Winery Spotlight: Newton Vineyard

  • Wine
  • by WINECOUNTRY COLLECTIVE
  • on AUGUST 27, 2015
  • 636
  • 0
Newton Vineyard stands out in Napa Valley as one of the premier wineries of the region. They were one of the first to establish themselves on Spring Mountain, which is west of St. Helena. Their style of winemaking could be described as meticulous; the grapes are hand-picked in small batches and each part of a blend ferments separately, giving them plenty of options when it comes to what they want to combine.

Their location offers splendid views of the Valley, and makes for perfect ambience when it comes to a wine tasting tour. In this Q&A, you’ll find out everything you’d want to know about Newton Vineyard and their winemaking practices, as well as why their Vineyard is one of the most exciting to visit in the region.

Tell us a bit about the history of Newton Vineyard…


Newton Vineyard was one of the first wineries on Spring Mountain, a rugged yet serene appellation located west of St. Helena on the eastern flank of the Mayacamas range. Newton Vineyard was established by Dr. Su Hua and Peter Newton, whose trailblazing vision transformed the hillside into a 540-acre estate with 120 acres of planted vines.

What distinguishes your winery from others in the region?


We are proud to have one of the most distinctive properties in Napa Valley. The winery sits high above Napa Valley, affording a beautiful view. We are famous for our gardens including a parterre garden sits above our caves and a rose garden located next to the vineyards. We are close to St. Helena, but you feel a world away.

Is there a wine, currently at your winery, that your guests are raving about? What makes it special?


The 2012 vintage of our flagship wine, The Puzzle, was released earlier this year and this vintage is made from exclusively Cabernet Sauvignon. It includes fruit from three estate vineyards in Napa Valley: Spring Mountain, Mt. Veeder and Yountville. The Spring Mountain fruit expresses an intensity and opulence that is balanced by an unparalleled vibrancy. Mt. Veeder produces fruit with a fine structure and classic Cabernet aromas and flavors, such as red and black fruit and tobacco. And Yountville offers fruit with a plushness, middle palate and deep, dark fruit flavors and aromas, such as cassis and ripe plums. Guests love it.

What do you hope guests take away after visiting your winery?


We hope guests will feel rewarded for going off the beaten path and having discovered Newton will recognize it for the gem that it is. We hope they’ll feel pampered and will have long-lasting memories.

What’s a unique characteristic of your winery that guests might not immediately notice?


Everywhere you look there is first a view and then a view within a view. Peter Newton was very careful to capitalize on nature’s beauty and it is important to us to protect those elements.

How do you hope to see your winery evolve in the next 10 years?


We are systematically replanting the estate’s vineyards so our winemaking team will continue to have the best fruit sources possible.

Are there any exclusive experiences that your winery offers that guests should know about?


A guest’s favorite experience is only available in summer and involves a ride through the vineyard in a repurposed six-wheel Pinzgauer. You climb to Pino Solo, our iconic tree at the top of our property and are rewarded with a panoramic view of Napa Valley.

What are your top five wine tastings tips for first time visitors to your winery?


  • Bring your camera. The property and view are spectacular so you will want to capture it.
  • Bring a pair of binoculars if you join our vineyard tour. The perspective from the top of our estate is unparalleled.
  • The tour and tastings takes you through gardens, into caves and around winery equipment so wear comfortable shoes. The varied terrain is worth foregoing
  • heels!
  • Leave a little extra time. Newton is off the beaten path and, if you arrive early, you’ll have more time to take pictures and enjoy the view.
  • Hire a local driver; they will know the directions to Newton and you will be able to relax.

Author

WineCountry Collective

WineCountry is made up of a dedicated and passionate team of wine, food, and travel aficionados. We diligently explore regions, both near and far, to curate the best ideas and resources. Whether you're musing over your next wine escapade, planning a romantic weekend away, embracing the Wine Country lifestyle at home, or are simply looking to be entertained for a moment, trust us to be your comprehensive guide.