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Fontanella Family Winery: A Mt. Veeder Gem

Discover the art of winemaking at Fontanella Family Winery in Napa Valley's Mt. Veeder, where family tradition meets exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay.

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Nestled in the Mt. Veeder appellation of Napa Valley, Fontanella Family Winery offers an intimate and personalized wine-tasting experience. This family-run winery, established in 2005, produces approximately 4,000 cases annually of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, often meeting the owners, Jeff and Karen Fontanella, who share their passion for winemaking. The winery features a cozy tasting room with a fireplace and stunning views of the estate vineyards, creating a memorable escape from the bustling Napa scene. With its focus on crafting bold, layered wines and providing a welcoming environment, Fontanella promises a unique and special experience for every guest. Leashed dogs are welcome on the outdoor wine-tasting patio.

A brief summary to Fontanella Family Winery

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tasting in advance, as appointments are required and space is limited, especially during peak season.
  • Allow ample time for your visit; the relaxed atmosphere encourages you to savor the wines and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
  • Consider the Reserve Tour & Tasting for an in-depth exploration of Fontanella's Cabernet Sauvignons and a glimpse into their winemaking process.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as outdoor seating is available and offers stunning views of the vineyards.
  • If you're a dog lover, bring your leashed furry friend to enjoy the outdoor wine-tasting patio with you.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Napa, head west on CA-221/W Imola Ave. Turn right onto Partrick Rd. Continue on Partrick Rd for approximately 4 miles. The winery is located at 1721 Partrick Rd. Note that Partrick Road is a winding road that ascends Mt. Veeder; allow extra driving time. Limited parking is available at the winery.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Napa, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. The ride is approximately 10 minutes, but allow extra time due to the winding road. Expect to pay around $25-$40 for a one-way trip, depending on demand and surge pricing. Confirm the fare with the driver or app before starting your journey. Note that cell service can be unreliable in certain parts of Mt. Veeder, so pre-booking your return trip is recommended.

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Discover more about Fontanella Family Winery

Fontanella Family Winery, a modern twist on old Napa, is a testament to the dreams and dedication of Jeff and Karen Fontanella. Established in 2005, this family-owned and operated winery is located in the picturesque Mt. Veeder appellation, nestled in the western hills of Napa Valley. The journey began when Jeff, after a serendipitous turn from pre-med studies at UC Davis to enology, met Karen, an aspiring attorney, at a Jimmy Buffett concert. Their combined passion and expertise led them to create a winery that embodies both exceptional winemaking and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Jeff's winemaking philosophy centers on matching specific techniques with individual vineyards to unlock the full potential of each grape. With experience honed at prestigious wineries like Opus One and ZD, Jeff brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to crafting wines that are bold, layered, and unexpected. Karen's legal background and business acumen have been instrumental in shaping the winery's vision and ensuring its sustainable growth. The Fontanella Family Winery produces approximately 4,000 cases annually, focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay. The estate vineyards benefit from the unique microclimates and diverse terrain of Mt. Veeder, resulting in wines with rich, lush, and intense character. The winery's commitment to quality is evident in every bottle, reflecting the Fontanellas' passion for their craft. Visitors to Fontanella Family Winery are treated to an intimate and personalized tasting experience. The tasting room, completed in 2008, offers a cozy living room setting with a fireplace, comfortable couches, and casual modern music. Guests can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and a tranquil pond. The Fontanellas often personally host tastings, sharing their knowledge of the winemaking process and their philosophy on creating ultra-premium wines. Fontanella offers two distinct tasting experiences. The Fontanella Journey Tasting includes a taste of four current release wines and a sneak peek into the barrel room, accompanied by a small plate of cheese and crackers. For Cabernet Sauvignon enthusiasts, the Reserve Tour & Tasting provides an in-depth exploration of their Cabernet Sauvignons, including the flagship Estate Reserve and Per Sempre, with a guided tour of the vineyard, winery, and barrel room, complete with a barrel sample. Both experiences offer a chance to connect with the Fontanella family and learn about their dedication to crafting exceptional wines. The winery's location on Mt. Veeder, just a short drive from downtown Napa, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the valley. The winding road leading to the winery is enveloped in arched oak trees, creating a sense of tranquility and seclusion. As visitors ascend, they are greeted by the natural beauty of the estate, where they may spot local wildlife such as deer, foxes, and jackrabbits. The winery dogs, Hobie and Trigger, and the winery cat, Santo, often make appearances, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Fontanella Family Winery is more than just a winery; it's a place where guests can create lasting memories and connect with the passion and dedication of a family committed to crafting exceptional wines. The Fontanellas' commitment to quality, combined with their warm hospitality and stunning location, makes Fontanella Family Winery a must-visit destination in Napa Valley. In recent years, Fontanella Family Winery has continued to evolve and refine its offerings. The family acquired additional acreage in 2016 and 2017, expanding their Cabernet Sauvignon plantings and further enhancing the diversity of their estate vineyards. They have also launched new tasting experiences, such as the Reserve Tour and Tasting, designed to showcase the unique characteristics of Mt. Veeder and their commitment to producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. Despite facing challenges such as earthquakes and wildfires, the Fontanellas have remained steadfast in their dedication to their craft and their community. They have embraced sustainable practices and have become strong advocates for environmental stewardship. Their commitment to excellence has earned them numerous accolades and a loyal following of wine enthusiasts. Fontanella Family Winery is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and a deep love for the land. It is a place where visitors can experience the true essence of Napa Valley and create memories that will last a lifetime. The Fontanellas' passion for winemaking, combined with their warm hospitality and stunning location, makes Fontanella Family Winery a truly special destination.

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