Calwineries

Howell Mountain Wine Tour

DESCRIPTION OF WINE TOUR

Howell Mountain was designated as an American Viticultural Area in 1983. Located in the Vaca Mountains, it comprises the northeast side of Napa Valley. Visitors can enjoy views of St. Helena. This area makes for a perfect climate in which to grow grapes. It receives cool winds from San Pablo Bay. The geology is volcanic, which allows for the best drainage. A visit to Howell Mountain and the town of Angwin is in order while in the region of Napa.

When planning a wine tasting tour to Howell Mountain, be sure to contact the wineries you wish to visit ahead of time to schedule a tasting. Many of these wineries are by appointment only. Some wineries even offer facility and vineyard tours. Visitors can take advantage of many dining choices in the St. Helena area any time during the day tour of Howell Mountain wineries.

First, visit Viader Winery, which is located in the nearby town of Deer Park. Delia Viader who came to the United States from Argentina to study established this winery in 1986. She spent a great deal of her youth in France and maintains an affinity for European style wines. Today, her husband and her children help run the winery. Enjoy several tastes of Viader wine on the terrace.

Next stop is Bravante Vineyards in Angwin. This winery is planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Musque. A tour of Bravante includes an introduction on the particular characteristics of the Howell Mountain appellation. Visitors are given a lesson in fermentation, aging and the effects of barrel wood on the tone and aroma of the wine. Be sure to make a reservation and allow at least one hour for the tour and tasting.

Move along to Ladera Vineyards. This winery features a stone winery built in 1886. A tour is available that takes visitors through the underground caves and an overview of all parts of wine production. The estate’s history stretches back to the 19th century. Jean Brun and Jean V. Chaix, originally of Bordeaux, planted Medoc grapes in 1877. They were some of the first people to plant vines on Howell Mountain. A visit to Ladera is a trip through Napa wine history.

Last stop of the day is Neal Family Vineyards. Mark Neal who had worked with his father Jack in the family’s vineyard management business founded this winery. Mr. Neal wanted to create a winery that was the perfect marriage of climate and well selected rootstocks. The vineyards are part of the California Certified Organic Farmers program. The estate offers tastings and tours with a reservation.

This 5-hour Tour For up to 6 Includes:
• Private tour in a Executive Suburban
• Tasting at four of Howell Mountain’s wonderful wineries
• Gourmet lunch

Additional Tour Information:
• Pick up locations beyond Napa may incur an additional fee
• Price does not include tasting fees at the wineries
• Gourmet lunch fee not included
• Customary gratuities not included

Questions about this tour: Call us at (310)827-0509

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