Aperture Cellars Unveils 2023 Vintage of Artistically Driven Collage Wine
Aperture Cellars has announced the release of its 2023 vintage of Collage, a project that embodies the winery’s commitment to artistic winemaking. Founded by Jesse Katz, Aperture Cellars has gained recognition for reshaping perceptions of California Bordeaux-style wines through meticulous vineyard selection and innovative storytelling.
A Legacy of Excellence
Established in 2009, Aperture Cellars has quickly become one of Sonoma County’s most esteemed wineries. Under Katz’s leadership, the winery has garnered accolades, including the title of Wine Enthusiast’s 2025 Winemaker of the Year. Additionally, Aperture Cellars was ranked #14 on the 2025 World’s Best Vineyards list, solidifying its status among the elite wine destinations globally.
Katz’s journey into winemaking is rooted in a unique background. As the son of renowned photographer Andy Katz, he was exposed to the world of vineyards and wineries from a young age. This early exposure laid the groundwork for a philosophy that merges technical skill with artistic expression. Each bottle produced by Aperture features a photograph taken by Andy Katz, transforming the wine label into a visual narrative.
The 2023 Vintage of Collage
The 2023 vintage of Collage marks a significant milestone for Aperture Cellars. This wine is not produced annually; instead, it evolves over time, capturing the essence of each vintage shaped by climate and vineyard expression. The wine is crafted only when it meets the winery’s stringent standards, reflecting a philosophy rooted in precision and artistic intention.
The latest release is sourced from over 200 acres across five Sonoma County appellations. The final blend is created from hundreds of individual vineyard lots, with only the most compelling selections making it into the bottle. Some of the contributing vines date back to 1912, linking the wine to Sonoma’s rich viticultural history.
Winemaking Process
Katz employs a meticulous approach to the winemaking process. The red wine undergoes an extended aging program that enhances integration and longevity. Initially aged in barrels, the wine is then transferred to custom cement vessels for further maturation before being bottled. This layered aging process allows the wine to develop complexity while maintaining its freshness.
Recognition and Philanthropy
Aperture Cellars has achieved critical acclaim, with over three dozen wines receiving perfect 100-point scores from leading critics. Notably, Katz produced the first 100-point Malbec in the United States and the first 100-point wine from Alexander Valley. He also holds a Guinness World Record for the most expensive bottle of wine ever sold, highlighting the demand for his creations among collectors.
Beyond winemaking, Katz is committed to philanthropy. Through wine donations and custom experiences, he has raised over $5.8 million for charitable organizations and serves on the board of the SommFoundation, which supports education in the wine and spirits industry.
As reported by hauteliving.com, the return of Collage with the 2023 vintage exemplifies Aperture Cellars’ philosophy that exceptional wine is crafted only when nature, artistry, and precision converge.
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Published on 2026-04-21 16:49:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk