Why We Recommend Smith-Madrone Vineyards
Smith-Madrone is essential for its status as a pioneer in dry farming and high-altitude viticulture. The winery’s commitment to estate-only production and its rare success with Napa Riesling sets it apart from the valley floor giants.
Recommended For
- Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon enthusiasts
- Adventurous off-the-beaten-path travelers
- California wine history enthusiasts
- Fans of unpretentious family estates
- Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc lovers
- Mountain terroir and viticulture students
Why Visit
- Taste world-class Riesling from mountain slopes
- Explore a historic 200-acre volcanic estate
- Learn about pioneering dry-farming vineyard techniques
- Enjoy intimate tastings at 2,000 feet
- See century-old Picholine olive tree groves
Good to Know
This historic estate is best known for pioneering dry-farmed mountain viticulture and producing high-elevation Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Tours and tastings are strictly held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
The estate features 120-year-old Picholine olive trees and historic sites from the 1880s.
The property is located at high elevations between 1,300 and 2,000 feet with very steep slopes.
A pioneering family winery known for dry-farmed, high-elevation estate wines grown on the steep slopes of Spring Mountain.
Individually numbered Cook's Flat Reserve bottles and occasional library releases are available for purchase through the winery's online store.
Why Visit Smith-Madrone Vineyards?
You have to visit for the incredible views and the chance to meet the legends who shaped Spring Mountain. It’s a rustic, intimate escape where the focus is entirely on the craft and the stunning volcanic terroir.
Popular Wines
"Our first stop arriving in Napa and what a wonderful time at this vineyard. We were greeted by a man named Francois with an enchanting accent who is another winemaker there. He was funny but also so knowledgeable. Stu and Charles were not there but he gave us a great tour and tasting. The place is not huge, but I love that we simply just tasted these beautiful wines right in the barrel room/ office. It was low key, non pretentious and he told us wonderful stories about the history of the land, the wine and family. We went during off season so there wasn't much to see on the vines per se, but getting to walk around and seeing all of it from a high vantage point was pretty stellar. Of course we all took a couple bottles with us and look forward to having it soon! We got to go down to the cellar and see some super old wines stored. What a cool experience!"
Nina Cash
