Chappellet

From its inaugural vintage in 1968, Chappellet has garnered acclaim for its commitment to excellence. The winery's unwavering focus on mountain-grown fruit has solidified its reputation as a producer of some of Napa Valley's most sought-after wines. Unlike many wineries that have changed hands over the years, Chappellet remains a testament to family ownership and a dedication to preserving its founding principles.

Chappellet stands as a beacon of Napa Valley's winemaking tradition, a family-owned estate that has consistently produced exceptional wines since its founding in 1967. Established by Donn and Molly Chappellet, the winery's story is one of vision and dedication to crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill. The Chappellets were pioneers, recognizing the potential of this rugged mountain landscape to yield Cabernet Sauvignon of unparalleled quality.

The Chappellet family's commitment extends beyond winemaking to environmental stewardship, embracing sustainable practices that ensure the long-term health of their vineyards and the surrounding ecosystem. This holistic approach reflects a deep respect for the land and a desire to create wines that are not only exceptional in quality but also responsible in their production.

The vineyard's elevation, ranging from 800 to 1,800 feet above sea level, exposes the vines to ample sunlight and cooling breezes. This diurnal temperature variation allows the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, developing complex flavors and maintaining vibrant acidity. The combination of soil, climate, and elevation creates a terroir that is truly exceptional.

Chappellet's location on Pritchard Hill is integral to its success. This elevated site, known for its challenging terrain and unique microclimate, provides the ideal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. The rocky, well-drained soils stress the vines, resulting in smaller berries with concentrated flavors and intense aromatics.

Chappellet meticulously manages its vineyards, employing sustainable farming practices to promote vine health and soil biodiversity. Cover crops are used to enrich the soil, and water conservation techniques are implemented to minimize environmental impact. This dedication to sustainable viticulture ensures the long-term health of the vineyard and the quality of the fruit.

Chappellet is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, particularly the Pritchard Hill Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, which is highly rated by Vivino users and wine critics alike. This flagship wine embodies the essence of Pritchard Hill, showcasing the intensity, complexity, and elegance that define mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is characterized by its rich flavors of black fruit, cassis, and spice, along with its firm tannins and long, lingering finish.

Chappellet's winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the fruit to express itself naturally. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted, and the wines are fermented in small lots to preserve their individual character. The wines are then aged in French oak barrels, which impart subtle flavors and aromas without overpowering the fruit. The result is a collection of wines that are both powerful and elegant, reflecting the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill.

In addition to its Cabernet Sauvignon, Chappellet also produces other exceptional wines, including Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Chardonnay. These wines reflect the winery's commitment to crafting wines that express the unique characteristics of their respective varietals and the terroir of Pritchard Hill. The winemaking team employs a combination of traditional and modern techniques to ensure that each wine is of the highest quality.

Guests can learn about the history of Chappellet, the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill, and the winemaking process from knowledgeable and engaging staff. The tasting experiences are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, providing guests with a deeper understanding of Chappellet's wines and its commitment to excellence.

Visiting Chappellet is an immersive experience that allows guests to discover the beauty of Pritchard Hill and the passion behind its exceptional wines. The winery offers a variety of tasting experiences, from seated tastings in the elegant tasting room to private tours of the vineyard and winery.

Reservations are highly recommended for all tasting experiences. The winery is located at 1581 Sage Canyon Road, St. Helena. Visitors should be prepared for a scenic drive up the mountain, as the winery is situated in a remote and breathtaking location.

The future of Chappellet is bright, with the next generation of the Chappellet family actively involved in the winery's operations. They are committed to building upon the legacy of their parents and grandparents, embracing innovation while staying true to the winery's core values. This commitment ensures that Chappellet will continue to be a leader in Napa Valley's wine industry for many years to come.

Chappellet's legacy is one of pioneering spirit, unwavering dedication to quality, and a deep respect for the land. The winery has played a significant role in shaping the reputation of Pritchard Hill as one of Napa Valley's most prestigious winegrowing regions. As a family-owned estate, Chappellet is committed to preserving its founding principles and continuing to produce exceptional wines for generations to come.

Chappellet remains dedicated to sustainable farming practices, environmental stewardship, and community involvement. The winery recognizes its responsibility to protect the land and support the local community, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and bounty of Pritchard Hill.