Founded by Jay Corley, Monticello remains one of the few family-owned wineries in the Napa Valley a point of pride for Jay. He named the winery after Thomas Jefferson’s iconic home in Virginia, modeling it after Jefferson Monticello estate. Jay, a true lover of wine and food, admired Jefferson’s preference for wine over ale, reflecting Jefferson’s belief that a good wine is the necessity of life.This passion for wine is something Jay wholeheartedly shared.
Today, Monticello continues to produce world-class, estate-grown wines.
We were warmly welcomed by Cante, our host for the day, whose enthusiasm and wealth of wine knowledge made the experience even more memorable.
After touring the estate, we started with the 2023 Estate Chardonnay and the 2020 Estate Pinot Noir both were exceptional. Next, we sampled the 2019 Proprietary Red Blend, a smooth combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, which we couldn’t resist taking a couple bottles of back home to Danville to share with our wine-loving friends.
Our tour then moved to a cozy wine room, complete with wine photography, comfortable seating, and a crackling fireplace. There, we sipped on the 2019 Tietjen Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford, the 2019 Yewell St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon, and the 2019 Corley Reserve Napa Valley. While all were outstanding, the Yewell Cabernet Sauvignon stood out, and we made sure to bring a bottle home.
As Thomas Jefferson famously said, “Good wine is a necessity of life.” At Monticello, they are not just making good wine they are crafting truly great wine. If you’re planning a Napa visit, this winery is a must-see.
For more information and to plan your visit, head to:
https://www.corleyfamilynapavalley.com/
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