It is not often you get out of the hustle and bustle of Napa, while being smack dab in the Napa Valley. When it does happen, you know you’ve found a hidden gem. Teachworth Winery fits that criteria perfectly. A family owned and operated boutique estate winery in the Diamond Mountain District focusing on organically grown 100% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Teachworth grows Cabernet Sauvignon from their two picturesque hillside vineyards, just south of Calistoga. Manzanita Hill, the lower vineyard, contains more vines and gets penetrating afternoon sun on its chalky slopes while Rattlesnake Ridge, the terraced upper portion has deeper soils and shifted exposure. Given the uniqueness of the two vineyards, it enhances the complexity of the wines you wouldn’t normally see from a vineyard so small.
Teachworth Winery does host private tastings by appointment. Tastings are hosted by winemaker, Taylor Boydstun or owner Chris Teachworth. I didn’t get a chance to meet Chris, but we had a fabulous experience tasting with winemaker, Taylor. You will also have the unique opportunity to taste Taylor’s own brand, T. Berkley Wines. He makes a killer Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin Blanc! The views from the estate were stunning and it was a fun time having Taylor all to ourselves as we listened to his stories while relaxing and enjoying the wines together. If your love for boutique wineries is as strong as mine, you will want to visit Teachworth Winery, well worth the drive to Calistoga. Cheers!
~B