Bacio Divino Backgrounder

It’s unusual to find a Napa Cab producer who walks the line between serious and fun, and Claus Janzen is that rare exception. His Bacio Divino and Janzen labels offer the best of Napa Valley in a joyous, unpretentious style.

Claus first fell in love with wine in his early 20s, hitchhiking around Europe and working in restaurants with fine bottle lists.  He pursued wine as a serious hobby for years after, rising to the top in elite blind tasting groups.  Eventually he jumped into the business, joining Caymus to start their international distribution. In a matter of years he took the brand from zero to 20 export markets—including Russia.

When Caymus gifted him a few barrels of Napa Cabernet in 1993, he launched Bacio Divino (“The Divine Kiss”) with little expectation. It took off like a shot, and before he knew it, he was making wine full time.

Success of his first label led Claus to launch his second, Janzen Napa Cabernet.  He secured prime blocks of heritage vineyards from his friend Andy Beckstoffer, including To-Kalon and Missouri Hopper. He also acquired his “Cloudy’s” estate vineyard in the hills above Dutch Henry Canyon.   

Claus’s son Kyle has been increasingly taking the helm after years building distribution and identifying optimal cuvees for the wines. Kirk Venge has been winemaker since inception. Production is less than 5000 cases.