With good reason, Cabernet Sauvignon is king in Napa Valley. The valley’s Mediterranean climate is ideal for this thick-skinned noble variety that requires warm days to ripen. Conversely, Pinot Noir wants a cooler coastal climate to capture its nuanced elegance that delights so many wine lovers. Happily, there’s just such a place ideal for growing Pinot Noir and a winery inspired by the study of it. Put Etude on your next Napa Valley itinerary.
Location, Location, Location
The Carneros appellation lies in the southern region of Napa Valley and stretches west to Sonoma County. It is known for cool morning fog and afternoon breezes off the bay, which makes it ideal for growing elegant Pinot Noir. Considered one of the pioneers of the region, Etude has been at the forefront of Pinot Noir winemaking since its founding in 1982. For the last decade, Senior Winemaker & General Manager Jon Priest has been at the helm continuing his lifelong study (as the translation of the French word ‘etude’ would suggest) of Pinot Noir. Today, the winery makes 12 different iterations of Pinot Noir illustrating the remarkable geographic and geological diversity of their estate Grace Benoist Ranch and other notable Pinot Noir sites up and down the West Coast.
Delicious, but Make it Sustainable
Etude’s commitment to holistic sustainability is evident in every aspect of their operation. The winery employs regenerative farming practices to ensure the health of the soil, the surrounding environment, and their people. Water is preserved through smart watering solutions, and the winery uses locally recycled water to mitigate groundwater extraction. The winery uses 100% renewable energy and has recently upgraded their solar capabilities. This dedication to sustainability not only enhances the quality of their wines but also contributes to the preservation of the region’s natural beauty.
So, when the winery had a chance to update their winery property with a stylish Plaza for visitors and events, they employed this overarching ethos. Water-wise plants were used, more trees were planted, and a monarch habitat were added. As an example of why thinking holistically about sustainability matters, the winery will reduce their water usage by more than 80% over the next couple of years, in part due to the choices they made in plantings and their watering methods.
Planning a Visit
Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Etude offers a memorable experience – especially for the Pinot Noir enthusiast. Located just off Hwy 12/121, the winery is easily accessible and open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try the Terroir Tasting ($60/person or $25/club members). During the 60-minute seated experience, the knowledgeable team will guide you through an exploration of their small production wines, and you will try several different bottlings grown in distinct terroirs. Affording you the ability to compare and contrast wines, this type of comparison tasting is the best way to discover your favorite style of wine.
Lest we leave the Cabernet lover out, Etude also makes a collection of critically-acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignons from notable Napa Valley winegrowers in three distinct appellations. Ask about the Cabernets from Rutherford, Oakville, and Coombsville to taste the differences among these well-known Napa Valley appellations.
The Neighborhood
Etude is located near some Napa Valley’s most elegant resorts, including Stanly Ranch and Carneros Resort and Spa, both of which offer terrific dining options for hotel guests and non-guests alike. For casual fare, try the Boon Fly Café, which is loved by Napa Valley locals. Or for dinner, make a reservation at the newly updated FARM restaurant or Stanly Ranch’s Bear. Each source ingredients locally and serve an array of Napa Valley wines.
Etude Essentials
Address: 1250 Cuttings Wharf Road, Napa, CA
Phone: (707) 257-5782
Open Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Appointments are recommended and same day appointments are available.
Best known for small production Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Cabernet Sauvignon.