Bob Cabral Wines

"Over the course of my career, I’ve had one basic philosophy: Do it right all the time, even when no one is looking."
- Bob Cabral
"Bob Cabral is quite the character and his wines also have outstanding character. Which do I prefer? Well I’ve always said “ it’s better to have character than to be one” I will take Bob’s wine anytime!"
Sammy Hagar, aka The Red Rocker
Sammy Hagar, aka The Red RockerCEO
"Bob Cabral is that rare wine country combo of stand-up guy and uber talented winemaker. Over the decades, we have benefited from his awesome skills and keen ability to balance land and hand, barrels and battonage, wisdom and wine. As Paul McCartney said: ‘… I’ve got to admit it’s getting better….a little better all the time’. And with Bob Cabral, yes indeed it is."
Evan Goldstein, MS
Evan Goldstein, MS

RAT DE CAVE

The French candle-stand called “Rat de Cave” or Cellar Rat, was the essential working tool used in the wine cellars of Burgundy. Its origin stems from far back in the past. In the year 1000 the Monks of the famous Abbey of Cluny, near Vougeot, used it to illuminate the caves that housed their wine barrels. This provided them with the necessary light to work with the wine barrels throughout the vintage.

We chose this “tool” as a tribute or symbol to the traditional Burgundian methods I am using to craft our wines. Incorporating these traditions is an essential part of my wine making thought process and vision – plus it’s really cool. You will not see this symbol on any of our labels, but should become quite familiar with it on the end of our bottle capsules. We hope that the flame inspires everyone towards a world of hope, peace and love.

During fermentation, the colour of the flame showed the eventual evolution of gases as the wines underwent a chemical transformation. The Monks then knew to leave the caves due to lack of oxygen – a “canary” if you will. The handle or “rats tail” provides an easy grip and the hook permits to hang the stand on a nail or the head of an oak barrel. This would allow the Monks to rack the clear wine off of the heavy sediment or lees.

Bob Cabral

Winemaking, Music,
It’s my passion, It’s my life...​

Growing up, my family and  I always had music playing in our house and cars. My dad had a fairly extensive record collection that included everything from Sinatra to Johnny Cash and The Beatles, so I always enjoyed listening to all types of music. I remember seeing Alice Cooper, Montrose, Heart, Journey, KISS, and Rod Stewart when I was a young kid. As I got older, I gravitated toward even more classics—my favorites were Led Zeppelin, Tom Petty, Pink Floyd, and the Rolling Stones.

Tickets for a Tasting

The Backstage Lounge Experience

Step into Bob Cabral’s Backstage Lounge.  A private, one-of-a-kind wine tasting experience that blends world-class wines with rock & roll soul.

Enjoy a curated flight of exceptional Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast wines, crafted by legendary winemaker Bob Cabral.  Each tasting reflects the spirit of Sonoma County and the artistry shaped over Bob’s 46-year career, including his former tenure as winemaker at Williams Selyem and Three Sticks prior to founding Bob Cabral Wines.

Inside the Backstage Lounge, guests are welcomed into a space that feels like Bob’s personal living room, surrounded by iconic rock memorabilia from legends such as Sammy Hagar, Journey, Night Ranger, and Foreigner.  It’s where fine wine meets classic rock. Intimate, immersive, and entirely independent.

Bob Cabral Wines is not affiliated with or endorsed by Williams Selyem or Three Sticks.

Wine Playlist

Every bottle pairs with a playlist of songs hand picked by Bob

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