Vine Cliff Winery

Historic Napa Valley property on the Silverado Trail

The beautiful one-hundred hilly acres comprising Vine Cliff once belonged to George Yount (for whom Yountville is named). A new owner established a winery in 1871, and it quickly became one of Napa’s largest and most successful wineries.

Unfortunately, the vineyards were devastated in 1900 by phylloxera, and over time most of the original winery and other structures fell to ruin, although some stone flooring and the tunnel system remained.

Jump forward to 1985, when the Sweeny family purchased and revitalized the property, committed to producing small quantities of artisan wines.

Vine Cliff’s site is truly lovely. The gardens, the views, the whimsical art pieces scattered about, the wine caves carved into solid rock, and the quiet serenity of the place are a treasure.

Take photos beside the pond, with its bronze sculpture of a boar; on warm days you can taste outside overlooking the water. The tasting room is simple, but seems like exactly the right place to sample such well-crafted wines.

Fascinating Fact:

Fur Trapper George Yount came to California in 1831, becoming the first permanent American settler in Napa Valley.

Amenities: Gardens; Picnic area. Wine Club (complimentary tastings); Private Tours or Cave Pairing (by appointment); Private dinners in the caves or vineyards can be arranged.
Founded: 1985
Signature Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot
Wine Tasting: By appointment only
Hours: Daily, 10-5

Vine Cliff Winery
7400 Silverado Trail
Napa, CA 94558
707-944-1364

email: info@vinecliff.com
website: www.vinecliff.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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Website and all photos copyright © 2001–2012 Lee W. Nelson