“Imagery is about pushing the limits and thinking outside the box. We strive to have a ‘wow factor’ in each of our wines, while keeping them approachable and drinkable across generations.”
Growing up immersed in the Sonoma Valley terroir as a familial apprentice to a renowned winemaker, Jamie Benziger learned countless lessons about viticulture and craftsmanship as well as finding a voice and following her arrow. Her vehicle for both is Imagery Estate Winery, a 40-years-young legacy enterprise she helms, inviting people from all walks of life to “taste outside the lines” care of lesser-seen blends and twists on tradition. Such riffs show up most notably in some of Imagery’s most award-winning wines via infusions of uncommon yet complimentary blending varietals.
“With our Sauvignon Blanc, we enhance its grapefruit flavors with dry Muscat, which adds complexity and brings out the vibrant aromatics of the base varietal,” says Jamie, who adds Chenin Blanc to Imagery’s Chardonnay for increased brightness and employs Petit Verdot as an unlikely hero adding dark berry notes and soft tannins to her Pinot Noir.
Then there is Imagery Cabernet Sauvignon, whose twist comes courtesy of Petite Sirah. “Both being big varietals, we aim to make this a more medium-bodied wine with soft, furry tannins that coat the mouth. The Cab brings blackberry and tobacco flavors while the Petite Sirah adds pepper to the finish. It’s reminiscent of ripe summer berries seasoned with a touch of clove and spice.”
Until recently, Imagery wines were mostly available at their source, but Jamie and company now distribute their Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon in stylish “drip-art” bottles further reflecting the art and artistry that is at core of this niche winemaking interest.
“Imagery is about pushing the limits and thinking outside the box. We strive to have a ‘wow factor’ in each of our wines, while keeping them approachable and drinkable across generations,” says Jamie. “We want our wine to provide a fun, exciting and memorable experience by bringing something to the table that most have not had the opportunity to taste.”
Meet Jamie Benziger, a Wine Enthusiast 2019 40 Under 40 winner and the creative force behind Imagery California, a new line of traditional varieties “with a little twist” from Imagery Estate Winery.
© 2019 IMAGERY ESTATE WINERY, GLEN ELLEN, CA
Last Updated: May 5, 2023
