Spectacular Wineries of Napa Valley
The wines, made since 1982 by Jim’s son, Bo, are created to be accessible and age well. “At Chateau Montelena, we regard winegrowing as one continuous process,” he says. Grapes for the Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon are grown on the property adjacent to the winery. The diversity of soils and slopes results in aromatic, rich and fullbodied Cabernet Sauvignon, characterized by the earthy-berry flavor that defines the Montelena Estate.
Chateau Montelena’s winemaking history began in the late 1800s when entrepreneur Alfred L. Tubbs, bought the 254-acre parcel after determining the well-drained, stony and loose soils would be perfect for vineyards. Within 10 years, Tubbs had planted his vines, built his Chateau, and imported a French-born winemaker. His dreams for Chateau Montelena had come to fruition; by 1896, his was the seventh largest winery in Napa Valley.
In 1958, the Chateau passed into the hands of Yort and Jeanie Frank, who were looking for a peaceful spot to retire. Yort dreamed of the Chinese gardens of his homeland and planted the overgrown estate in that style, even excavating a lake. Worthy of a visit, Jade Lake has a dreamlike quality. The pavilions and islands, connected to the mainland by crooked foot bridges, rise like Top Left: A pavilion perched atop one of the two islands in the middle of Jade Lake is situated between the Chateau and the Montelena Estate Vineyards. Bottom Left: The welcoming entrance to Chateau Montelena takes visitors directly into the Chateau, built right into the hillside behind it. Facing Page: The historic tasting room inside Chateau Montelena, with an original stone wall serving as backdrop, is where wines are offered daily to the general public.
70