The entire wine facility is
contained in a 45,000 square foot cave built into the Vaca Mountains.
Founded by William and Leticia Jarvis, much of their vineyard is planted with Cabernet Sauvignon
but they also grow Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and a tiny block of
Tempranillo, a Spanish Grape Variety.
The entire tour and tasting takes place within the cave. Some highlights of the tour include a beautiful waterfall flowing into a river channel in the floor of
one of the tunnels running through the cave. You must walk on large stones over the small creek
to enter the tasting grotto. The Crystal Chamber contains crystals imported from Brazil and large pieces of Quartz from Arkansas. Another cavern called the Grand Barrel Chai, can also hold up to 500 people for special events.
We especially enjoyed the bottling room where wines are bottled and Reserve Wines and large format bottles are dipped into wax, making for a beautiful bottle presentation.
Our host was Susan, who was very knowledgeable and proud of the Jarvis wines. Our tasting included
2018 Finch Hollow Chardonnay, 2016 Tempranillo, 2014 Cabernet Franc, 2014 Merlot, 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon,
and 2014 Lake William Blend. We especially enjoyed the unfiltered Chardonnay and Lake William blend that went back to Danville with us.
Both bottles were also dipped in wax that added class to their eloquent and excellent taste.
Finally, Jarvis also offers a program to make your own wine from their vineyard grapes. You can choose from
a half or full barrel, guided through the aging process then bottled with your customized label. It makes a great addition
to your wine cellar and a ‘perfect ‘gift for your wine lover friends.
Jarvis only make 5,000 cases of wine per year, all from 37 acres of vines on a 1,300 acre estate. The Jarvis wines are only available at the winery or through the Inner Circle membership program.
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In conclusion, this winery is a ‘must do’ to add to your Napa bucket list.
For more information and to make an appointment go to: https://www.jarviswines.com/
