Napa's Best Kept Secret: Visiting in the Fall

The 3 most exclusive wineries to visit for Cabernet lovers.

By Nicole Fritton, Harper's Bazaar

When you think Napa, you think of the Valley floor, but Napa’s highest scoring wines and most exclusive waiting lists are actually far above the floor, in an area called Pritchard Hill. This area is so iconic because a combination of rocky red, volcanic soils, and the elevation, which gives it a unique combination of sunshine and cloud reflection. Here are a few vineyards on Pritchard Hill that are the most sought-after. 

OVID NAPA VALLEY

Tucked away high on Prichard Hill above Napa Valley is the jewel of a vineyard, Ovid. Upon arrival visitors are encapsulated by the view that opens up to an all encompassing perspective of the valley; spanning from the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge on one end to Mount Saint Helena on another.

If not for the views, then the estate's internationally recognized offerings certainly make the flight from the east coast or abroad worth the trip. Known for its artisanal quality and cult following, people are clamoring to be added to the wait list.

Their specialty; Bordeaux-style wines. Best enjoyed during Harvest time.

Each batch is wielded at the hands of Austin Peterson. The refined technique that goes into crafting each version of wine lends to an unforgettable experience.

Colgin Cellars

The IX Estate Vineyard, located in the Pritchard Hill area of St. Helena, welcomes wine enthusiasts and collectors alike. Colgin, who's in the LVMH family, is best known for its four handcrafted wines: Tychson Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, Cariad Red Wine, IX Estate Red Wine, and IX Estate Syrah.

In addition to fostering esteemed wines, founder Ann Colgin has curated a venerable art collection that can be enjoyed by visitors onsite, with pieces dating back centuries old. Dovetailing into the wine industry following her career in fine art, it comes as no surprise that Colgin's appreciation for distinct characteristics and detail has seeped into the culture of at the estate.

Although in high demand, their distribution circulates to only 8,000 lucky individual clients and select restaurants. Want to be on their members-only mailing list? There's a waiting list for that!

Continuum

In 2005, Marcia, Tim and Robert Mondavi established Continuum Winery to cultivate artisanal, small batch Cabernets. With the family's heritage in winemaking reaching back for decades, their craft is especially evident in this vineyard's exclusive vintage produced on Pritchard Hill.

Chosen for the region's unique topography, each harvest yields lush grapes that lend to a covetable Cabernet Sauvignon blend, featuring rich undertones with herby notes. Not to mention, the mesmerizing views of Lake Hennessy and the valley below will create picture-perfect memories that you will not soon forget, should you visit.

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