Guilliams Vineyards
In 1978, John and Shawn Guilliams arrived in the Napa Valley and began plans for their Spring Mountain vineyard. They planted 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc.
| Region: | Napa Valley |
|---|---|
| Sub Region: | Spring Mountain |
| Wine: | View all wines |
Shortly after moving to Spring Mountain in 1978, John and Shawn Guilliams began producing homemade wine. Their property had once been planted with vines, but they were abandoned during the Great Depression.
At an elevation of 2,000 feet, the mountain slopes were perfect for Bordeaux varietals. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc were planted using environmentally sensitive farming techniques. In 1984, Guilliams Vineyards was bonded to commercially produce and sell wine.
John majored in Engineering and Conservation of Natural Resources at UC Berkeley and applied his education to grape growing. He is a member of the committee that wrote the Code of Sustainable Winegrowing Practices for the California Wine Institute, as well as a Director of the Napa County Farm Bureau.
Guilliams Vineyards first estate wine was their 1985 Spring Mountain release was our 1985 Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged in 100% French oak for 2 years. The winery currently makes about 1,000 cases of a red blend that is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon. They also produce very small amounts of Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
km831130 said:
I acidentally visited this winery and this small family owned winery, in my opinion, the jewel of Spring mountain district. Excellent red wines (cabernet sauvignon and as well as cabernet franc)
Posted 128 days ago.
sarah said:
Four of us toured this quaint family owned and runned vineyard last fall. We enjoyed the wine and the friendly tour. The reds were exceptional and the family was down to earth and the tour was educational. Highly recommend a visit to this vineyard and Spring Mountain. Make sure you hire a car to navigate the roads.
Posted 295 days ago.