Rubicon Estate

Gorgeous Historic Winery in Rutherford, California

Rubicon Estate Winery is notable for many reasons, but two stand out. First, the winery dates back to 1879, when a former Finnish sea captain and fur trader named Gustave Niebaum established Inglenook Winery.

Second, in 1975 famed movie director Francis Ford Coppola bought Niebaum’s home and vineyard (his first vintage appeared in 1977 under the Niebaum-Coppola label). Copolla later reunited the original estate when he purchased Niebaum’s remaining acreage, including the magnificent redwood winery.

In 2006 the winery was given a new name: Rubicon Estate.

The winery bills itself as “America’s Grand Wine Estate,” and you will agree. It is, quite simply, a lush and gorgeous destination.

Furnishings are swank, a huge grand stairway sweeps you up broad carpeted steps, and the two elegant tasting rooms seem straight out of a movie set inside a palace or a private mens’ club. And you will be treated like a VIP, with a personalized experience that includes a walk down a red carpet.

A Guest Fee, required to visit, includes a tasting of five wines, a tour, and access to various parts of the Estate (including the museum).

Fascinating Fact:

Wine made by Captain Niebaum in the 19th century won gold medals at the 1889 Paris World Fair.

Amenities: Museum, Wine Club, Gift Shop, Mammarella Wine Bar, Sensory Exploration, Tours
Founded: 1977
Signature Wines: Rubicon (Cabernet blend), Blancaneaux (Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier blend), Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah
Wine Tasting: Reservations Recommended
Hours: Daily, 10–5

Rubicon Estate
1991 St. Helena Highway
Rutherford, CA 94574
800-782-4266

website: www.rubiconestate.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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