Merryvale Vineyards

First Napa Valley Winery Built After Prohibition

Built in 1933 as the Sunny St. Helena Winery—the first winery constructed in Napa Valley after the repeal of prohibition—Merryvale was bought and renamed by the current owners, Jack and Lilo Schlatter, in 1983. The couple resides in Jack’s native Switzerland most of the year.

The winery is run by their son, René, who lives in St. Helena and is the winery’s president. A Swiss native, René originally came to the U. S. in 1987 for college and graduate school.

The charming tasting room is located in an historic vine-covered building made of thick brick walls. Inside you’ll find a beautiful wooden interior and an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and friendly. The tasting bar has three sides, making it a fun and convivial place to sample wine. A well-stocked gift shop filled with artisan crafts, high-quality clothing, and locally-produced gourmet goodies makes for great browsing.

Be sure to visit the Cask room, which has the look of a banquet hall from the Middle Ages with its lighted candles, huge wine casks, and a long wooden dining table.

Fascinating Fact:

Merryvale is steps away from numerous St. Helena restaurants, antique shops, and clothing boutiques.

Amenities: Gift shop, Wine seminars, Wine club, Pairings (weekends only, reservations required)
Founded: 1983
Signature Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir
Wine Tasting: Basic, no appointment needed
Hours: Daily, 10–6:30

Merryvale Vineyards
1000 Main Street
St. Helena, CA 94574
707-963-7777

email: tastingroom@merryvale.com
website: www.merryvale.com

Previous Winery | Next Winery | Map

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.

Find iNeTours.com on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for updates, Photo-of-the-Day, more.

return to top

Website and all photos copyright © 2001–2012 Lee W. Nelson