Napa’s leading Merlot producers successfully navigated the demanding 2022 vintage — and Castle Rock is recognized among the standout value-driven wines in the category.
Rolling Hills, California — November 10, 2025 — Castle Rock Winery is pleased to announce that its 2022 California Merlot is featured in the November 30 issue of Wine Spectator as part of senior editor Tim Fish’s Tasting Reports editorial titled “Threading the Needle.” The report highlights how California producers successfully navigated the challenges of the 2022 vintage to craft balanced, expressive Merlot at approachable price points.
Castle Rock’s 2022 California Merlot received 87 Points, reinforcing Merlot’s return to relevance among everyday wine drinkers. The review notes the wine’s juicy red cherry fruit, subtle tobacco character, and smooth, easygoing finish — making it a natural fit for weeknight dinners and relaxed gatherings.
“From the beginning, our approach has been simple — make wines that are honest, expressive, and accessible,” said Greg Popovich, Founder of Castle Rock Winery. “We’ve believed in Merlot through every chapter of its trend cycle, and it’s gratifying to see the variety finding its place again in homes and restaurants across the country.”
Continued Recognition Across the Castle Rock Portfolio
Castle Rock continues to earn strong critical acclaim for delivering quality and varietal character at value-driven prices:
- 2024 California Cuvée Pinot Noir — 90 Points (James Suckling)
- 2023 Mendocino County Pinot Noir — 92 Points & Best Buy (Wine Enthusiast)
While many Castle Rock wines carry a suggested retail of $12, they are frequently found on shelves for under $10, making these scores especially notable for price-conscious shoppers.
Kosmic Kitty Wines Earn National “Best Buy” Recognition
Castle Rock’s fast-growing lifestyle-driven label Kosmic Kitty continues to gain national attention in the joyful, vibrant, everyday wine category.
In the most recent Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide, all four core Kosmic Kitty varietals earned Best Buy awards:
- 2023 Kosmic Kitty Pinot Noir — 90 Points (Best Buy)
- 2023 Kosmic Kitty Cabernet Sauvignon — 90 Points (Best Buy)
- 2023 Kosmic Kitty Pinot Grigio — 89 Points (Best Buy)
- 2023 Kosmic Kitty Sauvignon Blanc — 88 Points (Best Buy)
A Remarkable Streak of Consistency
Across Castle Rock, Kosmic Kitty, and Dressage Wines, the winery has now earned a combined
33 consecutive “Best Buy” ratings from Wine Enthusiast — reflecting one of the strongest and most consistent value-performance track records in the wine industry.
“Kosmic Kitty has captured the imagination of wine lovers who want something joyful, stylish, and genuinely delicious,” said Adriana Popovich, Director of Social Media. “These Best Buy recognitions confirm that quality, fun, and affordability can absolutely go hand-in-hand.”
About Castle Rock Winery
Founded in 1994, Castle Rock Winery is a family-owned wine company dedicated to producing wines of exceptional quality and value. Working with long-term grower partnerships throughout California, Oregon, and Washington, Castle Rock focuses on balance, varietal character, and everyday enjoyment.
Wines are bottled in Santa Rosa, California and distributed nationally.
To learn more, visit: www.castlerockwinery.com
