Our exploration of the Napa Valley AVAs continues with Yountville! Here’s what you need to know about the area recognized as an AVA in 1999.
The Yountville AVA is home to some of Napa Valley’s most elegant wines. Lower elevations (20 - 200 ft) and no mountain influence yield wines that are supple and sumptuous one vintage after the next.
Climate & Soil
Yountville has a moderate climate with some cooling influences like marine fog and wind off the San Pablo Bay. In peak growing season, temperatures reach up to 90°F and there is a significant diurnal shift in the mid-50°F range that’s beneficial to grapes. The AVA’s gentle micro-climate in the heart of Napa Valley allows grapes plenty of time on the vine to develop rich, complex flavors while maintaining natural acidity.
Soils here are sedimentary in origin and mainly gravelly silt loam with some rocky alluvial soils and moderate fertility.
Grapes
Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc are the main grapes grown in the Yountville AVA.
Recommended Yountville Wineries
- Cliff Lede Vineyards – one of my longtime favorites!
- Silver Trident Winery
- Baldacci Family Vineyards
- Hestan Vineyards
- TOR Wines
- Cosentino Winery
- Domaine Chandon
Where Does the Yountville Name Come From?
This Napa AVA is named after George C. Yount, who was the first to plant vineyards here in 1836. He was a pioneer, trapper, and frontiersman before delving into the world of viticulture. Mr. Yount famously said, “This is paradise: it is here I’d like to live and die.” So, I’d say he’s deserving of the AVA’s name.
Initially, the area was called Sebastopol and was renamed to honor Yount after his death. His original rancho is home to some of Napa’s most valuable vineyard real estate today. In the 1860s, George gave around 1,000 acres of his Caymus Rancho to his granddaughter and her new husband, Thomas Rutherford, as a wedding gift. That area still bears the Rutherford name today.
What Are the Best Restaurants in Yountville?
Some of my favorite restaurants in Napa Valley are located in Yountville. My number one must visit restaurant is Bistro Jeanty, a super authentic French restaurant with impeccable service. Be sure to get the French onion soup!
Chef Thomas Keller’s famous The French Laundry, Bouchon Bakery, and Bouchon Bistro are all located here.
Brix is another personal favorite for an exceptional dinner with garden fresh, local ingredients. Check out Ciccio if you’re craving pizza or R+D Kitchen for a delicious date night for two.
Finally, Mustards Grill is a wine country classic everyone should visit at least once.
