Taste of Howell Mountain: A Wonderful Annual Event for a Great Cause
A few of the many Howell Mountain wineries represented
Howell Mountain rises up on the east side of the Napa Valley floor. It is a distinct appellation in the valley that presents characteristics that contribute to the flavor profile of wine made from Howell Mountain grapes. The vineyards rise up to as high as 2200 feet, and this gives rise to temperature variations that range from 10 degrees cooler in the early summer to 10 degrees warmer later in the season. The fog is a big contributor, as it will hang on the valley floor yet the mountain will be bathed in warm sun. The red volcanic soil is full of minerals and not a lot of water. The vines really have to work hard on these mountain slopes. All this and more contribute to depth of flavor and a great fruit profile in the wine that will entice you back for more.
This is more than a wine-growing region though — it is a community. It is one that strives to contribute and has its eye on taking care of the children who attend Howell Mountain Elementary School. Each year, the Howell Mountain Vintners & Growers Associationpresents Taste of Howell Mountain. It is charitable event that supports the elementary school on Howell Mountain to ensure that the kids who attend have the opportunity to grow and learn in the best possible way.
This has become one of my very favorite events in the Napa Valley. It is an awesome opportunity to meet the vintners and winemakers who make their lives on this mountain as they share their passion – their wine — with us. Each year the event kicks off with a tasting of over 30+ wines. The setting is relaxed on the open-air grounds of Charles Krug. There is food, wine, music, and a beautiful setting. All the wineries want to share the great taste and distinct flavor of Howell Mountain. There are silent auctions items where special bottles and items are offered. The live auction caps off the day, where big lots and weekend excursions are the main stars. It is all for the main purpose of supporting the school and the kids who attend.
Can you imagine having the opportunity to taste these wines, enjoy some great food and music, enjoy the spirited auction, and contribute to a great cause — all for $125 per ticket!? Here is a listing of the wineries that participated this year:
Aloft
Arkenstone
Black Sears Estate Wines
Bravante Vineyards
Bremer Family Winery
Cade Estate Winery
Cakebread Cellers
Cimarossa
Clif Family Winery
Cornerstone Cellars
Cresta Velia
Duckhorn Vineyards
Dunn Vineyards
Haber Family Vineyards
Howell Mountain Vineyards
Howell At the Moon Vineyards
La Jota Vineyards Co.
Lamborn Family Vineyards
Notre Vine
O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery
Outpost Estate Winery
Pestoni Family/Rutherford Grove
Piña Napa Valley
Prim Family Vineyards
Red Cap Vineyards
Retro Cellars
Robert Craig Winery
Robert Foley Vineyards
Roberts & Rogers
Round Two Wines
Sbragia Family Vineyards
Spence
Summit Lake Vineyards & Winery
W.H. Smith Wines
Next year’s Taste of Howell Mountain is on June 18th, so you have plenty of time to prepare. Spend the weekend in the valley and enjoy what Howell Mountain has to offer.
Enjoy!
