St. Supéry Dollarhide ranch in the Napa Valley is among the most famous for its remarkable terroir.

Originating from the 1840s, the St. Supéry Dollarhide ranch was owned by Andrew Jackson Dollarhide.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”He earned a lucrative living capturing wild horses and selling them to gold miners.” display_tweet=””]

More than a century later, Robert Skalli (scion of the French wine domestic and import business, Les Chais du Sud) discovered the 1,530 acre property, naturally endowed with rolling hills and lakes. Click here for the video.

Skalli made Dollarhide the centerpiece of his new St. Supéry Estate Winery.

With the Skalli capital behind the venture, 500 acres of St. Supéry Dollarhide transformed into vineyards.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Soon the St. Supéry Dollarhide ranch produced the quality fruit that made the winery famous.” display_tweet=””]

Today St. Supéry Dollarhide serves as a benchmark for quality grape growing in the Napa Valley.

St. Supéry Dollarhide vineyards produces essential fruit for the winery’s classic St. Supéry Sauvignon Blanc, yet also the long-lived red wines, St. Supéry Cabernet Sauvignon and St. Supéry Merlot.

Location of St. Supéry Dollarhide

Located in the northeastern hills of Napa Valley about an hour from the St. Supéry Estate Winery, people refer to the St. Supéry Dollarhide as a valley within a valley.

**Click Here for Wine Resources**

St. Supéry Dollarhide: Snapshot of a Moment In Time

Nearly a decade ago, I enjoyed the wonderful fortune to visit this iconic St. Supéry Dollarhide ranch.
(Note! You can too! Click here for the virtual experience).

I was in the Napa Valley to see historic vineyards.

St. Supéry CEO Emma Swain invited me for an “early morning” visit to the St. Supéry Dollarhide ranch.

And early morning it was.

At 4:30 am, I stood outside of my hotel, preparing for the St. Supéry Dollarhide experience.

Emma Swain’s car pulled to the front of the hotel, with the winery’s mascot dog, GG, in the back seat.

We quickly drove to Butter Cream Bakery, surprisingly active at this early hour.

Our mission was to bring 4 enormous boxes of donuts, sweet and warm from the oven, to the St. Supéry Dollarhide vineyards.

Though not yet dawn when we arrive at the ranch, the grape pickers have been working since 2am so they could harvest grapes in the cool night air.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”This is one reason the St Supéry Sauvignon Blanc keeps such bright acidity.” display_tweet=””]

Upon our arrival, workers grab at the donuts and canine GG runs free through the St. Supéry Dollarhide vineyards.

Josh Anestey (then VP Vineyard Operations) greets me with a hearty handshake. Like his workers, he’s been up since 2am supervising the cutting of grapes – though often harvest starts at 10pm.

We walk through the St. Supéry Dollarhide vineyards.

Josh, a firm believer in sustainable farming, has worked diligently to achieve green certification (both Napa Green and California Sustainable) on every acre of St. Supéry Dollarhide and other vineyards.

“Now here’s the Sauvignon Blanc,” Josh says, taking us to another St. Supéry Dollarhide vineyard.

I taste a grape. In contrast to the fat, rich Semillon grape, the Sauvignon Blanc grape has something of a “sweet tart” taste. The acids jump out, sharp and focused.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Tasting these two famous white Bordeaux varieties side by side, the flavor profiles of these two grapes are distinct. ” display_tweet=””]

Though I also pick grapes, the workers are far ahead of me. They need to have the designated vineyard rows picked before the first light of day.

St. Supéry Dollarhide…Later That Morning

After helping pick the St. Supéry Dollarhide Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon grapes, Emma Swain, GG, and I jump into Josh’s battered up truck,

Our mission?

To tour the St. Supéry Dollarhide vineyards in higher elevations in the hills. These would feature the Bordeaux variety stars like St. Supéry Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.

Once we bounce out of the truck, Josh gives me a lesson in Ampelography (the field of botany concerned with the identification and classification of grapevines).

Josh is a fun teacher. He playfully turns a leaf upside down against his face to help explain why people call it “Monkey Face.”

On a more serious note, he explains that in contrast to the juicy, ripe Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes, the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are small and tightly structured.

This is exactly the flavor profile that the team is looking for in the St. Supéry Cabernet Sauvignon grape, though picking harvest will not happen for a few more weeks.

With the door handle of the truck sticky with juice, we set off to the St. Supéry winery.

St. Supéry DollarhideToday

St. Supéry Dollarhide and the winery is now owned by Chanel, Inc.

Much has changed in the world since this initial visit, but St. Supéry Dollarhide continues to produce superior fruit.

The tasting experiences you will see below have given way to virtual experiences. These experiences allow everyone interested in St. Supéry Dollarhide to see the vineyard via video, hear about the winemaking techniques, and taste the wine via special shipped purchases as they do so.

St. Supéry Dollarhide Tasting Experiences

During my initial visit, an assortment of exciting tasting experiences were in place.

As the winery and virtual tastings change often, check the website for the latest options.

St. Supéry Dollarhide Virtual Tasting

St. Supéry Dollarhide wines are available to experience via a virtual tasting.

To relive my first genuine experience at St. Supéry Dollarhide, I selected one of the wine and food virtual experiences.

To do so, visit this page and see the program and date best suited to your needs.

Choose a date far enough in advance to order and receive the wines and (food packages) if desired.

I took part in the St. Supéry Dollarhide Virtual Tasting featuring the 2018 Sauvignon Blanc and 2016 Merlot paired with an assortment of grilled vegetables and other items.

Structure of St. Supéry Dollarhide Virtual Tasting

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The St. Supéry Dollarhide Virtual Tasting kicks off with CEO Emma Swain welcoming viewers with a glass of Dollarhide Estate Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc.” display_tweet=””]

In just a few minutes, they transport us viewers to the Dollarhide Vineyard, where a member of the vineyard team speaks about viticulture.

For those of us at home, we sip our St. Supéry

Sauvignon Blanc as we see the vineyard where the grapes grow.

We learn about shoot positioning and experience the shock of seeing some clusters cut. The reason is to reduce crop load, and thus, improve the fruit development and concentration of the eventual wine.

Next, viewers of the St. Supéry Tasting virtually meet Vice President Winemaking and Vineyards Michael Scholz.

Mr. Scholz holds a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and explains the winemaking process, including the fact that they aged the Sauvignon Blanc in French oak.

Soon it’s time for Chef Tod Kawachi to get into the act. Chef Tod has an extensive history at top Napa Valley restaurants, having first earned fame as the executive chef for Roy’s Kahana Bar & Grill in Maui.

St. Supéry Dollarhide Wines Paired with Food

At the time of my virtual wine and food tasting, fans could pre-order chef-chosen food packs from iGourmet.com with St. Supéry wine.

As Chef Tod cooked the food on his elaborate grill, he gave helpful hints about cooking practices, with a special accent on health.

Final Thoughts

St. Supéry ontinues to produce the best fruit in the valley for decades.

With each fresh challenge, the winery adapts.

Click here to be included in the latest experiences, virtual and otherwise, the winery has to offer.

Please SHARE this article visit the social media links and subscribe to my newsletter here

If you like this article you will like:

— Dominus Estate
— Chappellet Family Winery
— Hess Collection
— Frog’s Leap

Curious to Learn More About Wine? Start Here

Want to Grab Quick Wine Resources? Click Here 

About Author Marisa D’Vari

D’Vari contributes to Forbes.com, Financial Times, World of Fine Wine, Quarterly Review of Wine, Decanter Robb Report, San Francisco Chronicle, South China Morning Post, and more.

She holds the (WSET) diploma, Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a Certified Wine Educator  through the Society of Wine Educators … to see it all, please click on bio

The post 3 Time Tested Secrets for Remarkable Vineyards appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.

Pairing Wine with Food at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

When you fantasize about the Napa Valley, two things usually come to mind: Delicious food and wine.

Pairing wine with food makes the Napa Valley such a popular tourism destination.

Today virtually all the wineries offer visitors the ability to enjoy pairing wine with food experiences.

**Click Here for Wine Resources**

The Napa Valley

Located about an hour north of San Francisco, the Napa Valley shines as one of the most recognizable winemaking regions in the world.  Here you will also find restaurants which naturally focus on pairing wine with food in set course menus.

In the last decade and more, many wineries have also come to incorporate pairing wine with food in the tours and tasting events they offer tourists.

Like most of the top wineries in the Napa Valley, Stags Leap Wine Cellars long ago replaced casual, complimentary wine tasting at the winery bar with elegant, orchestrated “tasting experiences.”

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”These experiences, where guests learn the techniques of pairing wine with food, are available at different price ranges.” display_tweet=””]

**Click Here for Wine Resources**

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars : Pairing Wine with Food Experiences

At Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Chef Travis Westrope has created an assortment of experiences where guests can enjoy pairing wine with food. He is a third-generation Californian, and has over 28 years of experience as a chef in top Napa Valley restaurants.

At Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, guests can choose from a variety of pairing wine with food options from the Stagls Leap Wine Cellars website.

Pairing Wine With Food : The Cellarius Kitchen Experience

This pairing wine with food experience encompasses a tour and multi-course wine tasting with food complements. This experience, lasting nearly 3 hours, begins with a tour of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars estate by a winery guide.

During this tour, you will learn the history of the winery and see the beautiful cellars.

After the tour, your group of 12 (the maximum number permitted) walk to a stunning private dining room overlooking the vineyard.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Most people would consider this 4 course experience, focusing on pairing wine with food, lunch. For several reasons, they name it an “experience,”” display_tweet=””]

Below you will find the menu I enjoyed during my visit.

Cellarius Kitchen Experience : First Course

The first course of Roman Fish & Chips with 1995 Beckstoffer Chardonnay Batter, Tonnato Sauce, Mizuna & Fennel was accompanied by the 2017 Arcadia Vineyard Chardonnay Napa Valley.

In this pairing of wine with food, the subtle buttery flavor of the Arcadia Vineyard Chardonnay complemented the Beckstoffer Vineyard based Chardonnay flavors of the battered fish. While the vibrance of the Mizuna and fennel contrast with the Arcadia Vineyard Chardonnay’s richness.

Cellarius Kitchen Experience : Second Course

The second course of Grimaud Farms Smoked Muscovy Duck Breast, paired with Cypress Grove Purple Haze Chevre, Violet & Violet Leaf Pesto Risotto was also a story of comparison and contrast.

Here, the wine paired with the dish was the 2016 FAY Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley. This wine had velvet tannins complementing the smooth texture of the duck breast, while cutting through the richness of the duck with its vibrant acidity.

Cellarius Kitchen Experience : Main Course

For the principal course, guests enjoyed Niman Ranch Tri-tip Polpettone, Calabrian Chile Glaze, Asparagus & Gold Beet, Celery Root. Here the more assertive 2016 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon cut through the richness of the tri-tip,

Cellarius Kitchen Experience : Dessert Course

Even the dessert of Tellagio Cheesecake, Brown Butter Pecan Crust, Pliny the Caramel paired with  wine. In this pairing it was the 2016 CASK 23 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley. The softer tannins of this aged wine provided a contrast to the soft cheese and contrast with the crunch on the Pecan crust.

Chef Travis : Pairing Wine with Food Principles for Home Chefs

Though he creates his menus with the wines of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars in mind, Chef Travis offers advice for home chefs.

“I like to use the rules of complement and contrast,’ says Chef Travis, explaining that that in pairing wine with food exercises, the wines should either complement the flavor of a dish, or contrast with it.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”“For example, the white Sauvignon Blanc grape makes a wine that has bright acidity and a subtle herbal aroma and flavor.” display_tweet=””] One can find Sauvignon Blanc at most supermarkets and wine stores. It complements the green salads of spring and summer, especially if you add a bit of chopped herbs like cilantro or basil.”

“Chardonnay has a heavier texture,” says Chef Travis. “It can be the oaked, buttery California style, or the more reserved unoaked style common to Burgundy.

A Chardonnay wine is a great complement to a richer dish, such as scallops, especially if the scallops are sautéed in butter. Pasta in a butter sauce is also a desirable option for the same reason.”

As for Cabernet Sauvignon, Chef Travis declares his bias for meat when he suggests Tri-tip steak as the perfect pairing, preferably marinated with dried chile pepper before grilling.

What are the options for a Cabernet Sauvignon wine for a person who does not eat meat? “Salmon can be a great option for people who eat fish,” he says, “then served with a side dish like braised kale.”

“There are no hard and fast rules for wine and food pairing,” says Chef Travis. “The important thing is to think about contrasting or complementing the flavors of a dish as well as the texture. Experiment and have fun.”

When asked about the philosophy behind The Cellarius Kitchen Experience, Chef Travis says,[socialpug_tweet tweet=”“One of the most important concepts I learned in my culinary career is that food is always better when served with a purpose or meaning.” display_tweet=””]By creating a story during the dining experience, you create a lasting memory.”

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars  

If the name of the winery sounds familiar, the reason is that in 1976, its wine won the “Judgment of Paris” blind wine tasting competition pitting Cabernet Sauvignon from California’s Napa Valley and France’s Bordeaux against one another.

The competition has historic importance because prior to 1976, most wine aficionados – both American and French – assumed Cru Classé Bordeaux wine from France was the best. That competition proved this assumption wrong and paved the way for the fame the Napa Valley enjoys today.

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Founder

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars was founded in 1970 by self-trained winemaker Warren Winiarski. While working for the newly opened Robert Mondavi winery, he tasted some homemade Cabernet Sauvignon based wine made from the vineyard of Nathan Fay.

Mr. Fay’s vineyard was located about five miles north of the city of Napa. Impressed by the quality of the fruit in the wine, Mr. Winiarski bought a 44-acre block of land adjacent to Mr. Fay’s vineyard. This would become the Stag’s Leap Vineyard, more often called S.L.V.

After the 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon wine produced from this vineyard won the Judgment of Paris, Mr. Winiarski purchased the Fay vineyard in 1986, doubling the size of his holdings. In 1989 these vineyards became the foundation of the Stags Leap AVA. They created the AVA in 1989. [socialpug_tweet tweet=”In 2019 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars celebrated its 50th Anniversary.” display_tweet=””]

Pairing Wine with Food Tasting Experiences and Tours at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

You can choose from several tours and tastings at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. As with most wineries in the Napa Valley, the tours and tastings require reservations.

Depending on the tour you choose, you may enjoy a tasting at a table outdoors. Outdoors you can taste the wines while overlooking the very vineyard where they grow.

The tour and tasting all have exciting names (Fire & Water, The Estate Wine Tasting & Cave Tour, the Estate Collection Flight).  You can read a description of them here.

The important thing is to book the tours, tasting, and pairing wine with food experiences in advance.

Essentials to Bring for Winery Visits

1. A hat, especially for sunny days.
2. Sunglasses for the same reason.
3. Sunscreen very necessary in summer. Personally, I find this face covering more protective and less irritating.
4. A charger for your device so not to miss once-in-a-lifetime photos.
5. Your favorite bottled water
6. A cup for expectorating wine in case it is far away or not provided.
7. A small notebook to record details about the wine or vineyards.
8. Comfortable walking shoes for vineyard visits

Please SHARE this article visit the social media links and subscribe to my newsletter here

If you like this article you will like:

— Dominus Estate
— Chappellet Family Winery
— Hess Collection
— Frog’s Leap

Curious to Learn More About Wine? Start Here

Want to Grab Quick Wine Resources? Click Here 

Here’s a Video About the Fay Vineyard

About Author Marisa D’Vari

D’Vari contributes to Forbes.com, Financial Times, World of Fine Wine, Quarterly Review of Wine, Decanter Robb Report, San Francisco Chronicle, South China Morning Post, and more.

She holds the (WSET) diploma, Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a Certified Wine Educator  through the Society of Wine Educators … to see it all, please click on bio

The post 3 Delicious Secrets of Pairing Wine With Food appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.

5 Powerful Secrets About Dominus Estate Cabernet

Are you curious about the Dominus Winery in the Napa Valley? This winery is owned by Christian Moueix.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”You might have read about Dominus Estate for its highly awarded Cabernet Sauvignon red wine.” display_tweet=””]

You might have read about Dominus Estate for its highly awarded Cabernet Sauvignon red wine.

Or maybe you are an architecture fan and saw pictures of the stunning winery built by Swiss architects,

Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron.

If you love Dominus Cabernet you will like to read the incredible story behind this delicious “California Cab” with a “Bordeaux touch.

**Click Here for Wine Resources**

Dominus Winery: The Best of France “Know How” In the Napa Valley

The name “Dominus” means “Lord of the Estate” in Latin. It is located in the volcanic foothills of the Mayacamas mountain range, in Yountville.

Christian Moueix fell in love with the Napa Valley when he was a student at UC Davis.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Christian and his family own Château Pétrus and several other famous estates in Pomerol. ” display_tweet=””]

Christian and his family own Château Pétrus and several other famous estates in Pomerol.

Yet as a self-described“terroir freak” he quickly recognized the potential of the Napa Valley.

The moment Christian saw the Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards that are now Dominus Estate, he knew he found the perfect property for high quality Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Dominus Napa Valley: Every Great Wine Has a Story

That story often begins with the man or woman behind the wine.

Christian Moueix was lucky enough to be born into a relatively famous wine family.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”That said, his father Jean-Pierre Moueix (the legendary Bordeaux wine merchant) was a self-made man. ” display_tweet=””]

That said, his father Jean-Pierre Moueix (the legendary Bordeaux wine merchant) was a self-made man.

As the “second son” of a traditional family, the Jean-Pierre Moueix knew from an early age he would not inherit from the family and would have to make his own life.

Jean-Pierre Moueix is man said to have a great deal of charm, intellect, and wit.

All three of these qualities allowed Jean-Pierre Moueix to parlay his collection of Monet paintings (purchased inexpensively when he was a youth) into money to purchase wineries.

The Château Pétrus Acquisition

Jean-Pierre Moueix was able to befriend and earn the trust of the owner of Château Pétrus, Madame Loubat. He worked with her team to help improve the winery.

Then, after her death, he was able to eventually purchase the estate.

Christian Moueix’s Story: From Pomerol to UC Davis

Christian Moueix obtained his diploma in agricultural engineering. In 1970, he joined the family business in Pomerol.

Right away, he decided that “vine balance” was the most important element in quality wine.

Towards that end, he began to “green harvest”–cutting Cabernet Sauvignon grapes so the vines could concentrate on the fruit instead of foliage.

The workers were shocked.

They found it wasteful.

But from his study and reading Christian knew that green harvesting was the best way to improve the quality of the wine.

At the same time, he realized that he could not focus on wine quality with so many estates to oversee.

So Christian sold half of their holdings to better concentrate on Le Fleur Petrus, Trotanoy, Hosanna, and Providence in Pomerol and in Saint-Emilion, Belair-Monange and Magdelaine.

1973: Off to UC Davis

In 1973, Christian enrolled in wine making classes at UC Davis.

He explored the Napa Valley terroir.

In Napa, Christian befriended Robert Mondavi and his wife Margrit.

Though he was heading back to Bordeaux and the family business.

But before leaving, Christian asked Robert Mondavi to keep his eye out for the right Napa Valley property.

The Napanook Estate

In 1982, Christian Moueix knew he found “gold” (or the potential for excellent Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon red wine) when Mondavi alerted him to the Napanook Estate.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The estate had been owned by John Daniel, former president of Inglenoonk (his great uncle Gustave Niebaum was the founder of Inglenook).” display_tweet=””]

The estate had been owned by John Daniel, former president of Inglenoonk (his great uncle Gustave Niebaum was the founder of Inglenook).

In the 1940s and 1950s, the estate had been the source of Cabernet Sauvignon fruit for some of the best wineries in the Napa Valley.

After John Daniel’s death in 1970, the coveted NapaNook estate went to his daughter Robin Lail and her sister.  By 1995, Christian Moueix became sole owner of the estate

Architecture of Dominus Estate

The visionary Swiss architects, Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron, were hired to build a winery that would be perfectly integrated into its landscape.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The Dominus Winery was completed in 1997, and in many ways set the trend for winery architecture to follow.” display_tweet=””]

The Dominus Winery was completed in 1997, and in many ways set the trend for winery architecture to follow.

Here you will find panoramic views of the vineyard and hillsides.

The winery dissolves into the surroundings, allowing visitors to feel one with the vineyard.

Viticulture Focus

With his agriculture and UC Davis diplomas, Christian Moueix considers terroir the most important element in quality wine.

In addition to this, he feels that dry farming (no irrigation) is the best way to stress the vine so they can produce the best fruit.

The Dominus Estate vineyards are planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon.

Christian feels that Merlot (so well suited to his native Pomerol)

Assemblage

.That said, the assemblage varies from year to year.

Typically features Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot as blending grapes.

The soil at Dominus Estate is gravel and clay loam.

In winter, precise cane pruning ensures ideal cluster spacing for optimal fruit ripening.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Dry farming encourages a deep root system, as the roots dig deep into the soil for moisture.” display_tweet=””]

Dry farming encourages a deep root system, as the roots dig deep into the soil for moisture.

The French plow removes weeds and encourages deep root growth.

And Christian continues with his cluster thinning (green harvest) he insisted upon back in his Pomerol days.

While they do these procedures in many Cabernet Sauvignon and red wine based wineries these days, I was surprised to learn that the grapes are “rinsed” 10 – 15 days before harvest to remove dust and enhance the purity of the fruit.

Also–a bit unusual for dry wine – I learned the sunny side of the vines are picked a few days before the shady part to ensure perfect maturity.

This is more common when picking botrytized grapes for wine like Sauternes, where pickers go out in several tries.

More Viticulture Tactics

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Viticulture techniques like use of cover crops to replenish the soil and prevent erosion are employed.” display_tweet=””]

Viticulture techniques like use of cover crops to replenish the soil and prevent erosion are employed.

So our “owl houses” so natural predators can replace chemical methods of pest control.

In the Dominus Estate Winery

They separate the different grape varieties. Cluster sorting is done by hand, with an optical berry sorting system.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The more gentle pumping over extracts aromas, color and tannins.” display_tweet=””]

The more gentle pumping over extracts aromas, color and tannins.

The vertical wine press is set to a low pressure to release components from the skins. The wine is gently fined with egg whites before bottling. ]

40% new French oak barrels are used and they produce only 3800 cases in a typical year.

No Acidification

In California it is not unusual to acidify in especially hot years. Christian does not believe in this.

Final thoughts

As a member of the trade, I feel so happy and lucky for the opportunity to visit this gorgeous estate and see these famous, well-cared for vines.

I especially enjoyed tasting a few vintages of the wine, and more fully understanding how caring for the soil (in addition to picking the the right vineyard) so dramatically affects the taste of the wine.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The first time I tasted Dominus was several years ago at a Manhattan wine auction.” display_tweet=””]

The first time I tasted Dominus was several years ago at a Manhattan wine auction.

A gentleman was running around the room, pouring red wine from a covered bottle, and daring guests (all collectors or professionals) to guess what the wine was and where it was from.

The Verdict

With so many famous, super expensive wines for offer (some 1st growth Bordeaux chateaux were among the offerings) tasters mostly volunteered the blind-tasted wine must be from a top chateaux in Bordeaux. I thought that as well.

Yet the wine turned out to be Dominus, and though this happened many years ago, I always longed to taste it again.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The second time I tasted Dominus was last fall in New York, when several Bordeaux producers came to show their wine to the trade.” display_tweet=””]

The second time I tasted Dominus was last fall in New York, when several Bordeaux producers came to show their wine to the trade.

Christian Moueix was there, as well as his right hand Kassidy Harris who runs things at Dominus. Christian brought Dominus, as well as his other Pomerol estate wines.

Please SHARE this article visit the social media links and subscribe to my newsletter here

If you like this article you will like:

— Dominus Estate
— Chappellet Family Winery
— Hess Collection
— Frog’s Leap

Curious to Learn More About Wine? Start Here

Want to Grab Quick Wine Resources? Click Here 

About Author Marisa D’Vari

D’Vari contributes to Forbes.com, Financial Times, World of Fine Wine, Quarterly Review of Wine, Decanter Robb Report, San Francisco Chronicle, South China Morning Post, and more.

She holds the (WSET) diploma, Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a Certified Wine Educator  through the Society of Wine Educators … to see it all, please click on bio

The post 5 Powerful Secrets About Dominus Estate Cabernet appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.

3 Powerful Secrets: Gamble Family Vineyards

Gamble Family Winery is one of the most powerful wineries in the Napa Valley.

The reason is the high quality of Gamble Wine.

The Gamble Family has been farming here for many decades.

The family’s Gamble Vineyards are among the best in the valley.

Yet when you visit a winery, you are not really in the position to understand the “secrets” behind the glitzy label and the showy winery facade.

**Click Here for Wine Resources**

Lunch with Tom Gamble of Gamble Family Vineyards

So during my lunch with Tom Gamble of Gamble Family Vineyards, I could understand the three secrets that really made Gamble Family Winery out.

First though, know that one of my favorite things about writing about wine is the opportunity to hear storytelling from passionate winemakers.

Tom Gamble is one of the best and most passionate storytellers in the wine world.

As Gamble Family Vineyards is such a successful company–and Napa Valley real estate is so valuable–it is easy to think he is “to the manor born.”

Gamble Family History in the Napa Valley

The Gamble family has a long history in the Napa Valley.

Early History

In 1916, Tom Gamble’s grandfather Launcelot Gamble came to the Napa Valley and bought several acres of the best land and devoted it to agriculture and livestock (cattle ranching).

The cattle ranching came in handy at the onset of WW II, when canned meat was essential to feed the troops overseas.

Launcelot Gamble gained a piece of land in Oakville in 1955.

This would become the Family Home Vineyard and foundation for the family’s entrance into the wine business.

Tom Gamble’s Boyhood Dream

“My longest memory of childhood was playing in the dirt,” says Tom Gamble, recalling his youth. (Secret #1)

During lunch, he says that when was a child he would look at the vineyards from the bus on the way to school and dream they would one day be his.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”And then, when he was in 8th grade, he stopped taking the bus in favor of riding his bike the ten miles to and from school.” display_tweet=””]

And then, when he was in 8^th grade, he stopped taking the bus in favor of riding his bike the ten miles to and from school.

The reason?

So he could get home faster and work in the vineyards!

“I loved working in the vineyard,” he says, adding that since he came from an agriculture-based family he had lots of other chores as well.

These included herding cattle, working irrigation lines and other activities.

An education at UC Davis followed.

Then Tom took over farming Family Home vineyards, which were planted by his mother and stepfather in 1997.

After many years of growing and selling his own grapes to other companies.  Tom sold the wine made from their own grapes.

He also began acquiring other vineyards.

Today the Gamble Family Vineyards encompass:

– Gamble Vineyards
– Confluence Block
– Family Home Estate
– Winery Vineyards
– CC Ranch Vineyard
– Mt Veeder Vineyard

Gamble Family Vineyards

Today the Gambles own a sizable amount of vineyard acreage in the valley spanning some of Napa’s most well-known terroir.

This includes Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, Mt. Veeder and St. Helena.

They also farm significantly more land, selling grapes to a number of premium producers in the valley. Their first vintage was from 2005.

The Gamble Vineyard is bordered by both the Napa River and Conn Creek in the northern part of the Yountville appellation.

Creeks are important as they produce rich silted flood-plain deposited soils.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”He farms the vineyards organically and harvest spans a two-week period.” display_tweet=””]

The Heart Block

During the lunch, Tom seemed particularly proud of the Sauvignon Block called “The “Heart Block.”

This is an appropriate name because of its geographic position in the center of the vineyard.

They plant two clones originating from France, including one from Graves and other originating in the Loire Valley. (Secret #2)

The Gamble Family Vineyard micro manages these vines and thins the vines to only one cluster per shoot increasing the intensity of the fruit.

This allows them to harvest at maturity with lower sugar levels.

The wine is barrel fermented in 40% new French oak and spends 18 months on the lees.

Delicious.

I tasted this single vineyard 2016 Heart Block Sauvignon Blanc side by side with their 2017 Gamble Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc. This wine has 13% new French and Hungarian oak. Both fabulous.

Jim Close, the winemaker, has done an exceptional job in delivering a complex yet easy to enjoy wine.

Both had finesse and a long length of finish.

And though both had a great deal of complexity, because of both the terroir and also tender loving care the Heart Block had even more complexity and length of finish.

The Red Wines

It is a rare opportunity to have the luxury of tasting a flight of top end Bordeaux blends.

Here at Gamble Family Vineyards these wines have the fantasy name “Paramount.”

They describe Paramount as a harmony of the most distinguished vineyards. The blend is “typically” a rough third of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, with a tiny percent of Petite Verdot for spice.

But this can change with the vintage.

2014 Paramount

The growing conditions in 2014 were favorable with a warm, dry, and steady season.

This was one of my favorites, as it had fresh red cherry fruit, black truffle, and also aromas and flavors of hazelnut and leather.  It is great to drink now and can age at least another decade.

2012 Paramount

In 2012 the four varieties were all harvested, fermented, and aged separately. Different strains of yeast were employed to improve mouthfeel and complexity.

This wine has more aromas of thyme, black cherry, and plum. It can also age for another decade.

2009 Paramount

This is a delicious wine with silky tannins, bright acidity, and rich fruit. It has a long length of finish and a great deal of finesse.

For a wine ten years on, great to drink now.

Then the excellent 2015 Family Home, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Oakville aged for 20 months in 45 % new French oak.

Conclusion

This was a magical introduction to the wines of Gamble Family Vineyards.

It is rare to meet a winemaker so knowledgeable about every aspect of his business, from farming to vilification to the wine selling platform.

Visiting Gamble Family Vineyards

So the last secret is this:  even though Gamble Family Vineyards is a small family operation, it is possible to visit, taste the wine, and maybe if you are lucky tour the property.

Typically this is reserved for wine club members..

Yet you can call or email the winery via the contact information below, and see if you and your group can get an appointment.

To find out more visit the Gamble Family Vineyards website 

707) 754-4825 or email wine@gamblefamilyvineyards.com.

The post 3 Powerful Secrets: Gamble Family Vineyards appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.

CIA Somm Sommit

The CIA Somm Summit is a best way to learn wine.

This is especially true if you want to learn wine for the Court of Master Sommeliers or Masters of Wine.

If you are a sommelier, wine director, or in the trade you might find it interesting to check out the  CIA Somm Summit offered from the CIA at the Copia Center.

I first heard about this CIA Somm Summit via Sommelier Journal.

The CIA Somm Summit is held in the Napa Valley, California – the best place to learn wine.

CIA SOMM SUMMIT – BEST WAY TO LEARN WINE

You will meet some of the most  influential and popular wine icons of the world.

For example, Kevin Zraly, a key presenter, is a wine legend.

He taught the famous wine classes at Windows at the World.

Andrea Robinson MS, moderator and key wine presenter, is a Master Sommelier who has written many books, and is also an expert at food and wine pairing (I took her class eons ago at the Culinary Institute of New York.

Karen MacNeil, an iconic figure, wrote “The Wine Bible” and led many sessions.

So you will learn wine from the best.

CIA Somm Summit :  Banfi Wine Tasting

It was really a best way to learn wine from this film, Somm 3.

In it, you could see Jancis Robinson and many famous wine writers and wine tasters show you the best way to learn wine.

Before the screening, Banfi held a wine tasting hour with their top wines, like Brunello di Montalcino.

It was so exciting to try these excellent Banfi wines, and also say hello and shake hands with old friends from different places, different times.

The team at Copia, at Banfi, and the sponsors and staff behind the CIA Somm Summit did a great job of organizing this event to help you learn wine.

CIA Somm Summit : Sunday Morning Santa Barbara Luncheon Kickoff

Luncheon was served at the Copia Center, buffet style.

The food was incredibly good, and the lunch served as a good kickoff to the delicious food we would be having the entire summit.

Various wineries from the Santa Barbara region were organized at tables throughout the room.

Winemakers were on hand to answer the many questions from the sommelier and sommelier aspiring crowd.

The Santa Barbara wineries featured

Brewer-Clifton

Cambria Estate Winery

Dierberg Vineyard

Fiddlehead Cellars

Hitching Post Wines

Mail Road Wines

Montemar

Nielson

Pence Vineyards and Winery

Riverbench Vineyard and Winery

SAMsARA Wine Co.

Siduri

Tyler Winery

So after a welcome speech, there was a fabulous tutored tasting called “Cultivating Excellence” featuring some of the top wine makers in the Napa Valley.

This was the best way to learn about wine.

So …. who was there???

1. Simon Faury, winemaker at Merryvale Vineyards.
2. Craig Becker, Owner/GM Somerston Estate
3. Steve Matthiason, winemaker Matthiason
4. Delia Viader, Owner/Founder Viader Vineyards and Winery
5. Jean Hoefilger, Winemaker at Alpha Omega
6. Rob Mondavi , Owner Michael Mondavi Family Estate

Participants had small pours of wines from these wineries.

It was great to taste the wine as the speakers explained their winemaking tactics – great way to learn wine.

CIA Somm Summit : A Taste of Premiere Napa Valley – Walk Around Food & Wine Tasting Greystone Barrel Room 

Afterwards guests were invited to a reception of the wines and also some fabulous cuisine from the CIA students and chefs at Greystone.

Premier Napa Valley is the annual grand tasting and futures auction held at The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone each February.

Note that Premiere Napa Valley wines are offered at auction only to restaurateurs and wine retailers who curate and offer the wines to their top clientele.

Featured Wineries:

Alpha Omega
Beringer Vineyards
Hyde Estate Winery
Marciano Estate
Mira Winery
Paul Hobbs
Pride Mountain Vineyards
Quixote Winery
Salvestrin
Seven Stones Winery

CIA Somm Summit : 50 Year Perspective: Witness to the Wine and Food Revolution

I was lucky enough to know both Julia Child and Robert Mondavi when they were at the final point of planning the Copia Center.

Each of them individually told me their dream was to create a center dedicated to both wine and food.

In this general session, Kevin Zraly gave a dynamic 50 year perspective on the wine and food revolution, that helped everyone in the conference map out all the individual people and movements through the last several decades.

CIA Somm Summit Breakout Sessions

Rajat Parr and Jordan MacKay took attendees on a region-by-region journey through Europe as they explored the intricacies of the way wines from various sub-regions, soils, and appellations should taste.

Moderator Jess Hereth of Olympia Provisions gave a session on Chacuterie, Christie Dufault gave a talk on spirits. Bob Bath MA gave a talk about Digging Into Unique Terroir.

CIA Summit Food and Wine Pairing On the Fly

… And then there was the fabulous session moderated by Evan Goldestein MS and Kevin Zraly that presented ways to pair wine with cuisine.

Overall experience

The last night was a Library WIne Tasting and Dinner at Trefethen Winery.

This was an incredible event. The good folks at Trefethen broke out their top vintage wine and told the grand story of their origins from the 19th century.

CIA Summit Final Day

The last day’s presentation by Ken Fuhr of Clarity Media Group, Karen MacNeil, and Andrea Robinson MS gave some great tips for sommeliers about how to best position themselves for the media … and for success.

Then there was a fantastic blind wine tasting circuit with an “dream team” of highly educated Masters of Wine and Master Sommeliers, as well as top winemakers.

These individuals were very eager to help the participants improve their blind tasting skills.

After spending an hour tasting and jotting our deductive answers on a sheet, we assembled in the Copia Theater to hear each expert explain what the wine was and the all-important “clues” that could help identification.

Wrap Up

The last day wrapped up with some interesting talks about wine past, present, and future, given by Patrick McGovern, Ron Runnebaum, and John Ragan MS.

And what would a Sommelier Summit be without a Global Benchmark of Grape and Place Tasting, hosted by Skurnik Wines.

Guests were able to taste wines from classic regions.

It was a fabulous event and the best way to learn about wine for new and seasoned sommeliers alike.

Many kudos to the organizers and sponsors for making this event happen.

If you liked this article, you will like:

Visiting Chappellet

Visiting the Hess Collection in Napa

Video of Somm Summit

**Click Here to start your wine journey**

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If you love art and wine, you are eager to visit the Hess Collection winery in California’s Napa Valley.

You might have heard about Hess Collection Chardonnay, rich and buttery, and available in your higher end supermarket or fine wine shop.

Hess Collection Winery makes wine from many different wine varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as the various blends.

History of the Napa Valley Hess Collection Winery

It’s really fascinating to hear the history of the Hess Collection Winery.

[bctt tweet=”The Winery was created by Donald Hess, who inherited his father’s company at the age of 20 in the earlier part of the last century.” username=”awinestory”]

In 1959, the family was very successful with their mineral water company in Europe.

But in the mid 1970s Donald came to the USA to see how the market was for mineral water. After spending four weeks visiting the entire United States, he did not see a strong demand for mineral water, or resources for making good mineral water.

A stop in Calistoga was the last straw. He did not like the water there at all.

At an elegant restaurant, he wondered what he would tell the family back home about his failed mission.

Then he picked up the wine list.

Hess Collection Winery: What Happened When Mr. Hess Looked At the List

Instead of the French wines that usually filled a list at an elegant restaurant, he saw only California wines.

He asked the sommelier about the wines, and became intrigued with the idea of making California wines.

Two years later, he returned to the Napa Valley and found the vineyards that would soon belong to the Hess Collection winery.

At first, they grew the grapes and made the wine at a different facility.

Then they searched for a winery space.

They found one in an old, antiquated winery space that had been used by monks to make wine during prohibition.

Rebuilding the space into the grand Hess Collection Winery took millions of dollars and many years.

Preparing to Visit to the Hess Collection Winery

You will want to prepare for your visit to the Hess Collection Winery.

To see the multi-million dollar of art, is free.

Tastings of wine begin at $25 and go up from there, depending on the sort of experience you want.

Click this link to watch the Video Below

How much time to spend at Hess Collection Winery?

According to Michael Jobs, the chief wine educator, 90 minutes at Hess is fine.

This is enough time to choose one of the more streamlined tasting experiences and even enough time to buy a bottle of wine and enjoy it with your friends in the gorgeous art-filled garden.

Marisa D’Vari’s Recommendation For Hess Collection Winery

Hess Collection Winery is one of the most beautiful wineries in the Napa Valley.

Their top wine, The Lion Cabernet Sauvignon from the best Mount Veeder grapes, is nearly $200 dollars a bottle.

Though touring the art collection is free, and the least expensive tasting is $25, I recommend booking one of the higher end tastings.

The Chocolate and Wine Pairing

One exciting tasting is the chocolate and wine pairing.

For this pairing, the chefs prepare truffles infused with some elements you may find in the wine to be paired with it.

The Cheese and Wine Pairing

For this pairing, you will taste seasonal artisinal cheese paired with a variety of different wines.

The Lunch Events

On request, Hess Collections winery can arrange a special lunch. The price quoted to me was $185 a person. And it’s interesting to know that two people is just fine.

The Tasting

I was lucky enough to taste through the range of current releases. Fabulous! You will enjoy your visit to the Hess Collection Winery very much.

2016 Panthera Chardonnay – new generation wine – very Meursault like, sauteed butter, long length of finish. 14.3

2016 Lion Tamer Red Blend – Malbec and zin (Prisoner is the target, Malbec is second most important grape …. 40% Malbec 27% Zinfandel 2% Mourvedre 1% Petite Verdot and 1% merlot – jammy red fruit flavors. Velvet tannins. Some boysenberry fruit

2016 Napa Valley “Allomi” Cabernet Sauvignon – $32 but also by glass – 1 hour north Howell mountain but not within the AVA -flatter and warmer – American oak.

2014 Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown – $75 retail – very elegant with structured tannins – 80% new french oak 22 months –

2014 The Lion Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown – 65% new french oak – very structured and bordeaux like – blackberry blueberry dark chocolate $185

Here is a Video of the Hess Collection Art

Video of Sparkling Wine

 This is the Marisa D’Vari aka AWineStory.com List of Essentials to Bring for Winery Visits

1. A hat, especially for sunny days.
2. Sunglasses for the same reason.
3. Sunscreen very necessary in summer.
4. A charger for your device so not to miss once-in-a-lifetime pictures.
5. Your favorite bottled water
6. A cup for expectorating wine in case it is not provided.
7. A small notebook to record details about the wine or vineyards.
8. Comfortable walking shoes for vineyard visits
   

   Hess Collection Winery Visitor Center

   4411 Redwood Road
   Napa, California 94558
   707-255-1144

   P.S. If you or your friends are visiting the Napa Valley, please use the SOCIAL SHARE buttons to send them this article. You can also subscribe here to my newsletter.

   If you liked this post, you may enjoy

   Napa Valley: Visiting Chappellet on Pritchard Hill

   Beyond the Scenes at Dominus Estate

   Cabernet Sauvignon in Chiles Valley with George Bursick of Maxville Winery

    

   MORE ABOUT AUTHOR MARISA DVARI

   **Follow Marisa on Instagram here**

   Marisa D’Vari DipWSET holds the highest qualification from the Wine and Spirits Educational Trust (WSET), representing three years of intense study.  In addition, she has completed the “Honours Level” of the WSET, representing an additional year writing a thesis.

   Key Wine Credentials

   D’Vari  has several of the most important wine credentials in the world, including the “Certified Sommelier” designation from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Certified Wine Educator qualification from the Society of Wine Educators.  She has several blind tasting and other diplomas from the American Sommelier Association and Sommelier Society of America.

   Wine Competition Judge

   Marisa D’Vari is a judge for the International Wine Challenge and International Wine and Spirits Competiton, as well as the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles Wine Competition

   Associations

   D’Vari is the first American member of the UK’s Association of Wine Educators and a member of the global Circle of Wine Writers. She is a long standing member of FIJEV, the International Federation of Journalists of Wine and Spirits.

   D’Vari is a Finalist in the 2019 Millesime Blog Competition, and the author of five non-fiction books.

The post Hess Collection Winery appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.

Clos Pegase Estate Winery

Visiting Clos Pegase Estate Winery in the Calistoga AVA of Napa Valley

When people think of Clos Pegase Estate Winery in the Napa Valley, they think of mainly three things:

1. Clos Pegase Chardonnay
2. Clos Pegase Cabernet Sauvignon
3. The famous architecture of the Clos Pegase Estate Winery, and the art collection within.

My recent visit to the Hess Collection Winery, with its extensive art collection, alerted me to the presence of another winery with an impressive art collection: The Clos Pegase Estate.

Origins of the Clos Pegase Estate Winery

The original owner and creator of Clos Pegase was Jan Shrem.

He was born in Columbia to Jewish-Lebanese parents.

After emigrating to the USA as a child, he made his way through the University of California, at Los Angeles selling encyclopedias.

Then he parlayed this experience into what would become a multi-million dollar book publishing company.

Like many entrepreneurs, Jan Shrem developed a love of art and wine.

He decided to translate this into a world-class winery and art exhibition space.

After searching for the right terroir, he decided to build his winery in the Calistoga AVA of the Napa Valley, California.

Clos Pegase Architect Michael Graves

After an extensive, international competition and selection process, architect Michael Graves was chosen to design Clos Pegase.

His goal was to create a modern structure with a nod toward ancient Mediterranean architecture and culture.

Clos Pegase was completed in 1987.

Close Pegase Art and Architecture

At Clos Pegase, art, architecture, and wine are intertwined at every turn.

It is interesting to note that the name of the Applebone vineyard vineyard comes from the sculpture Applebone by Mark di Suvero, part of founder Jan Schrem’s modern art collection.

Clos Pegase inspired the Chateau Bordeaux exhibit at the Centre Pompidou in Paris.

It was the only foreign winery featured as a point of comparison to Bordeaux Chateaux.

Heritage Garden: Conservation, Biodiversity, and Style

This Heritage garden was created in the summer of 2015 to conserve water.

It also enhances the beauty of the Clos Pegase winery with its special collection of rare, drought-tolerant plants and trees.

Drought tolerant plants include 19 heritage Jubaea Chilenis “Wine Palms” — the largest West Coast collection north of Santa Barbara. Other drought-tolerant specimens, sourced from wine-growing regions around the world, include bold and ethereal spiky dasylirions,

Plants in the collection act as pollinator resources, attracting foraging bees and hummingbirds.

Clos Pegase Estate Winery Vineyards

The four vineyards of Clos Pegase are spread over 450 acres, each with unique characteristics.

Grape varietals are matched to the right location.

Mitsuko’s Vineyard

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are planted here because of the cooling breeze from San Pablo Bay. Yet the soil also has Haire clay-loam similar to that of of the Right Bank of Bordeaux. Cabernet Sauvignon grows best in the section known as Graveyard Hill with its own unique rocky, well-drained soil and an aspect that maximizes sun exposure

Tenma Vineyard

The Tenma Vineyard is located in the foothills of Mount St. Helena. The rocky terrain is well-drained with a very sparse topsoil which is a perfect combination for growing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes here form the basis for the Hommage Cabernet Sauvignon.

Applebone Vineyards

You can see the beautiful Applebone vineyards (four acres of them) from the tasting room. This vineyard is devoted to Cabernet Sauvignon because of the gravely Bale loam soil. Only one clone is used, the French Dijon Clone 191. This clone ensures small and concentrated fruit that is high quality and unique. Wine geeks may find it interesting that high density plantings along with rootstock selection 420A helps limit the vigor. This keeps the vines in balance and eliminates the green, unripe flavors which can be an issue with some wines made of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Dunaweal Vineyard

The Dunaweal Vineyard has a fine Bale loam soil with a layer of gravel and a richer topsoil than the other vineyards. Bordeaux varieties such as Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and other red grapes such as Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Syrah grow well here.

The Clos Pegase Estate Winery Tasting Experience

The tasting room overlooks the Heritage Garden, Applebone Vineyard and offers a fabulous view of the Mayacamas Mountains. The first tier estate flight includes a taste of five limited production estate-grown wines. It is $35. Prices go up after this according to the various experiences.

You can also choose an interactive walking tour of their Calistoga estate, caves and bottling facility and a sampling of five limited production and estate-grown wines along the way.

Then there is the Connoisseur all-inclusive tour, tasting & charcuterie pairing where you will learn about the history of Clos Pegase and taste some of their library wines.

You can also find fun events such as progressive tastings, and a private picnic event – yet remember the majority of these special tasting events must be reserved in advance.

Clos Pegase Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting

Today I am going to limit myself to discussing just two of the Clos Pegase Estate Winery winea.

2016 Napa Valley Estate Tenma Vineyard Clos Pegase Cabernet Sauvignon

This has a dark purple core and aromas of cassis, wood, cigar box and black currant – very similar to a Bordeaux wine. A few moments later you will get more nuances of aromas and flavors such as graphite and wet clay. A delicious wine that punches well above its weight.

2017 Mitsuko’s Vineyard Carneros Clos Pegase Chardonnay

This is a deliciously rich Chardonnay made in a restrained French style, with barrel maturation and full malolactic conversion for that luscious texture and flavor. Discreet use of oak with a long length of finish.

Tips for Visiting Clos Pegase Winery Estate in the Napa Valley

It is important to look at the website closely at least a week before your visit to allow enough time to make the necessary reservations.In busy times like summer or holidays, you might need to book well in advance.

List of Essentials (Marisa’s personal recommendations

1. A hat, especially for sunny days.
2. Sunglasses for the same reason
3. Sunscreen very necessary in summer.
4. A charger for your device so not to miss once-in-a-lifetime pictures.
5. Your favorite bottled water
6. A cup for expectorating wine in case it is not provided.
7. A small notebook to record details about the wine or vineyards.
8. Comfortable walking shoes for vineyard visits

Logistical Information

Depending on traffic, it may take two hours – or more – to visit Clos Pegase in the Napa Valley.

Be certain to allow enough time for travel.

The Clos Pegases Estate Winery Club

The Wine Club offers many advantages, including discounts and some free tastings.

Click this link for Pegase WInery Club Information

If you like this article you may like

Exploring Dominus Estate

Exploring Chappellet Winery 

Final Tips 

Consider this face cover to block out the strong sun – more effective than sunscreen.

Wear a hat – this one is made from a fabric with sun blocking agents inside of it.

Think about a sun shawl to protect you as you stay under the sun

Clos Pegase Driving Directions

Address

Clos Pegase Winery & Tasting Room

Open daily: 10:00-5p.m.
1060 Dunaweal Lane
Calistoga, CA 94515

Driving Directions

From Hwy 101

• Take the Hwy 37 exit to Hwy 121
  • Turn left onto Hwy 121 to Hwy 29
  • Turn left (north) at Hwy 29 and continue toward Calistoga
  • Turn right on Dunaweal Lane

From I-80

• Take Napa turnoff in Vallejo, follow signs to Hwy 29
  • Turn right (north) at Hwy 29
  • Follow signs for “Calistoga, 29 North”
  • Continue north on Hwy 29 towards Calistoga
  • Turn right on Dunaweal Lane.MORE ABOUT AUTHOR MARISA DVARI**Follow Marisa on Instagram here**Marisa D’Vari DipWSET holds the highest qualification from the Wine and Spirits Educational Trust (WSET), representing three years of intense study.  In addition, she has completed the “Honours Level” of the WSET, representing an additional year writing a thesis.Key Wine Credentials

  D’Vari  has several of the most important wine credentials in the world, including the “Certified Sommelier” designation from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Certified Wine Educator qualification from the Society of Wine Educators.  She has several blind tasting and other diplomas from the American Sommelier Association and Sommelier Society of America.

  Wine Competition Judge

  Marisa D’Vari is a judge for the International Wine Challenge and International Wine and Spirits Competiton, as well as the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles Wine Competition

  Associations

  D’Vari is the first American member of the UK’s Association of Wine Educators and a member of the global Circle of Wine Writers. She is a long standing member of FIJEV, the International Federation of Journalists of Wine and Spirits.

  D’Vari is a Finalist in the 2019 Millesime Blog Competition, and the author of five non-fiction books.

   

The post Clos Pegase Estate Winery appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.

Maxville Winery Cabernet Sauvignon winemaker George Bursick of Maxville Wine Speaks

“We focus on the Cabernet Sauvignon grape variety,” says George Bursick, executive winemaker at Maxville Winery in the Chiles Valley AVA.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Chiles Valley is in the Napa Valley, just 20 minutes from bustling St. Helena with its shops and restaurants down the Silverado Trail.” display_tweet=””]

Chiles Valley is in the Napa Valley, just 20 minutes from bustling St. Helena with its shops and restaurants down the Silverado Trail.

**Click Here For Wine Resources**

The Maxville Lake Winery and its excellent Cabernet Sauvignon based and other wines has been around for decades.

But it’s only in the last year – especially the last four months under the guardianship of George Bursick – that the wines and gorgeous grounds are being recognized.

We know Maxville winery for its high end Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux varietal wines, along with top Sauvignon Blanc (which I enjoyed with crab at the Waterfront restaurant in San Francisco.

Though I met George Bursick earlier in New York, today I meet him on his own turf – the gorgeous Maxville winery. Here you can not beliee how much top end Cabernet Sauvignon I enjoyed.

Maxville Winery in Napa Valley’s Chiles Valley

The Maxville winery is in the Chiles Valley AVA of the Napa Valley. It is just 15 brief minutes from quaint St. Helena with its world class restaurants and hotels.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”You feel you are in a more rustic Napa wine country as soon as you turn off Highway 29.” display_tweet=””]

You feel you are in a more rustic Napa wine country as soon as you turn off Highway 29.

If you are a passenger (especially a passenger from a big busy city) you will gawk with every twist and turn.

If you are the driver, you better keep your eyes on the road and watch out for bicyclists.

The scenic drive includes glimpses of a lake, incredible looking trees, and landscapes so stunning you will want to pull over to take a picture.

I did not see any Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon or other vines. [socialpug_tweet tweet=”The vineyards for these “money grapes” are safely tucked away from the main road.” display_tweet=””]

The vineyards for these “money grapes” are safely tucked away from the main road.

The drive reminds me a bit of my visit to the Vineyard 7 & 8 Winery

Maville Winery : Napa Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Tasting

As I enter the Maxville winery I am greeted by George Bursick.

I call him George, [socialpug_tweet tweet=”…yet it is also possible to call him “Mr. Mouthfeel.”” display_tweet=””]

It is also possible to call him “Mr. Mouthfeel.”

This is especially true when the silky texture of Cabernet Sauvignon is concerned.

George received this nickname because he wrote his thesis on mouthfeel when he attended at UC Davis.

George is one of the famous UC Davis class of 1978, a year that produced many of the most celebrated winemakers in California today.

While others wrote their thesis on things like aroma and yeast, George describes himself as a “texture guy.” This is why his thesis is on mouthfeel.

To start the tasting, he pours Sauvignon Blanc 2016.  And as we taste the Sauvignon Blanc 2016, I sense fresh, floral aromas and vibrant acidity.

And yes, a silky texture.

Maxville Winery : California Napa Valley History

George takes me into a small room. Inside the room are photographs from the men who helped build the Napa area. These include George Yount, for which “Yountville” was named.

Here is a 1 minute video of George Bursick speaking about Maxville and future plans.

Maxville Winery Tour

Outside of the vineyard, a great deal of the 40 million dollar renovation went into this Napa Valley reception room as well as the winery itself.

Gone, says George, are the gigantic murals of American Indians cooking food.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”In their place are lovely reception rooms and (coming soon) a new state-of-the-art kitchen that will feature celebrity chefs like Martin Yan. ” display_tweet=””]

In their place are lovely reception rooms and (coming soon) a new state-of-the-art kitchen that will feature celebrity chefs like Martin Yan.

The plan is to have chef demonstrations and tasting dinners.

Maxville Winery Entertainment Center – New Plans

The Maxville winery has an actual lake, and 1000 acres of gorgeous grounds.

The lake is presently used for irrigation, yet some exciting upcoming plans include

• a concert series featuring famous local musicians like neighbor Boz Scaggs
• remote control sailing regatta
• picnic events for wine club members and VIPs

Maxville Winery  is one of the few Napa Valley wineries that has an actual lake.

Another is Quintessa Winery

Other Maxville Winery Activities

The winery has several motorized, all-terrain vehicles for VIPs to explore the 1000 acres of territory and vineyards here.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”There are also several ATVs (all terrain vehicles) and a new Humvee so visitors can tour the 1000 acres efficiently  ” display_tweet=””]

There are also several ATVs (all terrain vehicles) and a new Humvee so visitors can tour the 1000 acres efficiently

On my last visit, I heard there was a sixty foot waterfall not too far out.

Coming soon to the Maxville Winery is also a Buddha themed garden with warm springs.

The Napa Valley Maxville Winery Grand Plan

George and the Maxville team are putting together a grand plan to draw attention to the Maxville winery.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The plan focuses on the excellent quality of the Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley and other variety wines.” display_tweet=””]

The plan focuses on the excellent quality of the Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley and other variety wines.

Yet the plan will also highlight the many exciting experiences that visitors can have at the Maxville winery.

This goes beyond the tasting room.

Programs will highlight the association between wine and cuisine.

And wine and fun.

And wine and adventure.

And wine and music.

Maxville Winery: George Bursick

George is fun, vivacious individual.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”He is a drummer besides being a winemaker.” display_tweet=””]

He is a drummer besides being a winemaker.

He has many famous musician friends. And many friends who are celebrity chefs.

And in his new position, George Bursick  is well using all his connections to get the word out about Maxville wine.

And the Maxville Winery Wines: What are they like?

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is the prestige, age-worthy wine at Maxville Winery.

This Chiles Valley Napa Cabernet is characterized by great intensity of flavor, ripe blackberry flavors, structured tannins that alternate between silk and satin, and a long length of finish.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”In the cellar, you will also find the Bordeaux “blending grapes” like Merlot and Malbec that round out the sharp edges of Cabernet Sauvignon. ” display_tweet=””]

In the cellar, you will also find the Bordeaux “blending grapes” like Merlot and Malbec that round out the sharp edges of Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Cellar Tour

The cellar is outside the main Maxville Winery and looks like a cave. Open Sesame!

Inside, you will find thousands of dollars – maybe even a million dollars – worth of expensive wine maturing in expensive French oak barrels.

Though “blending sessions” are usually conducted in laboratory, George indulged my desire to make my own unscientific blend of a Cabernet Sauvignon base with some Merlot.

Maxville Winery : Thoughts about Napa Valley

When I visit Maxville Winery, I see the potential for world class entertainment events and wine tasting events.

Maxville is not yet open to the public.

They require appointments (see below for contact info)

Yet the high quality of the Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Maxville Winery wines and the other wines is remarkable

And the natural beauty of the lake and the rest of its 1000 acres means that visitors will soon be able to make “a day of their visit” in addition to the wine tasting.

So I am waiting for the day when celebrity chefs come to give cooking classes, and musicians give concerts in the lakeside entertainment center that is being built.

Maxville Winery Corporate and Private Events

The Maxville Winery has function rooms and it is possible to have meetings and catered events on the property.

For more information on this, please contact info@maxvillelakewines.com

If you are interested in the wine club, with their special cuvee wines and access to special events, please contact rmorales@maxvillelakewines.com

Tasting Room:
4105 Chiles Pope Valley Rd.
St. Helena, CA 94574
T | (707) 965 – 9378, Ext. 105
E | rcardoza@maxvillelakewines.com

Main Office:
4105 Chiles Pope Valley Rd.
St. Helena, CA 94574
T | (707) 965 – 9378, Ext. 107
E | rmorales@maxvillelakewines.com

** Learn More About Wine**

Curious about Dominus Estate Winery? 

Quintessa Winery in the Napa Valley 

See Maxville Winery in a Video

 Author Marisa D’Vari

D’Vari contributes to Forbes.com, Financial Times, World of Fine Wine, Quarterly Review of Wine, Decanter Robb Report, San Francisco Chronicle, South China Morning Post, and more.

She holds the (WSET) diploma, Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a Certified Wine Educator  through the Society of Wine Educators … to see it all, please click on bio

The post Maxville Winery appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.

Conn Creek Winery

Napa Valley Barrel Blending

Do you love Napa Valley winery events, not just tasting Napa Valley wine itself?

Yes, I can relate. We all love to book a Napa Valley Wine Experience.

This typically means tasting the wine in the tasting room.

We can even book a food and wine pairing experience.

Yet the best Napa Valley Winery Events are events that are active.

You play a key role in the winery event itself. Such as the barrel blending experience at Coon Creek winery in the Napa Valley.

Conn Creek Winery Barrel Blending Experience: One of the Best Napa Valley Winery Events

So for the second time now, I can vouch for the Conn Creek Winery blending session as one of the best Napa Valley Winery Events.

If you love Napa Valley red wines, you know that the majority of wines are a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties.

As a wine lover, you know there is an “art of the blend” in the Napa Valley.

This is why the Conn Creek winery event known as the “barrel blending experience” is one of the best Napa Valley winery events,

On a personal note, I’ve wanted to take part in this Napa Valley winery event for quite some time.

I first heard about this Napa Valley winery event from former Conn Creek winemaker Mike McGrath.

He explained his barrel blending winery event for visitors, saying that it was more of a “class” than a typical Napa Valley Winery Event.

Objective of this Napa Valley Winery Event Barrel Blending Class

The objective of this winery event is for Conn Creek visitors to assemble their own wine.

They do this by blending a wine from all the different appellations owned by Conn Creek.

The most expensive Cabernet Sauvignon wine at Conn Creek is called the Conn Creek Flagship Anthology Bordeaux style blend.

The word “Anthology” refers to a collection of literary or artistic works. At Conn Creek, the name suggests the layers of depth and complexity that can be achieved through the art of blending.

“Anthology” is expensive because it takes a very seasoned palate to use the exact right amount of grapes from the different appellations to use in the blend.

Structure of the 90 Minute Barrel Blending Winery Event

Guests are very warmly welcomed as they enter the main tasting room of the Conn Creek winery.

I emphasize the word “warmly” because the tasting staff team is extremely friendly. 

They seemed very excited to introduce guests to their winery and show them how the wines are assembled.

While you wait for the class to begin, you are offered a glass of the Anthology wine.

The reason for this offering is twofold. First, it is relaxing to sip wine as you meet the rest of the group you will have class with.

Second, tasting this “finished wine” helps get your palate ready for understanding how your finished blend “should taste.”

At least according to Conn Creek standards.

That said, during the blending class you are free to blend whatever style of wine you desire.

The Blending Class Logistics

Participant numbers can vary, yet there seemed to be about twelve people during our Napa Valley winery event.

Most if not all were couples, yet I could imagine that the class would be fun for groups of friends or event wine lovers traveling on their own.

The room was enormous, with gigantic windows that let in the sun and barrels of wine on one side.

The walls also had maps of the various Napa Valley appellations.

Our hostess was very friendly and welcoming.. 

She spoke in a way that enabled everyone in the class, from new wine drinkers to seasoned professionals, to understand the fundamentals of how, and why, Conn Creek Cabernet Sauvignon wine is blended.

The reason Conn Creek blends Cabernet Sauvignon wine from different Napa Valley appellations is because in winemaking, a blended wine (usually) creates a more complex wine.

Yet the “how” is also important. Every vintage is different in the Napa Valley.

Beyond that, each appellation is known for unique qualities. Some appellations produce a Cabernet Sauvignon wine with higher acidity.

Some appellations have stronger tannins.

Part 1 of the Wine Blending Experience

As you take your seat, you will notice five filled glasses of Cabernet Sauvignon wine from different appellations, as well as two empty glasses for blending. You will see a document written by the creator of the class, as well as various tools for your wine blending experience. This includes a pipette for assembling your blend. 

Our engaging, charismatic leader spent about a half hour explaining how and why each glass of Cabernet Sauvignon had a different flavor profile, even though it was the same variety.

The difference is because of the climate and terroir of its respective appellation.

People who like a softer style of wine, might prefer the softer flavors that come from the Sonoma appellation.

People who like stronger tannin and a bolder flavor profile might like a majority of the Cabernet Sauvignon from the Saint Helena appellation.

Note: If you like this piece, check out related content:

• Visit to Chappellet Winery
• Visit to Quintessa Winery
• Chalk Hill Winery with Courtney Foley

Part 2 of the Wine Blending Experience

If part 1 of the wine blending experience is listening, then Part 2 is actively making the blend. This part of the class requires several things.

1. You must remember from Part 1 the characteristics of each appellation.
2. You must be relatively good in math to make sure the components add up correctly.
3. You must exercise self-restraint and remember that Malbec and Petit Verdot add “spice” and should be used in very modest amounts.

It is also necessary to amble, avoid splashing people with your wine as you take samples from the different barrels, and write down the exact proportions of your blend.

Once your sample blend is approved by your own palate, you make the final blend.

This is the wine you will pour into a bottle, and seal yourself with a cork.

They also encourage you to design a label for your wine.

I had a lot of fun making my own blend.

A year later back in New York, I took the wine and myself out to a restaurant to celebrate my masterpiece.

c

During the visit  I was able to meet the new winemaker Elizabeth DeLouise-Grant.

She is fresh from being Assistant Winemaker at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. Look for great things from her to come!

I strongly recommend this incredible Napa Valley Winery event.

If blending is not your thing, you can discover the wines of Conn Creek with a formal wine and cheese pairing tasting experience or just taste the delicious wines of Conn Creek at the tasting bar.

Reservations are necessary: Click on this Conn Creek link or call 707.968.2669.

Like this article? Check out these excellent wine book reviews here.

Please SHARE this article visit the social media links and subscribe to my newsletter here

If you like this article you will like:

— Dominus Estate
— Chappellet Family Winery
— Hess Collection
— Frog’s Leap

Curious to Learn More About Wine? Start Here

Want to Grab Quick Wine Resources? Click Here 

About Author Marisa D’Vari

D’Vari contributes to Forbes.com, Financial Times, World of Fine Wine, Quarterly Review of Wine, Decanter Robb Report, San Francisco Chronicle, South China Morning Post, and more.

She holds the (WSET) diploma, Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a Certified Wine Educator  through the Society of Wine Educators … to see it all, please click on bio

The post Conn Creek Winery appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.

7 Powerful Stories: Chappellet Pritchard Hill

If you are traveling to California’s Napa Valley, you will want to experience the Chappellet Pritchard Hill Winery Tour and Tasting.

Chappellet Pritchard Hill is one of the most famous wineries in California’s Napa Valley.

The Chappellet Family has been crafting wine here for more than five decades.

The Chappellet vineyards are special because of the variety of soil types, as well as the steep slopes of many vineyards.

This allows the Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and other grapes to retain freshness and acidity.

Pritchard Hill is one of the more exclusive areas of the Napa Valley.

I remember my first visit to Pritchard Hill in conjunction with a special event related to the Annual Napa Valley Wine Auction.

I was amazed by the natural beauty of Pritchard Hill.

As well as the tranquility surrounded this area with its picturesque vineyards.

Many regard Pritchard Hill as a mountain.

It rises from 800 to 1,800 feet above sea level.

And virtually all winemakers will agree that mountain fruit makes the best wine.

And wine experts also agree that Chappellet’s age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons embody the intensity and finesse of fruit from Pritchard Hill

History of Chappellet Pritchard Hill Winery and the Chappellet Vineyards

The Chappellet Winery is founded in 1967 by Donn and Molly.

The Chappellet Family, living in Los Angeles, visit the Pritchard Hill region and fall in love with the area.

Of course, Pritchard Hill land is expensive to buy, even back in 1967.

And the process of turning a rustic hillside into land suitable for vineyards is even more costly.

Luckily, Donn could afford it. He co-founded Interstate United Corporation, a food service business that distributed the first vending machines to make fresh coffee from grounds.

Today the new generation of the Chappellet Family remains at the helm of this family-owned winery.

Stay in the Napa Valley long enough – especially during festivals or auction events – and you are bound to meet a Chappellet Family member.

This may be Cyril, Carissa or Dominic Chappellet, who oversee the day-to-day operations of the winery.

Or Lygia, Alexa or Jon-Mark Chappellet who are active board members.

Chappellet Pritchard Hill : Story of the Appellation

Pritchard Hill fits between the official AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) of Oakville, Howell Mountain, the Stags Leap District, Rutherford and the Chiles Valley. The Chappellet family realized the value of their land … and what made it special.

Even though there were just a few wineries around the area at the time, the family decided to trademark the name “Pritchard Hill” instead of going through the formal AVA application system.

They have the exclusive right to use the name Pritchard Hill on their labels.

The Chappellet Winery Pritchard Hill:  Vineyards and Winemaking Team

Phillip Corallo-Titus is the winemaker and the vineyard manager is Dave Pirio.

The Chappellet Estate has 48 distinctive vineyard blocks.

Each block highlights various soil types, elevations, exposures and grades.

This mosaic of micro-vineyards features a wealth of varietals, clones and rootstocks.

And each block has its own requirements for tender loving care which makes Dave Pirio’s job quite challenging.

Chappellet Winery Sustainable and Organic Viticultural Practices

Chappellet Winery uses sustainable and organic viticultural practices.

This dates to the early 1980s, as the Chappellet family is one of the first wineries to plant cover crops as a method for soil conservation and erosion prevention.

Other viticultural techniques in the Chappellet vineyards include bird boxes, on-site composting and organic fertilizers.

Please continue to read more about the Chappellet Winery Tour and Tasting after the jump.

The Chappellet Pritchard Hill Wine Estate Tour and Tasting

Chappellet Pritchard Hill may be one of the most difficult wineries to visit in the Napa Valley. [socialpug_tweet tweet=”Because the Chappellet family realty want guest to understand their philosophy and mission, they limit the amount of tours and tastings.” display_tweet=””]

The first step is to make a reservation using the website visit request form or by calling their direct wine tour booking phone number which is 707.286.4219.

The second step is to request directions to the winery, which is a bit out of the way.

It can be easy to miss the turning point off the main road. And even when you are on the right road leading to the Chappellet Pritchard Hill winery, you may wonder if you’ve gone too far. This is when having that PDF file of printed directions in hand will assure you that you must keep driving to the very top of Pritchard Hill. GPS does not work well here.

Once you park, you may also wonder if you have arrived at the right place. The structure that houses the reception area of the Chappellet Pritchard Hill winery is very low key. The objective of the design is for the reception area to blend into the natural environment.

Once inside the reception area, attendants will introduce you to your guide.

My Personal Tour and Tasting at Chappellet Pritchard Hill Winery with Amanda

Chappellet Prichard Hill is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon wine, and you know that in the Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon is king. The top wines are very high-priced, like other wines from top estates in the Napa Valley. Yet few have the picturesque setting of Chappellet Pritchard Hill, or the comfort of its new tasting room.

Actually, the word should be “rooms.” Unlike most other wineries, where guests taste at various tables in an enormous room, the tables at Chappellet are set very far apart. In fact, it would be unusual to see another party as the wine tasting experiences are conducted in the barrel room. Huge stacks of wine aging in French oak barrels create privacy between parties.

On my tour, my guide is Amanda. I am introduced to her a few minutes after I enter the reception area. She has lived in the valley for quite a while now, and knows many of the Napa Valley winery folk by name.

Structure of the Chappellet Pritchard Hill Winery Tour and Wine Tasting

In general, the tours begin in the cellar where the wines are aging in their barrels. Yet it is not long until guests are taken into the bright outdoors to see the vineyards and hear more history of the Chappellet family.

As we walk along the paths surrounding these gorgeous, picturesque vineyards, I spot picnic tables under the trees. Amanda explains that they are for the use of Chappellet wine club members. I would absolutely love to book one of those tables with an excellent picnic and some great Chappellet wines.

We go back into the barrel room to find our own private table and taste some wines. On the table, you will find a bucket for expectorating any wine you do not want to swallow (it is a long drive down the hill, after all). You will also find an order form with the names of the wines you will taste. The wines available for tasting depends on the type of tour you book, so be sure to inquire about what wines will be included.

How to Prepare for your Chappellet Pritchard Hill  Winery Tour

 A checklist of things you are recommended to bring follows. Yet given how challenging it is to get a reservation (try as far in advance as possible), you should study the history so you can ask the right questions.

You can research the Chappellet family online, yet the easiest way is to ask for this information be emailed to you when you make your reservation. Be certain to also ask for the directions to be emailed to you as well.

This is the Marisa D’Vari aka AWineStory.com List of Essentials to Bring for Winery Visits

1. A hat, especially for sunny days.
2. Sunglasses for the same reason.
3. Sunscreen very necessary in summer.
4. A charger for your device so not to miss once-in-a-lifetime pictures.
5. Your favorite bottled water
6. A cup for expectorating wine in case it is not provided.
7. A small notebook to record details about the wine or vineyards.
8. Comfortable walking shoes for vineyard visits

   **Please SHARE this article visit the social media links and subscribe to my newsletter here

   If you like this article you will like:

   — Dominus Estate
   — Chappellet Family Winery
   — Hess Collection
   — Frog’s LeapCurious to Learn More About Wine? Start HereWant to Grab Quick Wine Resources? Click Here About Author Marisa D’Vari

   D’Vari contributes to Forbes.com, Financial Times, World of Fine Wine, Quarterly Review of Wine, Decanter Robb Report, San Francisco Chronicle, South China Morning Post, and more.

   She holds the (WSET) diploma, Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a Certified Wine Educator  through the Society of Wine Educators … to see it all, please click on bio

   Related California Wine Articles You May Like

   • Visiting Quintessa Winery in Rutherford
   • Tasting La Crema Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
   • Discovering Chalk Hill Winery 

   If you liked this post, you may enjoy

   Hess Collection Winery

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   Cabernet Sauvignon in Chiles Valley with George Bursick of Maxville Winery

   **Eager to learn more about wine? Start Here**

   **Watch a Video about Chappellet Here**

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 Quintessa Winery

Quintessa winery is just off the Silvarado Trail in Rutherford, Napa Valley. It is about 90 minutes from San Francisco by car.

It’s considered  one of the best small wineries in the Napa Valley. It is also one of the most fun wineries in Napa for wine tours.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Many will agree that Quintessa Winery is possibly the most picturesque winery in the Napa Valley.” display_tweet=””]

Many will agree that Quintessa Winery is possibly the most picturesque winery in the Napa Valley.

Quintessa Winery Tours

Quintessa Winery is an organic winery. Two of the winery tour options at Quintessa Wine Estate include a delightful vineyard tour. In this way you can see the health of organic vines.

Then after the tour you can taste the corresponding quality in the wine.

The “Ambasssadors” at Quintessa Winery (this is their word for guides) in Rutherford encourage guests to book a “tasting experience.”

Yes, I know, the word “experience” is a nebulous word.  The concept alludes to the reality that your visit will include more than tasting the wine.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”It involves the concept of understanding the goal of owner Agustin and Valeria Huneeus and their philosophy.” display_tweet=””]

It involves the concept of understanding the goal of owner Agustin and Valeria Huneeus and their philosophy.

We will discuss the different tour and wine experience options below.

Quintessa Winery : History in Rutherford, Napa Valley

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The Quintessa Winery owners Agustin Huneeus and Valeria Huneeus purchased the gorgeous vineyard to become Quintessa in 1990.” display_tweet=””]

You can imagine that it takes a lot of money to buy such expensive land for wine vineyards. As Agustin Huneeus is responsible for the success of Concha Y Toro, one of the most popular brands in Chile, he can afford the land and the costs of its development.

**Click Here for the Best Wine Resources**

Quhttp://shopintessa Winery Vineyards in the late 1990s

So in the late 1990s, Agustin Huneeus looks at the 280 acres of land that is now Quintessa. He sees the potential of the land, as well as the amount of  work that must be done to plant vineyards.

Experts arrive to advise on the best grape varieties to grow. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc are planted in addition to others.

Quintessa Winery  Harvest and Vinification

After the three required years, grapes are harvested and vinified at the Franciscan winery. At the same time, Agustin is building the state of the art Quintessa Wine Estate. 2002 marks the opening of the new Quintessa Rutherford winery. Aaron Pott is the first winemaker.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”Michel Rolland joins the team as consultant in 2010.” display_tweet=””]

Quintessa Winery : Booking a Tasting Visit

As Quintessa Winery Napa Valley, you can taste red wine from Bordeaux varieties and white wine from Sauvignon Blanc. The Cabernet based red Bordeaux wine, Quintessa also includes the varieties Merlot. Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Carménère.

It is possible to have a simple tasting in the Quintessa tasting room. Yet having visited this picturesque Rutherford winery, you will want to consider options that include vineyard visits below. The reason is that you will have a much richer experience and understanding of the Quintessa Wine Estate.

Please continue to read about the various tasting experiences, and the essential items you are strongly suggested to bring with you, below the jump.

Quintessa Winery: Tasting Experiences

Quintessa is one of the best Napa wineries to visit because of the quality of the wines and the incredible scenery.  The wine experiences must be booked in advance. The price range as of 2019 begins at $75 and goes up  to $150.

Some may consider the fees high. One reason for the fee to taste wine is because the owners want you to have a wonderful experience.[socialpug_tweet tweet=”This means a very comfortable experience without crowds.” display_tweet=””] They want to make sure you understand all about Quintessa wine, both the viticulture and the winemaking.

When you make an appointment you and your group will have your own personal Ambassador to explain the wines as you taste them. And also answer all questions.

Quintessa Winery : Premium Tasting Experiences

The Salon Tasting Experience showcases the famous Illumination Sauvignon Blanc, the new release and library vintage. It is a 45 minute seated flight including three wines.

The Estate Tasting is an immersive look into the Estate. The semi-private visits begins with a guided walk through the vineyards. It concludes with a relaxing sit-down tasting showcasing current releases and library vintages.

Quintessa Winery Experience

The Quintessential Quintessa Winery Experience includes the scenic walk to the vineyards and then a tasting in the private pavilion overlooking the vineyards. [socialpug_tweet tweet=”You will taste exclusive barrel selections and library wines paired with cheese.” display_tweet=””] Your ambassador will tell the wonderful story that is Quintessa. You will also enjoy the Quintessa caves and gravity flow winery.

Time did not allow me to enjoy the Quintessential Experience, yet I must admit as I was walking through the vineyards I wished I could sit down in that fabulous Pavilion and sip the wine as I looked out at the vineyards. So for me, this is the wine experience that is most worth it. With this tour you can also see the caves and winery.

You can choose your Quintessa Wine Experience tour here

Quintessa Winery : What to Wear, Bring, and Expect When Visiting the Quintessa Wine Estate

Expect to have a wonderful time, taste great wine, and learn a lot about the famous Quintessa white and red wines.

Yet for practical measures you might consider the checklist below to make sure you have everything you need.

Though most wineries do provide a bucket for expectorating the wine you may not wish to swallow (for driving and other reasons),

I always take it upon myself to bring my own paper cup or plastic reusable cup. Many wineries have water available for seated tastings, yet you may wish to bring your favorite brand.

Essentials to Bring for Winery Visits

1. A hat, especially for sunny days.
2. Sunglasses for the same reason.
3. Sunscreen very necessary in summer. Personally, I find this face covering more protective and less irritating.
4. A charger for your device so not to miss once-in-a-lifetime photos.
5. Your favorite bottled water
6. A cup for expectorating wine in case it is far away or not provided.
7. A small notebook to record details about the wine or vineyards.
8. Comfortable walking shoes for vineyard visits

Quintessa Winery: My Experience

Desiree, pictured above, was my Ambassador during this visit.

The visit started with a visit to the vineyards, which was more gorgeous than I could imagine. I was very grateful for my walking shoes, as you will walk quite a bit uphill. I saw the pavilions along the way, reserved for the higher-end wine experience tours. How wonderful to book this tour category. The views are breathtaking.

During this outdoor excursion, Desiree explained the history of Quintessa. Then we toured more areas of the property and had a comfortable tasting in the beautiful Quintessa Tasting room.

The Tasting of the Quintessa Wines

The 2016 white Illumination Sauvignon Blanc is a signature wine at Quintessa. It is delicious.[socialpug_tweet tweet=”The Sauvignon Blanc has aromas of bright flowers and flavors of white peach and kiwi fruit.” display_tweet=””] The grapes are hand-picked and rushed to the winery while still fresh.

They ferment the grapes with mostly native yeast. The wine is aged in a variety of barrels (including a small percentage of French oak, Acacia barrels, and egg-shaped concrete fermenters). The objective is to give richness on the palate while retaining fresh aromas.

Quintessa 2014

They make the current release of Quintessa 2014 from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carmenere.

These are traditional Bordeaux varieties. 2014 is a perfect growing season. This is despite the earthquake and drought. This wine is an attractive deep garnet color with flavors of fresh cherry and blackberry. Also layered notes of violets, graphite, and cedar spice. They age it for 21 months in 100% French oak, 80% new.

Then 20 days maceration on the skins.

Quintessa Estate: The Wines Tasted

The Quintessa 2012 is also from an excellent vintage. It is a classic Napa summer with warm days and cool nights. The wine is made with the same Bordeaux varietals as above for the same 21 months. This vintage 85% new French oak is used, with 20 – 26 days maceration on the skins.

The Quintessa 2011 is from a challenging vintage with a lot of rain. The Quintessa Wine Estate the team used selective picking and careful sorting. This ensures only perfect grapes are used.

[socialpug_tweet tweet=”This wine has more aromas of crushed wet rock, sandalwood, and clove along with fresh cherries, currants, and red plum.” display_tweet=””]85% new French oak is used on this wine as well, but the maceration time was 28 days long.

The Quintessa Wine Estate follows organic and even biodynamic practices. You can almost taste the effect of these practices on the health of the grape through the wine.

Quintessa Winery : About Winemaker Rebekah Wineburg

Rebekah has worked at some of the most prestigious wineries in the world. She loves working at Quintessa because of its diversity of vineyard blocks and soil types. She loves working with the Huneeus family and is passionate about the organic processes of the Quintessa Estate Winery.

Very friendly and natural, Rebekah enjoys spending some time out of the winery at special dinners featuring Quintessa Winery Estate wines.

Quintessa Winery: Watch the Film

https://www.quintessa.com/the-experience

To make a reservation call (707) 286-2730 or email reservations@quintessa.com.

Please SHARE this article visit the social media links and subscribe to my newsletter here

If you like this article you will like:

— Dominus Estate
— Chappellet Family Winery
— Hess Collection
— Frog’s Leap

**Curious to Learn More About Wine? Start Here**

Want to Grab Quick Wine Resources? Click Here 

About Author Marisa D’Vari

D’Vari contributes to Forbes.com, Financial Times, World of Fine Wine, Quarterly Review of Wine, Decanter Robb Report, San Francisco Chronicle, South China Morning Post, and more.

She holds the (WSET) diploma, Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a Certified Wine Educator  through the Society of Wine Educators … to see it all, please click on bio

Related California Wine Articles You May Like

• Tasting La Crema Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
• Enjoying Cline Old Cellars Zinfandel 
• Discovering Chalk Hill Winery 

The post Quintessa Winery appeared first on AWINESTORY.COM.