Chateau Montelena Offers Storied Wines and Scenic Vistas

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A visit to Chateau Montelena in Calistoga, California, transports guests back in time to the storied winery that played a pivotal role in the rise of the California wine industry. From the peaceful Jade Lake and picturesque grounds to the professional yet reverent tasting room, the Chateau Montelena experience is one of quiet sophistication and deep history.

Why it matters

Chateau Montelena's legacy as the winery that famously bested French wines in the 1976 "Judgment of Paris" tasting has cemented its place in California wine lore. As one of Napa's most iconic producers, a visit to Montelena offers a glimpse into the region's winemaking past and the evolution of the state's wine industry.

The details

The author's visit to Chateau Montelena began with a stroll along the banks of the serene Jade Lake, where a rowboat and red bridge set an idyllic scene. Ascending the lengthy stairs to the winery, the author was struck by the resemblance to the property's portrayal in the film "Bottle Shock." Inside the tasting room, the atmosphere was described as "cool and professional in a woodsy sort of way," with historical photos and memorabilia lining the walls. The tasting menu featured five wines ranging from $22 to $135, including a 2007 Riesling, 2007 Chardonnay, 2006 Zinfandel, and two 2005 Cabernet Sauvignons.

• The author visited Chateau Montelena in Calistoga, California.