Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, Chateau Montelena stands as a testament to visionary winemaking and enduring legacy. Founded in 1882 by Alfred L. Tubbs, this historic estate first earned acclaim for its Burgundian-inspired white wines. After decades of fluctuating fortunes, Château Montelena experienced a dramatic renaissance in the 1970s under the stewardship of Jim and Betty Barrett.
Their 1973 Chardonnay famously triumphed over premier French white Burgundies at the 1976 “Judgment of Paris,” a blind tasting that forever altered the global wine landscape. This landmark victory not only validated Napa Valley’s potential on the world stage but also cemented Château Montelena’s place in oenological history.
Today, the winery continues to blend tradition with innovation. Its meticulously tended vineyards—planted on volcanic soils that impart minerality and finesse—produce a range of varietals, from its signature Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon to small-lot releases like Riesling and Zinfandel. State‐of‐the‐art winemaking facilities sit alongside the estate’s original 19th-century stone winery, offering visitors a journey through Napa’s past and present.
Under current winemaker Jonathan Weis, Château Montelena has expanded its focus on sustainable practices, implementing cover crops to enhance soil health, integrating solar power, and prioritizing water conservation. These efforts ensure that each bottle not only reflects the terroir’s unique characteristics but also aligns with an ethos of environmental stewardship.
Visitors to Château Montelena are welcomed to a serene courtyard shaded by ancient olive trees, where guided tastings unveil the depth and elegance of its wines. Beyond the tasting room, estate tours lead through rolling vineyards and the historic winery, culminating at the picturesque lakeside—an idyllic setting that inspired the estate’s logo, an iconic reflection of the property’s stately Victorian architecture mirrored in still waters.
As Château Montelena approaches its 150th anniversary, it remains a pillar of Napa Valley’s wine community—an enduring symbol of perseverance, quality, and the transformative power of a bold vision.
