Hess Collection Mount Veeder 19 Block Cuvée 2007 Impresses at Cafe 322

The wine offered up rich aromas and flavors despite not being the Tempranillo the author originally wanted.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The author visited Cafe 322 in Sierra Madre, California to see a performance by jazz musician Jack Sheldon. When the Tempranillo the author wanted was unavailable, the waitress suggested the Hess Collection Mount Veeder 19 Block Cuvée 2007 instead, which the author found to be a satisfying substitute with its rich black cherry, cedar, and vanilla aromas, as well as its spicy, cherry cola, tobacco, and tar flavors.

Why it matters

The story highlights how a restaurant was able to provide a suitable alternative wine when the customer's first choice was unavailable, leading to an enjoyable experience despite the initial disappointment. It also showcases the quality and complexity of the Hess Collection wine, which the author found to be a pleasant surprise.

The details

The Hess Collection Mount Veeder 19 Block Cuvée 2007 is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Malbec, 4% Syrah, 4% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot. It has an alcohol content of 14.6% and spent 16 months in French oak, half of which was new. The grapes came from the Hess Veeder Summit Vineyard, which has altitudes ranging from 1,300 to 2,000 feet above sea level.

  • The author visited Cafe 322 in Sierra Madre, California on a Friday night.

The players

Jack Sheldon

A jazz musician whose quartet performed at Cafe 322 that evening.

Hess Collection

The winery that produced the Mount Veeder 19 Block Cuvée 2007 wine featured in the story.

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What they’re saying

“It cost a mere $10 per glass, and offered up the expected aromas of rich black cherry, cedar and vanilla. The effect of the wood was obvious in both the nose and the palate. A great taste full of spice and cherry cola, with notes of tobacco and tar and something almost sweet, was more than adequate for my enjoyment.”

— The author (nowandzin.com)

The takeaway

The story demonstrates how a restaurant can turn a disappointing situation into a positive experience by offering a high-quality alternative that exceeds the customer's expectations. It also highlights the complexity and enjoyability of the Hess Collection Mount Veeder 19 Block Cuvée 2007 wine.