Chateau Montelena

Chateau Montelena is an estate winery in Calistoga at the northern end of Napa Valley. It makes wines from both its own estate and sourced vineyards and focuses on classic Napa varieties. The Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon anchors the lineup, reflecting the structure and depth of the rocky hillside sites around the estate. Chardonnay comes from cooler parts of the valley, while smaller lots of Zinfandel and Riesling round out the range.

The cellar approach is traditional. Winemaking emphasizes balance, clarity of fruit, and long-term aging rather than instant appeal. Chardonnay is typically made without malolactic fermentation, preserving crisp acidity and a mineral, green-apple character. Cabernet wines tend to show moderate alcohol and firm tannins, designed to gain complexity with time. This steady, traditional style defines Chateau Montelena's identity within Napa Valley.

Chateau Montelena remains a beloved choice due to its deep history and exceptional winemaking.

• Consistent quality — Renowned for producing high-quality wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay that age gracefully.
• Scenic appeal — Visitors are drawn to its beautiful grounds and ivy-clad stone chateau, enhancing its lasting allure.

• When was Chateau Montelena founded and by whom?
  

  Founded in 1882 by Alfred L. Tubbs in Calistoga, Napa Valley.

• Where is Chateau Montelena located?
  

  At the northern end of Napa Valley in Calistoga, set against the backdrop of Mt. St. Helena.

• What are the winery’s signature wines?
  

  Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Napa Valley Chardonnay are the flagships; the winery also produces smaller lots of Zinfandel and Riesling.

• What is the winemaking style?
  

  Traditional and focused on balance, clarity of fruit, and ageability. Chardonnay is typically made without malolactic fermentation to preserve acidity and minerality, while Cabernet Sauvignon shows moderate alcohol, firm tannins, and structure for long-term aging.