-
Try our Advanced Search for more options
Liberators of Fine Wines
Like Robin Hood, who stole from the rich and gave to the poor, Three Thieves Winery believes that one’s fortune (or lack thereof) need not preclude the enjoyment of such riches as premium California wine. Indeed, sharing a bottle of wine with loved ones or good friends is not a privilege; it’s a basic right! And who said fine wine must come in a cork-stoppered 750 ml bottle with an elegant label? From the start, Three Thieves has snubbed the snobs by bottling Zinfandel in one-liter jugs, or Cabernet in lightweight tetra paks. But unlike many brands with a low price point, Three Thieves does not merely repurpose wine sold on the bulk market. Rather they cultivate relationships with conscientious growers, and make and blend the wines at a facility in the Napa Valley. The “Three Thieves” behind this brand are Joel Gott, Roger Scommegna, and Charles Bieler, each of whom might be considered a serial entrepreneur of the drinks and hospitality trades, with hands in such disparate ventures as a hotel in Mendocino, a gourmet hamburger stand in St. Helena, or such “hipster” products as hard cider, artisanal Mescal and Riesling in kegs. Joel Gott, of course, is well-known to Hotei fans as a producer of fine wines that win awards but remain affordable. But whereas the JG wines are made to grace the dining table, Three Thieves will be the life of the party. Bold, brash, irreverently packaged but carefully sourced and well-made, these are California varietal wines that will spark conversation and good times whenever you get together with friends, family, colleagues or new acquaintances.
Wine MakerJoel Gott/Charles Bieler/Roger Scommegna
CountryUSA
RegionCalifornia
A perfect summertime sipper, this crisp Pinot Grigio will keep you cool and refreshed on hot sultry evenings. The blend consists of 76% Pinot Grigio, 9% Riesling, 5% French Colombard as well as a couple other varieties. To enhance the best characteristics of this varietal, the wine was cold fermented in stainless steel without undergoing any malolactic fermentation. As a result, bright aromas, fresh fruit flavors and crisp, refreshing acidity make for a wine that’s so good, it’s a steal!
A crisp Chardonnay priced for everyday drinking that delivers flavor and pleasure. What’s not to like? Three Thieves Chardonnay is clean and crisp, with citrus and tropical flavors and notes of toasty oak. The wine is medium-bodied with a lovely, slightly creamy texture. Partial malolactic fermentation softens tart flavors while keeping the flavors pure. Fermentation on American and French oak imparts a note of spice. Try this delicious Chardonnay with Caesar salad, crab cakes, or pasta with creamy sauces.
The Three Thieves are passionate about making fine wine for all of us rather than for the privileged or the elite. Sourced from vineyards near the coast as well as from Lodi, this is a California Cabernet that’s smooth and approachable, full-bodied but firm and full of flavor. Those features and the low price make it a great wine for all sorts of occasions: big weekend barbecues, cocktail parties, company events or gallery openings.
A real steal, Three Thieves Pinot Noir is generous, fruit-forward, smooth and silky, and mouthwateringly fresh. Though it’s priced as a weekday wine, this Pinot punches above its weight with complex aromas, concentrated flavors, structure and acidity. The winemakers have this to say about this wine: “The Thieves believe that a great Pinot Noir is a reward unto itself. To craft a wine that showcases the varietal’s most beautiful qualities, the wine is gently fermented and infused with a touch of French and American oak to lend body and support to the bright cherry and berry flavors.” Try it with lamb, roast chicken, pasta, grilled salmon, or even lightly spiced South Asian dishes.