The Schmidheiny family of Switzerland—fourth-generation vintners purchased 400 acres of prized land in the Los Carneros region of Napa Valley founding Cuvaison Winery in 1979. Their estate vineyards are balanced by the cooling influence of the fog from the San Pablo Bay. Cuvaison is focused on crafting high quality varietals of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. By 1991, they began replanting the vineyards while employing a block-by-block approach to farming along with a hand-crafted style. Winemaking has been under the astute guidance of Steve Rogstad, vice-president of winemaking, since 2002. Cuvaison was honored as one of the “Top 100 Wineries in the World” by Wine & Spirits Magazine in 2012.

Cuvaison recently introduced their Boathouse Food and Wine tasting experience nestled over the serene reservoir in the middle of their 400-acre Tai Vineyard.

This Pinot Noir has a dark garnet shadow with a ruby rim. Aromas of violets and wild berries slowly rise from the glass along with a potpourri of fruitcake spices. Upon entry, this wine shows poise, precision and an undeniable charm. Juicy, muddled red fruits with crushed red currants, red raspberry puree and orchard plums are gracefully intertwined with subtle savory notes, brown spices and finely polished tannins. The interplay of fruits and spices make this a compelling wine that is refined and immediately inviting. This wine has both place and purpose.

By W Peter Hoyne