February 13, 2020—Local wine drinkers are making a big impact on the lives of rescued dogs and cats. Thanks to sales of Dog Day Cabernet in 2019, Darcie Kent Winery was able to donate $20,000 to benefit the lifesaving and life-enriching programs of Valley Humane Society. One of the winery’s six Give Back Wines, the sale of each bottle of Dog Day Cabernet contributes $5 to support the nonprofit’s work.
The amount donated represents only half of the Dog Day Cabernet originally distributed through eight Northern California Costco locations; the other half is still available to be purchased, and can be found in the Livermore, Danville, Concord, Fremont, Tracy, Manteca, Almaden, and Santa Clara stores. The distinctive red label featuring Darcie’s faithful beloved Shepherd, Brunello, and the Valley Humane Society logo make it easy to spot “the bottle that benefits,” but shoppers who don’t readily find it should ask a Costco representative to locate it for them.
Proceeds from the wine sales make a big difference in Valley Humane Society’s ability to serve animals and members of the community. The organization relies on private donations from individuals and businesses to fund programs and services. “People often assume a connection between the national groups and their smaller humane societies, but in fact Valley Humane Society is supported exclusively by our local community,” said Executive Director Melanie Sadek.
Dog Day Cabernet was created when Valley Humane Society helped a mother cat and two kittens Darcie found in the vineyard. “I was so impressed with their programs, how they serve the community and our animal friends that I wanted to do something that could help in a big way.” The winery has donated $5 of every bottle of Dog Day Cabernet sold for the last three vintages, and now with Costco stores carrying the playful cabernet sauvignon, pet lovers and wine lovers alike can raise a glass in support of animal rescue!
Made from Livermore Valley fruit, the 2019 Dog Day Cabernet opens with a powerful dark fruit nose. This theme is continued on the palate, where notes of blackberry, boysenberry, and cassis intermingle with tobacco leaf and a sprinkling of baking spices (namely cinnamon and nutmeg). A final note of cocoa powder propels forward the lingering finish. While ready to enjoy now, the grippy tannins will lend longevity to the wine making this fruit-forward cab age-worthy for years to come. “Wine Enthusiast” magazine recently awarded this wine 92 points.