Del Dotto Estate Winery & Caves

Sumptously decorated Neo-Classical Rutherford CA Winery

The name of owner Dave Del Dotto may be familiar.

For more than a decade, starting in the mid-1980s, the former real estate investor was often seen on late-night infomercials selling his investment course, “Cash Flow System.”

Changing careers, Del Dotto bought land in Napa in 1988 and planted vines. His wines have received praise since the first vintage, a 1993 Cabernet Sauvignon.

In building the winery, Del Dotto honored is family’s Venetian and Tuscan roots. The Neo-Classical winery, made of white marble, makes a grand impression. Inside, Italian arias play in the background. The building is decorated with gorgeous Venetian glass chandeliers, mosaic marble floors, and other sumptuous touches.

Tasting can be enjoyed at the wine bar or on a cave tour. In the former, you’ll sample four wines and a port accompanied by cheese, chocolates and almonds.

The cave experience, which is notorious for generous pours straight from the barrel, finishes in the tasting hall with more wines, a charcuterie platter, and a chocolate/port pairing.

Fascinating Fact:

In 1996 Dave Del Dotto settled for $200,000 charges by the Federal Trade Commission that he and his companies made allegedly deceptive claims in marketing his course, the “Cash Flow System.”

Amenities: Cave tours, Pairings
Founded: 1988
Signature Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir
Wine Tasting: Reservation only
Hours: Daily, 10–5

Del Dotto Estate Winery & Caves
1445 St. Helena Highway South
St. Helena, CA 94574
707-963-2134

website: www.deldottovineyards.com

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Suzie Rodriguez writes about travel, food, and wine from her home in the wine-country town of Sonoma, California. You can follow her travels and musings at The Culinary Gadabout.

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