The Paring was established by Matt Dees, the acclaimed winemaker behind Screaming Eagle's sister estate, Jonata, and The Hilt Estate in Santa Barbara County. Created to showcase exceptional value without compromising quality, The Paring sources fruit from premier vineyards across California, including Santa Barbara, Paso Robles and select coastal sites. While more approachable than Jonata's flagship wines, The Paring follows the same meticulous approach to vineyard selection, blending and élevage, producing Bordeaux-inspired wines that combine richness, balance and elegance. The wines have earned a strong reputation for delivering remarkable quality at their price point.

The 2017 vintage is a California Bordeaux-style red blend composed of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot. Each variety is vinified separately before ageing for 22 months in French oak barrels (approximately 55% new oak). The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered, resulting in a medium- to full-bodied style with concentrated dark fruit, refined tannins and impressive freshness. It balances New World generosity with classical structure and restraint.

Deep ruby-purple in colour, the bouquet reveals lifted aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry and black plum intertwined with tobacco leaf, grilled herbs, espresso, anise and dark chocolate. The palate is rich yet beautifully proportioned, combining ripe black and red fruit with savoury nuances, vibrant acidity and finely textured, dusty tannins. Layers of mulberry, cassis and spice unfold across a concentrated palate, while subtle oak adds notes of cedar and mocha without overwhelming the fruit. The finish is long, precise and harmonious, reflecting the balance and elegance that define Matt Dees' winemaking style.

" Described as an outstanding value, highlighting its dark red fruit, tobacco, leather, spice and expressive, voluptuous character. " -- Vinous