Spottswoode Estate Winery, located in the heart of St. Helena, Napa Valley, is a family-owned winery renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its Cabernet Sauvignon. Established in 1882 and revitalized by the Novak family in 1972, Spottswoode has a rich history intertwined with a dedication to organic farming and sustainable winemaking practices.
The story of Spottswoode Estate Winery begins in 1882 when it was founded by George Schonewald. The estate changed hands several times until it was purchased by Jack and Mary Novak in 1972. The Novaks saw the potential of the property and began the extensive work of replanting the vineyards and restoring the estate.
Tragically, Jack Novak passed away in 1977, but Mary Novak persevered, driven by a vision to produce world-class wines. Under her leadership, Spottswoode released its first commercial vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon in 1982. Today, the winery is managed by Mary’s daughters, Beth Novak Milliken and Lindy Novak, who continue to uphold the family’s commitment to excellence and sustainability.
Terroir of St. Helena:
Spottswoode’s vineyards are located on the western edge of St. Helena, at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains. The 40-acre estate is blessed with a unique terroir, characterized by alluvial clay loam soils and a climate influenced by the nearby mountains and Napa River. These conditions provide excellent drainage and a long growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and develop deep, concentrated flavours.
Since 1985, Spottswoode has been farmed organically, becoming a certified organic vineyard in 1992. This commitment to organic farming enhances the health of the vineyard and the quality of the fruit. The winery also employs biodynamic principles, emphasizing a holistic approach to farming.
In the winery, traditional techniques are combined with modern practices to create wines that express the unique characteristics of the vineyard. The grapes are hand-harvested and sorted meticulously to ensure only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in small, temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by ageing in French oak barrels. The winemaking team, led by Aron Weinkauf, focuses on crafting wines with balance, elegance, and the potential to age gracefully.
Wines produced at Spottswoode:
Spottswoode is best known for its estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, which is celebrated for its elegance, complexity, and depth. The wine typically exhibits aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum, with nuances of cedar, tobacco, and baking spices. On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with fine tannins and a long, persistent finish.
In addition to its flagship Cabernet Sauvignon, Spottswoode produces a range of other wines, including a vibrant Sauvignon Blanc known for its crisp acidity and bright citrus flavors. The winery also produces a limited-production Field Book Syrah and a Spottswoode Lyndenhurst Cabernet Sauvignon, which offers a more approachable expression of the estate’s renowned terroir.