Exploring Wineries in Napa Valley's Spring Mountain AVA
Total Trail Miles: 12.6
The Spring Mountain District AVA sits on steep terraces of the Mayacamas range in the northwest corner of Napa Valley at the foot of St. Helena. This appellation is composed of well-drained sedimentary soils and experiences a longer growing season than most of the valley floor. Spring Mountain was originally recognized as the appellation to grow premium Riesling and Chardonnay but ultimately developed high marks for firm, powerful, age-able Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Vineyards: 18
Total Area: 8,488 acres
Planted Area: 820 acres
Percent Planted: 9.7 %
Start the day with an incredible view of Napa Valley at Barnett. This is a steep, terraced hillside vineyard planted in 100% Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 feet off the valley floor. Barnett makes a Chardonnay, Merlot and Pinot Noir but the focus up here is hillside fruit and a view rivaled by very few Napa wineries, if any.
Work your way back to Spring Mountain Road, make a left and look for the Keenan sign on the left. The entry drive to the physical winery is lengthy and scenic so slow down and enjoy. Robert Keenan purchased this abandoned winery in 1974 and has been producing big mountain wine for the past four decades. Keenan satisfies all of its energy needs with an internal solar system and maintains a sustainable farming practice thought the estate. Taste exceptional mountain grown Cabernet, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay inside the old stone winery in a very casual setting.
Head back to Spring Mountain Road and continue down the hill for about three miles until you reach Spring Mountain Vineyards. This is 845-acre estate that covers a thousand feet of elevation and was the first to grow Cabernet Sauvignon on Spring mountain. Rich in history and historic structures, Spring Mountain Vineyards has a lot to offer. You have the option of participating in one of their tours or a standard tasting experience.
Final stop, Newton on the other side of the mountain. For those who enjoy white wine and are looking for trail diversity, head over to Stony Hill via Highway 29. Otherwise, continue down the hill and make a right at Madrona, follow it to the end and make a right at the T in the road - the signs to Newton will guide you from here. This terraced mountain estate is composed of 112 distinctive blocks within 120 acres planted in vine and known for unfiltered wine, fantastic views and an expressive topiary garden. Newton is a tour + taste experience and a perfect winery to end the trail. Allocate a full 90 minutes.
Dine at Archetype St. Helena (707) 968-9200
Barnett Vineyards | Spring Mountain AVA
@winetraveler
Good Post!
Thanks for sharing.
I was gifted a bottle of Newton Puzzle Cab. I'm holding it for a while before I pop it. I've never had it, but am looking forward to it! Thanks for posting!