Howell Mountain, perched high above the Napa Valley floor, is a wine region where volcanic soils and dramatic elevation meet to create a world of bold, complex wines. This rugged mountain, with its breathtaking views and challenging terroir, has captivated winemakers and enthusiasts alike, drawing them to its unique character and the captivating stories it holds.
The region’s history is intertwined with the evolution of Napa Valley itself, dating back to the late 19th century. Howell Mountain’s distinctive terroir, a result of its volcanic origins and elevation, produces wines that are known for their intensity, structure, and remarkable aging potential.
From the iconic Cabernet Sauvignon to the elegant Zinfandel, the grapes grown here thrive in the cool, dry climate, developing complex flavors and aromas that reflect the mountain’s unique personality.
Howell Mountain
Howell Mountain, a prominent appellation nestled within Napa Valley, stands as a testament to the captivating interplay of terroir and human ingenuity. This region, renowned for its distinctive wines, boasts a history intertwined with the evolution of California’s winemaking legacy.
Howell Mountain, with its dramatic slopes and volcanic soil, is a testament to the power of nature. Its vineyards, perched high above the valley floor, are a reminder of the resilience of life in the face of adversity. And just as Howell Mountain has weathered the storms of time, so too has the spirit of Davy Crockett, embodied in the song “Green Mountain Davy Crockett” – a stirring anthem of independence and fortitude, available online.
The spirit of Crockett, a pioneer who faced down challenges with unwavering determination, resonates with the winemakers of Howell Mountain, who strive to create wines that reflect the unique character of their terroir.
The History and Origins of Howell Mountain
The story of Howell Mountain as a wine region begins in the late 19th century, with early pioneers recognizing the potential of its unique terroir. The area’s rugged terrain, characterized by steep slopes and volcanic soils, presented both challenges and opportunities for grape cultivation.
In 1980, Howell Mountain achieved official recognition as an American Viticultural Area (AVA), solidifying its place as a distinct winegrowing region.
Howell Mountain, with its stunning views and rolling vineyards, is a paradise for both humans and canines. Imagine strolling through the vineyards, your loyal companion by your side – a majestic blend of the protective Great Pyrenees and the gentle Bernese Mountain Dog, a truly unique breed that embodies the best of both worlds.
Great Pyrenees mix Bernese Mountain Dog – a sight to behold, just as breathtaking as the panorama of Howell Mountain itself.
The Terroir of Howell Mountain
Howell Mountain’s terroir, a term encompassing the region’s climate, soil, and topography, plays a pivotal role in shaping the character of its wines. The appellation’s elevation, ranging from 1,400 to 2,600 feet above sea level, results in a cooler climate than the valley floor, characterized by diurnal temperature swings.
This cooler climate, coupled with the region’s volcanic soils, contributes to the production of wines known for their exceptional concentration, acidity, and longevity.
Key Grape Varieties
Howell Mountain’s terroir is particularly well-suited for the cultivation of Bordeaux varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. These grapes thrive in the region’s cool climate and volcanic soils, producing wines with intense flavors, complex aromas, and a remarkable ability to age gracefully.
- Cabernet Sauvignon:This grape, known for its rich tannins and full-bodied structure, is considered the flagship varietal of Howell Mountain. The region’s unique terroir contributes to the production of Cabernet Sauvignons with exceptional intensity, complexity, and longevity.
- Merlot:Merlot, often characterized by its smooth tannins and elegant fruit flavors, also finds a suitable home on Howell Mountain. The region’s cooler climate and volcanic soils contribute to the production of Merlots with a distinctive depth and complexity.
- Cabernet Franc:Cabernet Franc, known for its herbaceous and spicy notes, complements the other Bordeaux varietals grown on Howell Mountain. The region’s terroir allows Cabernet Franc to develop a unique character, adding another layer of complexity to the wines.
Winemaking Practices and Styles
Howell Mountain’s unique terroir, characterized by its high elevation, volcanic soils, and cool climate, directly influences the winemaking practices employed by vintners in the region. This results in wines with distinct characteristics that set them apart from other Napa Valley appellations.
Winemaking Techniques
Vintners in Howell Mountain employ a range of techniques to capture the essence of the terroir and produce wines that express the region’s distinctive character. These techniques include:
- Careful Fruit Selection:Vintners meticulously select only the highest quality grapes, ensuring that only the ripest and most flavorful fruit is used in the winemaking process. This meticulous selection is crucial for producing wines with concentrated flavors and complex aromas.
- Gentle Handling:To preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the grapes, vintners handle the fruit gently throughout the winemaking process. This includes using minimal crushing and gentle pressing techniques to extract the juice without damaging the grapes.
- Traditional Winemaking Methods:Many Howell Mountain vintners embrace traditional winemaking methods, such as using small-batch fermentation in open-top tanks or using oak barrels for aging. These traditional techniques allow for greater control over the winemaking process and help to produce wines with complexity and depth.
- Extended Aging:The wines produced in Howell Mountain are known for their aging potential, and many vintners choose to age their wines for extended periods in oak barrels. This allows the wines to develop complex flavors and aromas, and the tannins to soften, resulting in a more balanced and harmonious wine.
Style Comparisons
Howell Mountain wines stand out from other Napa Valley appellations due to their distinct characteristics.
- Higher Tannins:The cool climate and volcanic soils of Howell Mountain result in wines with higher tannins than those produced in other Napa Valley appellations. These tannins provide structure and complexity to the wines, allowing them to age gracefully for many years.
- Intense Aromas and Flavors:The long growing season and cool climate of Howell Mountain allow the grapes to develop intense aromas and flavors. This results in wines with complex aromas of dark fruit, spice, and earthiness, and flavors that are rich and concentrated.
- Elevated Acidity:The cool climate of Howell Mountain also contributes to the high acidity of the wines. This acidity provides a refreshing balance to the rich tannins and flavors, ensuring that the wines are not overly heavy or dense.
- Longer Aging Potential:The high tannins and acidity of Howell Mountain wines give them an exceptional aging potential. These wines can be cellared for decades, developing complexity and depth as they age.
Key Characteristics
| Characteristic | Howell Mountain |
|---|---|
| Tannins | High, providing structure and complexity |
| Acidity | High, providing balance and freshness |
| Aromas | Intense, with notes of dark fruit, spice, and earthiness |
| Flavors | Rich and concentrated, with notes of dark fruit, spice, and earthiness |
| Aging Potential | Exceptional, capable of aging for decades |
Notable Wineries and Vineyards
Howell Mountain boasts a collection of renowned wineries that have shaped the region’s reputation for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. These wineries, each with their unique history and approach to winemaking, have played a significant role in establishing Howell Mountain’s distinctive character and its place among the top wine regions in California.
Top Howell Mountain Wineries
The following table showcases some of the most notable wineries on Howell Mountain, providing links to their websites and information about their tasting rooms.
| Winery | Website | Tasting Room |
|---|---|---|
| Dunn Vineyards | https://www.dunnvineyards.com/ | Appointment only |
| O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery | https://www.oshaughnessyestate.com/ | Appointment only |
| Outpost Wines | https://www.outpostwines.com/ | Appointment only |
| La Jota Vineyard | https://www.lajotavineyard.com/ | Appointment only |
| Cade Estate Winery | https://www.cadeestate.com/ | Open to the public |
| Las Rocas Winery | https://www.lasrocaswinery.com/ | Appointment only |
| Mount Veeder Winery | https://www.mountveederwinery.com/ | Appointment only |
| Ehlers Estate Winery | https://www.ehlersestate.com/ | Open to the public |
Dunn Vineyards
Dunn Vineyards is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Howell Mountain, with a legacy of producing some of the most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignons in the region. Established in 1978 by Randall Dunn, the winery has consistently crafted wines that are known for their exceptional quality, depth, and aging potential.
Their flagship wine, the Dunn Vineyards Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, is a benchmark for the region, showcasing the intense fruit flavors, powerful tannins, and remarkable longevity that Howell Mountain wines are renowned for.
O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery
O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery, founded in 1999 by Tim O’Shaughnessy, is known for its commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality and elegance. Their Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to this dedication, displaying a rich tapestry of aromas and flavors, including dark fruit, spice, and a hint of minerality.
The winery’s focus on meticulous vineyard management and small-lot winemaking techniques ensures that each bottle reflects the unique terroir of Howell Mountain.
Outpost Wines
Outpost Wines, established in 2002 by Heidi Peterson Barrett and her husband, Bo Barrett, is a relatively new addition to Howell Mountain, but it has quickly made its mark on the region. Their wines are known for their vibrant fruit flavors, elegant structure, and impressive aging potential.
Outpost Wines has become a favorite among wine enthusiasts for its consistent quality and its ability to capture the essence of Howell Mountain in every bottle.
Howell Mountain, a majestic peak in the heart of the Smokies, beckons adventurers with its stunning vistas and verdant trails. After a day of exploring, unwind in the comfort of a charming bed and breakfast in the Smoky Mountains , where warm hospitality and cozy fireplaces await.
Wake to the symphony of birdsong and the promise of another day of adventure on Howell Mountain.
La Jota Vineyard
La Jota Vineyard, founded in 1982 by John and Carolyn Bucher, is a family-owned and operated winery that has been producing exceptional wines for over four decades. Their Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of old-vine fruit, reflecting the rich history and heritage of the vineyard.
The winery’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and its focus on producing wines that are true to the terroir of Howell Mountain have earned it a loyal following among wine connoisseurs.
Cade Estate Winery
Cade Estate Winery, established in 1998 by the late John Conover, is known for its commitment to producing wines that are both elegant and powerful. Their Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of fruit from several different vineyards, showcasing the diversity of the region.
The winery’s focus on small-lot winemaking and its use of innovative techniques, such as the use of concrete tanks for fermentation, have resulted in wines that are both complex and approachable.
Las Rocas Winery
Las Rocas Winery, established in 1999 by the husband-and-wife team of Dan and Pam Maciel, is a small, family-owned winery that is dedicated to producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Howell Mountain. Their Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of fruit from their estate vineyard, which is located on a steep, rocky hillside.
The winery’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and its focus on hand-crafted winemaking techniques ensure that each bottle is a true expression of the region.
Mount Veeder Winery, Howell mountain
Mount Veeder Winery, founded in 1983 by the late John and Marilyn Goheen, is a historic winery that has been producing world-class wines for over 30 years. Their Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of fruit from their estate vineyard, which is located on the slopes of Mount Veeder.
The winery’s commitment to producing wines that are both elegant and powerful has earned it a reputation for excellence among wine enthusiasts.
Ehlers Estate Winery
Ehlers Estate Winery, founded in 1971 by Joe Ehlers, is one of the oldest wineries on Howell Mountain. Their Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of fruit from their estate vineyard, which is located on a steep, rocky hillside.
Howell Mountain, with its breathtaking views and rolling vineyards, is a place of natural beauty. But there’s another kind of beauty to be found there, too: the playful spirit of golden mountain dog puppies. These furry bundles of joy bring a unique charm to the landscape, reminding us that even the most rugged mountain can be softened by the presence of a loving companion.
The winery’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and its focus on producing wines that are both complex and approachable have earned it a loyal following among wine connoisseurs.
Exploring Howell Mountain
Howell Mountain, a renowned appellation in Napa Valley, offers a captivating experience for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its dramatic volcanic slopes, breathtaking views, and exceptional wines create an unforgettable journey. This comprehensive guide provides insights into the best time to visit, local accommodations, nearby attractions, and tips for wine tasting experiences, ensuring an enriching and memorable exploration.
The Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Howell Mountain depends on your preferences. Spring, from April to May, offers vibrant wildflowers and mild temperatures, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. Summer, from June to August, brings warm weather and the peak harvest season, making it a great time to witness the bustling vineyards.
Fall, from September to October, showcases stunning autumn foliage and a chance to sample the latest vintages. Winter, from November to March, offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds and potentially snow-capped mountain views.
Local Accommodations
Howell Mountain itself doesn’t have dedicated hotels or resorts. However, nearby towns like St. Helena, Calistoga, and Napa offer a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to charming bed and breakfasts. Consider staying in a town that offers convenient access to Howell Mountain wineries and attractions.
Nearby Attractions
Beyond the vineyards, Howell Mountain is surrounded by natural wonders and cultural attractions.
- Bothe-Napa Valley State Park:This park boasts scenic trails, redwood forests, and a historic stone building, providing opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and exploring nature.
- Napa Valley Wine Train:Embark on a luxurious train journey through the heart of Napa Valley, enjoying gourmet meals and panoramic views of the vineyards.
- Napa Valley Museum:Explore the rich history and culture of Napa Valley through art exhibits, historical artifacts, and interactive displays.
Wine Tasting Experiences
Howell Mountain is renowned for its world-class wineries, offering a diverse range of tasting experiences.
- Reserve Appointments:Many Howell Mountain wineries require reservations, especially for tasting appointments. It’s essential to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Tasting Fees:Expect tasting fees, which vary depending on the winery and the tasting experience.
- Guided Tours:Some wineries offer guided tours of their vineyards and cellars, providing valuable insights into the winemaking process.
Restaurants and Culinary Options
Howell Mountain doesn’t have dedicated restaurants, but the surrounding towns offer a diverse culinary scene.
Howell Mountain, with its iconic vineyards and breathtaking views, offers a taste of Napa Valley luxury. But for those seeking a more rugged adventure, a short drive away lies Bald Mountain Camping Resort, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re pitching a tent or cozying up in a cabin, Bald Mountain provides the perfect basecamp for exploring Howell Mountain’s hiking trails and wineries.
- St. Helena:This town is known for its Michelin-starred restaurants, offering fine dining experiences with innovative menus and impeccable service.
- Calistoga:Explore the charming cafes and bistros of Calistoga, serving up local specialties and farm-to-table cuisine.
- Napa:Napa City offers a wide range of restaurants, from casual eateries to upscale dining options, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Tips for Exploring Howell Mountain
To maximize your experience, consider these tips:
- Comfortable Shoes:Howell Mountain wineries are often located on hillsides, so comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the vineyards and tasting rooms.
- Sun Protection:Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun, especially during summer months.
- Designated Driver:If you plan on tasting wine, designate a driver or arrange for transportation to ensure safe travels.
Final Review
A visit to Howell Mountain is an immersive experience, where the beauty of the landscape blends seamlessly with the artistry of winemaking. Whether you’re exploring the vineyards, tasting at renowned wineries, or savoring the culinary delights of the region, Howell Mountain offers a captivating journey for the senses.
From the rich history and volcanic terroir to the passionate winemakers and breathtaking views, this extraordinary wine region is a testament to the enduring power of nature and the human spirit.
Essential Questionnaire: Howell Mountain
What is the elevation of Howell Mountain?
Howell Mountain ranges in elevation from approximately 1,400 to 2,600 feet above sea level.
What is the average temperature on Howell Mountain?
The average temperature on Howell Mountain is cooler than the valley floor due to the elevation, with a distinct diurnal shift between day and night temperatures.
Are there any restaurants on Howell Mountain?
While there are no full-service restaurants directly on Howell Mountain, there are several wineries with tasting rooms that offer food pairings or light bites.
What is the best time to visit Howell Mountain?
The best time to visit Howell Mountain is during the spring or fall, when the weather is pleasant and the vineyards are in full bloom or displaying the vibrant hues of autumn.