With 16 AVAs recognized in Napa Valley, the area brims with outstanding wineries to visit and world class wines to taste. But you can only do so much in a day. As inspiration to visit (or, revisit) this gorgeous area, here are two of our favorite wineries that remind us why we love Napa, where you could easily spend half a day just lingering over the views. 🍇
Spring Mountain was officially recognized as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1993, and boasts a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. Early settlers quickly recognized the potential for grape growing, and vineyards began to sprout across the mountainous terrain. By the late 1800s, Spring Mountain was home to several thriving wineries. However, the Prohibition era in the early 20th century brought a halt to winemaking activities, and many vineyards were abandoned. It wasn't until the '60s and '70s that the region experienced a renaissance, as visionary winemakers reclaimed the land and revived the vineyards. Today, Spring Mountain is celebrated for its rugged terrain, which imparts a unique character to the wines. The district's elevation ranges from 400 to 2,600 feet, and its diverse microclimates create ideal conditions for growing a variety of grape varietals. The vineyards are often planted on steep slopes and terraced hillsides, resulting in wines with distinctive flavors and exceptional quality. (like at Barnett, above)
Spring Mountain is just a quick series of turns off of Main Street in Napa. Here are two of our favorite places to stop and sip. (driver recommended - it’s twisty!)
Keenan Winery
A visit to Keenan Winery feels like stepping into a time capsule of Napa Valley's storied past. The tasting room was once a simple barn set on the side of a mountain - now a beautiful lodge that overlooks the vineyards and the mountains in the distance, Keenan thankfully retains its cool, low-key vibe. Located on the sunny, steep hillsides of Spring Mountain, Keenan is one of the valley's OG wineries -- they've been in the area since 1974, and the land that Robert Keenan originally purchased was one of the first pioneering properties established on Spring Mountain. When he purchased the land, none of the original vines were producing but he brought them back to life, and by 1977, they were producing Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The wines are celebrated for their balance and richness, with a distinctive minerality that speaks to the rugged mountain terrain; and, the commitment to sustainable practices and solar power is evident in every bottle.
Don't miss a tasting at Keenan, and if you're lucky, wine tasting room manager Laura March will be your guide.
Barnett Vineyards
If you want to wow your friends - or yourself, go to Barnett Vineyards. Perched at an elevation of 2,000 feet, Barnett provides a stunning vantage point overlooking the valley below. The terraced vineyards, meticulously carved into the mountain slopes, produce wines that are a true reflection of their unique terroir.
Fiona and Hal Barnett, originally from Vancouver and Stockton, fell in love with Napa Valley during their weekend visits in the early 1980s. In 1983, they purchased a 40-acre plot on Spring Mountain, transforming its rugged landscape into a vineyard. The first Cabernet Sauvignon vines were planted the following year with the goal of producing small batches of handcrafted wine that highlight the unique high-elevation terroir. Commuting from San Francisco for five years, the Barnetts established their estate, yielding their first harvest in 1989. By 1991, they had moved permanently to the vineyard with their three daughters. Barnett Vineyards now produces about 8,000 cases annually, focusing on Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and their signature Spring Mountain Cabernet. They also produce limited quantities of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc from select vineyards.
