Taste of Howell Mountain

Charles Krug Winery hosted a "Taste of Howell Mountain" last Saturday. This was a great event, as over 40 different wineries from Howell Mountain were represented in one location. In case you are not familiar with Howell Mountain, it forms the eastern ridge of the the Napa Valley, and was actually the first sub-appellation of the Valley.

Howell Mountain grapes are generally grown at elevations of 1,200 to 2,00 feet above sea level. Consequently, the vines enjoy a direct breeze from the Pacific Ocean which results in cooler temperatures than vines that are grown on the Valley Floor receive. The drainage is generally superb and the rich volcanic soil makes this an excellent location for some tasty Cabernet.

Among the favorites at the tasting were Cabs from Dunn Vineyards, O'Shaughnessy Wine Estate, CADE and SPENCE. Most of the wineries in Howell Mountain are set back in such a beautiful landscape overlooking the valley it would be a shame not to plan a trip and spend the day up in Howell.