January 12, 2026 (Rolling Hills, CA) — Castle Rock Winery, a family-owned winery since 1994, is pleased to announce that its 2024 Castle Rock Chardonnay, Central Coast has been recognized as a Best Value selection by Wine Spectator in the magazine’s Advance sneak preview of the Jan. 31 – Feb. 28, 2026 Buying Guide.
In the review, Wine Spectator awarded the wine 87 points, praising its balance and approachability:
“Buttered brioche and touches of brown sugar are creamy and smooth in this version, with peach, baked apple and poached pear flavors at the core, accented by hints of candied cardamom. Drink now.”
On Wine Spectator’s 100-point scale, an 87-point score denotes a “very good” wine, underscoring the quality behind the Best Value designation at a suggested retail price of $10.
“This recognition reinforces Castle Rock’s long-standing focus on producing wines that consistently overdeliver for the price,” said Greg Popovich, Founder and President of Castle Rock Winery.
The 2024 Central Coast Chardonnay continues a strong track record for Castle Rock, following earlier recognition by Wine Spectator in a feature highlighting “8 Exciting California Chardonnays Up to 92 Points,” which showcased standout Golden State whites from Sonoma, Mendocino, and Monterey priced as low as $10. That inclusion underscored Castle Rock’s consistent presence among California’s top value-driven Chardonnay producers.
The winery’s momentum continues across its broader portfolio, including Kosmic Kitty, Castle Rock’s modern California wine brand that has quickly gained national traction.
“Whether it’s Castle Rock or Kosmic Kitty, the goal is the same—make wines people are excited to pick up, enjoy, and come back to,” said Adriana Popovich, Director of Social Media. “Kosmic Kitty allows us to speak to a new generation of wine consumers while still honoring the quality, authenticity, and value that have defined Castle Rock for over three decades.”
The 2024 Castle Rock Chardonnay – 25,000 cases were produced and is available nationwide.
About Castle Rock Winery
Founded in 1994, Castle Rock Winery is a family-owned and operated winery dedicated to crafting high-quality wines sourced from top vineyard regions while maintaining exceptional value. Best known as a pioneer in affordable, premium California Pinot Noir, Castle Rock produces a diverse portfolio spanning California, Oregon, and Washington. With a long history of critical acclaim from leading wine publications, Castle Rock wines are enjoyed nationwide and remain committed to delivering consistent quality, authenticity, and value vintage after vintage.
More info: wwwcastlerockwinery.com
