Somerston Wine Co

Wine, Art and Ranching in Yountville, CA

In 2004, land and real estate developer Allan Chapman bought the 638-acre Priest Ranch in the eastern hills above Napa Valley, and a year later added 990-acre Lynch Vineyards (the two properties are separated by hills rising to 2900 feet).

After extensive vineyard replanting and restoration, the 12,000-square-foot barn was transformed into a modern, energy-efficient winery. Somerston Vineyards produces wines under three labels: Somerston Wines and Priest Ranch Wines are made from estate-grown fruit; the sourced grapes for Highflyer Wines are chosen from small, family-owned properties concentrating on a single varietal.

The beautiful Somerston Wine Co Yountville tasting room captures that mix of country-style sophistication found in Ralph Lauren ads.

Most of the extensive wood used in this rustic-chic tasting room comes from trees that once grew on the Somerston family’s ranch (including the large and handsome oak table that serves as the tasting bar). You can taste at the bar or relax on plush sofas or upholstered chairs.

On summer days the outdoor patio and roof terrace are also open, and in winter the roaring fireplace is hard to beat. Pairings with locally-made cheeses are available.

Fascinating Fact:

Winemaker Craig Becker, a pilot, sometimes selects vineyards for the Highflyer label from the air.

Amenities: Wine Club
Founded: 2004
Signature Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Syrah
Wine Tasting: Basic, no appointment needed; Epicurean Tasting by appointment only
Hours: Daily, 10–5

Somerston Wine Co
6490 Washington St
Yountville, CA 94559
707-944-8200

visit@somerstonwineco.com
www.somerstonwineco.com

Previous Winery | Next Wine Shop | 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