This is one of Napa's grand old wineries that survived Prohibition by getting a license to make church wines. The name means Beautiful View, although a hundred years later it's surrounded by buildings, but its central location and great value wines keeps it a winner. Their basic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a steal at $30.
Their main tasting room is spacious and offers a wide line of wines. The extensive gift shop is downstairs. Across the way is the pricier Reserve room, with white marble counters and racks holding generations of revered vintages. This is where they pour their best, BIG RED wines. The reserve room staff may be a little stodgy, but it's a wonderful setting and they pour great wines. It's a good idea to share that tasting because the alcohol levels are pretty hot, if you know what we mean.
Their revered Russian winemaker and vineyard manager, Andre Tchelistcheff (now passed), was trained in France. He was the source of many major winemaking innovations used internationally today, and he acted as a guide and mentor to many of the areas most important growers and winemakers.
There is a statue of him outside the reserve room. Beaulieu is commonly known by its initials 'BV'. Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Sangiovese, Viognier, Port, Blends. Amicis Winery Guide Rating 86
Wineries Nearby: Across the street is the Elizabeth Spencer Tasting Room, and across Rt 12 is Rubicon. North on Route 29 are Whitehall, Grgich Hills and Alpha Omega.
1960 St Helena Hwy (Hwy 29) Rutherford 94559 www.bvwines.com (707) 967-5230
Call 707-235-2648 for Tours, Books & Seminars Copyright Ralph & Lahni de Amicis 2011 All tasting fees, hours, wine lists, etc are subject to change.