Vintage: 1988.

RENAISSANCE is not a typical Californian winery. Remote from any other wine region, the Renaissance Vineyard and Winery is a mountain estate located 700 metres above sea level with spectacular views of the peaks of the Sierra Nevada. The climate is ideal for vines - above the fog and below the snow. Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc grapes benefit particularly from the cool mountain nights and rocky terrain, and as a result have an austerity not characteristic of California white varietals. The Renaissance Cabernet Sauvignon has good balance and a fine fruity bouquet. On the palate, it has soft berry fruit flavours and good length. It can be drunk now or kept for a few more years. Serve it with red meat, game and pasta dishes.

Splendid scenery and fine wines are not the only reasons to visit Renaissance. In 1990, the winery opened a Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture with pieces from the Ming (1368-1644) and early Qing (1644-1735) dynasties. Regular concerts and music festivals are held at the estate's performing arts hall and on open-air stages where visiting artists perform with the Renaissance Orchestra and chorus.

Where to buy: From Wine 'n' Things (tel: 2880-9722) at $170 per bottle.