An isolated ridge of iron-red volcanic soil, home to a cluster of prominent Cabernet producers and Howard Backen’s most ambitious estate, now available as the ultimate Napa Valley getaway.

In the late 1960s, Pritchard Hill was an isolated and essentially forgotten area. Today, while it retains a sense of isolation, it has become home to a cluster of prominent Cabernet Sauvignon producers who hew long-lived wines out of the site’s distinctive iron-red and yellow-tinged volcanic soils.

Driving up the long, winding road to the top, which hits 1,800 feet of elevation, you’ll pass numerous vineyards as well as a handful of eye-popping homes and showpiece wineries. Make sure to take notice of how the flora changes from that of the valley floor. It’s as unique an area as Napa Valley has to offer, and a visit is a must for any serious wine enthusiast.

Chappellet Winery
Tasting Room – Pritchard Hill
Don and Molly Chappellet founded their winery in 1967; early vintages were made by the legendary Philip Togni. Togni was followed by Joe Cafaro, Tony Soter and Cathy Corison. Since the 1990s, Phillip Corallo-Titus has handled winemaking, while second and third-generation Chappellets, led by Don and Molly’s son Cyril, pilot this historic family estate.

To see the entire guide, visit https://napatravel.winespectator.com/