Vineyard 29 at 2929 Highway 29: Unforgettable!
The sign says simply 2929. You would pass right by the entrance to this beautiful winery on Highway 29 north of St. Helena. There is no advertisement of what lies up the hill. Vineyard 29 has a quiet, stately elegance from your first approach to the massive double doors that open to a remarkably modern and techno savvy operation. This is a “By Appointment Only” winery where you need to book well in advance to enjoy the tour and tasting, yet it’s well worth the planning.
On your visit, you are welcomed into the winery through massive double doors. Up the stairs to the right is the office and a balcony where you begin your exploration of the impressive operation. From the balcony, you take in views of the valley floor with vineyards all around. Austin Gallion is in charge of hospitality, and he will lead you on a tour of the winery, talking about its beginnings and bringing you up to today’s operation — sipping great wine all the time, of course.
The operation is truly inspired by the technology. This is a gravity flow winery, one of only a handful in the valley. What is that you ask? Well, in short, the wine is moved throughout the entire process — from fermentation tanks to barrels — without forceful pumping. The transfers are all done by gravity, and you should visit to see this first hand. The belief is that this process preserves more of the flavors of the wine.
As for the wine, they have one of the best-priced quality cabernets. Vineyard 29’s Cru sells for $54 at the winery, and I have enjoyed many bottles. (PF Chang’s actually had this one on their wine list for $50 – a real bargain!) Vineyard 29 also has a Sauvignon Blanc that is smooth and round, and I’ve enjoyed this fine varietal as well. They also make a Zinfandel and two very big cabernets that are a pleasure to drink.
I highly recommend a visit to this property. I have brought many groups to visit Vineyard 29, and no one has been disappointed. It is well worth the time and money to walk the winery, learn about the process, see the caves and the beautiful wine library, and enjoy a tasting that is paired with great bites. (Austin is also a chef!)
Cheers!
