By Emma Krasov. Photography by Yuri Krasov
Murrieta’s Well winery in Livermore Valley, Northern California, is named after Joaquin Murrieta, a mythical outlaw of the Gold Rush era whose posthumous glory and widely fictionalized adventures inspired a 1854 novel The Life and Adventures of Joaquín Murieta: The Celebrated California Bandit by John Rollin Ridge, and a lineup of other literary and theatrical works produced a century later by lumpenproletariat-sympathizer creatives in Latin America and the former Soviet Union.
Even though the evidence for a historical Murrieta is scarce, and a lot of controversy surrounds this legendary figure from the very fact of his existence to the uncertainties of who he was, what he did, and if his life’s events were real or compiled from the many disparate tales, the winery—part of the Wente family’s estate and one of California’s original winemaking properties growing grapes since the 1800s —boasts an artesian well with hand-painted tiles above the water spigot depicting Murrieta and his horse.
By successfully developing cuttings from Chateau d’Yquem and Chateau Margaux vineyards, located in Bordeaux, France, Murrieta’s Well winery became known for its distinctive reds, like cabernet sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, merlot, malbec, petite verdot, tempranillo, and others.
This summer, the winery introduced its new release label, Roaming Legend—2024 Roaming Legend Red Blend Livermore Valley and 2022 Roaming Legend Sauvignon Blanc Livermore Valley—both wines terroir-driven and California certified sustainable.
Named in reference to the legend of Murrieta, the bold and expressive wines were introduced at a lavish trade and media launch party with the Roaming Legend winemaker, Alec Fraser, present at the event. The guests enjoyed the excellent wines, catered treats, inspirational speeches, and gorgeous cowboy hats to keep as souvenirs.
“Roaming Legend is more than a new wine brand, it’s a bold expression of our heritage and vision,” said Jordan Wente, ambassador for Roaming Legend and fifth generation winegrower (the eldest daughter of Phil Wente). “These wines embody the spirit of adventure that defines the Livermore Valley. They mark the beginning of an exciting chapter — one that pushes boundaries while honoring the values that have shaped Murrieta’s Well.”
According to the winemaker’s tasting notes, “The 2024 Roaming Legend Red Blend (SRP: $24.99) is an elegant yet powerful expression, composed of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Petite Sirah, 11% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. It opens with aromas of ripe black currants and Bing cherry, layered with subtle French oak spice. Rich and polished on the palate, it finishes with refined tannins and a complex structure, perfect for pairing with aged cheeses or bold pasta dishes.
The 2022 Roaming Legend Sauvignon Blanc (SRP: $19.99) offers a bright, refreshing contrast. Bursting with notes of citrus blossom, white peach, and lime zest, this wine is crisp and lively, showcasing the expressive character of Livermore Valley fruit. Stainless steel aging preserves its freshness, while a touch of neutral oak lends depth and texture. It’s a perfect match for grilled seafood, fresh goat cheese, or a citrus-marinated chicken salad.”
Murrieta’s Well is located at 3005 Mines Rd, Livermore, CA 94550, USA. To learn more, visit https://murrietaswell.com/ and www.RoamingLegendWines.com
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