The short path from the parking lot to the charming Victorian house that houses St. Clement Vineyards’ tasting room is steep, but worth every step. The landmark Napa Valley estate, established in 1878 by the San Francisco stained glass merchant, Fritz Rosenbaum, was one of the first bonded wineries in the Napa Valley. But St. Clement’s history began in 1976, when William Casey, a local ophthalmologist, bought the house and built a 10,000-case stone winery in the backyard.
St. Clement Vineyards has built its modern day legacy from long-term relationships with some of the best winegrowers in the Napa Valley, including Howell Mountain, Mt. Veeder, and Rutherford. These relationships represent half of the Napa Valley’s 33 different soil series, and 100 different soil variations, which translate into an amazing palate of flavors and tannin structures.
Oroppas is a great example of how St. Clement’s close relationships with top winegrowers led to the creation of exemplary wines. Growers in six unique Napa Valley sub-appellations including Diamond Mountain, Howell Mountain, Mount Veeder, and Rutherford contribute to this wine each year. As a result, Oroppas is a rich, opulent Bordeaux-style blend that emphasizes concentration, depth, and velvety tannins. When the first vintage of Oroppas was released in 1991, it quickly became a style icon for the winery, noted for its consistent flavor profile and tannic structure. Today, St. Clement continues to build on its legacy of highly respected wines produced in small quantities.
The charming restored Victorian house hosts a variety of special tasting options including a tasting behind the house in the Winemaker’s Lounge, a seated Private Tasting in the Vault, and a tasting on the Hilltop Terrace, offering breathtaking views. For those interested in walking the property, the 30-minute Discover St. Clement tour shares the winery’s legacy. Despite its long history in the Napa Valley, St. Clement always holds many pleasant, new discoveries.
What to Buy
’11 Abbott’s Vineyard Chardonnay – $27
Crisp apple, Meyer lemon, hint of toasted vanilla
’10 Oroppas Cabernet Sauvignon – $70
Plum, quince, black cherry, dark chocolate, cinnamon
Special Notes
St. Clement features a beautiful Napa Valley view. The winery now offers a seated tasting from a prime viewing spot on Hilltop Terrace. Reservations recommended.
Contact
2867 St. Helena Hwy N
St. Helena, CA 94574
Phone: 866-877-5939
Website: stclement.com
Tasting Room Hours: Open Daily 11-5
Touring & Tasting
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