Oakville - The Spirit of Cabernet
The Oakville AVA is sacred ground for Cabernet Sauvignon. Its vineyards are considered the filet mignon of the valley because of how the grape performs in the terroir. Oakville Cabernets are beloved for their richness and density of fruit, savory and earth elements, combined with their reputation as being among the most ageworthy in Napa Valley.
WHERE TO TASTE
Gil and Beth Nickel opened Far niente in 1979, and the 19th-century stone winery and surrounding fairy tail-esque gardens are definitely worth a visit to experience the environs and fine wines, including their late-harvest Dolce.
A distinctive white fence outlines this picturesque estate, which includes an 1884 Victorian farmhouse, barn-style winery, and horse stables. The wines are also distinctive; winemaker Joe Harden dives into Single-Vineyard expressions of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon through a variety of methods that make an excellent for terroir.
We also recommend taking a short drive north to check out the latest tasting room in the winery’s portfolio, Bella Union(which is technically in Rutherford), founded in 2012 as a way to celebrate regional blend expressions of Napa wine. The former Provenance tasting room was recently remolded for Bella Union, and embraces the La Belle Epoque era with more modern designs, many tasting opportunities and stunning views.
