Cruse Wine Co. “Monkey Jacket”
North coast, california | 2020
Michael Cruse is a beacon in the new wave of vintners reshaping global perceptions of California wines, and as a result, he appeals to Midi’s philosophy of focusing on a more European approach to wines. Raised in Northern California, Cruse's journey into winemaking began at the intersection of his biochemistry major alongside a pivotal viticulture lecture during his studies at Cal Berkeley, where the possibilities of melding his scientific expertise with winemaking ignited. As he honed his craft in Carneros, ascending to the role of assistant winemaker at multiple estates, Cruse's vision crystallized: to craft wines that echoed California's essence while defying conventional norms of the time and emulating wines that are more European stylistically. This drive led to the establishment of a custom crush facility in Petaluma in 2008, birthing his acclaimed sparkling wine project, Ultramarine, renowned globally for its unparalleled quality (albeit at an unparalleled price point as well!).
Yet, Cruse's story continued to evolve. In 2013, he realized his vision with the inception of Cruse Wine Co., a vision to produce fruit-forward, vibrant, and approachable wines that are at the same time complex and inspiring. As Cruse is anchored in the North Coast, he selected vineyards across Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, and Contra Costa Counties, championing overlooked varietals like Valdiguie, Tannat, Carignan, and St. Laurent and disavowing the more popular vitis vinifera varietals. Among his portfolio is “Monkey Jacket” which we brought in exclusively for our wine club members. Only a few cases made their way into the Illinois market, and we were ecstatic to be offered any at all!
"Monkey Jacket” epitomizes Cruse Wine Co.'s overall ethos: to make playful and exceptionally drinkable wines imbued with the chops meant for those who seek complexity and that “wow” factor. Crafted from a lively mix of biodynamically farmed Valdiguié and a mishmash of other red grapes like Carignan and Petite Sirah, “Monkey Jacket” is sourced from vineyards sprawled across the North Coast's loamy and sandstone soils. It's bursting with vibrant flavors of juicy strawberry, tangy rhubarb, and a dash of zesty white pepper that screams for a pairing with spicy fried chicken, or a chilled heirloom beet and mandarin orange salad. And what’s with the name "Monkey Jacket”? Well, according to the winemaker himself, it's a nod to the tough-as-nails sailors who used to rock double-breasted coats to brave the chilly sea winds, embodying grit and gutsiness. So grab a glass, chill it down, get gritty, and let the Monkey Jacket spirit lift your sails!