Can you believe spring is almost here? Our winemaker has curated a fantastic selection of wines perfect for the season ahead. Below is the complete list of wines you may have received in your March Wine Club shipment.
If you have any questions about the wines, need pairing suggestions, or would like to place a reorder, feel free to reach out to our club department at 805-693-9339, or send Cindy an email at: cindy@rideauvineyard.com.
You may also read a digital copy of our March newsletter by clicking the link below:
In a world of instant messaging and emojis, writing a love letter might feel old-fashioned. But when was the last time you saved a text for years? Or reread a DM that made your heart race? A love letter—whether to your partner, best friend, or yourself—is more than just words. It’s a keepsake, a moment frozen in ink. And like a fine wine, the best ones only get better with time.
This Valentine’s season, Rideau Vineyard invites you to rediscover the magic of love letters—because when paired with wine, they create the perfect recipe for romance.
Why Wine & Love Letters Just Make Sense
We’re used to quick “thinking of you” texts, heart emojis, and shared videos that speak for us. But true connection comes from slowing down.
Both wine and love letters invite you to pause. You don’t rush a great glass of wine, just like you don’t rush writing something meaningful.
Both tell a story. Every wine has a history—the vineyard, the aging, the hands that crafted it. Every love letter captures a moment, preserving emotions that might otherwise fade.
Both are meant to be shared. Whether you’re raising a glass or writing from the heart, these rituals bring people closer together.
At their core, wine and love letters are about presence—being fully in the moment and appreciating what’s right in front of you.
The Science of Love, Wine & Words
Writing a love letter isn’t just romantic—it’s been shown to strengthen relationships, boost confidence, and reduce stress. It encourages us to slow down and express ourselves with intention, something increasingly rare in a fast-paced world.
And wine? It’s more than a drink. Science shows that moderate wine consumption releases dopamine and oxytocin— the same feel-good chemicals responsible for love, trust, and happiness. That’s why sharing a bottle of wine can turn an ordinary evening into something unforgettable.
So when you combine a heartfelt love letter with a glass of wine, you create the perfect setting for deeper connection.
Start Your Own Love Letter Tradition
Not sure what to write? No pressure—love letters don’t need to be poetic or perfect. They just need to be real.
Pour a glass of wine—choose one that reminds you of a special moment or someone you love.
Think of a memory—a time that made you laugh, a moment that changed everything, or something small but unforgettable.
Write like you talk—no need for fancy words. Just be honest: “I love the way you make me laugh” or “This wine reminds me of the night we stayed up talking for hours.”
Seal it & share it—give it to someone, save it for later, or pair it with a bottle of wine as a heartfelt gift.
This Valentine’s, Slow Down & Savor
This Valentine’s, embrace something more meaningful. Put pen to paper. Pour a glass of something special. And take a moment to remind the people in your life—whether a partner, a best friend, or yourself—why love, like wine, is meant to be savored.
Want to bring this tradition to life? Join us at Rideau Vineyard for an intimate experience of love letters and fine wines—where every sip and every word deepens the connection you share.
Wine Resolutions for 2025: Tips from Rideau Vineyard to Enhance Your Wine Journey
As we raise a glass to the new year, it’s a great time to focus on connection, discovery, and enjoying exceptional wine. Rideau Vineyard is here to inspire you with resolutions that make every sip more meaningful and every moment more memorable in 2025.
1. Explore one new varietal each month
Challenge your palate with a wine that’s new to you. From iconic varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah to hidden treasures such as Mourvèdre and Roussanne, every bottle tells a unique tale. Being connected to a winery like Rideau makes that easy! Maybe you’ve tried our Syrah and Viognier, but have you explored our varietals like Cinsault and Carignane? These under-the-radar varietals may not have the name recognition of the heavy hitters, but each brings a distinctive character that’s worth exploring.
2. Host More Gatherings with Friends and Family
Wine has a way of bringing people together, transforming simple gatherings into something special. Whether it’s a lively dinner party or a relaxed game night, choosing the right wine pairing shows care and elevates the experience. Here are a few of our favorite pairings to inspire your next get-together:
Wild Mushroom Risotto + Syrah: Syrah’s earthy, spicy notes and rich texture enhance the depth and creaminess of this dish.
Blue Cheese Burgers + Malbec: Malbec’s bold body and hints of plum balance the sharp, tangy flavor of blue cheese for a delicious match.
Herb-Roasted Chicken + Viognier: Viognier’s floral aromas and stone fruit flavors pair beautifully with the golden, herb-infused chicken.
Spaghetti Bolognese + Sangiovese: Sangiovese’s bright acidity cuts through the richness of Bolognese while providing the tannic structure to support the fats, bringing harmony to every bite.
Let these pairings add a little extra magic to your next meal!
3. Learn about Wine While you Drink It
Every bottle has a story, and discovering the craft behind it makes each sip more rewarding. Visiting a vineyard like Rideau allows you to connect with the passion and people behind the wines—maybe even finding your new favorite as you explore the vines. We offer in-depth guided tours that would be an excellent way to kick off your 2025 wine journey.
For a more relaxed experience, cozy up to our tasting room bar! Our servers are here to guide you through a flight, pouring each wine and sharing its story. Whether you want to dive into the winemaking process or learn about the varietal’s history, we’re happy to share our knowledge and make your visit memorable.
4. Support local wineries
Local wineries are the heart of every wine region. By visiting them, you’re not just discovering fresh, exciting wines—you’re also supporting sustainable practices and local communities. Rideau is part of the vibrant Santa Ynez Valley, where small-batch wineries tell unique stories through their wines. Make a day of exploring the region and see what treasures you uncover.
5. Make sustainability part of your wine journey
More wineries are embracing eco-friendly practices, from organic farming to innovative packaging. From our organically farmed vineyards to our use of solar energy to power the tasting room, Rideau is committed to reducing our environmental footprint and protecting the future of winemaking. Supporting wineries with these values not only enhances your wine journey but also helps preserve the vineyards for future generations.
6. Immerse Yourself in Wine Communities
Joining a wine club or tasting group is a great way to meet fellow enthusiasts and gain access to exclusive experiences. The Rideau wine club brings people together through intimate events, early access to new releases, exclusive benefits and opportunities to deepen connections with the wines you love. Learn more about our wine club benefits here.
7. Share Your Love of Wine with a Newcomer!
Now that you’ve honed your wine knowledge, why not pass that passion along? Sharing your favorite experiences, whether it’s exploring new wines or visiting wineries, can be incredibly rewarding when shared with someone new to the world of wine. Wine discovery can feel overwhelming, but by introducing a friend or family member to the journey, you’ll help make the process more approachable and enjoyable for them.
Let our 2025 resolutions guide you to a deeper connection with wine and the people you share it with.
Here’s to a year filled with discovery, flavor, and unforgettable moments. Cheers!
We hope you are all having a wonderful holiday season thus far! Our winemaker has put together a fantastic selection of wines to enjoy at your gatherings and celebrations. Below is the full list of wines that you may have received in your December Wine Club shipments. If you have any questions about any of the wines, pairing suggestions, or re-ordering, feel free to give our club department a call at 805-693-9339, or send Cindy an email at cindy@rideauvineyard.com.
You may also read a digital copy of our December newsletter by clicking the link below:
As we move closer and closer to harvest, we are very excited to send you an excellent selection of wines for your Fall Wine Club Shipment! Click the link to see the detailed tech sheet for that wine:
