Winery Overview
Spottswoode Estate, established in 1882, is a family-owned winery located on the western edge of St. Helena in Napa Valley. The estate is currently stewarded by second-generation sisters, Beth and Lindy Novak. Spottswoode is known for producing wines with integrity that faithfully reflect their grape origins, especially noted for their refined elegance, balance, and classic structure.
Wine Profile
- Appellation: St. Helena, Napa Valley
- Vineyard: Spottswoode Estate Vineyard
- Blend: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot
- Vintage: 2021
- Oak Profile: Aged 20 months (62% new), 88% French oak, 12% other oak
- Release Date: September 1, 2024
Tasting Notes
Winemaker's Notes: "Stunning! Beautiful aromatics of candied violet, blackberry, blueberry yogurt, and cassis. Powerfully expressive with sturdy, firm tannins, generous acidity, and a long lively finish marked by cedar and toffee notes. An elegant vintage, this spectacular wine captures the essence of the Spottswoode Estate Vineyard. It is fresh and youthful now with a long life ahead."
Winemaking Philosophy
At Spottswoode, grape growing and winemaking are intimately linked. The winery focuses on organic and biodynamic practices, believing that these methods bring health and resilience to the vineyard. Individual attention is given to each vineyard block to contribute to the consistent quality and unique characteristics of their wines.
Terroir
- Location: Western edge of St. Helena, Napa Valley
- Soil: Alluvial clay loam from the Sulphur Creek fan
- Climate: Cool maritime breezes passing between Spring Mountain and the Mayacamas range allow for even ripening
Vineyard
The 42-acre Spottswoode Estate Vineyard has been organically farmed since 1985 and certified organic (CCOF) since 1992. It is planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon, with small blocks of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Accolades
- The Wine Independent, Lisa Perrotti-Brown: 99 points
- James Suckling: 99 points
- Jeb Dunnuck: 98+ points
Winemaking Team
- Beth Weber Novak: President & CEO
- Aron Weinkauf: Winemaker & Vineyard Manager
- Molly Sheppard: Assistant Winemaker & Environmental Manager
Sustainability Practices
Spottswoode is committed to environmental stewardship, as evidenced by their organic farming practices, involvement in local ecological restoration projects, and support of 1% for the Planet since 2007.