Fontanella - Open Vineyards
Nestled in between Mt. Veeder and Carneros in Browns Valley is Fontanella Winery. This is one of those places where you say, “I never knew this was here” as you drive up Partrick Road. When you drive through the gates at Fontanella and make your way to their charming tasting room you are greeted by Karen Fontanella who is the wife of winemaker Jeff Fontanella. Karen, who gave up a career as a lawyer in order to raise kids and help run a winery, is warm and friendly, greeting guests with a welcoming smile.
The wine is truly one of the best kept secrets in Napa. With only 2 vintages under their belt, the word has not yet reached the masses about their elegant, full-bodied wines. The Chardonnay is very unique offering the delicate balance that comes from a touch of barrel and malo-lactic fermentation. The Zinfandel is spicy and the Cabernet Sauvignon is quite elegant. Visit now before everyone discovers this little gem hidden in the western hills of Napa.
Often Jeff will wander in the tasting room, hoping to get a chance to chat about wine with guests. It was on one such occasion when I learned the story of Jeff’s inspiration. Jeff began his studies as a pre-med student. To stay on track he needed to take a lab class. All the traditional classes for pre-med students in this subject were taken, however, his counselor let him know that a lab class in winemaking would fulfill the necessary requirements needed to move on to the next level. Although he had never had much interest in wine, he took the class. It would become the first of many wine classes at UC Davis for Jeff. There are many times in life where inspiration comes from a totally unexpected source or circumstance. I was inspired to learn all I can about small wineries because the real estate market crashed. It reminds me of the saying, “When closes a door, he opens a window.” Make sure to keep your curtains wide open.
Learn more about Fontanella in our Wine Directory
Learn how Chef Binder paired Fontanella Chardonnay with food.