Former NFL champion Charles Woodson is expanding his wine empire. His new label, Intercept Wines, honors Woodson’s record-setting numbers of interceptions during multiple seasons of his career. At launch, the lineup includes a Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Blend, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. To craft Intercept, Woodson partnered with O’Neill Vintners & Distillers.
Intercept Wines are made by Amanda Gorter, winemaker for the acclaimed Robert Hall Winery. Gorter partnered with Woodson to craft his ideal wines, sourcing grapes from both Monterey and Paso Robles. The resulting wines are approachable and balanced, offering excellent value at $18 per bottle.
Woodson chose to source the wines from just two regions in California. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Red Blend are from Paso Robles. The Pinot Noir is from the cooler coastal region of Monterey County. Via Intercept Wines’ Instagram Stories, the wine is currently available at select Michigan Meijer stores. In particular, the Meijer location in White Lake, Michigan is confirmed to be selling Intercept Wines.
Woodson is a known wine lover. In fact, Intercept is actually his second wine label. His first, Charles Woodson Wines, was made in conjunction with Gustavo Gonzalez, who has made wines for both Mira Winery and Robert Mondavi Winery. Unlike Intercept Wines, Charles Woodson Wines is from a vineyard owned by Heitz Bros. Since the vineyard is just 50 acres, Charles Woodson Wines retail at a higher price point of $50-65.
Woodson’s goal is to make Intercept Wines accessible to a wider audience than Charles Woodson Wines. In addition to having a lower price point, it will be available in Michigan, the Midwest, California and Florida. See our review of the 2017 Intercept Pinot Noir here, or visit InterceptWines.com to learn more.
Photo credit: Intercept Wines