Sullivan Vineyards

Wine Tasting in a Beautiful Setting in Rutherford, CA

Originally a graphic designer, Jim Sullivan worked with rock bands of the 1950s and 1960s, including the then-popular Monkees.

But he and his wife, JoAnna, wanted to create wines, and so in 1972 they purchased land in Napa Valley. For nearly a decade they concentrated on growing grapes, which they sold to local wineries, but in 1981 the Sullivans produced their first vintage (Jim designed the label).

Over the years Sullivan’s French-style wines have won many Gold and Silver medals at competitions. Today the founders’ son, Sean, oversees the winery operations as CEO and General Manager.

Visits to Sullivan Winery are renowned for being intimate, unhurried, and fun. The surroundings are beautiful, with superbly-landscaped gardens and a winery building designed by noted architect John Marsh Davis (designer of Rutherford Hill, Joseph Phelps, and Chateau Souverain).

On pleasant days you’ll sit outside beneath the trees, tasting a generous sampling while listening to stories about the winery from your guide. Sullivan family members often stop by to greet visitors, as do the winery’s friendly dogs. Reserve Tastings (available by request) are usually held with one of the family members.

Fascinating Fact:

Look for the wine-related paintings by the founders’ daughter, Kelleen Sullivan—an accomplished American contemporary artist—on display in the tasting room.

Amenities: Wine Clubs, Gardens, Picnic Area, Dog-friendly, Art on display
Founded: 1972
Signature Wines: Red Ink (Cabernet/Merlot blend), Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Coeur de Vigne (Bordeaux Blend)
Wine Tasting: Appointment only
Hours: Daily, 10–5

Sullivan Vineyards
1090 Galleron Road
Rutherford, CA 94573
707-963-9646

email: asa@sullivanwine.com
website: www.sullivanwine.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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