Founded in 1972 by entrepreneur John Goelet and French winemaker Bernard Portet, the winery earned global recognition when its Cabernet Sauvignon was featured in the historic 1976 Judgment of Paris, the blind tasting that reshaped the world’s view of California wine.
Today,third-generation proprietor Olav Goelet and winemaker Carmel Greenberg carry the legacy forward. Their flagship Bordeaux blend, Yettalil, is named for Olav’s grandmother, Henrietta Yettalil Goelet. As Olav shares, “She inspired the entire family to live a life of adventure and to embrace the joy of bringing happiness to others.”
Our host, Fabian, led a fantastic tasting on the winery’s patio overlooking sunlit vineyards. With perfect Napa weather, it was an unforgettable setting.
We began with the bright 2023 Rosé of Cabernet Franc, fresh and lively with crisp acidity. Next was the 2025 Sauvignon Blanc, vibrant, balanced, and refreshing.
The highlight of the tasting was the 2023 Cabernet Franc—a blend of 80% Cabernet Franc, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and 2% Carménère. It delivered layered notes of cranberry, pomegranate, and clove with impressive elegance. We enjoyed it so much that two bottles came home to Danville.
We then moved to the 2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and the flagship 2023 Yettalil.
The Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 4% Petit Verdot) was rich and structured, with dark fruit, refined tannins, and a long finish—classic Napa Cabernet.
The 2023 Yettalil was a standout finale. Its blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Malbec, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot, and 2% Carménère created a wine of depth, finesse, and beautiful balance.
If you’re planning a Napa Valley trip, Clos du Val is a must-visit. It offers exceptional wines, warm hospitality, and one of the most scenic settings in the Stags Leap District.
For more information or to reserve a tasting, visit https://www.closduval.com/.
