It's hard to imagine now, but there was a time when the Napa Valley was not considered a world-class wine growing region on a par with France or Italy. But an event in the mid-1970's began the transformation from

Napa as a local success to the premier wine destination it is today. The Vine & Rose is less than five miles from one of the wineries that made history that day and forever changed the Napa Valley as a grape growing phenomenon.

A Historic Moment

In July 1976, the U.S. celebrated its bicentennial. Just a few months prior, another European country also celebrated a revolution that changed the course of history — U.S. wine history, that is.

May 24 will never have the same acclaim as July 4, but the “The Judgement of Paris” was no less significant a date for the world of winemaking. The French judges who participated in this blind tasting awarded the 1973 Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon and the ‘73 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay with the highest scores in their respective categories, beating the French at their own game.

The TIME Magazine article that followed the event helped spread the word about this watershed moment in California winemaking. The newfound potential for the region then inspired winemakers to settle in Napa Valley. It could now compete with industry leaders and win!

This growth would be a boon to not only winemakers but also consumers who would strengthen the national interest, popularity, and enjoyment of world-class wine. What followed in subsequent decades was truly revolutionary, and that day in Paris was perhaps the inspiration for—if not the birthplace of—a new wine nation.

The Sweet Spot

Today Napa Valley is home to over 450 wineries, comprised of 16 A.V.A.s(American Viticultural Areas) with almost 4.5 million visitors annually. The valley between the Vaca mountain range to the east and Mayacamas range to the west is only 30 miles long and a mere five miles across at its widest point. A concentrated area that produces only 4% of the wine in California. It’s not about the volume but the quality of those wines that makes Napa so special. Since the Mediterranean climate of the region is only found in about 2% of the world, the Napa Valley is uniquely suited to the task of superior wine production.

Of course, it’s not just the climate but the knowledge, skill and dedication of everyone involved in the winemaking process. Nearly 95% of the Napa Valley wineries are family owned, producing smaller volumes (under 10,00 cases annually) yet the industry employs nearly 50,000 people in Napa County with billions in impact to the local economy alone. 

 Napa’s Wine Culture

Wine is not only the primary business in the valley, but it is also synonymous with the region’s culture. Napa is a place where the locals know who the winemakers are, what varietals they make, and what wines to look out for when they are released. Visit any of the wineries in the region, and you’ll get a crash course on soils, fermentation, barrel aging wine blending, or any of the other techniques that go into making amazing wines.

Go to nearly any of the outstanding local restaurants, and everyone from the server at a casual lunch spot to the sommelier of a Michelin-starred bistro can give you a rundown of the varieties and particulars of the regional wines. Whether you want to know what pairs well with salmon or why you shouldn’t drink Cab with pizza, you won’t have to go far for an answer. Everyone has an opinion and will welcome yours, even if you’re new to the tasting world. Napa is the spot to learn about and, more importantly, enjoy wine.

A Tourist’s Dream

The Vine & Rose is aware of of Napa’s unique characteristics and takes full advantage of its location in Calistoga. Situated just north of St. Helena, this iconic AVA has maintained an unspoiled charm. Many locals consider it “the vacation spot within the Valley.”

The region offers everything from fine dining, relaxing spas, and luxurious mud baths to sparkling mineral pools, gorgeous hiking and biking trails, boutique shopping, and exceptional tasting rooms—all within a few miles of the sprawling Vine & Rose estate. This proximity allows you to enjoy both Calistoga’s local attractions and the luxury rental’s abundant amenities. However you choose to enjoy your stay, you’ll have the flexibility to plan a trip that works for both you and your guests.

Whether you’re taking a premier vacation or a corporate retreat, let the Vine & Rose host you during your stay in the world-famous Napa Valley. Call them at (760) 822-4846 to book your room, or visit the luxury vacation rental online for more on the estate and its amenities.