Raymond Vineyards is “one of the iconic wineries of Napa,” and proprietor “Jean-Charles Boisset seems to be pulling out all the stops to create something very special with these wines,” writes preeminent critic Robert Parker. Velvet Room Reserve might be Raymond’s most special red ever...

Jean-Charles and head winemaker Stephanie Putnam (below) wanted to craft a wine that personified the winery’s “Red Room.” This luxurious space is decked out in red velvet from the couches to the walls. Of course, only the finest grapes would do. So, Stephanie chose the two that thrived best: lavishly smooth, plummy Merlot and dark, dense Petite Sirah from their vineyards in Napa’s Rutherford district.

Back at the winery, she patiently aged the wine in fine French oak barrels to give it the desired smooth, velvety texture. Look forward to plush, complex aromas of ripe dark fruit, licorice and bonbon. Rich and structured, the palate offers polished tannins and a (you guessed it) velvety finish. Whether you enjoy your bottle upon arrival or cellar it for a few years, it’s worthy of a fine meal and will make a delicious partner for roasted lamb, steak, duck breast and more.

Jean-Charles and Stephanie only made 400 cases of this exclusive Napa red—and most of them are already gone. First come, first served.