As we were enjoying our breakfast at Beltane Ranch, we met a couple on their honeymoon. They had been in the area for a few days before we arrived and had the opportunity to check out several vineyards. We asked for a recommendation and they suggested we check out Kuleto Estates. With that we called and made our appointment for a tour. Most if not all of the vineyards in both Sonoma and Napa Valley’s require an appointment so make sure you plan ahead to avoid missing out.
We were fortunate enough for our tour guide, Steve, to accommodate us on the 2:30PM tour. Getting to Kuleto Estates is quite the feat. Located in Napa Valley overlooking Lake Hennessey and the town of Rutherford, it was about an hour to an hour and a half from where we were at Benziger Winery. The last half hour or so is spent simply navigating the driveway. The driveway itself is roughly 2 miles long up the mountain and involves switchbacks and hair pin turns. Don’t let this deter you; the views alone are well worth the drive!
The vineyard is beautifully landscaped and the buildings well planned. There are numerous picnic areas complete with brick pizza ovens throughout the property for the use of the owner and members of the wine club. The vision of Mr. Kuleto himself, the vineyard is simply breath taking.
Now I have to admit that I have not been the biggest fan of California wines but Kuleto Estate’s wines stand out like a beacon of hope for the rest of the region. We enjoyed the wine so much that we became members of the wine club and purchased a few extra bottles as gifts for friends and family.
The tasting itself involved 4 or 5 different selections and an accompanying cheese plate. Steve was full of knowledge and stories and even pointed us in the direction of a great burger joint in San Francisco that has its roots in Napa Valley.
Our first wine club shipment should be here any day now….