Hourglass "HG III" Red Blend 2023
(Napa Valley, California) - [WS 94] [DM 94] [JS 94] [JD 92] [VM 91]

About the Winery:
Hourglass is a family-owned boutique estate in Napa Valley founded by Jeff Smith on property purchased by Jeff’s father in 1976. Their first vintage was 1997 with Bob Foley, a family friend and maker of Pride Mountain, Switchback Ridge, and Paloma, serving as winemaker. Foley was followed by Tony Biagi, of PlumpJack and Cade fame.

Hourglass vineyard lies in the St. Helena AVA, rising from the valley floor to a 70-foot knoll top. There is a unique microclimate here, characterized by cooling breezes, which increase diurnal temperature swings, due to the hourglass-like shape of the valley with the vineyard located at the precise point where the hourglass comes to a pinch and hence its name.

In 2006, Jeff purchased a second, twenty-acre vineyard located near Duckhorn’s Three Palms Vineyard in Calistoga. He called this parcel Blueline Vineyard in reference to two “blue-line” streams that border the property—what remains of a much larger riverbed where the vineyard is now. 

About this Wine:
A study in the art of blending with Merlot, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon comprising the core elements: Merlot offers sleek, approachable texture and tangy brighty red fruit; Petite Sirah provides the anchoring base tones of dark blue and black fruit, while Cabernet Sauvignon weaves it all together with structural framing and elegant refinement.

Tasting Notes:
The 2023 vintage of HGIII elivers a bold and captivating expression, showcasing its signature blend of Merlot, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon with fresh energy and depth.  Aromatically, the wine is a vibrant interplay of ripe boysenberry, fig compote, and berry jam, lifted by notes of geranium flowers, fennel and a hint of licorice. On the palate, bright, youthful tannins frame the rich core of dark fruit, balanced by savory elements of baker's chocolate and coconut macaroons. A precise blend of new and seasoned barrels contributes structure and complexity, ensuring a wine that is both powerful and refined, with a lingering finish that speaks to its pedigree.

Ratings & Reviews

94 Points - Wine Spectator: 
"Expressive and detailed, with multilayered red currant and cherry flavors taking on rose petal, dusty sage and black tea accents that build tension toward medium-grained tannins. Merlot, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2035. 7,000 cases made." – Tim Fish (Sep 2026)

94 Points - Decanter Magazine: 
"This blend of 41% Merlot, 38% Petite Sirah, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% other red varieties is sourced from estate and vineyard sites including Jaeger, Orchard, Bolen Park, Varozza, and the Blueline Estate, and was aged for 18 months in 50% new French oak. Winemaker Adrian Halpin has been crafting the wine since 2019, with Tony Biagi continuing in a consulting role after becoming a partner that same year. The result here is a big, bold, and robust red blend, delivering a rich tapestry of blue fruit and black cherry notes, cola spices, and fine-grained tannins. Dark loamy earth and savoury spice carry through the finish.' – Jonathan Cristaldi (Jan 2026)

94 Points – James Suckling:
"Bright, fresh and focused, with red berries, blackberries, spices, crushed stones and an earthy undertone on the nose. The palate is mid-weighted with fine-boned tannins and a juicy yet dry finish. Drink or hold." (Apr 2026)

92 Points – Jeb Dunnuck:
"Based on 41% Merlot, 38% Petite Sirah, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% other red varietals and aged 16 months in 50% new and seasoned French oak, the 2023 HG III sports a ruby/plum hue as well as ripe red and black fruits, chocolaty herbs, and spice. It's medium to full-bodied, round, supple, and balanced, with some classic Napa richness and depth while staying light and balanced. There are roughly 13,000 cases produced. Drink this charming, sexy beauty over the coming 7-8 years. Drink 2025-2032." (Dec 2025)

91 Points - Vinous Media: 
"The 2023 HGIII is a tasty entry-level Merlot-based blend from Hourglass. Forward and bright, with lovely upfront fruit, this mid-weight, juicy red is a delight. Drink it over the next few years." – Antonio Galloni (Nov 2025)