This merlot drinks like a cabernet, but tastes like a merlot.

The H3 Merlot entices the nose with aromas of blueberry, cassis and hints of tobacco and spice aromas. The silky and sweet mid-palate introduces slight dusty, earthy, and rich berry notes which cumulate in the long and concentrated finish.  It will run you about $15. 

I took my own advice and drank locally while on my trip. This Pinot blanc features

Granny Smith apple, tangerine and meadowfoam honey aromas, accented by hints of fennel.
There’s a rich mouthfeel that is offset by the wine’s general raciness. It pairs superbly
with a wide range of foods. It runs around $20. 

Even if you stick to whites only... you will have to try this Pinot Noir.

With a complex nose of sweet berries and plums and a palate layered with powerful black fruit, chocolate and subtle oak spice, this pinot showcases some of the best Chamisal has to offer.   The rounded acidity and fine-grained tannins carry the seductive flavors through the lingering finish and add to the plush overall mouthfeel. Tightly focused, this is a hedonistic Pinot that wows the senses.

This Napa Valley Cabernet is worth the money. 

This incredible release opens with aromas of dark plum, red cherry and chocolate.  The palate is composed of dense flavors of candied dark fruit and subtle hints of vanilla oak.  The finish is luscious and velvety, with elegant tannins.  It runs around $50.