Pope Valley Winery, Wine Country Travel Guide

Pope Valley Winery, a serene escape from the often-crowded Napa Valley, offers visitors a unique journey back in time. Established in 1897 as Burgundy Winery & Olive Oil Factory by Ed Haus, a Swiss immigrant, the winery boasts a rich history and a commitment to preserving the traditions of early California winemaking. Located in the tranquil Pope Valley, northeast of St. Helena and bordering Lake Berryessa, the winery is now owned and operated by siblings David Eakle and Diana Eakle Hawkins, fourth-generation Napans who are passionate about regenerative and sustainable practices. The winery's setting is as captivating as its history. Tucked away in a hillside valley below Howell Mountain, Pope Valley offers a peaceful, rural atmosphere far removed from the bustling highways of Napa. The property spans 40 acres of the original 160-acre estate and includes several historic structures, such as the original homestead farmhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a wagon shed, many with original tools and equipment still intact. The centerpiece of the winery is the three-story, gravity-flow structure built into the hillside, which utilizes a hand-dug cave for barrel aging, maintaining naturally cool temperatures and higher humidity. Visitors to Pope Valley Winery can immerse themselves in a variety of experiences. Wine tastings are offered in several unique venues, including the historic cellar, the second-story fermentation lounge, and the third-story scale house. Guests can also enjoy the vineyard views from the patio, where they can sample current release wines paired with a seasonal tasting plate. For a more in-depth experience, the Cave Cellar Experience provides a private tasting in the hand-dug cave, where guests can learn about the historical gravitational winemaking process and sample library vintages paired with a seasonal tasting plate. Beyond the wine, Pope Valley Winery offers a range of activities to enhance the visitor experience. Guests can reserve a picnic table among the vines and enjoy a leisurely lunch with their own provisions. The winery also features a bocce ball court and picnic grounds, making it an ideal destination for families and groups. For those seeking a more active experience, there are hiking trails and opportunities to stroll among the dry-farmed Zinfandel vines, some of which were planted in the 1940s. The wines at Pope Valley Winery are handcrafted in small lots from estate-grown grapes and other family-owned vineyards in Pope Valley. The winery is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Sangiovese, as well as Merlot, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel Port, and a red wine blend called Faultline. Winemaker David Eakle focuses on showcasing the terroir of Pope Valley, producing palatable, softer-drinking wines that reflect the unique characteristics of each vintage. Pope Valley itself is an undiscovered gem, offering a scenic drive through rolling hills, verdant vineyards, and majestic oak trees. The valley's unique microclimate and diverse terroir provide optimal conditions for cultivating a variety of grape varietals. In addition to Pope Valley Winery, the area is home to the historic Aetna Springs Resort and offers access to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in Moore Creek Park. Pope Valley provides a glimpse into the Napa Valley of yesteryear, where the pace is slower, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and the focus is on the simple pleasures of life. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual visitor seeking a peaceful escape, Pope Valley Winery offers an authentic and memorable Napa experience. From its historic buildings and handcrafted wines to its stunning natural setting and relaxed atmosphere, Pope Valley Winery is a destination that will transport you back in time and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of winemaking and the beauty of the Napa countryside. Events are also a regular feature at Pope Valley Winery, with live music on Saturdays and Sundays, lobster boil dinners, and member celebrations. These events provide an opportunity to experience the winery's hospitality and enjoy its wines in a festive atmosphere.