A Grand Estate
Franciscan is a big winery in a Spanish style building with a spacious tasting room, surrounded by pretty grounds, fountains and a nice shaded side patio. Their grapes come from a variety of areas, including Oakville and they were once called Franciscan Oakville Estate. But, the winery is located in Rutherford and the Oakville label was dropped.
You can also taste the wines of the prestigious Mount Veeder Winery here, which is located in the southwest corner of Napa, just north of Carneros. The Cabernet Sauvignon from Mount Veeder is rich in flavor with medium tannins. If you enjoy this Cabernet, the Hess Collection Winery is also on Mount Veeder.
The spaciousness of the Franciscan tasting room, its central location, the quality of the wines and moderate price point makes Franciscan a popular place, especially for a younger crowd. They offer a vineyard tour, reserve tastings, and wonderful educational seminars. Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Wild Yeast Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Meritage. AWG Rating 85
Wineries Nearby: Down the street are Sullivan and Fleury, both by appointment. Across the way are Provenance, Rutherford Grove, Whitehall and Del Dotto.
1178 Galleron Rd. Rutherford 94574
www.franciscan.com
(707) 967-3830
Tasting Fee: $$ - $$$
Hrs: 10-5
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