After a decades-long career visiting wineries around the globe, I find it takes something special to really excite me. My recent visit to V. Sattui in Napa Valley had me smiling with joy. I hadn’t been to the property in nearly 20 years and finally decided it was time to revisit this historic destination on its 50th anniversary. It’s hard to miss the winery while driving along the valley’s main thoroughfare, Highway 29. The sprawling lawn, dotted with smiling visitors at picnic tables, children running around laughing and dogs frolicking in the grass, is framed by a distinguished old stone building surrounded by vines.
The winery’s history dates to 1885, when Italian immigrant Vittorio Sattui set up a wine shop in downtown San Francisco. During Prohibition, the small operation ceased, but in 1975, Vittorio’s great-grandson, Dario Sattui, brought the family business back to life in Napa Valley. Today, it is one of the best spots to visit. Its recently renovated market, Mercato del Gusto, is a hot spot for tasting its extensive wine offerings, noshing on gourmet sandwiches and cheese platters, and even enjoying custom chocolates and gelato from on-site chefs.
Head there Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday to enjoy a free tasting flight of three wines, a rarity in Napa Valley these days. The extensive list of wines it makes is impressive and offers something for everyone, from complex dry reds to unique whites and even sparkling, sweet and nonalcoholic options. Check out the wine roster and tasting experiences at www.VSattui.com.
Here are several standout bottlings from my recent visit:
V. Sattui 2022 Cabernet Franc
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California, $80
As a fan of Cabernet Franc, I’m constantly on the lookout for new bottles of the classic variety. A centuries-old vine from France’s Bordeaux region, Cabernet Franc is one of the parents (the other being the white grape Sauvignon Blanc) of the noted red grape Cabernet Sauvignon. V. Sattui’s expression showcases sultry aromas of dark fruits, tea leaves and rose petals. Once you sip it, the earthy, savory notes are layered with a lush yet lovely texture.
V. Sattui 2025 Chenin Blanc
Los Carneros, Napa Valley, California, $38
Looking for a perfect white to quench your thirst regardless of the season? This one is it. Chenin Blanc is a grape known in France’s Loire Valley, but it’s also grown in limited amounts in California. V. Sattui’s vineyard in the cool Los Carneros growing area, which straddles Napa and Sonoma, gives the vines plenty of time to ripen while maintaining acidity and freshness. Crisp and juicy with hints of citrus and orange blossom, it’s enchanting to smell and sip.
