John Wayne’s love of Western themes was not about simply promulgating an image. He really loved the West.  His heartfelt belief was that America’s frontier was, back in the day, a place of wide-open spaces where pioneering acts of heroism and adventure occurred in pursuit of a better life. He found such notions enchanting, romantic, and inspiring.

In True Grit (1969), he played a drunken, foul-tempered but endearing U.S. Marshal named Rooster Cogburn, who becomes an unlikely hero when he helps a young girl avenge the murder of her father. He liked the character so much that he made his only sequel, Rooster Cogburn (1975). John Wayne’s Oscar for True Grit in 1970 was a long-overdue reward for one of America’s icons. The painting of John Wayne as Cogburn on this elegant and bold Pinot Noir was created by western actor and artist Buck Taylor – a close friend of the Wayne family. We raise a glass to IOTA’s five founding principles – Scholarship, Leadership, Citizenship, Fidelity, and Brotherhood. As the Fraternity continues to grow and strengthen, each member of IOTA is committed to make meaningful contributions to society and shall forever remain dedicated to its founders’ vision of Building A Tradition, Not Resting Upon One.

We introduce you to Cogburn Reserve. From the Russian River Valley AVA of Sonoma County, this beautiful wine is influenced mostly by the fog of the AVA and is very aromatic, with a velvet mouthfeel, and has a fruit character that is ripe and intense.

Retail Price: $65.00 / 750 ml

The Duke Wine Club Member Price: $55.00 / 750 ml