As soon as we began the drive up the long, winding, narrow path leading to Schramsberg, (the vineyard name literally translates to Schram’s Mountain) we knew from the green hills, mossy rocks, and fairytale like forest surrounding us on our ascent we were about to enter some place magical. And we were not wrong. A chance to tour Schramsberg will undoubtedly provide one of the most memorable experiences of your trip to Napa Valley.
Schramsberg’s Olive Grove (photo courtesy of Schramsberg)
Whether you are a wine connoisseur, or you don’t know the difference between a pinot noir and pinot grigio, it is impossible not to marvel at the beauty of Schramsberg. From their stunning, pristine grounds to their breathtaking caves, a visit to Schramsberg is way more than a wine tasting, it is an experience that you will never forget.
Schramsberg is known for their sparkling wines, notably being the first American sparkler to be served by the White House, during the Peace Talks with China in 1972. While their claim to fame might be their blanc de blanc sparkling wine, they are ever evolving and are now producing world class reds as well, under the new owner of Schramsberg’s family name: Davies.
Schramsberg House and Pond (photo courtesy of Schramsberg)
The tour is extremely educational for all levels of wine junkies, with interesting facts about the history of the vineyard from its establishment in 1862 until now. It also includes an informative overview of the traditional Champagne method, used to produce all of the sparkling wines from Schramsberg; even offering a behind the scenes glimpse of hand riddling (the process of consolidating sediment to facilitate removing it) in action while in the caves.
The personalized experience makes it feel like it’s just you and the Davies family wandering through the hand dug caverns surrounded by thousands of bottles of amazing wine. Currently only 96 people a day are able to go on one of the eight tours provided, and given the opportunity to taste four Schramsberg sparkling wines and one Davies Vineyards red. We highly recommend making a reservation as soon as you plan your trip to Napa Valley, as it is often booked to capacity. As of Spring 2017 the vineyard does have a new tasting room in the works, which will be more restaurant style, featuring the Davies Vineyard red portfolio of wines.
Schramsberg Tasting Room (photo courtesy of Schramsberg)
While visiting we were lucky enough to purchase one of the on-site only wines available, JD. This wine is a second growth production for the J. Davies cabernet, which is all produced from fruit on their hillside vineyard on Diamond Mountain, but it is hard to believe that these grapes didn’t make the first round cut. The rich, supple tannins and bold notes of blueberry, blackberry, and dark chocolate make this wine a beautiful pairing with grilled meats, or all by itself as dessert, which is how we often choose to enjoy our glass…es.
No trip to Napa Valley is complete without a visit to Schramsberg, which is why we are honored to highlight it as our very first vineyard that is an absolutely must visit.
Tip for a Wine Newbie
Join their membership club. There are different club levels available, and if you are going to join any wine club in Napa, this is the one. You will not be disappointed. You can keep the bottles to enjoy for yourself, or give them as gifts and impress the pants off one of your friends or family members that pretend they are wine experts.
Tip for a Wine Connoisseur
If you do not yet own one, ask to purchase the official Schramsberg Sabre Sword to master the art of sabering.
The ridiculously gorgeous Schramsberg Sabre. A must purchase item for the Schramsberg gift shop. (photo credit: Schramsberg)
IMPORTANT NOTE: In case you drink too much wine and am not thinking straight…. do NOT try to get through airport security with your Schramsberg gift bag if you do indeed, make this beautiful, worthwhile purchase.
To schedule a tour with Schramsberg click here.
Vineyard Reviews 