Intro to Green and Red Vineyards
I love riddles... what's green, red, and luscious? A Zinfandel from Green and Red Vineyards, my latest Napa gem. I stumbled upon Green & Red while digging up info for another blog. With a name like that, I had to check it out.
Green & Red Vineyard is set in an amazing panorama in the heart of St. Helena, California, in Chiles Canyon. The drive up to the winery is quite an adventure.
The Winery and Tasting Experience
When you arrive, you're greeted with breathtaking views of rolling hills (make that killer views), meticulously maintained vineyards, and even a friendly dog. We were fortunate to have Tobin Heminway, the owner, lead us through our tasting. After savoring their excellent Sauvignon Blanc in a cozy outdoor setting, we hopped into the vineyard jeep for a tour of their steepest vineyard, Tip Top Vineyard. Sitting at 1,000 to 2,000 feet elevation, it's one of the most beautiful settings I've seen in Napa. The atmosphere is relaxed and laid-back, making it an ideal spot for seasoned wine enthusiasts and newcomers.
The Winemakers and Owners
Green & Red Vineyard owes its charm and success to the dedication of its founders and the current team. Established in the 1960s by Jay Heminway, a sculptor and teacher at U.C. Berkeley, the winery was born from Jay's passion for authentic local food and wine long before it became a trend. His vision for the potential of the Howell Mountain terroir was matched by a hands-on approach, emphasizing sustainable farming practices and traditional winemaking techniques. Over the years, the vineyard has remained true to its roots, focusing on small-batch production and artisanal winemaking methods.
Today, the vineyard remains a family affair. Jay's daughter, Tobin J. Heminway, and her husband, Raymond Nicola Hannigan, manage the winery, continuing to honor Jay's legacy while incorporating modern innovations. The winemaking team, led by Aaron Whitlatch, shares a deep respect for the land and a commitment to quality. Their philosophy is simple: great wine starts in the vineyard. The winery's name, Green & Red, was inspired by the vibrant colors of the vineyard throughout the year—green in spring and summer and red in fall.
The Wine
This winery specializes in Zinfandel, which grows on their steep estate slopes. Their Zinfandel is bold and complex without the overly ripe, jammy flavor often associated with this type of wine. It offered a refreshing change from the usual Cabernet Sauvignon. We were so impressed that we bought the wines we tasted. They also offer other wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, all made with the same care and dedication.
Final Thoughts
Green and Red Vineyard in St. Helena is a great spot for Zinfandel enthusiasts and those exploring Napa Valley's wine country. The relaxed and enriching wine-tasting experience is set against a beautiful. Whether you're enjoying their well-known Zinfandel or trying something new, Green & Red offers a memorable winemaking journey. Visit them at 3208 Chiles Pope Valley Rd, St Helena, CA 94574. For more information, call (707) 965-2369 or email info@greenandred.com. Reservations can be made online as well. The winery supplies probably the most complete set of instructions I've ever received.
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