Philip Togni Wines

"Philip Togni has made many great wines that have clearly stood the test of time.” — Robert Parker

Philip Togni Winery has remained one of Napa Valley's most endearing wineries since its 1975 inception, specializing in mountain-grown Cabernets from the cool climate, Spring Mountain AVA. The estate was founded by the eponymous, Philip Togni, a renowned winemaker who mastered the craft under Emile Peynaud and produced the legendary 1969 Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, Togni and his wife Birgitta lead the operations, while their daughter, Lisa, leads the winemaking.

Philip Togni Winery: Post-Prohibition Napa Beginnings

Philip Togni was born and raised in England, first gaining an appreciation for wine during his time in the British Army. While stationed in Algeria, Togni tasted many Burgundian wines, though later took a job with Shell in South America. Weary of oil exploration, Togni took a trip to Spain where he crossed paths with Maynard Amarine, who notified the young winemaker of a new winemaking program at the University of Bordeaux.

Togni and five other students became the program's inaugural graduates, gaining immeasurable experience under the legendary Emile Peynaud. During his time in the program, Philip Togni worked at Chateau Lascombes in the 1956 vintage, then moved to Napa Valley and worked at Mayacamas Vineyards in the 1959 vintage. Smaller stints included work at Gallo and Inglenook, before taking a job as the inaugural winemaker at Chappellet Vineyards in the 1960s.

Here, Togni gained a reputation as one of California's greatest winemakers, crafting the 1969 Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon, which has since become one of Napa Valley's most legendary wines. 

After decades of stellar work, Philip Togni and his wife purchased a small 10-acre plot in Spring Mountain, planting Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot vines. The couple experienced a small spout with phylloxera, then undertook an extensive replanting project throughout the early 1990s. Following the project, Philip Togni Winery began producing some of Napa Valley's greatest mountain-grown, boutique Cabernets, consistently earning acclaim from top critics like Robert Parker. 

Philip Togni: Vineyard and Terroir

Philip Togni Winery is home to 10-acres in the heart of the Spring Mountain AVA, one of Napa Valley's longest standing appellations. When Togni and his wife first purchased the land, vines from the late 19th century still stood, though were eventually replanted. The pair planted the site to 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. Today, many of the vines date back to the mid 1980s, with the youngest vines planted in 1997. 

The Spring Mountain AVA is possibly Napa's coolest-climate appellation, experiencing small diurnal shifts, with cooler daytime temperatures and warmer nighttime temperatures than valley-floor vineyards. At 2,000 feet above sea level, the vineyard produces classic, intense, mountain-grown fruit, resulting in notes of cedar, spices, and cassis, and displaying a texture and profile similar to classed Bordeaux wines. 

Philip Togni Cabernet Sauvignon

Philip Togni Cabernet Sauvignon is cited as a "Margaux-type blend" by the estate, with critics like Robert Parker comparing the wine to First Growth Pauillac's. Only 2,000 cases are produced each vintage, with a small portion kept for 10, 20, and 30-year re-releases. 

The wines have been described as artisanal, tannic, and acidic blends that are made to last in the cellar for decades. Unlike neighboring Napa wineries that emphasize rich and opulent blends made for youthful drinking. Philip Togni wines possess an "old-school" approach, underlying the winemaker's 65+ year experience in the industry. Some of the most notable Philip Togni Cabernet includes the 1994, 1997, and 2001 vintages, all gaining 98+ point scores from reputable critics. 

Add Philip Togni Wine To Your Cellar

At less than $200 per bottle in top vintages, Philip Togni wines represent one of Napa Valley's greatest values. These wines possess one of the region's most storied histories and provide more than just a great drinking experience— they showcase the incredible journey of Napa Valley's prominence over the last 4 decades. Browse our collection of in-stock Philip Togni wines and add a bottle to your collection today.