Provenance Vineyards

Cabernet Sauvignon-based Rutherford, California Winery

Provenance was founded by the Chalone Wine Group as a new Cabernet Sauvignon-based brand with a Rutherford appellation.

The company chose Tom Rinaldi as the founding winemaker—in 22 years at Duckhorn Wine Company, Rinaldi had won numerous awards and 90+ scores from critics.

In 2002 Chalone acquired the former Chateau Beaucanon winery, which became home to Provenance after extensive remodeling. Today Provenance is owned by Diageo, whose other top Napa wineries include Rosenblum, Sterling, and Beaulieu.

As you drive past grassy lawns toward the huge bright-red winery, you’ll notice the Mayacamas Mountains toward the west. The building, which is surrounded by vineyards, might remind you of an old, massive barn—but once you’re inside you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a luxurious art gallery. The beautiful planked-wood floor is made from old Provenance wine barrels, and the blonde-wood tasting bar has plenty of space. The modern lights are eye-catching, the display cases offer tasteful wine-related items for sale, and a big round window lets you peek into the barrel room.

Fascinating Fact:

The word Provenance comes from the French; it translates to origin or source, and is often used in relation to an artwork’s authenticity. Here it’s meant to convey that a fine wine is akin to a work of art.

Amenities: Wine Clubs, Gift shop
Founded: 1999
Signature Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec
Wine Tasting: Appointments appreciated for groups of six and more
Hours: Daily, 10–4:30

Provenance Vineyards
1695 St. Helena Highway
Rutherford, CA 94573
707-968-3633

email: provenance.info@provenancevineyards.com
website: www.provenancevineyards.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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