Ladera was the standout tour and tasting of our trip. The Cabernets they produce are powerful, complex and memorable. They offer a Howell Mountain Cab, a Lone Canyon Cab and a blend from the two vineyards. The views are inspiring from their vantage on Howell Mountain, the grounds are manicured and the buildings beautifully restored. We toured the wine making facility, demonstration vineyard and the caves where we enjoyed a tasting of the Ladera offerings. Anne Stotesbery, the owner, was our guide. Her passion for producing fantastic cabs was obvious, our time with her was educational and down right fun.
At Ladera. Winery and cave tour with the owner, tasting their incredible Cabernets, picnic on the grounds....a near perfect day.
Coming from Montana and never tasting a Cabernet grape before, I was suprised at the intensity of fruit and concentration of sugars in the hanging grapes.
The obligatory stop at Silver Oak (under construction).
New French Oak barrels at Elyse. Elyse has a large portfolio of interesting wines, all well crafted. It's worth your time just outside of Yountville.
Our favorite wines and tastings were the for mentioned Ladera, Jessup Cellars in Yountville (great wines, warm servers, memorable visit...we joined their wine club) and Pine Ridge where we enjoyed a barrel tasting of their better Cabs. We visited 20 wineries in all and can't wait to return.
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