From Old World to New World

Traditions Run Deep

Immersed in four generations of Hungarian winemaking, Szakál’s approach is a beautiful blend of cherished old-world traditions and invigorating new-world innovation. His journey began alongside his father, István, and grandfather, Béla, learning the craft firsthand. Despite initially straying from the family path, as a young man, Csaba found himself drawn to the world of mathematics and economics, leading him into a career as a computer engineer. Fate intervened when he crossed paths with his future wife, Sandra Scott, in Silicon Valley. Sandy, hailing from the heart of Sonoma wine country, introduced Csaba to her circle of grape-growing companions. While balancing their professional lives, they joyously embarked on crafting their first vintages together within the confines of their garage.

Encouraged by the accolades of their loved ones and fueled by their shared passion, Csaba and Sandy took a leap of faith, birthing En Garde Winery in 2007. In a beautiful twist of destiny, Szakál bid farewell to his IT career and returned to his roots, embracing his true calling: winemaking. Their maiden creation, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the pinnacle of Diamond Mountain, captured hearts and palates alike, earning a prestigious 95 points and the revered CELLAR SELECTION designation from Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

At En Garde, our deepest joy lies in the simple yet profound act of savoring superb wine in the company of cherished friends and family. We extend a warm invitation for you to experience the essence of our craft by indulging in the delightful offerings of our current releases within the welcoming ambiance of our elegant Kenwood tasting lounge.

En Garde Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

There are vineyard sites that make good wine, and then there are sites that define a winemaker’s trajectory. For me, Diamond Mountain was the latter. The first time I tasted Cabernet from this rugged, volcanic slope, it stopped me in my tracks—so rich, expressive, and multidimensional that it felt as if the mountain itself were speaking. I had never encountered structure and purity intertwined so elegantly.

For more than two decades, my block has been planted and farmed by Tony, whose understanding of the site runs as deep as the vines’ own roots. His history with this land is measured not in years, but in seasons, decisions, and intuition. Although the harvest call is ultimately mine, it is a decision I make with great anticipation—and always with Tony’s insight. Unlike many growers, he has never once pushed for an early pick. He understands exactly what En Garde stands for, and he shares the conviction that our long-term success depends on allowing the fruit to reach its fullest expression. His background as a winemaker gives our collaboration a rare clarity; he sees what I see in this fruit.

As the vines mature, their roots continue to push deeper into the mountain’s fractured volcanic layers, drawing up minerals, textures, and nuances that reveal themselves vintage after vintage. Each layer underground brings a new voice to the wine, contributing to a Cabernet that is increasingly complex, powerful, and unmistakably Diamond Mountain.

Every harvest from this block is a moment of precision and reverence—an exercise in patience, restraint, and trust in both the land and the partnership behind it. The result is a Cabernet crafted to honor its origins: structured yet graceful, richly layered yet beautifully focused, a wine that collectors recognize instantly and that I never take for granted.



It is, in every sense, the purest expression of what drew me to Diamond Mountain in the first place—and what continues to inspire me with each vintage.