Chase Cellars: A True Boutique Gem
If you asked me to describe my favorite type of wine tasting experience, it would be small and intimate – a true boutique winery – with great wine, of course. Add incredible hospitality and you get Chase Cellars.
Chase Cellars may be a name you’ve never heard of, but it deserves all of your attention. The property is located in St. Helena, just outside of downtown. Despite being close to the main road, it feels like miles away from the hustle and tourist traffic of Napa Valley. The property itself has an unassuming, unpretentious, and homey feel. In fact, you’re likely to drive right by it (we did) as it’s easy to mistake for a private residence (because it is – Vintner, Katie Hayne Simpson, lives in the same house her family purchased in 1872).
A number of tables overlook the Hayne Vineyard and afford you the opportunity to stroll right into the vines. The tasting experience is very personalized, and the hospitality is outstanding and highly attentive. You genuinely feel like you’re a part of the family – Brian, Alise, and Katie go above-and-beyond to welcome you to a real piece of Napa Valley history.
The Hayne Vineyard, which is planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah, is also home to incredible heritage Zinfandel vines that are over 100 years old. You might have seen the vineyard designate on bottles from producers like Nickel & Nickel and Turley who also source grapes from this valley floor gem. Make no mistake, Chase Cellars can compete with anyone when it comes to producing excellent wines. Winemaker Russell Bevan (of numerous 100 point score fame) crafts bold, daring, opulently expressive wines for Chase. In our two visits to the winery, we tried much of the portfolio and were blown away at how unique and distinctive each wine proved to be. I’ve since opened these wines for friends and aficionados, and they’ve dazzled every time. With price points hovering between $50 and $100, you’ll want to savor each drop, and these wines make it easy.
Chase Cellars is absolutely worth a visit (be sure to make an appointment) as you’re wandering through the heart of Napa Valley. Go for the wines, the intimate, historic vineyard setting, and the gracious hospitality; your heart – and taste buds – will thank you for it.
Location: St. Helena, Napa Valley – on Sulphur Springs Avenue a few minutes off Hwy 29.
Highlights: Tasting in the historic Hayne Vineyard; Hospitality that makes you feel like family; Excellent wines.
Must try Wines: Everything – but definitely the 2015 Hayne Vineyard Zinfandel (a fantastic wine for anytime) and the 2016 Bourn “Gold Strike” (96+ points, Club Member only – so, hint hint).
Visit: Open by appointment only, Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00AM to 4:00PM.
