Theorem Vineyards: Diamond Mountain’s Newest Gem

Much of the enchantment of the Napa Valley is built on the histories of those who settled in the region in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. Many of these people were farmers, immigrant, homesteaders, and even some wealthy socialites from nearby San Francisco. Today, we often see the Valley as a demonstration of grand architecture, celebrations of opulent wines, and a testament to terroir. Still, there are not many places that actually stand as showcases to yesterday, today, and the future. A visit to Theorem Vineyards, perched high on Diamond Mountain, is a step back into Napa’s fascinating history which has been restored to masterfully reflect today’s lofty standards, and is set up to carve out its place in the future of the Napa Valley.

Imagine walking onto a property that’s overgrown with trees and aggressive native flora and fauna, where buildings are falling in on themselves, vineyards are an afterthought, and the mud is so thick it happily pulls the boots off your feet. That’s exactly what Jason and Kisha Itkin found when they first set foot on the Diamond Mountain site that would eventually become Theorem Vineyards – and they offered to buy it the next day. Today, Theorem Vineyards has been immaculately restored to reflect its history – complete with the Schoolhouse that once served the local community. The property is special, and has only been owned by three families. The second owners, the Graeser family, planted a modest 10 acre vineyard, and these vines have become the foundation of Theorem’s incredible wine program.

Led by the incomparable winemaking talent that is Thomas Rivers Brown – who was introduced to the site by the property’s astute vineyard manager, Josh Clark – the Theorem Vineyards wine program is one built to rival the top producers in the Napa Valley for years to come. A tour and tasting at Theorem is precisely what the market of millennial experience-seekers is clamoring for (as one, I can make that statement with a certain confidence). One major note here – you will be awestruck by the views and the way the architecture enhances the location. The hospitality (huge shout out to James for putting together an incredible program) is over-the-top great, and while the tour centers on history and the tasting focuses on the prospectus of the wines (they’re also exquisitely paired with cheeses and accoutrements), the experience is tailored to you in that moment. A wonderful blend like that is almost as good at the 2014 Voir Dire Cabernet Sauvignon – which is absolutely the standout of the tasting lineup – and is already recognized as splurge worthy. Now that’s “speaking the truth.”

Location: 255 Petrified Forest Road, Calistoga.

Highlights: A perfect tour and tasting with exceptional wine and cheese pairing; Thomas Rivers Brown crafted Cabernets that demonstrate both power and restraint; an experience that is likely the new industry standard by which I’ll judge all other appointment based tastings.

Must try Wines: All of them – 2014 Voir Dire Cabernet Sauvignon; 2015 Voir Dire Cabernet Sauvignon; 2016 Hawk’s Prey Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.

Visit: Open by appointment only. Tour and tasting at $75 per person.