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Silenus Winery: A Napa Valley Gem

Discover handcrafted Napa Valley wines at Silenus Winery, a historic Oak Knoll District destination with a modern tasting room and commitment to sustainable practices; now closed but potentially reopening.

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Silenus Winery, nestled in Napa Valley's Oak Knoll District, offers a unique wine-tasting experience. Originally a walnut orchard, the land was transformed into vineyards in 1968, producing grapes for renowned wineries like Robert Mondavi and Silver Oak. Today, Silenus crafts its own estate wines and hosts a collective of artisan winemakers, showcasing a diverse range of Napa Valley styles. Visitors can enjoy tastings in the modern tasting room, explore the vineyards, and relax with a picnic amidst the beautiful surroundings. The winery's commitment to sustainability and its rich history make it a memorable destination for wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic Napa experience. Note that the winery is closed and for sale as of late 2024, but may reopen under new ownership.

A brief summary to Silenus Winery

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the winery's website or call ahead to confirm operating hours and tasting availability, as the winery is currently closed and for sale.
  • Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the winery grounds, as Silenus encourages guests to relax and savor the surroundings with their wine.
  • Explore the Oak Knoll District, known for its diverse terroir and exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
  • Inquire about the artisan vintner program to sample unique, small-batch wines from a variety of Napa Valley producers.
  • If the winery reopens, take advantage of the opportunity to play bocce ball in the garden grotto for a fun and relaxing experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Napa, head north on CA-29. Turn left onto Solano Avenue. Silenus Winery will be on your left. Parking is available in the winery's lots. Note that parking can be limited during peak season. Check for any parking fees upon arrival.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Napa, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to Silenus Winery will cost approximately $15-$25, depending on traffic and demand. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Confirm the fare before you start your trip. Be aware that ride-share availability can be limited in certain areas of Napa Valley, especially during peak hours.

  • Public Transport

    From the Napa Transit Center, take VINE Route 10 towards Yountville. Get off at the intersection of Solano Avenue and Trower Avenue, which is the closest stop to Silenus Winery. From there, walk south along Solano Avenue for about 10 minutes (approximately 0.5 miles) to reach the winery. A single ride on VINE costs $1.75. Check the VINE schedule for current times as they may be limited.

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Discover more about Silenus Winery

Silenus Winery, located on Solano Avenue in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, offers visitors a chance to experience the region's rich winemaking heritage. The winery's name is inspired by Greek mythology; Silenus was the companion of Dionysus, the god of wine. This connection to the spirit of wine is reflected in the winery's dedication to crafting exceptional wines and providing a welcoming atmosphere for guests. The history of Silenus Winery dates back to 1967 when Bruce Newlan, a former Lockheed engineer, purchased the property, which was then a walnut orchard. In 1968, he converted the orchard into Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards. For many years, the grapes from these vineyards were sold to prestigious wineries such as Robert Mondavi, Silver Oak, and Inglenook, consistently contributing to their reserve wines. Recognizing the quality of their fruit, the owners decided to produce their own wine, releasing their first vintage in 1980 under the Newlan Cabernet Sauvignon label. In 2010, the winery was acquired by Meijing Group, a Chinese American company, and rebranded as Silenus Winery. Despite the change in ownership, the winery has maintained its commitment to producing high-quality wines that showcase the terroir of the Oak Knoll District. The Oak Knoll District, located at the southern end of Napa Valley, benefits from a longer growing season, allowing for optimal ripeness and balanced flavors in the grapes. The area's alluvial fan soils, deposited by Dry Creek over millennia, contribute to the unique character of the wines. Silenus Winery is not only a producer of its own estate wines but also a custom crush facility for a number of small, artisan winemakers. This unique aspect of the winery allows visitors to sample a diverse range of wines from different producers, all in one location. The tasting room offers a modern and elegant setting, with views of the vineyards and barrel room. Guests can choose from a variety of tasting options, including flights of Silenus wines and selections from their artisan vintners. Some Silenus wines are exclusively available for tasting or purchase at the tasting room or for wine club members. Beyond the tasting room, Silenus Winery offers a beautiful setting for relaxation and enjoyment. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy it in the garden grotto, complete with a bocce ball court. This creates a perfect Napa Valley experience, combining wine tasting with outdoor recreation and stunning scenery. The winery also has a dog-friendly policy, making it a welcoming destination for visitors traveling with their furry companions. Silenus Winery is committed to sustainable farming practices. They utilize cover crops, planted in alternating rows, to enrich the soil and reduce the need for tractors. This carbon-neutral approach reflects the winery's dedication to environmental stewardship. **Important Note:** As of late 2024, Silenus Winery has closed its tasting room and is up for sale. While the future of the winery is uncertain, it remains a significant part of Napa Valley's history and may reopen under new ownership. Before planning a visit, it is advisable to check the winery's website or contact them directly to confirm their current status. Visiting Silenus Winery offers a glimpse into the past, present, and potentially the future of Napa Valley winemaking. Its rich history, commitment to quality, and beautiful setting make it a memorable destination for wine lovers. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Silenus Winery provides an authentic and enjoyable Napa Valley experience. Even after the closing of the tasting room, the legacy of Silenus Winery lives on through its wines and its contribution to the Napa Valley winemaking community. The story of Silenus serves as a reminder of the passion, dedication, and innovation that define the region's wine industry.

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