As autumn settles over New York, the city’s wine calendar turns toward its most anticipated season of the year. In mid-October, amid the bustle of the New York Wine Experience, winemaker Corey Garner of The Federalist Wines arrived to showcase her distinct approach to California winemaking—an expression defined by small-lot craftsmanship, structure, and a sense of modern American identity.

October through December marks the heart of wine season in the United States, when collectors and casual enthusiasts alike look to restock cellars and prepare for a season of celebrations. It’s also the moment when vintners step forward to reintroduce their stories. Garner’s visit offered a window into a brand that celebrates independence of character and authenticity of flavor—the same spirit that inspired the nation’s founders, whose likenesses adorn The Federalist’s labels.

Garner, who joined The Federalist following her tenure in Napa Valley, has become a leading voice for approachable yet sophisticated California wines. Her focus is on balance—bridging fruit expression and structure in a way that resonates with a new generation of drinkers who appreciate craftsmanship without pretense.

The Federalist portfolio spans Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Red Blend, and Bourbon Barrel-Aged selections, each sourced from distinct Californian terroirs including Lodi’s Borden Ranch and the Central Coast. By working in small batches and emphasizing vineyard-specific nuances, Garner ensures that each wine carries both regional integrity and the brand’s signature boldness.

During her New York appearance, Garner guided guests through a sensory exploration of the collection. Each pour reflected not only her technical precision but also her belief that wine should encourage connection and conversation.

She discussed common misconceptions—such as the tendency to over-chill whites or underestimate the food-pairing potential of Zinfandel—and highlighted ways that thoughtful pairings can transform both casual meals and holiday tables. For Garner, the story of wine extends beyond viticulture; it’s about the ritual of sharing and the memories that form around the glass.

The Federalist’s wines lend themselves naturally to the flavors of fall and winter. The Cabernet Sauvignon, with its rich tannins and dark-fruit profile, complements roasted meats and truffle dishes, while the Chardonnay—notably restrained in oak—matches effortlessly with seafood or creamy pasta. The Zinfandel, perhaps the label’s most emblematic varietal, carries spice and structure that enhance everything from barbecue to pumpkin ravioli.

As Garner explained during her tasting, pairing wine through texture and balance often yields greater harmony than simply matching sweetness or weight. It’s an insight that appeals to both sommeliers and home hosts alike.

The Federalist occupies a distinct space within the American wine landscape: premium in quality but grounded in accessibility. Its storytelling—rooted in the iconography of Hamilton, Franklin, and Jefferson—echoes the founding ideals of individuality and craft. Garner’s stewardship continues that narrative by modernizing its expression for contemporary palates.

Her technical background and intuitive approach to blending have helped refine the label’s identity, ensuring consistency while allowing for creative evolution. The result is a collection that reflects both the resilience of California winemaking and the curiosity of its drinkers.

As the holiday season approaches, The Federalist Wines’ presence at the New York Wine Experience marks more than a tasting—it’s a statement of how American wine continues to evolve. Corey Garner’s dedication to small-lot production and expressive flavor profiles demonstrates that craftsmanship need not come at the expense of approachability.