't see a lot of Albariño outside Spain, but this Napa Valley producer has consecrated some high price land to its growing. The 2009 Albariño possesses crisp, citrusy fruit, light body and good purity as well as freshness. This dry white is best consumed over the next year.
Wine Enthusiast | September 2010
Good for Hendry for going with this Spanish variety. It shows the new trend toward higher acid, drier white wines that appeal for their directness. With its citrus, pepper and flower flavors, it’s perfect on its own, or with Asian, Mexican and grilled pork dishes.
Wine Enthusiast | September 2009
Unoaked Chardonnay
From Sunsest: To have a wine receive a medal here is no small achievement. Our competition is one of the most respected, recognized for consistently identifying the best wines produced internationally. This contest again drew top-level wines, and our hand-picked, top-quality judges determined which wines stood out as worthy of accolades. To receive a medal in a competition of this caliber truly showcases the level of wines you produce.
VIEW RESULTS
Sunset International Wine Competition
Year's Best US ChardonnayS
2019 HENDRY UNOAKED CHARDONNAY, NAPA VALLEY
The Hendry family grows grapes where the hills rise from Carneros at the base of Mt. Veeder, their estate centered northwest of the city of Napa. This wine comes from two blocks of stony soils planted in 1996, the fruit fermented in stainless steel with no malolactic conversion. “It tastes like a bite into a late-fall apple that still has some tart in it,” said Daniel Osman of the Dream Away Lodge in Becket, Mass. Delivering rich, round fruit and freshness, this is a sapid chardonnay with flavor depth. —Reviewed by Joshua Greene.
Wine & Spirits
With 63 judges, 38 Sommelier Retreat members, 80+ team members, and 3,278 entries, this TEXSOM International Wine Awards was one of the largest and most diverse in the history of the competition.
The Journal of Wine Economics recently published a paper in which the TEXSOM International Wine Awards figured prominently based on the competition's ability to differentiate quality and offer judging consistency year-on-year. At the same time, the paper noted that, of the competitions evaluated, TEXSOM IWA is the most selective. The high level of our judges, their broad experience and global perspective leads to a more selective, and more meaningful medal distribution, judged by some of the most discriminating and knowledgeable palates in the industry.
GOLD MEDAL & ZINFANDEL VARIETY JUDGES SELECTION AWARD | Hendry 2014 Zinfandel Blocks 7&22
Silver Medal | Hendry 2015 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented
Silver Medal | Hendry 2016 Chardonnay Unoaked
Bronze Medal | Hendry 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
Bronze Medal | Hendry 2016 Albariño
Instagram: @TexsomIWA
Twitter: @texsomiwa
Facebook: TEXSOM International Wine Awards
Texsom International Wine Awards
Bronze Medal | 2016 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay
In this, our 33rd year , our judges for the International Wine Competition judged hundreds of entries from all over the world. The festival's judges were hand selected for their expertise and contributions to the food and beverage industry. In addition, all of our judges hold a certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers, Society of Wine Educators, International Sommelier Guild, or Wine and Spirits Education Trust, with many holding more than one certification.
Gold Medal | 2015 Hendry Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
Silver Medal | 2014 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7&22
Bronze Medal | 2014 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon
See the Complete List of Medalists
Hilton Head, SC International Wine Competition
2019 HENDRY GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
2014 RED - 92 Points, "Deep, black fruit. Rich and round."
2015 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel - 95 points, "Rich, complex, powerful wine. But fresh and racy."
2016 Primitivo - 93 Points
SILVER MEDAL WINNERS
2017 Unoaked Chardonnay
2016 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
See Panel of Judges and Details Here
North Coast Wine Challenge 2019
2015 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay, GOLD MEDAL, Best of Class
2016 Hendry Albariño, Napa Valley: GOLD MEDAL, Best of Class, 92 Points
http://www.sonoma-marinfair.org
17th Annual North Gate Wine Competition
Given not one second in anything other than stainless steel, this is indeed a crisp, clear wine, with lychee and apricot-like aromas. Intense minerality buoys the wine, which is tense at first but softens over time, with a wave of vanilla on the rounded finish. 9/22/15
Wine Enthusiast 2015 Buying Guide
GOLD, Class Champion
2016 Houston Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition.
This 100% stainless-steel-fermented Chardonnay is on the money in terms of crispness and acidity. Sour lemon and sharp wet stone mark it most, the finish quick and clean. This is a great food wine.
Wine Enthusiast | February 2015 Online
GOLD MEDAL, 2015 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view the press release
San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
GOLD MEDAL 91 POINTS, 2014 PRESS DEMOCRAT NORTH COAST WINE CHALLENGE
view the press release
Press Democrat
Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
91-93
Tasted as a tank sample set to be bottled less than a week after my visit, Hendry's 2023 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented comes from two blocks planted to an Old Wente selection and another couple planted to Dijon Clone 95 and Clone 96. Cropped at less than two tons per acre and fermented and matured 11 months in one-third new French oak, it boasts aromas of gently toasted marshmallows, honey and pineapple, while the palate is medium to full-bodied, with a plump, silky-textured finish. Drink 2024-2030.
Wine Advocate
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
93 Hendry Chardonnay Napa Valley Barrel Fermented 2022
A flinty, seductive and minerally chardonnay with aromas of fresh Meyer lemons, beeswax and orange blossoms. The palate is full-bodied and textured, complemented by an underlying minerality and high-tension acidity. Notes of mandarins, limes, toasted hazelnuts and lanolin on a long and classy finish. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
92 POINTS
Rich and mouthfilling with flavors of ripe pear, toast and a squeeze of lemon, this Chardonnay is framed by lightly-smokey oak spice and a balancing acidity that washes the mouth and carries the wine into a very long finish. — Elaine Chukan Brown
Wine Enthusiast
GOLD MEDAL: HENDRY 2022 BARREL FERMENTED CHARDONNAY
"The event brings top tasters from across the planet together to judge global wines. It’s one of my favorite events of the year as the way the tasting panels are designed is a hugely educational experience and the caliber of tasters in the room is mind boggling. There is no other event that brings together such a high concentration of distinguished wine professionals from all aspects of the wine industry. It’s one of those events where essentially every person that walks by stirs a jolt of recognition and high regard for what they’ve accomplished in their careers." - Elaine Chukan Brown, Wakawaka Wine Reviews
TexSom International Wine Competition
91 Points and Four Stars: Yellow apples, sliced pears and honeysuckle with butterscotch and cereal grain with underlying notes of sea shell and button mushrooms. Medium body, soft acidity with a slightly phenolic aftertaste. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
2023 BEST OF THE YEAR BUYING GUIDE
Creamy but complex, this elegant wine made from mature vines glides across the palate, sharing subtle oak smoke, toasted almond, butter and Bosc pear flavors in fascinating layers. Silky in texture, nicely dry and long on the finish, the wine is something for a special occasion with a great meal. EDITORS' CHOICE 96 Points. J.G.
VIEW PDF
Wine Enthusiast
Suave in texture and soaked with fruit and oak spices, this full-bodied wine brings a lot of pleasure. It's easy to like its rich poached pears, baked apples and hints of vanilla and nutmeg, all riding on a smooth texture. —Josh Greene
Wine Enthusiast
2022 San Francisco Chronicle International Wine Competition
HENDRY 2019 BARREL FERMENTED CHARDONNAY
Aromas of flint, hay and lemon leaf. Medium-to full-bodied with nice balance. Hints of brown butter and almond on the palate. Grapefruit and toasted herbs, too. Drink now.
James Suckling: jamessuckling.com
Gold MEDAL + 91 points
2018 Hendry Barrel fermented chardonnay
Silver MEDALS:
2018 Hendry Block 24 Primitivo Napa Valley
2016 Hendry RED Napa Valley
2019 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay Napa Valley
2017 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley
2021 Press Democrat North Coast Wine Challenge
93+
Serious chardonnay!
"The nose offers up tantalizing tropical fruit scents of guava, green mango and pineapple tart with hints of toasted almonds and brioche...rich, satiny textured and full-bodied...pure expressive fruit, finishing with great length."
Lisa Perrotti-Brown
October 31st, 2019, Issue 245
Wine Advocate
SILVER MEDAL
Hendry Ranch 2018 Hendry Vineyard Barrel Fermented Chardonnay, Napa Valley, USA
About the San Francisco International Wine Competition:
The SFIWC is one of the largest—and most influential—wine competitions. Now celebrating its 39th year, it’s one of the oldest international wine competitions in the world. Year after year, the SFIWC takes great pride in maintaining The Tasting Alliance’s commitment to these three founding principles:
LEGACY
Founded in 1980, the SFIWC is one of the oldest competitions of its kind. With over three decades of experience, our operation has become a fine-tuned masterpiece that blends passion and professionalism.
INTEGRITY
Throughout our judging process, we emphasize integrity and impartiality. Our blind tasting process guarantees that every entry is judged fairly and given equal consideration.
EXPERIENCE
The SFIWC has become one of the world’s most respected wine competitions due in large part to our esteemed judges. Each with a distinct story and trusted palate, these seasoned experts are one of the reasons a SFIWC medal indicates the highest caliber of quality.
San Francisco International Wine Competition
90 Points
2018 Hendry Napa Valley Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
This soft chardonnay has the sweetness of a yellow plum tart, complete with the buttery pastry notes. Touches of lemon balm and saltiness tame that sweetness, lengthening the flavors, balanced to enjoy on their own. Reviewed by Joshua Greene.
October 2020, YEARS BEST CALIFORNIA CHARDONNAYS
Wine & Spirits
97 DOUBLE GOLD - 2017 Hendry Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
98 DOUBLE GOLD & BEST OF CLASS - 2019 Hendry Albariño
95 DOUBLE GOLD - 2016 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon
SILVER - 2016 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22
SILVER - 2018 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay
SILVER - 2015 Hendry RED
North Coast Wine Challenge 2020
2019 HENDRY GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
2014 RED - 92 Points, "Deep, black fruit. Rich and round."
2015 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel - 95 points, "Rich, complex, powerful wine. But fresh and racy."
2016 Primitivo - 93 Points
SILVER MEDAL WINNERS
2017 Unoaked Chardonnay
2016 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
See Panel of Judges and Details Here
North Coast Wine Challenge 2019
91 points
2015 hendry barrel fermented chardonnay
Shades of subtle oak, fig and lemongrass are framed by tightly wound acidity on the palate. Light in feel, this is a bright, exotic Chardonnay with loads of energy. (VB) 2/14/18
(Print: APRIL 2018)
Wine Enthusiast
With 63 judges, 38 Sommelier Retreat members, 80+ team members, and 3,278 entries, this TEXSOM International Wine Awards was one of the largest and most diverse in the history of the competition.
The Journal of Wine Economics recently published a paper in which the TEXSOM International Wine Awards figured prominently based on the competition's ability to differentiate quality and offer judging consistency year-on-year. At the same time, the paper noted that, of the competitions evaluated, TEXSOM IWA is the most selective. The high level of our judges, their broad experience and global perspective leads to a more selective, and more meaningful medal distribution, judged by some of the most discriminating and knowledgeable palates in the industry.
GOLD MEDAL & ZINFANDEL VARIETY JUDGES SELECTION AWARD | Hendry 2014 Zinfandel Blocks 7&22
Silver Medal | Hendry 2015 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented
Silver Medal | Hendry 2016 Chardonnay Unoaked
Bronze Medal | Hendry 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
Bronze Medal | Hendry 2016 Albariño
Instagram: @TexsomIWA
Twitter: @texsomiwa
Facebook: TEXSOM International Wine Awards
Texsom International Wine Awards
GOLD MEDAL | 2015 HENDRY BARREL FERMENTED CHARDONNAY
In this, our 33rd year , our judges for the International Wine Competition judged hundreds of entries from all over the world. The festival's judges were hand selected for their expertise and contributions to the food and beverage industry. In addition, all of our judges hold a certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers, Society of Wine Educators, International Sommelier Guild, or Wine and Spirits Education Trust, with many holding more than one certification.
Silver Medal | 2014 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7&22
Bronze Medal | 2016 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay
Bronze Medal | 2014 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon
See the Complete List of Medalists
Hilton Head, SC International Wine Competition
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition
The 2014 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay displays more floweriness. It doesn’t have the weight of the 2013, but is equal in quality, with a delicacy of floral character, medium body, and beautifully pure but subtle fruit. Both of these wines show impeccable craftsmanship. Drink the 2014 over the next 2-3 years. 12/15/15
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
There doesn’t appear to be a lot of oak in the 2013 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay from Hendry, but I like what’s there—some nice caramelized citrus, medium to full body, good mouth texture and lusciousness, but great purity and a steely minerality. This is serious Chardonnay that sort of creeps up on the taster as it’s in the mouth. Drink it over the next several years.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
wine competition results
2015 Hendry Albariño Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Silver
2015 Hendry Chardonnay Napa Valley Unoaked Bronze
2013 Hendry Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Napa Valley Double Gold
2013 Hendry Primitivo Napa Valley Silver
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Block 28 Napa Valley Silver
2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
GOLD MEDAL, 2015 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view the press release
90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Hendry’s tasty 2012 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented (14.6% alcohol) comes from a combination of Old Wente and Dijon clones. Although aged 11 months in French oak, the wood component is pushed to the background. It exhibits attractive pineapple, peach and citrus oil notes, good minerality, medium body and lots of character and depth. Drink it now through 2017. (10/2014)
Wine Advocate, October 2014
SILVER MEDAL, 2014 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view the press release
GOLD MEDAL 92 Points, 2014 PRESS DEMOCRAT NORTH COAST WINE CHALLENGE
view the press release
GOLD MEDAL AND BEST OF CLASS, 2013 GRAND HARVEST AWARDS
view the press release
GOLD MEDAL, 2013 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view the press release
Chardonnay Reserve
92 POINTS
Made exclusively from Old Wente selection planted in 1974, Hendry's 2021 Chardonnay Reserve is barrel fermented and matured in French oak and without any malolactic fermentation. It's marked by charred, smoky oak and grilled pineapple notes on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is silky textured and bright, with a clean, refreshing finish. It's a bit of a throwback style, with ample concentration and obvious oak balanced by crisp acids. Drink 2024-2030 -Joe Czerwinski, October 2024
Wine Advocate
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
94 Hendry Chardonnay Napa Valley Hendry Vineyard Reserve 2021
A luxurious and classically California chardonnay. Notes of lemon tart, biscuits and flint on the nose. The palate is full-bodied and creamy textured, with lingering notes of roasted pineapple, Asian pears and brioche. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
90
Notable for its bright, energetic structure, mouthwatering acidity and pure flavors of lemon, melon, apple and pear. Details of green tea, tarragon and a supple texture along with a hint of litsea oil linger on the finish. Drink now. 156 cases made.
MaryAnn Worobiec, Senior Editor and Napa Bureau Chief 4/22/24
Wine Spectator
92 Points and Four Stars: Zesty and savory aromas of quince, dried tea leaves and ginger powder followed by honey and an underlying seashell minerality. Creamy medium-bodied wine with soft acidity. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
VIEW PDF
Wine Advocate
"Rich and mouthfilling, this hefty, oaky wine is packed with toast, butter, vanilla and coconut flavors on a full body, yet it maintains an appetizing balance with some lemon zest acidity." — Jim Gordon
Wine Enthusiast
Pinot Noir
92
Hendry isn't that far north of Carneros, so the idea of Pinot Noir here isn't outlandish. Originally planted in 1972, the blocks have since been replanted to a mix of Dijon clones and a Swan selection. Uninoculated and aged 11 months in 50% new French oak, the 2022 Pinot Noir is a medium to full-bodied, silky, plushly textured offering, marked by scents of black cherries and potpourri, with a touch of persimmon on the lingering finish. Drink 2024-2030. - Joe Czerwinski, October 2024
VIEW PDF
Wine Advocate
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
92 Hendry Pinot Noir Napa Valley Hendry Vineyard 2022
Lifted, floral and delicate for a Napa Valley pinot. Fresh raspberries, plums and rose petals on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with firmly integrated tannins and bright acidity highlighted by notes of red currants, cedar, bark and candied orange zest. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
Aromas of red currants, strawberries and potpourri with tangerine peel, rhubarb and subtle toasty notes. Medium-bodied, crisp acidity and velvety tannins. Nice crispness. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
Best of Year 2022 Buying Guide
This firm-textured, tightly wound wine is a bit lean on fruit flavors, favoring its moderate tannins, judicious oak spices and good acidity as the keys to its expression. But tangy red cherry and rhubarb flavors tease out on the palate and mingle with subtle cinnamon, clove and cedar notes from oak. – J.G.
Wine Enthusiast
93 POINTS
Located just north of Carneros and east, across Redwood Creek, below the slopes of Mount Veeder, the Hendry Ranch includes several creek-side parcels of pinot noir planted in alluvial soils layered over blue and brown shale. In 2017, the Hendry’s harvested this fruit in the first days of September, at half the typical yield. The wine is concentrated and savory, spicy straight through, that weightless spice pointed up by gentle tannins and carried on a wash of blueberry flavors that last. With its lovely depth and fresh-berry length of flavor, this is destined to age well.-- Joshua Greene.
April 1, 2021 Print Edition
Wine & Spirits
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition
A seriously endowed Pinot Noir with a medium to dark garnet color and notes of sassafras root beer, plum, black cherry and spice, the medium-bodied 2013 Pinot Noir has more depth than most Napa Pinots in this vintage. It displays good body, length and some staying power on the palate. Drink it over the next 2 years.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Lightly textured, this is an ethereal and sublime wine. Dark brick red in color but feathery on the palate, it offers earthy cherry around a core of subtle spice.
Wine Enthusiast | February 2015 Online
Primitivo
91
The 2022 Primitivo, from vines planted in 1997 (Block 24) and 2003 (Block 10), is slightly less complex than the Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22, with fewer floral nuances but more red fruit and underscored by zesty acids. It's medium to full-bodied, taut and silky in feel, with a crisp finish. Drink 2024-2030. - Joe Czerwinski, October 2024
Wine Advocate
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
91 Hendry Primitivo Napa Valley Hendry Vineyard 2021
Fresh aromas of cherries, blackberries, violets and marzipan. The palate is vibrant and fresh with a full-bodied mouthfeel, firm acidity and a long finish with lingering notes of blueberries, sweet spices, cedar and dried herbs. Restrained yet powerful and wonderfully balanced. A blend from two blocks planted to primitivo clone 3 that’s aged for 15 months in 33% new oak. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
93 POINTS
Full of flavor while mouthwatering and juicy, this Primitivo delivers concentrated black fruits –berries, currants, and an accent of plum – with firm but ultra-fine tannins and an ultra-long finish. A nice example of Primitivo offering plenty of interest, just enough palate cleansing quality, and the ability to continue improving in the cellar with age as well. — Elaine Chukan Brown
Wine Enthusiast
90 POINTS
This full-bodied wine is made from an Italian grape variety identified as a genetic twin to Zinfandel. Jammy, sweet fruit aromas and a juicy palate full of blackberries and dark plums create a rich core wrapped by moderate tannins and sprinkled in oak spices like vanilla, cinnamon and cedar. — Jim Gordon
Wine Enthusiast
92 Points, Four Stars: Black cherries, apricot tart and violets with coconut and mocha. Full-bodied yet the bright acidity balances out the mid-palate. Silky and juicy tannins. Nice vibrancy. Drink or hold. November 2023
JamesSuckling.com
93 POINTS AND CELLAR SELECTION
BEST OF YEAR BUYING GUIDE
Well-built and well packed with black fruit flavors, this massive wine is dense in blackberries, blueberries an black pepper flavors. Firm tannins match its excellent concentration and bode well for further aging. Best from 2026 – J.G.
Print Edition, December 2022
Wine Enthusiast
HENDRY PRIMITIVO NAPA VALLEY HENDRY VINEYARD 2019
Aromas of red cherry, black cherry and white pepper. Medium-bodied with soft tannins. Wet-mineral character mixes with the ground spice and dark, fresh fruit on the palate. Nicely focused. Drink now.
James Suckling: jamessuckling.com
Reductive and herbal, this wine offers a thickness of black pepper, cedar and clove. Lively and fresh, it is complex, with moderate structure, and made in a supremely ripe, bold style.-VB
Wine Enthusiast
91 POINTS: This wine comes across as sweet with menthol and eucalyptus notes. Then, that sweetness retreats with a day of air, the flavors turning toward red cherry and kirschwasser with some menthol and dark chocolate in the end. It feels refreshingly brisk, clean and elegant. —Joshua Greene (907 cases)
YEAR'S BEST: US ZINFANDEL AND MIXED BLACKS
June 2021 Print Edition
Wine & Spirits
Black pepper, nutmeg and ash combine around thick tannins and prominent oak in this robust red wine. The fruit is tangy and bright in cranberry and pomegranate, contrasting well against the savory introduction. -VB
Wine Enthusiast
2019 HENDRY GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
2014 RED - 92 Points, "Deep, black fruit. Rich and round."
2015 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel - 95 points, "Rich, complex, powerful wine. But fresh and racy."
2016 Primitivo - 93 Points
SILVER MEDAL WINNERS
2017 Unoaked Chardonnay
2016 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
See Panel of Judges and Details Here
North Coast Wine Challenge
HENDRY 2014 PRIMITIVO BLOCK 24 NAPA
"...loads of black cherry and strawberry fruit, spice, bramble bush, earth, spice..."
90 | Lastly, the 2014 Primitivo Block 24 is one-third new oak with 15 months of aging. This is the strongest of the three wines, has loads of black cherry and strawberry fruit, spice, bramble bush notes, earth, spice and medium to full body. It should drink well for 5-6 years. 1/17/2017
Wine Advocate, Issue 228
WINE COMPETITION 2017
RESULTS
2015 Hendry Albariño Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Silver
2015 Hendry Chardonnay Napa Valley Unoaked Bronze
2013 Hendry Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Napa Valley Double Gold
2013 Hendry Primitivo Napa Valley Silver
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Block 28 Napa Valley Silver
2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
The producer does nice things with this 100% Primitivo, coaxing attractive, chewy, liqueur-like fruit from the grapes before aging them in French oak, just a third of the barrels new. The woody tones are well integrated, and the wine boasts a smooth texture and subtle power.
Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide, April 2015
SILVER MEDAL, 2014 PRESS DEMOCRAT NORTH COAST WINE CHALLENGE
view press release
2014 Press Democrat North Coast Wine Challenge
Tastes like Zinfandel, a tannic, dry spicy wine with blackberry, cherry, currant, tobacco and leather flavors. Lots of richness here, and it wears its high alcohol well. Enjoy with barbecue.
Wine Enthusiast | August 2011
Here’s a bright, dry and very fruity wine. It has Zinfandel-like flavors of wild red and black berries and stone fruits, with lots of dusty Indian spices and vanilla-caramel flavors from oak. The acidity tastes a bit unnatural given the high alcohol, but it’s a good, rich wine.
Wine Enthusiast | September 2010
This wine wears its 15.8% alcohol better than any similarly heady wine out there. Yes, it’s a bit hot, but the heat comes across as a slight chili pepper edge to the blackberry and dark unsweetened chocolate flavors, and the wine is, in its own way, balanced and elegant. Hard to imagine a more perfect barbecue red.
Wine Enthusiast | February 2008
For California Primitivo this wine advances the argument a mile. It’s rich and ripe in berry, cocoa and coffee flavors, with a fabulously delicious finish. What it has in common with Zinfandel is a briary exuberance, but it’s really closer in quality to a fine Napa Cab.
Wine Enthusiast | August 2005
Blocks 7 & 22 Zinfandel
92 POINTS
Both of these blocks are planted to Clone 2, a virus-free clone that came to FPS from Lodi. Block 7 was planted in 1975 and Block 22 in 1995. The 2022 Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 features floral, tea-like and even orange-like aromas, plus bold berry fruit. It's medium to full-bodied, silky-textured and open, with only the slightest hint of raisined fruit and a hint of French oak (one-third new barrels for 15 months). Finishing long and velvety, it's a fine Zin for drinking young, at a reasonable price. Drink 2024-2030. - Joe Czerwinski, October 2024
Wine Advocate
95 POINTS
Full of power and concentration, this is a serious Zinfandel that delivers deeply toned flavors of black fruit, mixed berries, pine and even tree pitch. Distinctive and stimulating, this wine showcases how expressive the variety can be of where it is grown. It smells of Napa Valley in early Autumn. An intriguing pleasure. — Elaine Chukan Brown 6/19/24
Featured in: It's Time to Reconsider Full-Bodied Reds, posted 8/19/24
Wine Enthusiast
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
91 Hendry Zinfandel Napa Valley Hendry Blocks 7 & 22 2021
Aromas of raspberry liqueur, cassia bark and blackberry compote. The palate is full-bodied and framed by fine tannins. Fresh acidity carries notes of dark cherries, poached rhubarb, vanilla and graphite. Very well balanced. A blend of two vineyards, block 7 being planted in 1975 and block 22 in 1997. Aged for 15 months in 33% new French oak. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
93
Plush in texture, saturated in dark plums and berry pie flavors, this broad, mouthfilling wine has a huge presence. Ripe, almost sweet fruits are wrapped in light tannins on a very full, high-alcohol body so each sip goes a long way. — Jim Gordon
Wine Enthusiast
92 Points and Four Stars: Brambles, strawberry tart and violets with coconut, peach yogurt and a hint of rocky minerality to it. Full-bodied, fine-grained juicy tannins with bright acidity that balances out the palate. Nice drinkability and vibrancy. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
"90 points: Boasting bold aromas of red raspberries, blueberries and some briary-herbal notions, Hendry's 2019 Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 is all Clone 2, planted in 1975 and 1995, respectively. Aged 15 months in French oak (one-third new), it also features hints of tobacco and vanilla. It's full-bodied without being overly dark or extracted, modestly tannic, with a long, silky finish." --Joe Czerwinski, May 4, 2023
Wine Advocate
Enticing strawberry and red plum aromas lead to a combination of wild berry, oak leaves and cranberry flavors on a moderately tannic texture that gives a good grip on the palate. Not a cookie-cutter wine, it’s one that shows the terroir of this estate vineyard. –J.G.
BEST OF THE YEAR BUYING GUIDE Print Edition, December 13, 2022
Wine Enthusiast
HENDRY 2019 ZINFANDEL BLOCKS 7 & 22 "Classic pepper, lush, big finish, under-ripe blackberry."
From Sunset: "To have a wine receive a medal is no small achievement. Our competition is one of the most respected, recognized for consistently identifying the best wines produced internationally. This contest again drew top-level wines, and our hand-picked, top-quality judges determined which wines stood out as worthy of accolades.
To receive a medal in a competition of this caliber truly showcases the level of wines you produce. This year’s competition saw a field of more than 2,900 entries. Only wines rating 90+ points were awarded Gold medals, making them eligible to move on to the “Best Of” Category. If your wine was rated Double Gold, that means it scored 95 points or higher and means all the judges on its panel unanimously deemed it Gold-worthy!
If your wine was a Best of Class and made it to the Sweepstakes Round, this means all present judges were able to taste it in the final voting round for Best of Show categories."
Sunset International Wine Competition
2019 Hendry Zinfandel Napa Valley, Hendry Vineyard Blocks 7&22
A pretty red with cherry, black pepper and cloves on the nose and the palate. Medium body, creamy tannins and a fresh and vivid finish. Balanced and not overdone. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
94 POINTS AND BEST BUY: George Hendry planted Block 7 in 1975. At the time, he was selling grapes from his family’s ranch at the base of Mt. Veeder, just west of the city of Napa. He planted Block 22 in 1995, a few years after he began to make his own wine. His nephew Mike manages the vines today, blending Blocks 7 & 22, both Clone 2 zinfandel, and aging it in French oak barrels (one third of them new).
If you love Napa Valley zinfandel as I do, you owe it to yourself to get this wine if just for the smell alone. It starts with tight floral clarity, then expands toward zinfandel’s classic generosity, touching every sense receptor with its purity of fruit. Immediately fresh and refreshing, this begins to sit in its oak as it develops over several days, suggesting that you drink it either now or in ten years when it will have completely digested that oak and show the vineyard through a mature lens. —J.G. (1,463 cases)
Wine & Spirits
GOLD - 94
2017 HENDRY ZINFANDEL BLOCKS 7 & 22 NAPA VALLEY
"To have a wine receive a medal here is no small achievement! Our competition is considered to be one of the most respected, and has the honor and distinction of recognizing the best wines produced internationally. This contest drew top-level wines and hand-picked top-notch judges to determine which wines stood out and are worthy of recognition. To receive a medal in a competition of this caliber truly showcases the level of wines produced. Wines were judged from a field of over 2900 entries. Only wines rating 90+ points were awarded Gold medals."
Sunset International Wine Competition
95 POINTS: These two blocks of zinfandel, in the benchlands at the base of Mount Veeder, were both planted to clone 2; the vines in Block 7 date to 1975 and to 1995 in Block 22. It’s interesting to taste this side-by-side with Block 28 (also recommended here), comparing fruit from a mass selection of old vines with a clonal planting. Block 28 may be more complex in its tannins; the wine from Blocks 7 & 22 may be more comforting and delicious, its complexity held in a floral scent, like pollen collected in a beehive. Or floral dark chocolate, a richness that smooths the tannins and their mineral spikes of power. Cellar both wines and you may find yourself grabbing one or the other, depending on your mood. —Joshua Greene (1,294 cases)
YEAR'S BEST: U.S. ZINFANDEL AND MIXED BLACKS
June 2021 Print Edition
Wine & Spirits
March 2020
WHAT TO DRINK NEXT
Homestead Wines What it means when the winemaker actually lives among the vines.
By Ray Isle
What does home mean? For some winemakers, it means a house surrounded by vines- a place where they raise their family and tend livestock, where growing grapes and making wine isn’t just a job but a way of life.
"…when you farm your land yourself, a personal knowledge of each dip and furrow in the ground, of seasonal changes in the weather over the span of years, and of each vine’s individual character becomes an inevitability rather than an option.
Choosing wine that’s the product of a homestead is about origin and approach. Wine is a product of the earth; knowing the farmer is tied to their land- and so is driven to treat the land with care and conscience- ought to make a difference to anyone about to take that first sip.
2016 Hendry Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel
Longtime Napa Valley residents—a rarity these days—the Hendry family has owned their property in the Mayacamas foothills since 1939 and still lives there. Zinfandel is their forte, and dark, peppery berry flavors are the signature of this robust red."
Food & Wine
SILVER MEDAL: Hendry 2017 Hendry Vineyard Zinfandel Blocks 7&22, Napa Valley, USA
About the San Francisco International Wine Competition:
The SFIWC is one of the largest—and most influential—wine competitions. Now celebrating its 39th year, it’s one of the oldest international wine competitions in the world. Year after year, the SFIWC takes great pride in maintaining The Tasting Alliance’s commitment to these three founding principles:
LEGACY
Founded in 1980, the SFIWC is one of the oldest competitions of its kind. With over three decades of experience, our operation has become a fine-tuned masterpiece that blends passion and professionalism.
INTEGRITY
Throughout our judging process, we emphasize integrity and impartiality. Our blind tasting process guarantees that every entry is judged fairly and given equal consideration.
EXPERIENCE
The SFIWC has become one of the world’s most respected wine competitions due in large part to our esteemed judges. Each with a distinct story and trusted palate, these seasoned experts are one of the reasons a SFIWC medal indicates the highest caliber of quality.
San Francisco International Wine Competition
Hendry 2016 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel, Napa Valley- 91 Points
"Aromas of white pepper and lavender lead to a robust, meaty palate. Blackberry, graphite and oak round out the balanced, powerful foundation that’s supported by firm tannins." — V.B., November 2019 Buying Guide
Wine Enthusiast
Hendry 2015 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel-- 94 Points!
"This is a spicy, sublime and expansive wine, full bodied no doubt, yet brimming in freshness and complexity. It is red-fruit driven and dazzles in white and black pepper, accented by dashes of cinnamon and nutmeg. It has a long-lasting texture and richness." --Virginie Boone 9/1/19
Posted 5/27/2019. Published in the 9/1/19 print edition of Wine Enthusiast.
Wine Enthusiast
2019 HENDRY GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
2014 RED - 92 Points, "Deep, black fruit. Rich and round."
2015 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel - 95 points, "Rich, complex, powerful wine. But fresh and racy."
2016 Primitivo - 93 Points
SILVER MEDAL WINNERS
2017 Unoaked Chardonnay
2016 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
See Panel of Judges and Details Here
2019 North Coast Wine Challenge
GOLD MEDAL & ZINFANDEL VARIETY JUDGES SELECTION AWARD | Hendry 2014 Zinfandel Blocks 7&22
With 63 judges, 38 Sommelier Retreat members, 80+ team members, and 3,278 entries, this TEXSOM International Wine Awards was one of the largest and most diverse in the history of the competition.
The Journal of Wine Economics recently published a paper in which the TEXSOM International Wine Awards figured prominently based on the competition's ability to differentiate quality and offer judging consistency year-on-year. At the same time, the paper noted that, of the competitions evaluated, TEXSOM IWA is the most selective. The high level of our judges, their broad experience and global perspective leads to a more selective, and more meaningful medal distribution, judged by some of the most discriminating and knowledgeable palates in the industry.
Silver Medal | Hendry 2015 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented
Silver Medal | Hendry 2016 Chardonnay Unoaked
Bronze Medal | Hendry 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
Bronze Medal | Hendry 2016 Albariño
Instagram: @TexsomIWA
Twitter: @texsomiwa
Facebook: TEXSOM International Wine Awards
Texsom International Wine Awards
Silver Medal | 2014 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7&22
In this, our 33rd year , our judges for the International Wine Competition judged hundreds of entries from all over the world. The festival's judges were hand selected for their expertise and contributions to the food and beverage industry. In addition, all of our judges hold a certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers, Society of Wine Educators, International Sommelier Guild, or Wine and Spirits Education Trust, with many holding more than one certification.
Gold Medal | 2015 Hendry Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
Bronze Medal | 2016 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay
Bronze Medal | 2014 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon
See the Complete List of Medalists
Hilton Head, SC International Wine Competition
This is a delicate spicy wine despite its robust ripeness and brawny underside. Compost and brambly bush combine with blackberry and an undeniably delicious streak of white pepper, making for a complex, complete wine that’s enjoyable from start to finish. FEBRUARY, 2018
Wine Enthusiast
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition
Wine & Spirits
HENDRY 2014 ZINFANDEL BLOCKS 7 & 22 NAPA
"...a nice, attractive, briary, classic Zinfandel..."
89 | The 2014 Zinfandel Blocks 7&22 spent 15 months in French oak and is a nice, attractive, briary, but classic Zinfandel, with pepper, earth, spice and briary red and black fruits. It is medium-bodied, zesty and carries 15.3 natural alcohol well. The color is dark ruby and the wine should drink well for 3-4 years.
Wine Advocate, Issue 228
2017 WINE COMPETITION RESULTS
2015 Hendry Albariño Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Silver
2015 Hendry Chardonnay Napa Valley Unoaked Bronze
2013 Hendry Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Napa Valley Double Gold
2013 Hendry Primitivo Napa Valley Silver
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Block 28 Napa Valley Silver
2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
This opens with herbaceous dollops of thyme and fresh-dug earth and evolves slowly in the glass, revealing juicy black plum and berry. Medium in weight and density, it is soft and leathery, with a lengthy, supple finish.
Wine Enthusiast | BUYING GUIDE, April 2015 print
From nine acres of benchland soil west of the town of Napa, these blocks were planted to clone 2 zinfandel in 1975 and 1995. Aged for 15 months in French oak, this has the richness of a full-bodied claret, supple, heady and black. The dark fruitiness of cloud-ear mushrooms combines with a touch of volatility in the finish, a brisk, earthy zin to decant for braised lamb. (1,510 cases) Hendry Ranch, Napa, CA
Wine & Spirits | February 2015
GOLD MEDAL, 2015 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
The scent of this wine is worth the price of admission, a combination of sage, sun and wet rock, of forest pines and dark red fruit. It reminded Wolfgang Weber, one of our panelists, of hiking in the north coast, “in the morning, when the sun burns off the dew and picks up the scents of plant resins.” The fragrance may ground the wine in the Napa Valley hills, but the texture is pure benchland, about as silky as a wine can be. The Hendry family farms these blocks of clone 2 zinfandel at the edge of the hills west of the city of Napa, one block planted in 1975, the other in 1995. Those vines hit in 2011 with a deliciously plump zinfandel, the kind of dynamic red wine that proves Napa Valley’s greatness. (1,620 cases) Hendry Ranch, Napa, CA
Wine & Spirits | February 2014
SILVER MEDAL, 2014 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL, 2014 AMERICAN FINE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
SILVER MEDAL, 2013 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
This wine marries Napa Valley’s elegant tannin structure with Zin’s naturally briary rusticity, with good results. The flavors abound in wild berry, currant,tobacco, cola, tabasco and exotic spice. It will be great with grilled beef.
Wine Enthusiast | December 2012
George Hendry grew upon his family’s vineyard in the hills west of the city of Napa. Today he divides his time between growing grapes and designing cyclotrons, though there’s nothing particularly scientific about this zin. It tastes more of the rocky earth than of winemaking, the fruit providing a floral burst of flavor, the edges of tannin growing softer with a day of air as the wine grows velvety. Its complex scents of herbs and mushrooms will match braised duck. 700 cases.
Wine & Spirits | February 2012
The neighborhood makes most of these wines ambitious in scope. ... 2009 Hendry Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley Zinfandel ($35, 15.2%): Hendry's parcels west of ... Classic Zinfandel, rich and robust and high in alcohol, with enormously ripe blackberry, cherry and raspberry fruit flavors, sprinkled with Zin’s pepper, cinnamon and clove spices. This full-bodied wine raises Zinfandel’s rustic nature to Napa elegance.
Wine Enthusiast | Buying Guide, Dec. 31, 2011
This grows on the nine acres of benchland west of Napa, one sector planted in 1975, the other in 1995. It’s a heady wine, as fat in the middle as a plump Napa Valley cabernet with distinctly zin-like floral notes of hibiscus, along with smoked paprika. There’s tension to the structure girding the wine for bottle age, though it’s delicious to drink now: a vibrant red for venison roasted black cherries.
Wine & Spirits | October 2011
Warm boysenberry flavors meet an edge of orange zest acidity in the black, smoky zin. It opens with air, integrating the heat of its alcohol into the fruit. For grilled sausages (2,200 cases) Hendry Ranch, Napa, CA
Wine & Spirits | June 2009
From one of the best Zinfandel producers in Napa Valley comes this likeable, balanced bottling. It’s rich and spicy and succulent, yet complex and authoritative, and should develop over several years. Shows Zin’s briary, crushed wild berry and anise character, with impeccable balance and finesse.
Wine Enthusiast | November 2008
Block 28 Zinfandel
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
91 Hendry Zinfandel Napa Valley Hendry Block 28 2021
Aromas of blueberry tart, poached rhubarb, cigar box and sweet spices. The palate is full-bodied with firm yet integrated tannins, bright acidity and notes of black cherries, baking spices and burnt oranges. Block 28 sits at 60 meters above sea level and is planted to St. George rootstock. The wine is aged for 15 months in 65% new oak. A powerful and tightly bound wine that will age gracefully. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
92 Points and Four Stars: Lots of dark cherries, blueberry compote and violets followed by vanilla, Christmas spices and roasted coffee beans. Full-bodied, soft acidity and finely grained ripe tannins. Energetic yet harmonious wine with good freshness. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
92 Points and Four Stars: Rather inviting aromas of cracked black and white pepper, clove and baked plum. Full-bodied with silky tannins. Spicy. Lots happening here. Very savory, but with nice, juicy red and black fruit. Good length, too. Shows restraint. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
2023 BEST OF THE YEAR BUYING GUIDE
So structured and textural that it begs for a sirloin steak. This hearty, ripe tasting and moderately tannic wine can be decanted and enjoyed now or matured for several more years. Aged in 65% new French barrels, it offers dark plums, mulled black cherries an accents of cedar, chocolate and mint. Best from 2026. J.G.
Wine Enthusiast
"91 Points: Planted to a Brandlin Ranch selection, the 2019 Zinfandel Hendry Block 28 spent 15 months in French oak (65% new). The result is darker and more intensely flavored than the Blocks 7 & 22 bottling, with blackberry and slightly desiccated black cherry notes, briar patch herbal nuances and mocha and vanilla underpinnings. It's full-bodied and smooth textured—almost creamy without being overly rich or heavy—then finishes easy and silky in feel. Drink it over the next several years, 2023-2030." -- Joe Czerwinski, May 4, 2023
Wine Advocate
Floral scents and vivid, jammy blackberry and black-pepper flavors highlight this full-bodied, full-on fruity wine as accents of wood smoke and wild sage add a rustic, authentic complexity. - Jim Gordon
Wine Enthusiast
One of my favorite wine tastings of the year is the annual Zinfandel Advocates and Producers (ZAP) tasting in San Francisco, which was held this year at the Palace Hotel on March 27th. I have sought out lesser known producers who are doing an outstanding job.
I have lost track of how many times Hendry has appeared in my list of top Zinfandels—their consistency is inspiring. The 2018 Block 28 Zin is an attractive, juicy wine layered with plums, dark red fruit and licorice. High-toned and floral notes and a hint of pepper add lift to the finish. This is a totally inviting, luscious red best enjoyed in its exuberant youth.
Wednesday, April 20, 2022
Pierre DuMont, The Wine Corner
PIEDMONT POST
Piedmont Post
95 POINTS: The Hendry family planted this 4-acre block in 1998 in the benchlands west of the town of Napa. They used a selection of cuttings from old vines at the Brandlin Ranch on Mount Veeder, a property George Hendry had been farming. The vines from those cuttings are now mature, and they gave a tense, floral 2017 zin with brisk energy in its tannins. Those tannins combine woodland rusticity and mineral refinement, their subtle staying power described by one taster as “springwater minerality” and by another as “broken rock.” The floral, strawberry-scented fruit will clean up alongside spicy cured pork sausages; or stash this away in the cellar—the structure will sustain the wine for five or ten years. —Joshua Greene (588 cases)
YEAR'S BEST: U.S. ZINFANDEL AND MIXED BLACKS
June 2021 Print Edition
Wine & Spirits
The American Fine Wine Competition, now in its 13th year, is the premier all-American wine invitational in the country. Up to 1,000 wines participate. 32 Judges include Sommeliers, Wine Retailers, Wine Educators, Wine Writers, Chefs.
Hendry 2020 American Fine Wine Competition Medal Winners
Hendry 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon 94 Points | Double Gold medal
Hendry 2016 Block 28 Zinfandel 93 Points | Gold medal
Hendry 2016 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel 89 Points| Silver medal
Hendry 2018 Albariño 88 Points| Silver Medal
American Fine Wine Competition
Hendry 2016 Block 28 Zinfandel- 90 Points
BEST ZINFANDELS AND MIXED BLACKS
The Hendrys planted this four-acre block in 1998, with cuttings selected from old vines at the Brandlin Ranch on Mount Veeder. It produced a fresh and clean zin in 2016, with lasting notes of mint and grape-skin spice. The tannins turn a little warm and bitter in the end, making this a savory red for pasta with a meaty wild-mushroom ragu. (846 cases made) J.G.
Wine and Spirits
HENDRY 2014 ZINFANDEL BLOCK 28 NAPA
"...earthy, spicy strawberry and black cherry fruit."
90 | As for the 2014 Zinfandel Block 28, this is a briary, berry-scented and flavored Zinfandel that spent 15 months in French oak. There is a touch of new oak in the background, the wine shows minerality and earthy, spicy strawberry and black cherry fruit. It is medium-bodied and best drunk over the next 4-5 years.
Wine Advocate, Issue 228
YEAR'S BEST ZINFANDELS
91 points: When the old Brandlin Ranch on Mount Veeder sold in 1995, George Hendry selected budwood from those old vines for planting at this four-acre block on his family's ranch at the base of the hill. This grows on benchland soils west of the town of Napa, producing an exuberant zin in 2013, a full, generous, red-fruited wine with scents of mace and sage. It shows a lot of barrel influence for now (65% of the oak for its aging was new), making it appealing to cabernet drinkers. (775 cases)
Publication date: February 2016
Wine & Spirits
100 BEST WINES OF THE YEAR
George Hendry once helped farm the Brandlin Ranch on Mount Veeder, where he took cuttings of the old-vine zinfandel when the property was sold in 1995. He grafted that budwood onto St. George rootstock at his benchland vineyard west of Napa and north of the San Pablo Bay, where morning fog and offshore breezes in the afternoon help to cool the vines. This 2012 parallels the hearty depths of an old-vine zin, the ripe sour-cherry flavors driven by alcohol but not heated by it, the tannins buzzing with energy. It's brisk and bright, complex and joyous. (1,378 cases) Hendry Ranch, Napa, CA
Wine & Spirits | February 2015
GOLD MEDAL, 2015 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
While at first appearing black and overripe, this sheds its reduction with air, revealing a deep, soil-inflected richness and broad, gentle red fruit. Saturated with a pungent black raspberry flavor, this would be delicious with seared duck breast, if decanted four or five hours before dinner. (955 cases) Hendry Ranch, Napa,CA
Wine And Spirits
SILVER MEDAL, 2014 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
GOLD MEDAL, 2014 AMERICAN FINE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
SILVER MEDAL, 2014 PRESS DEMOCRAT NORTH COAST WINE CHALLENGE
view press release
BRONZE MEDAL, 2013 GRAND HARVEST AWARDS
view press release
Napa Zinfandels offer a dust-edged nuance that shows the variety's classiest side, and the best of our tasting absolutely echoed those characteristics. 2010 Hendry Block 28 Napa Valley Zinfandel ($35, 15.9% alcohol): George Hendry and his family have been loyal to this grape through the years, working near the base of Mount Veeder.Their Blocks 7 & 22 bottle will be a pleasure in another year, but right now the Block 28, grown on thin soils, shows a density and berryish tang, matched to heady blue-plum flavors, almost like slivovitz brandy, and a dry-bark edge.
San Francisco Chronicle | Is Napa Zinfandel Facing a Headwind? Jon Bonné, San Francisco Chronicle, Friday, December 21, 2012
Easy and gentle in mouthfeel, this has soft, velvety tannins, but the flavors are big and complex. It offers waves of blackberry and blueberry jam, anisette liqueur, milk chocolate, bacon and white pepper as well as a smoky, creamy touch that melts into a long, spicy finish. It’s high in alcohol, but wears it well.
Wine Enthusiast | Best Of 2012
There’s a fleshy mouthfeel and a taste of green olive that make this Zinfandel atypical, but which add to its appeal. The varietal flavors show up in the form of ripe, robust, blackberry, cola, tobacco and spice, while Napa’s lovely tannins give it an elegant framework. Drink over the next few years for maximum freshness.
Wine Enthusiast | Best Of 2012
RED
"These are honest, flavorful wines, offered at what can only be called consumer-friendly prices when compared to other Napa Valley wines."
91 Points
"The composition of the Hendry Red Wine has evolved over the years, from a 60% Malbec offering in its first vintage (2001) to more Cabernet Sauvignon these days. The 2021 Red Wine is a blend of 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% each Malbec and Merlot, 17% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc. It's a solid value in the Napa context, combining ripe berries and cherries with some slightly leafy elements on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is dusty and reasonably grippy, with those tannins joined by mouthwatering acids on the long finish."
Wine Advocate
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
91 Hendry Napa Valley Hendry Vineyard Red 2020
A full-bodied yet elegant and lifted blend comprising 36% cabernet sauvignon, 25% petit verdot, 13% cabernet franc, 13% malbec and 13% merlot. Red and blue fruit on the nose with underlying floral and sweet spice notes. The palate is full-bodied with fine tannins, balanced acidity and lingering notes of blackberries, cocoa, cedar and cloves. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
95
Aromas of cherry pit and crushed almond are followed by flavors of black fruits, pine tar and a pleasing smokiness. Rustic and pleasurable, this red blend is both captivating and surprising – it feels like a classic expression of old Napa Valley Bordeaux-style blends with a mouthwatering palate and lightly grippy tannins. Delicious. — Elaine Chukan Brown
Wine Enthusiast
91 Points, Four Stars: Aromas of blue berries, red plums and violets with eucalyptus, vanilla and underlying graphite minerality. Full-bodied, bright acidity and well-structured firm tannins. Framed and harmonious. Try after 2026.
JamesSuckling.com
EDITORS' CHOICE: Hendry 2019 Hendry Vineyard Red Bordeaux-style Red Blend (Napa Valley)
Supple and seamless, this powerful but silky-textured wine competes with those four times its price. The wine brings together wonderful ripe black fruit flavors and alluring oak shadings of tobacco, espresso, mint and blueberries for a taste that’s compelling now but sure to improve with aging. Best 2030–2040. —J.G.
Wine Enthusiast
"90 points: A blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% each Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot, Hendry's 2018 Proprietary Red Wine spent 18 months in French oak (70-75% new). Caramel, sawdust and vanilla notes dominate the nose at first but yield to cherry fruit with a bit of air and on the medium to full-bodied palate. Concentrated and velvety, it finishes with ample length and softly dusty tannins. Approachable young, it should drink well at least through 2030. Drink 2023-2030. - Joe Czerwinski, 5/4/2023
Wine Advocate
Dense and chocolaty, this deep, dark and mouth-filling Bordeaux-style blend is a big one. It oozes blueberries, blackberry syrup and dark chocolate cradled in masses of soft tannins for a palate-coating effect. Rich enough for an after-dinner drink and a good idea to decant first. Best from 2025. 92 Points —Joshua Greene
Wine Enthusiast
93 Points: Built to last in the cellar. Pure blackberry jam. Old world style.
North Coast Wine Challenge
YEAR'S BEST U.S. CABERNET SAUVIGNON AND BORDEAUX-STYLE BLENDS
92 POINTS and BEST BUY: 2017 Hendry RED, Hendry Vineyard
The Hendry family grows (their grapes) at this vineyard west of the town of Napa, focused on blocks in the stony benchland soils at the base of Mt. Veeder. It's a 2017 with purity to its fruit expression, the depths of its lasting red-plum flavors seem to reside within the tannins, bringing their red hue to the dark French-roast-coffee scents of new oak. It's a supple wine with quiet restraint. -JG
Wine & Spirits
This has a scallion scent at first, a reductive note from being oxygen starved, but after a day of air, it turns firm, juicy and clean, holding plenty of raspberry richness and mineral impression.
December 2019 "Year's Best" Edition
Wine & Spirits
This blend leads with 27% each of Petite Verdot and Merlot, followed by 18% Malbec, 14% Cabernet Franc and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon. Structured and grippy in tobacco, cedar and currant, it offers classic style and herbaceousness around integrated tannins and oak. — Virginie Boone, February/March 2020
Wine Enthusiast
2019 HENDRY GOLD MEDAL WINNERS
2014 RED - 92 Points, "Deep, black fruit. Rich and round."
2015 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel - 95 points, "Rich, complex, powerful wine. But fresh and racy."
2016 Primitivo - 93 Points
SILVER MEDAL WINNERS
2017 Unoaked Chardonnay
2016 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
See Panel of Judges and Details Here
North Coast Wine Challenge
HENDRY 2014 RED NAPA
"...supple and irresistable and charming."
89 | The 2014 RED is a creative blend of 27% Malbec, 20% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Petit Verdot and 13% Cabernet Franc. An interesting blend, with plenty of exotic spices, cedar wood, black and red currants, cherries, licorice and a Mediterranean influence, it is medium to full-bodied, supple and irresistible and charming. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.
Wine Advocate, Issue 228
Hendry's 2013 Proprietary RED blend is an intriguing, singular blend of 32% Petit Verdot, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 20% Malbec and 4% Merlot. A sexy assemblage of grapes for this wine, which tips the scales at 14.9% alcohol. Loads of red currant, red cherry, licorice, spice box, earth and a touch of herbs are all present in this complex, somewhat Mediterranean style of red wine. It is medium to full-bodied, silky smooth and an ideal accompaniment to bistro and trattoria food. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. Issue 222.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
HENDRY NAPA VALLEY RED 2011
RED, WHITE AND YOU
“Sipping on the hottest made-in-the-U.S. blends earned us some new warm-weather BBFFs (Best Bottles For Food). Here are six to grab en route to the grill.
This smooth red entails a mix of petit verdot, malbec, cab sav, cab franc and merlot. A leathery, tobacco nose, plus light, fruity aromas make this the pick for BBQ-sauced anything." $38, hendrywines.com -Darcy Lenz
Publication date 7/1/2016
Cooking Light
Nearly equal parts Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, this blend also features good handfuls of Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc that offer soft, velvety flavors of blackberry and blueberry. Lightly oaked, the tannins are grippy while the wine generates an herbal undertone on the nose. 28% Malbec, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Petit Verdot, 19% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc. View Sell Sheet
Wine Enthusiast | December 2015
There’s a chocolaty nose to this wine, a blend of 33% Malbec, 33% Petit Verdot, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc and 9% Merlot. It offers structured waves of cedar, cassis and pencil shavings, with soft tannins.
Wine Enthusiast | March 2015
Hendry’s 2009 Red Blend is a beautiful entry-level wine endowed with considerable depth. Juicy red berries, flowers, mint and licorice all take shape in the glass. Sweet floral notes add lift on the finish. The 2009 is 31% Petit Verdot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 14% Malbec and 13% Cabernet Franc. I imagine the 2009 will drink well pretty much upon release. Anticipated maturity: 2013- 2019.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate | Issue 204
(Best Buy) It’s clear that there’s something underneath the rich oak, but you have to give the wine plenty of air to find it. A day after it’s opened, there’s a beautiful scent of cherries and chocolate, the wood present but now just one element in the mix. Cherry skin tannins keep it dry, setting the wine on a claret’s path toward roast game birds like squab.
Wine and Spirits | December, 2013
Full, ripe and oaky; a Cabernet blend with medium richness, good balance and a persistent finish, tasting of blackberry, toast, cedar, black currant, black licorice, vanilla and kola nut. Excellent. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 70% new. 36% Petit Verdot, 21% Malbec, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc. 1,300 cases.
Restaurant Wine | Issues #139 and #140
Big, heavy, extracted, tannic and dry. That pretty much sums up this blend of all five Bordeaux varieties, with Petit Verdot in the majority. It’s potent in blackberry and black currant flavors, with an undertow of minerals. Should age well over the next eight years, without necessarily becoming more distinguished.
Wine Enthusiast | December 2011
Hendry Red Blend, Napa Valley ($38). The owners have been farming the same Napa vineyard since 1939. This blend is quite a wine for the price and has 36 percent petit verdot, 21 percent malbec, 21 percent cabernet sauvignon, 11 percent merlot and 11 percent cabernet franc, with concentrated dark berry flavors and a tight structure.
St. Helena Star, Napa Valley
The 2007 Proprietary Red Wine has an unusual composition of 36% Petite Verdot, 21% Malbec, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and 11% Merlot that clearly shows that Hendry marches to the beat of a different drummer. But it works. Dense ruby/purple-colored with notes of blackberries, cassis and licorice, it possesses good tannins, a narrowly focused mouthfeel but impressive purity and length. The sweetness of the fruit becomes more apparent with airing. This fascinating wine would be hard to peg in a blind tasting.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate | December 2010
Cabernet Sauvignon
92+
All Cabernet Sauvignon (Clone 7) aged in 100% new French oak for 23 months, Hendry's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is another well-priced offering from this family-owned and operated winery. Classically styled, this medium to full-bodied wine is silky textured but firm, needed some time to open up and reveal cassis and blueberry shadings. Hints of black tea leaves and vanilla add complexity to the lingering finish. Drink 2026-2040. - Joe Czerwinski, October 2024
Wine Advocate
AS SEEN IN NOVEMBER 2024 BUYING GUIDE
93 POINTS
Bold, full flavors of black plum, sweet papaya and oak spices are carried by persistent, powdery-fine tannins and balancing acidity into a very long finish. This wine is poised, yet muscular and satisfying. — Elaine Chukan Brown
Wine Enthusiast
93 Points
Ripe and focused, with good intensity to the boysenberry and blackberry coulis notes, which are carried by a graphite edge. Reveals violet accents through the lightly toasted finish, adding nice lift, with a curl of alder smoke at the end for more nuance. Drink now through 2037. 219 cases made.
Wine Spectator
94 Points - 2023 BEST OF THE YEAR BUYING GUIDE
A good-old Napa Cab character comes through in this blackberry and black-olive scented wine that shows great balance despite elevated alcohol. A full body, medium tannins and lots of dark fruit with little noticeable oak keep it focused and delicious. --Jim Gordon
Wine Enthusiast
92 Points
“The Hendry Ranch includes parcels of cabernet sauvignon planted in 1974 at the base of Mount Veeder, having survived phylloxera due to their St. George rootstock. This wine blends that fruit with grapes from a neighboring block that they planted in 2006. Immediately luscious, the fruit comes up against hard, earthy tannins that curtail it for now, the wine feeling blunt with extract and needing to unwind. There’s pretty fruit behind all the tannins, waiting to fully emerge.” —J.G. (940 cases) Winter 2023
Wine & Spirits
94 Points and Four Stars
Aromas of blue plums, fruit cake and violets followed by box tree and crushed gravel with vanilla and dark chocolate. Full-bodied, soft acidity and finely grained tannins. Beautifully structured yet refined and harmonious. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
Double Gold Medal and Class Champion 2024
Houston Rodeo International Wine Competition
95 Points and Cellar Selection
Hendry 2018 Hendry Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley). This deeply colored, extremely ripe and concentrated wine from a cooler part of Napa Valley is powerful but smooth, as a creamy texture carries blueberries, cocoa and anise flavors wrapped in significant fine-grained tannins. The flavors show great depth on the palate and good length on the finish. Best from 2026–2036.
We were also pleased to be included in the following article about top Napa Cabs and the steakhouses to pair them with: https://www.winemag.com/2023/
Wine Enthusiast
"91 points: After 21 months in 90% new French oak (and a bit of time in bottle), Hendry's 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon—a blend of several blocks and clones from the estate vineyard—remains impressively dark in the glass. Marked by subtle shadings of tobacco leaf and cedar, with pronounced notes of black cherries and cassis, it's a nicely balanced, reasonably priced offering. Medium to full-bodied, smooth and gently tannic, it finishes silky, with hints of bay leaf and sage. Drink 2023-2035." --Joe Czerwinski, Published: May 04, 2023
Wine Advocate
94 points: Sexy Cab! Rich, bold, beautiful, opulent, soy component.
North Coast Wine Challenge
HENDRY 2018 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Aromas of red and black currants, gravel and plums. Medium-to fullbodied with velvety tannins. Nice depth and intensity, without being overdone. Rather soft and subtle in its approach. Bright fruit and fresh herbs. Nicely done. Drink or hold.
James Suckling: jamessuckling.com
2016 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley: Gold, 93 points
"To have a wine receive a medal here is no small achievement! Our competition is considered to be one of the most respected, and has the honor and distinction of recognizing the best wines produced internationally. This contest drew top-level wines and hand-picked top-notch judges to determine which wines stood out and were worthy of recognition. To receive a medal in a competition of this caliber truly showcases the level of wines produced. Wines were judged from a field of over 2900 entries. Only wines rating 90+ points were awarded Gold medals."
Sunset International Wine Competition
93+ "Beautiful wine!"
"The Hendry 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon...sings of chocolate-covered cherries, warm plums, cassis and candied violets...full-bodied and charged with energy...finishing long and beautifully fragrant. Beautiful wine! Drink now through 2034."
Lisa Perrotti-Brown
9/30/19
Wine Advocate
95 DOUBLE GOLD - 2016 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon
97 DOUBLE GOLD - 2017 Hendry Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
98 DOUBLE GOLD & BEST OF CLASS - 2019 Hendry Albariño
SILVER - 2016 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22
SILVER - 2018 Hendry Unoaked Chardonnay
SILVER - 2015 Hendry RED
North Coast Wine Challenge 2020
The American Fine Wine Competition, now in its 13th year, is the premier all-American wine invitational in the country. Up to 1,000 wines participate. 32 Judges include Sommeliers, Wine Retailers, Wine Educators, Wine Writers, Chefs.
HENDRY 2020 AMERICAN FINE WINE COMPETITION MEDAL WINNERS
Hendry 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon 94 Points| Double Gold Medal
Hendry 2016 Block 28 Zinfandel 93 Points| Gold Medal
Hendry 2016 Blocks 7&22 Zinfandel 89 Points| Silver Medal
Hendry 2018 Albariño 88 Points| Silver Medal
American Fine Wine Competition 2020
2016 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Double Gold
2018 Hendry Albariño Napa Valley Double Gold
2017 Hendry Barrel Fermented Chardonnay Napa Valley Silver
2016 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley Silver2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
2020 San Francisco Wine Competion
MEDAL WINNERS OF THE 2020 RODEO UNCORKED!® INTERNATIONAL WINE COMPETITION
The 2020 competition, held Nov. 16-17 at NRG Center, included 3,528 entries from 19 countries.
HENDRY 2015 CABERNET SAUVIGNON, NAPA VALLEY
GOLD MEDAL
Hendry 2018 Albarino, Napa Valley
Silver Medal
Hendry 2016 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay, Napa Valley
Silver Medal
Hendry 2017 Unoaked Chardonnay, Napa Valley
Silver Medal
Hendry 2015 Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22, Napa Valley
Silver Medal
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo UNCORKED International Wine Competition
90 points: A waxy nose of violet and earth leads to a savory exploration of cedar, pencil shavings and black cherry. The wine is no-holds-barred ripe and robust in tannin. --Virginie Boone, Contributing Editor (Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide, May 2018 Issue)
Wine Enthusiast
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition
88 | HENDRY 2014 CABERNET NAPA
"...another irresistable wine from Hendry..."
With a more saturated ruby/purple color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon has plenty of juicy blackcurrant fruit, an attractive succulence in its medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, light, soft silky tannins, and a sexy, lush finish. This is another irresistible wine from Hendry to drink in its first 8-10 years of life.
Wine Advocate, Issue 228
WINE COMPETITION 2017
RESULTS
2015 Hendry Albariño Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Silver
2015 Hendry Chardonnay Napa Valley Unoaked Bronze
2013 Hendry Chardonnay Barrel Fermented Napa Valley Double Gold
2013 Hendry Primitivo Napa Valley Silver
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 Napa Valley Gold
2013 Hendry Zinfandel Block 28 Napa Valley Silver
2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon has a deep ruby/purple color, straightforward red and blackcurrant fruit and medium body, but not the profound concentration one normally finds in the 2013s. But nevertheless it’s stylish, elegant and a lighter style. Drink it over the next decade.
Wine Advocate, Issue 122, 12/30/15
Muted aromatics hide beneath thick, leathery tannins and a puckering structure of crisp red currant and cranberry in this full-bodied wine that will benefit from time. Cellar through 2020. 90 Points. CELLAR SELECTION
Wine Enthusiast December Buying Guide
Rich, toasty nose with savoury, meaty and firm black fruits. The palate shows very ripe dark berries, chalky minerality and a hint of field mushroom. Well-crafted with deep brooding fruit supported by the structure of the wine. Drink 2015-2024. CALIFORNIAN CABERNET 2011: 118 elegant wines that will surprise you
Decanter | February 2015
SILVER MEDAL, 2015 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
GOLD MEDAL, 2014 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
view press release
SILVER MEDAL, 2014 PRESS DEMOCRAT NORTH COAST WINE CHALLENGE
view press release
GOLD MEDAL, 2013 GRAND HARVEST AWARDS
view press release
The 2009 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon flows across the palate with gorgeous depth and richness. Black currants, flowers, violets, spice and earth are some of the many notes that ring out in this medium-bodied yet fleshy, textured wine. The 2009 impresses for its depth, polish and pure refinement. I loved it. Anticipated maturity, 2014-2029.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate | Issue 204
The 2008 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon is another rich, extroverted wine. Black plums, blackberries, tar and smoke are some of the notes that flow from this bold, deeply flavored Cabernet Sauvignon. Grilled herbs and licorice develop in the glass, adding further complexity. I especially like the plushness and depth of the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Dusty, fragrant, lifted aromas of cream, cassis, wood spice and cherry. Quite stylish and finely tuned with good underlying acidity and a sleek, fine texture. Lovely balance and wonderful varietal expression.
Decanter | February 2012
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is very strong in blackberries, black currants and cedar. It’s also quite tannic. Clearly a rich, well-grown wine, but marked by immaturity , with unintegrated sweet fruit and oak flavors. Needs a good six years to start to knit together.
Wine Enthusiast, Buying Guide Best of the Year | December 2011
SILVER MEDAL, SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
This seductive, dense ruby, purple-hued offering reveals sweet crème de cassis and cherry fruit intermixed with spice box, menthol and underbrush characteristics. Round, generously endowed and pure, it is close to full maturity and should age effortlessly for 7-8 more years.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate | June 2011
Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
As seen in Wine Enthusiast 2024 Best of the Year Buying Guide
93 Points
Bright, ripe stone fruits--cherries, plums and even nectarine--mix with grapefruit accents, spices and dried herbs for a robust and full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. Supple tannins and a long finish of balanced acidity uncover tobacco notes after further sipping.-- ECB
Wine Enthusiast
96 Points
"hugely underpriced relative to the quality"
From Clone 7 planted in 1974—just the south side of the rows from Block 8D and Block 8F—Hendry's 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is hugely underpriced relative to the quality, offering complex notes of cedar cigar box and ripe cherries. Aged in 100% new Taransaud barrels for two years, it's full-bodied, with a seductive texture and expansive mouthfeel and a lush, creamy, mocha-tinged finish that lingers on the palate. Impressively, there's no heat evident despite a stated alcohol level of 15.9%. Drink date: 2025-2040. -Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate, October, 2024
Wine Advocate
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
93 Hendry Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Hendry Vineyard Reserve 2019
Deeply scented and perfumed, with a savory edge. Aromas of blackcurrants, tobacco, black olives and cedar. The palate is full-bodied, framed with firmly integrated tannins and fresh acidity, highlighting notes of blood plums, dried herbs, violets and cocoa. Surprisingly smooth, textured and balanced at 15.9% alcohol. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
93+
Hendry's first Reserve Cab, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve comes from a single block (Block 8) of the vineyard, planted in 1974 to Clone 7. It spent two years in 100% new Taransaud barriques, and while cedary notes are noticeable, they're balanced by the wine's intense cassis fruit. Hints of vanilla, bay leaf and mint also make appearances on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is surprisingly smooth and supple, framed by silky tannins that linger elegantly on the long, drawn-out finish. Drink 2025-2035. -Joe Czerwinski, May 04, 2023
Wine Advocate
Cabernet Franc
Made from two blocks grafted to St. George rootstock that is aged for 15 months in 40% new French oak. Layers of black cherry, plum, tobacco leaf and spice on the nose. The palate is full-bodied with a silky finesse, finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, complimented with a long, lingering finish of blackcurrants, leather and dried herbs. Drinkable now, but will benefit from time in bottle.
JamesSuckling.com
92 Points and Four Stars: Blue and red fruits with violets, coconut, mint chocolate and bitter nuts with sweet spices. Full-bodied, refreshing acidity and firm yet juicy tannins. Polished mid-palate that is well-framed. Good length and structure. Drink or hold.
JamesSuckling.com
The 2009 Cabernet Franc comes across as big and burly, but it also has considerable depth and intensity. I would like to see a little more varietal character, but this is a solid, well-made effort. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate | Issue 204
Mission
'It's this terrible grape that doesn't make good wine." That's the standard rap on Mission, a California heritage grape that was grown here for many decades before Zinfandel showed up to claim that title. And there's something about the standard rap that bothers Napa grape grower Mike Hendry.
"Everybody will tell you it's terrible," says Hendry (pictured), "but no one has tasted it." Spanish friars brought Mission to the New World in the early 16th century. Since making wine and hooch was a top priority in the mission system—right up there with subjugating the natives—they brought the grape to California in 1778. It was the dominant wine grape for nearly a century.
"If you start to think about it," muses Hendry, "it was basically the only grape for 300 years. Why stick with it, if it made such terrible wine?" While Mission was probably planted on his family's ranch around 1859 (a newspaper clipping from the era mentions that the vineyard also contained "foreign" varieties, meaning the French grapes we take for granted in Napa today), this is not a story of carefully preserved, gnarled old centenarian vines: the viticultural villain phylloxera destroyed the original 200-acre vineyard, and only six acres of replanted grapes remained when Hendry's grandfather bought the property in 1939... READ MORE
North Bay Bohemian
Petite Sirah
92
Quietly powerful, this tightly wound wine grips its potent blackberry and black pepper flavors in firm tannins that will need a long time to relax for easier sipping. The wine is majorly concentrated, dense and deep.
Best from 2028–2040. –Jim Gordon
Wine Enthusiast
Petit Verdot
Another remarkable vineyard in Napa Valley that made this week’s report is the Hendry Estate, which borders the city of Napa on the northwest and is essentially wedged between the Carneros and Oak Knoll AVAs. The family seems to be able to succeed with every popular grape variety. Check out the good scores and great notes for their chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons, pinot noirs and zinfandels.
91 Hendry Petit Verdot Napa Valley Hendry Block 15 2020
Deeply colored and dense in appearance. The nose is concentrated, with layers of dark black fruit, stewed dark cherries, smoked meat and sweet baking spices. The palate is full-bodied and viscous, with intense notes of Damson plums, coffee, tobacco and cigar box. Need time in the bottle. Drink after 2028.
JamesSuckling.com
94
This deep, concentrated, cherry- and chocolate-scented wine builds flavors and texture as you sip, filling the mouth with blackberries, black cherries and dark chocolate wrapped in substantial fine-grained tannins. The wine will pair awesomely with roasts and steaks. Decant and drink soon, but it will be best from 2026–2036. — Jim Gordon
Wine Enthusiast
91 Points and Four Stars: Very concentrated intense black fruit aromas followed by violets, wild herbs, cloves and dark chocolate with underlying stony and graphite minerality. Immensely structured, full-bodied wine with moderate acidity and firm yet ripe tannins. Try after 2027.
JamesSuckling.com
2023 BEST OF THE YEAR BUYING GUIDE
This deep, concentrated, cherry-and-chocolate-scented wine builds flavors and texture as you sip, filling the mouth with blackberries, black cherries and dark chocolate, wrapped in substantial fine-grained tannins. The wine will pair awesomely with roasts and steaks. Decant and drink sooner, but will be best from 2026-2036. EDITORS' CHOICE + 94 Points J.G.
Wine Enthusiast
The inky-colored 2009 Petit Verdot is loaded with black fruit, violets, grilled herbs and melted road tar. The 2009 is quite intense and primary at this stage. It will be interesting to see what develops here over the coming years. Anticipated maturity: 2014- 2024.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate | Issue 204
