Even within the crowded and competitive field of Napa Valley Napa Valley wineries, Forthright Winery stands as a testament to the passion and dedication of four friends who share a profound love for wine. Founded by Patrick McEvoy, Rafer Caudill, Selcuk Sanliturk, and Ed Stritch, Forthright Winery is more than just a place where wine is made; it is a manifestation of a collective dream, honed through decades of friendship and an unwavering commitment to the art of winemaking.

The Force Behind the Winery

What sets Forthright apart in a sea of boutique wineries is the hands-on approach of its founders. McEvoy and Caudill, who are also the primary winemakers, eschew the traditional separation of roles in the winery. With no additional employees, they share all day-to-day responsibilities, from production to hospitality. This direct involvement ensures that each bottle of Forthright wine carries the personal touch and meticulous care of its creators.

A Philosophy of Authenticity

The name Forthright encapsulates the winery's core philosophy: to be honest, direct, and sincere in both life and winemaking. “Our purpose is simple,” says McEvoy. “We want to produce fantastic wines that reflect our values and way of life, which mainly involves enjoying the Craic with our friends and family.” For those unfamiliar, "Craic" is an Irish term that translates to "good times," an ethos that permeates every aspect of Forthright Winery.

Winemaking: A Belief in Minimal Intervention

Source: Napa Wine Project

Forthright’s winemaking approach is decidedly minimalistic and naturalistic. Every bottle is crafted by hand, with minimal intervention, allowing the true character of the grapes to shine through. This philosophy is not merely about reducing the winery’s footprint but about creating wines that are an authentic expression of their terroir.

Guests visiting the winery are treated to an immersive experience in Forthright’s 6,000-square-foot cave. Here, surrounded by the tools and barrels of winemaking, visitors can taste finished wines and occasionally sample directly from the barrel. The experience is enriched with storytelling and the palpable camaraderie of McEvoy and Caudill, making every visit unique and memorable.

Sommeliers Choice Awards 2024 WINE OF THE YEAR BY VARIETAL (MERLOT) 93 Points

Merlot: The Heart of Forthright

Forthright Winery has garnered significant acclaim for its Oak Knoll District Merlot. The 2019 vintage was recently awarded the prestigious Merlot of the Year award and a Gold Medal at the 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards, distinguishing itself among 1,500 wines from over 30 countries. This accolade is a testament to the winery's dedication to quality and their skillful handling of the Merlot varietal. McEvoy says: “We love Merlot. While it may not be as highly regarded in the U.S. as other parts of the world, we are on a mission to change that. We want to re-introduce fine Merlot to the American consumer. It can change their world.”

The focus on Merlot is no accident. The label itself features a blackbird, or "merle" in French, a nod to the grape’s etymology and its blue-black iridescent skin that attracts birds like the blackbird. This symbolism highlights Forthright’s deep appreciation for the grape and its potential to produce exceptional wines.

While Merlot remains the cornerstone of Forthright’s portfolio, the winery’s spirit of innovation leads them to explore other varietals. The inception of “The Stritch,” a Pinot Noir named after Ed Stritch, is a prime example. Initially met with skepticism due to the lack of vineyard sources, the team’s persistence paid off when they successfully sourced Pinot Noir grapes from the Russian River Valley. The result is a wine that adds depth to their offerings and a playful new measurement, defining “The Stritch” as “the distance between our bottle and your lips.”

Forthright’s exploration doesn’t end with Pinot Noir. McEvoy and Caudill maintain a flexible and opportunistic approach to winemaking, open to crafting Port, Cabernet Sauvignon, and even Riesling when the right conditions and grape sources arise. This willingness to diversify ensures that Forthright’s portfolio remains dynamic and exciting for its clientele.

A Commitment to Excellence

Forthright Winery’s dedication to excellence extends beyond the bottle. Sustainable practices are at the forefront of their operations, underscoring their respect for the environment and future generations of winemakers. This commitment is not merely about following trends but is rooted in a genuine belief that great wine starts with great stewardship of the land.

The Napa Experience: Hospitality and Engagement Building a Legacy

The hospitality experience at Forthright is as integral to the winery’s identity as the wines themselves. Visits to the winery are personalized and engaging, providing sommeliers and wine enthusiasts with an intimate look into the winemaking process. Tastings are often accompanied by McEvoy and Caudill’s engaging stories, offering insights into their philosophy, the challenges they face, and the triumphs they celebrate.

Forthright Winery is more than a business; it is a narrative of friendship, passion, and unwavering dedication to the craft of winemaking. For sommeliers, Forthright offers not only wines of exceptional quality but also a story that resonates with authenticity and integrity. The winery’s commitment to minimalistic, naturalistic winemaking ensures that each bottle is a true reflection of its terroir and the meticulous care of its creators.

In a market where authenticity is increasingly valued, Forthright Winery stands out by staying true to its roots. Their approach, both in life and winemaking, is a refreshing reminder of what makes wine so special: the people behind it, the stories they tell, and the genuine passion they pour into every bottle.

For sommeliers looking to enrich their wine lists with a touch of Napa Valley’s finest, Forthright Winery offers an unparalleled blend of quality, authenticity, and a heartfelt story that will captivate and delight their clientele.