Recognized for freshness, balance, and approachability in the $12 everyday Pinot category
November 6, 2025 (Rolling Hills, CA) — Castle Rock Winery is proud to announce that its 2024 California Pinot Noir has been awarded 90 Points by internationally acclaimed wine critic James Suckling.
Suckling described the wine as:
“Bright and fruit-driven, with aromas of red cherries, plums and spices. The palate is medium-bodied with soft tannins and fresh acidity, showing easy drinkability and balance. Drink now.”
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Consumers Are Returning to Value
Across the U.S., consumers are shifting back toward quality at fair prices. Just yesterday, McDonald’s reported increased earnings driven by value-focused menu offerings, reflecting a broader consumer trend toward enjoyment without excessive premium pricing.
Castle Rock has followed this principle from the beginning — exceptional quality, honestly priced.
Although the suggested retail is $12, many times Castle Rock can be found on shelves for under $10 across the country.
It is exceptionally rare to see a wine in this value category earn a 90-point score — and Castle Rock remains one of the few wineries consistently delivering critic-level quality at true everyday prices.
Kosmic Kitty Wines Earn National Recognition
South Bay Wine Group, DBA Castle Rock Winery also produces Kosmic Kitty, one of the fastest-growing lifestyle-driven wine brands in the country.
Recent Scores & Accolades:
- Kosmic Kitty Pinot Noir — 92 Points (The Tasting Panel Magazine, Nov/Dec Issue)
- Kosmic Kitty Cabernet Sauvignon — 92 Points (The Tasting Panel Magazine, Nov/Dec Issue)
- Kosmic Kitty Pinot Noir — 90 Points (Wine Enthusiast)
- Kosmic Kitty Cabernet Sauvignon — 90 Points (Wine Enthusiast)
“These scores reinforce our belief that wine can be both serious in quality and fun in personality,” said Founder Greg Popovich. “Kosmic Kitty is bringing new energy into the category while staying true to our philosophy — great wines, honestly priced.”
“Kosmic Kitty is all about joy, connection, and not taking life too seriously,” said Adriana Popovich, Director of Social Media. “It’s colorful, it’s expressive, and it invites people in. Whether you’re opening a bottle with friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, we want it to feel uplifting, genuine, and beautifully accessible.”
Current Kosmic Kitty Wines:
Pinot Noir • Pinot Grigio • Sauvignon Blanc • Cabernet Sauvignon
Releasing January 2026:
Kosmic Kitty Chardonnay (2024 Vintage) — Launching nationwide in January 2026
A vibrant, fruit-forward Chardonnay with signature Kosmic Kitty freshness and a slight hint of oak for balance. Crafted to be refreshing, joyful, and easy to love — just like the rest of the lineup.
Dressage Wines: Elegance, Balance & Precision
Castle Rock Winery also produces Dressage Wines, created in collaboration with U.S. Olympic Dressage rider Sabine Schut-Kery.
Dressage Pinot Noir was recently awarded 89 Points and named a “Best Buy” by Wine Enthusiast, recognized for its refined style, balance, and exceptional value.
Featured by-the-glass in restaurants and specialty retailers nationwide, Dressage Pinot Noir is celebrated for its elegance, grace, and expressive character.
About Castle Rock Winery
Founded in 1994, Castle Rock Winery is an independent, family-owned winery dedicated to producing wines of exceptional quality and value from the West Coast’s most admired growing regions. Produced in Santa Rosa, California, Castle Rock wines highlight distinctive regional character while remaining accessible and affordable.
Castle Rock Winery is part of the South Bay Wine Group, a family-led wine company committed to delivering high-quality wines at honest prices to consumers nationwide.
