Recently opened Napa Costco may have the best wine section in the United States, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. On Friday, October 18, this store celebrated its grand opening, showcasing a wine selection that is already creating buzz among wine enthusiasts.
The credit for the impressive wine section goes to Selman Medina, a legendary figure at Costco in the Bay Area. For 11 years, he commuted from Napa to work in the wine department at the Novato Costco, which was often regarded as the best Costco wine section in California. Medina is one of just 30 wine stewards employed by Costco nationwide and is a co-founder of two wine steward programs.
When Medina learned that a Costco was opening in his hometown after 35 years, he immediately submitted a transfer request. With his extensive knowledge, charm, and friendliness, he is likely to attract many customers from Novato to Napa.
In many ways, Medina’s role resembles that of a sommelier. He engages with customers, recommending wines he believes they will enjoy, making him the perfect guide for Costco’s regular shoppers—after all, he is one of them. His passion for wine is palpable; he states, “What I love about wine is its connectivity. It’s a benefit, a reward.”
To many of his customers, Medina has become their go-to wine expert, even beyond Costco. He shares that they often text him for wine recommendations for special occasions. “He’s a celebrity at Costco. He could have his own YouTube channel,” says David Wise, a long-time customer from Novato. “He always tells the truth, and he buys the wines himself.”
One wine that caught Medina’s eye is the “Son of a Butcher,” crafted by French winemaker Yannick Rousseau from Napa. This unique red blend, primarily made from the lesser-known Tannat grape, piqued his interest. Medina personally promoted this wine to customers, sharing his excitement about the Tannat base, and sold an entire pallet within three days.
We asked Medina to recommend three outstanding wines available at the new Napa Costco. Here’s what he suggested:
1. **Louis M. Martini Monte Rosso Gnarly Vine Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley, $58.99 (regularly $100)**: “This vineyard is perfect for crafting Zinfandel,” says Medina.
2. **Baker & Hamilton Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, $65.99 (regularly $125-150)**: Coming from one of Napa’s most esteemed vineyards, he considers this one of the best value wines in the Napa Costco wine section.
3. **Viñedos del Contino, Contino Blanco, Rioja, $39.99 (rarely found elsewhere)**: Discussing this blend of Viura and Grenache Blanc, Medina notes, “This is a very unique blend, barrel-fermented, with a long finish.”
