The history of Napa County stretches back to the 19th century and by the ending of that century there were at least a hundred and forty wineries in and around the area some of which are still in existence today producing what today is most of the best fine alcohol in the US.
Viticulture in Napa County witnessed a setback in the 1920s when prohibition was in place throughout the country and a devastating effect of the phylloxera root louse which destroyed most of it vineyards. But true to it`s culture some Napa County found this to be an unique opportunity to send grapes to immigrant home winemakers across the country in turn saving the heritage of the valley. When prohibition was abolished in 1933 and the prices of grapes crashed to about 24$ a ton, Napa County jumped back up and again started producing wine thou very slowly at first.
In 1965 Robert Mondavi broke away from his family owned Charles Krug estate and started producing wine on his own. It was the very first large scale wine and vineyard established after the prohibition and turned out to be a great boost for the region. The consumer trend following the 60s free lifestyle for experimentation allowed Mondavi winery to attract new wine lovers as he offered a larger 1.5 wine which allowed for a more affordable quality.
Now along with the number of large scale wineries and breweries present in the region a number of boutique wineries have made a name of themselves in producing quality wines. Araujo, Colgin Cellars, Marcassin, Diamond Creek, Dominus Estate, Duckhorn Vineyards, Grace Family, Dalla Valle Maya, Chimney Rock Winery, Harlan Estate, Rutherford Hill Winery, Sequoia Grove, Spencer-Roloson Winery, Shafer Hillside Select, Steltzner Vineyards and many more have made quite a name for themselves.
With each passing year the wineries and breweries at Napa County continue to make a good name for themselves among wine and fine brew enthusiasts from all over the world and supply wine lovers across the world with some of the very best.
Some of the important wineries and breweries of Napa County are:
Beringer Brothers Winery: Established way back in 1876 is one of the earliest vineyards in the county. It is a reflection of the timeless appeal and enticing taste of the Napa County wines. Under the partnership of famous winemaster emeritus Ed Sbragia and winemaker Laurie Hook Beringer winery today produces some of the best classic wines. Their wines display an overwhelming dedication for quality and class leaving no stone unturned for making that perfect wine. A visit to their vineyards, heritage cellars, special events and wine tasting events will any wine lover wanting for more.
Signorello vineyards: A small vinery which produces only about 6000 cases a year. Family owned and specializes on producing Bordeaux style cabernets. Wine tasting sessions by appointment only.
Charles Krug Winery: One of the very first wineries established way back in 1861 in St. Helena by Charles Krug. Now owned by Peter Mondavi Sr. family who have meticulously preserved the rich heritage of the historic buildings and over 850 acres of estate land which produce some of the finest wines in Napa County.
Andretti Winery: Inspired from the distinguished Mario Andretti regarded as the greatest race car driver of all time. This winery was setup in the year 1996 by Mario and Joseph E. Antonini.
Jarvis: Jarvis winery is celebrated for producing ultra premium varieties of wines. They produce cabernet Sauvignon, cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Merlot and Petit Verdot in a natural cave 4 miles east of Napa.
Mumm Napa: Owned by the legendary French Champagne house of G. H Mumm. Mumm Napa specializes in using the highest quality production process to produce some of the best wines and champagne. A project made successful by Guy Devaux a person with more than 40 years experience in fine still and sparkling wines in France, South America and the US.
Viader vineyards and winery: It produces 3 distinct varieties of estate wines grown on the slopes of Howell Mountain.
Alpha Omega: The newest entrant to the hundreds of vineyards at Napa. Alpha Omega has already begun to make a mark in making fine wines.
In addition to there are numerous others which offer a taste of fine wine and brew. Napa County also offers its visitors fine wine and brew tasting places where it`s lovers can unite and savor the taste and flavor of the best produce in the country. They have everything from standardized fine wines to the ultra premium wines which are fermented to a perfect taste under strict conditions.