Trefethen Family Vineyards

Trefethen Family Vineyards is a legendary estate in the famous Napa Valley, representing a true symbol of the American winemaking revival. Located in the USA, this landmark combines the charm of historic architecture with high standards of premium wine production.

The heart of the estate is a magnificent historic building, constructed in 1886. It is a recognized architectural monument and one of the few surviving wooden wineries from that era. The estate spans 600 acres of fertile land, where the Trefethen family grows their own grapes, prioritizing sustainability and tradition.

The winery gained worldwide fame for its exceptional Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Visitors appreciate the place for its authenticity: there's no excessive pomp, just a sincere love for the craft and respect for the region's history. It’s the perfect location for those wanting to see how world-class wine is created in a family atmosphere.

To plan your visit to the winery, we recommend using the contact details below to clarify visit details or book a tasting.

At Trefethen Family Vineyards, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the world of fine winemaking through classic tastings. You can try famous varieties, including the very same Chardonnay that once outperformed the best French wines in a blind tasting in Paris. Professional guides share not only tasting notes but also the estate's philosophy, which is built on minimal intervention in the natural process.

The tours of the historic building are particularly impressive. Walking through the halls built in 1886, you'll see massive barrels and learn about the technical innovations introduced by the family. For example, it’s fascinating to hear about the night harvesting method—a practice that keeps the grapes cool and fresh, which is critical for the aromatic quality of the future wine.

For those who prefer the outdoors, walks around the estate are available. You can see the orderly rows of vines, enjoy the silence of rural California, and take magnificent photos against the backdrop of the winery’s old cupolas. Private events and gastronomic gatherings are also frequently held here, where wine is paired with exquisite dishes made from local products.

The estate is located at 1160 Oak Knoll Ave, in the heart of the wine region. A drive from downtown Napa takes about 10 minutes, while a trip from San Francisco Airport is approximately one hour via I-80 and CA-37. The route passes through scenic landscapes, making the journey to the destination an aesthetic pleasure.

Since public transport in this part of the valley is limited, the most convenient way to travel is by renting a car or taking a taxi. Free parking is provided for guests on-site. If you are staying in nearby towns like Oakville or St. Helena, the drive to the estate will take 15 to 20 minutes.

For those who prefer group travel, special wine shuttles operate throughout the valley, stopping at the most iconic wineries. Walking or cycling is possible, but keep in mind the significant distances between attractions and the heavy traffic during the tourist season.

The history of this place began in 1886 when Eschol Winery was founded on these lands. During Napa's "Golden Age" of winemaking, over 140 estates flourished here. As early as 1889, the winery received a top award at a San Francisco exhibition for its Cabernet Sauvignon, marking the enterprise's first major success.

However, the introduction of Prohibition in 1919 nearly destroyed the industry. The winery building stood empty for decades, gradually turning into ruins: the roof collapsed, and only wild birds lived inside. By the mid-20th century, fewer than 30 active wineries remained in the region, and the old Eschol estate seemed lost forever.

Everything changed in 1968 when Eugene Trefethen purchased the land along with the dilapidated building. The family poured immense effort into restoring the historic site and reviving the 600 acres of vineyards. In 1973, John and Janet Trefethen released the first commercial batch of wine under the family brand, marking the start of a new chapter.

Global fame came to the family in 1979 when their 1976 vintage Chardonnay was recognized as the best in the world at the prestigious "Wine Olympics" in Paris. This event proved to the world that Californian wines could compete on equal terms with the best French examples and forever etched the Trefethen name into winemaking history.

For a standard visit, including a tour and wine tasting, most visitors need 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This allows enough time to learn about the estate's history, appreciate the wine, and stroll through the picturesque grounds without rushing.

If you plan to participate in special events or enjoy a full dinner with wine pairings, we recommend setting aside about 3 hours. The place invites relaxation, so many guests prefer to linger on the outdoor terraces, enjoying the vineyard views.

Trefethen Family Vineyards is open to visitors daily from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. This schedule is convenient for both morning tours and those who prefer to end their Napa Valley sightseeing day with a wine tasting.

Please note that tours and tasting room visits are primarily by appointment. It is recommended to check current information and book a time on the winery's official website, especially on weekends and holidays when the number of visitors increases significantly.

Exploring the surroundings of Napa Valley will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of California winemaking and history. Nearby, you'll find interesting architectural sites and natural recreation areas that will perfectly complement your itinerary.

Below are some attractions located nearby: