Rombauer Vineyards
We love Rombauer, and most people we know do as well, though there are some who disavow anything so mainstream. Rombauer reduces the iconic
“cougar juice” in their big, buttery Chardonnay which really shows off the malalactic fermentation prevalent in Napa Chardonnays.
The view from their deck is expansive and breathtaking.
Our first visit here we arrived a little before they opened and spent some time in their sculpture gardens. They have lots of beautiful flowers and many whimsical, unique sculptures.
Rombauer Zinfandel is a big, juicy fruit bomb with a lot of sugar. The Fiddlehead Zinfandel is one of our favorites.
For our second visit we arranged a cave tour. This was a fun and informative way to taste some wines and get a little education in the process. Here is the entrance to the Rombauer Wine Caves:
Inside the caves, the barrels are on individual, yet interconnected racks. Rack technology has progressed over the years and these accomplish several things. For one, they will help hold the barrels during an earthquake. The Napa earthquake a couple years ago toppled many of the large barrel stacks and that is a concern. Another rack feature is rollers. The barrels need to be rotated at regular intervals and rollers help with that.
These caves keep the wine at a controlled temperature while it is aging and doing its wine-y thing. We approve.
Tasting Room is open at 10:00. Reservations are highly recommended.
707.963.5170