James Cole Estate Winery

Napa Valley winery on the Silverado Trail

Located just south of the Stags Leap District, this beautiful 11-acre property was once home to an equestrian center for years. In 2000 the land was purchased by newly-married James and Colleen “Cole” Harder.

For the next few years they planted vines (mostly Cabernet Sauvignon grape clones), constructed a winery, and celebrated the birth of two children. Finally, in 2007, the Harders opened a tasting room. Today James Cole is one of Napa’s smallest commercial wineries, known in particular for its excellent Cabernet Sauvignon.

The juice from each clone is separately reserved during the aging process and later blended to produce wine in limited quantities.

The handsome stone winery has a traditional, barn-like exterior, but is elegantly modern on the inside, notable for its curved bar, soft wall coloring, and spare style.

Tasting here is a relaxed experience, handled by a knowledgable and friendly staff. The black-walled barrel room—just off the tasting bar—holds a large table where visitors can sometimes sit and watch Rolling Stone videos.

Fascinating Fact:

The winery’s logo, which you’ll see on the bottles, is derived from the unique metal sculpture near the tasting counter.

Amenities: Wine Club (complimentary tastings), Various public events throughout the year
Founded: 2000
Signature Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Jaden Reisling Ice Wine, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay
Wine Tasting: By appointment only
Hours: Daily, 10-5

James Cole Winery
5014 Silverado Trail
Napa, CA 94558
707-251-9905

website: www.jamescolewinery.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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