The Monkey Jacket by Cruse Wine Co.
The 2022 Cruse Wine Co. ‘Monkey Jacket’ is a wine that breaks away from tradition to offer something fresh and exciting. Crafted by the renowned winemaker Michael Cruse, this blend captures the vibrant character of California’s diverse vineyards while delivering a perfect balance of bright fruit and structure. Michael’s vision for Cruse Wine Co. was to create wines that are approachable, fruit-driven, and unapologetically Californian, and Monkey Jacket perfectly embodies this ethos. Inspired by an old British sailor song, the name reflects the wine’s playful, adventurous nature—an invitation to explore something uniquely satisfying.
Monkey Jacket is a carefully balanced blend of 19% Carignan, 14% Valdiguie, 12% Petite Sirah, 11% Pinot Noir, and 10% Tannat, sourced from organic vineyards across Mendocino County, Sonoma Coast, Napa Valley, and the Sierra Foothills. Yes, that doesn’t add up to 100% because the rest is noted as ‘22% Mixed Red Blends’, rather unhelpfully. Fermented with native yeasts and aged equally in concrete tanks and used barrels, this wine offers a vibrant, quaffable experience with a depth that speaks to Michael’s mastery. At just 12.5% ABV, it remains light on its feet while delivering bright fruit flavors, delicate structure, and a refreshing finish.
Michael Cruse, a UC Berkeley-trained biochemist turned winemaker, has been redefining California wine since launching Cruse Wine Co. in 2013. Known for his cult sparkling wines under the Ultramarine label, Michael’s reputation as a “winemaker’s winemaker” is well-earned. His passion for crafting wines that reflect both place and time shines through in every bottle. With Monkey Jacket, he brings a thoughtful approach to creating a red blend that is as pleasurable to drink as it is intriguing to contemplate.
What sets Monkey Jacket apart is its ability to effortlessly bridge the gap between everyday drinkability and serious complexity. Whether paired with a casual weeknight meal or enjoyed on its own, this wine offers a dynamic range of flavors that make it both versatile and memorable. As Esther Mobley of the San Francisco Chronicle aptly put it, “the Cruse wines aim to reimagine what ‘table wine’ can be: fruity, quaffable, affordable, and intensely loyal to their California origins.” With its bright acidity, gentle tannins, and a medley of red fruit, floral, and earthy notes, Monkey Jacket is a celebration of California’s rich viticultural diversity and an invitation to experience wine that is both thoughtful and fun.
