Angwin Estate Vineyards

The genesis of Angwin Estate Vineyards is not just a tale of ambition, but one deeply intertwined with love for the land and a shared vision. Jon and Angela embarked on this endeavor with an understanding that creating exceptional wine requires patience, perseverance, and a profound understanding of the intricacies of the vineyard ecosystem. They recognized the potential of the unique red soils and favorable microclimate of their Howell Mountain estate. Early on, they committed to sustainable farming practices, believing that a healthy vineyard would naturally yield higher quality fruit. This commitment extended beyond the vineyard, encompassing environmentally conscious winemaking techniques and a dedication to minimizing their footprint. Their personal involvement in every aspect of the winemaking process, from pruning vines to meticulously selecting barrels, reflects their unwavering dedication to quality and their intimate connection to the land.

The inaugural vintage of Angwin Estate Vineyards in 2011 marked a significant milestone, representing years of planning, hard work, and unwavering belief in their vision. This first vintage was a powerful statement, showcasing the potential of the Howell Mountain terroir and the skill of the winemaking team. From the outset, Angwin Estate Vineyards sought to create wines that express the unique characteristics of their hillside vineyard, wines that are both powerful and elegant, structured and nuanced. Today, Angwin Estate Vineyards stands as a testament to the founders' dedication and passion. It’s a story of a family's commitment to crafting exceptional wines that are a reflection of their unwavering belief in the power of the land and the artistry of winemaking, with a foundation that is set to last for generations to come, and a great start already achieved in the last decade of winemaking.

Angwin Estate Vineyards is a testament to the enduring allure of Napa Valley and the dedication of individuals who seek to craft exceptional wines rooted in the land. Founded by Jon Larson and Angela Henszel, the story of this family-owned winery began with a shared dream: to cultivate a vineyard that would reflect the unique terroir of Howell Mountain. The couple envisioned a winery that would not only produce world-class wines but also embody a commitment to sustainable practices and a deep respect for the environment. Their journey started with the acquisition of a rocky hillside property perched at an elevation of 2,150 feet, a location that presented both challenges and unparalleled opportunities. This bold move laid the foundation for what would become Angwin Estate Vineyards, a haven for meticulously crafted wines that capture the essence of Howell Mountain’s rugged beauty and distinctive character.

The terroir of Angwin Estate Vineyards is defined by its distinctive red soils, rich in iron and minerals, which contribute to the intense color, structure, and complexity of the wines. These well-draining soils force the vines to work harder to find water and nutrients, resulting in smaller berries with concentrated flavors. The rocky composition of the soil further enhances drainage and contributes to the unique mineral character found in Angwin Estate wines. This soil profile is significantly different from the valley floor, making Howell Mountain wines distinctly unique. The winemakers at Angwin Estate understand the importance of these soils and farm in a way that nurtures them, ensuring their health and vitality for generations to come. The vineyard's location at a high elevation also contributes to the significant diurnal shift, allowing the grapes to retain acidity while also developing rich flavor compounds.

Angwin Estate Vineyards is committed to sustainable farming practices that preserve the integrity of the land and promote biodiversity. These practices include cover cropping, which helps to improve soil health and prevent erosion, as well as integrated pest management, which minimizes the use of pesticides. They carefully monitor soil moisture levels and adjust irrigation accordingly, conserving water and promoting healthy vine growth. Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vineyard, encompassing energy conservation, waste reduction, and responsible water management. The ultimate goal is to create a harmonious relationship between the vineyard, the environment, and the community. By embracing sustainable practices, Angwin Estate Vineyards ensures that the land will continue to thrive, producing exceptional wines for generations to come, reflecting the true essence of Howell Mountain's terroir.

Angwin Estate Vineyards benefits immensely from its prime location on Howell Mountain, an area renowned for producing some of Napa Valley's most concentrated and age-worthy wines. Situated at approximately 2,150 feet above sea level, the vineyard enjoys a unique microclimate characterized by warm days and cool nights, ideal for slow and even ripening of the grapes. This elevation also provides excellent sun exposure, promoting optimal photosynthesis and the development of complex flavors. The vineyard's location on a hillside offers natural drainage, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy root growth. The views from the vineyard are breathtaking, overlooking the picturesque Pope Valley, a reminder of the raw beauty and tranquility that defines this special corner of Napa Valley. This stunning vista provides an inspirational backdrop for the creation of world-class wines that speak to the heart of Howell Mountain.

The winemaking process at Angwin Estate Vineyards is a blend of tradition and innovation, with a focus on preserving the integrity of the fruit. Grapes are carefully hand-harvested and sorted to ensure that only the highest quality fruit makes it into the wines. Fermentation takes place in small stainless steel tanks, allowing for precise temperature control and gentle extraction of color and tannins. The wines are then aged in French oak barrels, carefully selected to complement the fruit and add complexity. The winemakers employ a variety of techniques, including extended maceration and gentle pump-overs, to achieve the desired balance and structure. Regular tasting and analysis are conducted throughout the winemaking process to ensure that the wines are developing according to plan. The commitment to quality is evident in every step of the process, from the vineyard to the bottle.

While Cabernet Sauvignon is the primary focus, Angwin Estate Vineyards may also produce other varietals or blends that complement their flagship wines. These wines are crafted with the same level of care and attention to detail, showcasing the versatility of the Howell Mountain terroir. The winemaker's expertise and passion are evident in every bottle, reflecting a deep understanding of the land and a commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality. The wines of Angwin Estate Vineyards are often praised for their balance, complexity, and aging potential. They are wines that can be enjoyed now or cellared for many years to come. Each wine tells a story of the vineyard, the vintage, and the people who crafted it, offering a unique and memorable tasting experience. The winery's dedication to excellence has established it as a respected producer of Howell Mountain wines.

Angwin Estate Vineyards is dedicated to producing premium wines that showcase the distinctive characteristics of the Howell Mountain terroir. Their flagship wines are predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, known for their intense fruit flavors, firm tannins, and exceptional aging potential. These wines are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from the selection of the finest grapes to the careful aging in French oak barrels. The winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the fruit to shine through. The goal is to create wines that are both powerful and elegant, structured and nuanced, reflecting the unique character of the vineyard. The Cabernet Sauvignon wines are often described as having notes of black currant, cedar, and spice, with a long, lingering finish. They are wines that are meant to be savored and enjoyed, revealing their complexity over time.

Beyond the tasting experience, Angwin Estate Vineyards may offer opportunities to learn more about the vineyard and the winemaking process. This could include a guided tour of the vineyard, where guests can see firsthand the vines, the soil, and the unique microclimate that contribute to the quality of the wines. The tour may also include a visit to the winery, where guests can learn about the fermentation process, barrel aging, and other winemaking techniques. These educational opportunities provide a deeper understanding of the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle of Angwin Estate wine. The overall visitor experience is designed to be both informative and enjoyable, creating a lasting connection between guests and the winery. The personalized touch and stunning scenery make a visit to Angwin Estate Vineyards a truly special experience.

Visiting Angwin Estate Vineyards offers a unique and intimate experience, allowing guests to connect with the land and the people behind the wines. While specific details about a formal tasting room or tour schedule may vary, the hospitality is rooted in sharing their passion. Typically, appointments are recommended to ensure a personalized experience. Guests are often greeted by the owners or winemakers themselves, providing an opportunity to learn firsthand about the vineyard, the winemaking process, and the history of the estate. The setting is often informal and welcoming, creating a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying the wines. The focus is on providing a memorable and educational experience, allowing guests to appreciate the artistry and dedication that goes into each bottle, and the unique perspectives that the location provides, a welcome breath of fresh air from the busy valley floor tasting rooms that often surround the town of St. Helena and beyond.

The tasting experience at Angwin Estate Vineyards is designed to showcase the range and complexity of their wines. Guests can typically sample a selection of current releases, often accompanied by detailed tasting notes and insights into the winemaking process. The tastings are often conducted outdoors, offering stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. This provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to appreciate the beauty of the landscape and the unique terroir that influences the wines. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the wines, eager to share their expertise and answer any questions. The goal is to create a memorable and educational experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking and the unique qualities of Howell Mountain wines. Special requests or tailored experiences are often accommodated, making each visit unique and personalized.

Angwin Estate Vineyards is committed to building a lasting legacy, one rooted in a deep respect for the land and a passion for crafting exceptional wines. The traditions of sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking are at the heart of their approach. They believe that these practices are essential for preserving the integrity of the terroir and producing wines that truly reflect the character of Howell Mountain. They continue to learn from each vintage, refining their techniques and seeking ways to improve the quality of their wines. The vision for the future is to continue producing wines that are both expressive and age-worthy, wines that will be enjoyed by generations to come. The estate is mindful of its position in the industry, seeking to foster relationships, and create a legacy of collaboration among neighboring wineries, seeking to support the growth of the region as a whole, ensuring the future success of other passionate wine makers in the area.

While honoring tradition, Angwin Estate Vineyards also embraces innovation, constantly seeking new ways to enhance the quality of their wines and improve their sustainability practices. They are always experimenting with new techniques in the vineyard and the winery, exploring different cover crops, irrigation methods, and barrel types. They are committed to using the latest technology to monitor soil health, water usage, and other factors that can impact the quality of the grapes. This willingness to embrace innovation allows them to stay at the forefront of the industry, producing wines that are both cutting-edge and timeless. The winery’s willingness to adapt to emerging technologies and trends demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, ensuring it remains competitive and relevant in the ever-evolving wine landscape. This proactive approach positions Angwin Estate Vineyards for long-term success and continued growth.

The long-term vision for Angwin Estate Vineyards is to continue to build upon its reputation as a producer of exceptional Howell Mountain wines. They aspire to create a destination where visitors can experience the beauty of the land, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy the fruits of their labor. They are committed to fostering a strong connection with their community, supporting local initiatives and promoting sustainable tourism. The ultimate goal is to create a legacy that extends beyond the bottle, one that encompasses a deep respect for the land, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for sharing the joy of wine with others. As Angwin Estate Vineyards looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its dedication to crafting exceptional wines that capture the essence of Howell Mountain for generations to come, solidifying its place as a true gem of the Napa Valley.