Since 1972, Spottswoode Winery has been recognized as one of Napa Valley's benchmark cabernet producers, regularly referred to as an original "First Growth" estate from the region. Each vintage represents a true journey through time, capturing the essence of each growing season and showcasing the evolution of pure winemaking expertise. With a spot on the legendary Mayacamas Mountains, Spottswoode wine remains a treasured bottle for Napa lovers.
Spottswoode: A Historically Rich, Napa Legacy
Established in 1882, the Spottswoode Estate has a rich history, and its modern wines accurately display the dedication of the Novak family. Founded in pre-Prohibition times, the estate was initially purchased by George Schonewald as a vacation home before selling to Kraft Family wines, whose original winery still stands today. Nearly a century after its birth, the estate eventually landed in the hands of Mary and Jack Novak, however, only five years after purchasing the estate, Jack Novak suddenly passed away from a heart attack. Consequently, Mary was left to take care of the estate on her own while raising the couple's two daughters, Beth and Lindy. She did an exceptional job, guiding Spottswoode to Napa fame from its inaugural 1982 vintage, eventually earning 100-point ratings from critics like Robert Parker, who called the estate "one of Napa’s most well-known landmarks."
Spottswoode Napa Terroir
Situated on the western edge of St. Helena, Spottswoode's 46-acre vineyard benefits from the ideal Napa Valley terroir. The alluvial clay loam is exceptional for the mountain-grown cabernet sauvignon, with bits of cabernet franc, petit verdot, and sauvignon blanc littered across the land. Organic farming is used on each terroir, as Spottswoode has been certified CCOF since 1992 and became Napa's first winery to earn a B Corp certification in 2020.
The intense dedication to sustainability is illustrated in the estate's use of 100% solar energy and removal of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers. Furthermore, the team works closely with biodynamic specialists to install sub-surface drainage to allow for optimal root growth. Across the vineyard, natural insect and weed management that encourage biodiversity and maintain a healthy environment.
2013 Spottswoode Cabernet and Other Glowing Vintages
Throughout 30 vintages created by the Novak family, top releases include the 2013 and 2015 Spottswoode Estate Cabernet, each receiving 100-point scores from Jeb Dunnuck and intense praise from Robert Parker's, The Wine Advocate. The former bottle was labelled "One of the most classic examples of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon" by Jeb Dunnuck, acclaimed for head winemaker, Aron Weinkauf's ability to extract the best from the St. Helena terroir.
Savor a Bottle of Spottswoode Wine
Experience the remarkable consistency of Spottswoode Estate's Cabernet Sauvignons and secure your bottle(s) today. Each bottle tells a unique story of Napa Valley's changing seasons, resulting in an extraordinary journey of taste and style only Spottswoode can produce.
Who owns Spottswoode Winery?
The Novak family have owned Spottswoode Winery since 1972, when Jack and Mary Novak purchased the 46-acre vineyard.
What makes Spottswoode vineyard so special?
Spottswoode is special for its integral role in catapulting Napa Valley into global wine stardom. The winery has been labelled one of Napa's original "First Growths" and has crafted high quality wines for over 50 years.
What kind of wine is Spottswoode?
Spottswoode is best known for its Cabernet Sauvignon wine, which is blended with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The estate also produces two Sauvignon Blancs and three additional estate Cabernets.
Where is Spottswoode Winery located?
Spottswoode Winery is located on the western edge of St. Helena, one of the AVA's first major estates.
