One of the my favorite wine producing estates to visit in Napa Valley California, is White Rock Vineyards. This family run enterprise has a long history of successful grape growing and wine making, and offer wine tastings in a casual, quiet atmosphere. History of White Rock Vineyard
In 1977, Henri Vandendriessche, who moved to the US from France in 1960, and his American wife, Claire, bought a 64-acre estate located north of Napa. This land was originally developed in 1870 as a winery that processed around 7,000 gallons of wine from Riesling and Zinfandel vines. It was this owner who quarried the local white rock to build the winery and who dug two cellars for bottle-aging the wine.
The cave at White Rock was constructed in 1987, and consists of a 6,000-square-feet area that is used for the making and cellaring of the estate wines. The cave is one of the most distinctive in Napa Valley and
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Growing Practices
The terroir or natural environment, which includes soil types, landscape, and climate, of White Rock Vineyards is one of volcanic soils and bedrock. The estate is situated about 300 feet above the floor of the Napa Valley, on its eastern side.
The soil holds very few nutrients so in the winter, crops are grown that will naturally add richness to the ground. Trellises and vine spacing lend themselves to the growing of grapes that have a good ripening period and that obviates the necessity of using any chemicals; fumigants, pesticides, and herbicides are never used on the estate.
White Rock Vineyard in Napa Valley California has been recognized as Napa Green Certified Land for its vineyards and non-farmed land, and it practices water conservation, stable drainage, soil conservation, habitat enhancement for flora and fauna, and long-term sustainability.
Wines Produced at White Rock Vineyard
The key varieties of wine produced at White Rock Vineyard include:
- Chardonnay and Reserve Chardonnay
- Cabernet Sauvignon- Don't miss "The Laureate" their premium Cabernet Sauvignon bottling
- Claret (a red blend of Bordeaux varietals)
Visits to the Vineyard
If you enjoy small group wine tastings and lots of first-hand fascinating information, White Rock Vineyard in Napa Valley California, is a place to visit. Guests are welcome, and usually tours are led by owner, Henri Vandendriessche, or his sons, Christopher and Michael, who are winemakers and managers of the estate.
Complimentary tastings are undertaken at the indoor tasting bar, and barrel tastings are also available. An appointment for a tour and tasting must be made beforehand, and dogs are welcome.
Request a complimentary luxury travel consultation from Roux Wine Tours if you're thinking of taking a trip to Napa Valley California.
