Heitz Cellars 2016 Napa Chardonnay & 2018 Napa Sauvignon Blanc
In 1961, Joe and Alice Heitz purchased their first vineyard, 8 acres just south of St. Helena. Working out of their small California winery attached to the land they purchased, they put in round-the-clock sweat equity to build their business. Heitz Cellars rapidly established a reputation as home base for one of the Napa Valley’s most innovative and brilliant winemakers, and the unassuming winery soon became a prestigious destination for wine connoisseurs. In 1964, Heitz acquired 160-acre parcel in Spring Valley and began sharpening his skills on Cabernet Sauvignon, and in 1965, by chance, acquired a small vineyard in Oakville from Tom and Martha May. In 1966, Joe Heitz had the foresight to single vineyard designate the Cabernet grapes from the May’s vineyard and crafted the renowned Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, initiating a concept in Napa Valley. Joe’s winemaking mastermind was evident, and the acclamation for Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, which continues for over 50 years, helped to usher California onto the world stage. The Heitz family’s vision of winemaking spans for three generations now and they continue to strive for excellence by balancing nature and science, reflecting the unique geography within Napa Valley.
Heitz Cellars also have a couple of “Wine Clubs” and additionally offering some “Library Wines” which provide a tremendous insight on how their wines develop year to year. I recommend to check out their availability, click this link “WineClubLink” to go to their site and join a club! If you find your travels to Napa, I recommend a visit to their lovely Napa winery.
Keep checking back with SippingFineWine.com as I recently made a trip to Napa during 2019 harvest, visited several wineries, tasted some great wines, and met some outstanding individuals. I’ll continue to report on my discoveries. Yours truly below, Sipping some of Heitz’s Fine Wine with Vineyards in the backdrop! Just wonderful!
Heitz Cellars 2016 Napa Chardonnay
Yes, Heitz is best known for Cabernet Sauvignon, however they make a noteworthy Chardonnay, and for not a hefty price! I tasted their 2016 vintage, only 15 acres planted with grapes grown in Rutherford (warmer with rich ripe fruit) & Oak Knoll (cooler with fresh acidity in grapes). Pale lemon color, the wine had fresh and crisp citrus and stone fruit aromas, no malolactic fermentation. The palate showed peaches, apple and Asian pear flavors, with lemony and toasty notes, lively acidity and balance with the touch of vanilla oak (9 months of French oak aging (25% new and 1-year old, remainder in neutral oak). Lingering finish ending with fruit, spice and biscuit notes. Very Nice! Tasting Sample.
Heitz Cellars 2018 Napa Sauvignon Blanc
Pale lemon-lime with fragrant aromas of tropical and citrus fruit and hints of garden spice. The palate shows fresh fruit flavors of peach, mango, lemon zest, and crisp green apple, with the subtle earthy mineral tones. The wine has lively acidity on a medium+ length finish ending refreshing with clean fruit tones. Very Nice! Tasting Sample.
Cheers!