Stony Hill Vineyard

Stony Hill Vineyard is located between St. Helena and Calistoga on the “slopes of Spring Mountain” in Napa Valley. They are most well-known for their Burgundian-style Chardonnay but also make Riesling, Gewürtzraminer and Cabernet Sauvignon.

We did the Taste of Stony Hill experience which at $85pp gives you a sample of all three. The Cab was our least favorite—we both seem to prefer Howell to Spring Mountain—but the Riesling and Chardonnay were exceptional, especially when you consider what butter bombs most Napa Chardonnay can be. This was complex with notes of citrus as well as a lovely minimality. At $130/bottle, however, this is NOT an inexpensive wine.

We also loved the Riesling. This had more stone fruit notes and almost a green tea sort of tannin that would lend itself to a great spicy Thai pairing. It’s (slightly) more reasonable at $95. We’ll be saving our purchases for special occasions.

Note: If you’re a mid-century modern fan, you should definitely stop in. “The Residence” where the tastings are held was LOVINGLY restored with not a single tchotchke or even the background music overlooked.