Napa Valley, California
Lateral
A cult Napa Valley Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, inspired by St-Émilion.
The story
Where the wine comes from
Lateral is a Bordeaux-inspired assemblage of Merlot and Cabernet Franc from select Napa Valley vineyards — a blend modeled on the great St-Émilion wines of Cheval Blanc and Ausone, where Merlot brings lush texture and Cabernet Franc brings lift and perfume.
Founder Marty Mathis is a 40-year veteran of the wine business and one of California's most experienced Bordeaux-style winemakers — he is also the son of Kathryn Kennedy, and makes the wines at her Saratoga estate.
Lateral has earned a cult following as, quite simply, one of the finest Bordeaux-style blends at its price point — the kind of bottle that turns a tasting night into a discovery.
Winemaking
Marty Mathis
Philosophy
One wine, made the St-Émilion way: organically grown Napa Valley Merlot and Cabernet Franc, blended for texture, balance and immediate pleasure.
Region
Napa Valley, California
The wines
What could be on your table
Lateral
Merlot / Cabernet Franc blend
Illustrative vintage
Dark ruby, ripe black plum, light coffee, milk chocolate and cherry with subtle vanilla oak.
Pairs with: Roast duck, braised short rib, firm aged cheeses.
Wines, vintages and notes shown here are illustrative until confirmed with the winery.
Tasting collections
Choose the evening you want to host
Each collection is built by the winery to introduce a room of guests to what they do.
The St-Émilion Lesson
4 bottles · $200 deposit
Lateral poured against its Bordeaux inspiration, with the story of Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
Host this tastingFather & Mother, Son & Blend
5 bottles · $400 deposit
Lateral alongside the Kathryn Kennedy estate wines — one family, two wineries, one table.
Host this tastingBooking opens with our first round of tastings. Join the host list and we'll match you with this winery when it does.