Keenan Winery

A winding uphill drive on a stunning mountain road brings wine tourists to the 180-acre Keenan Winery. The dramatic greens and dusty browns of the Mayacamas Mountain Range color the scenic backdrop, while wisps of fog create the perfect microclimate for growing distinctive, flavorful grapes. It’s easy to see how this mountainous region lured a late-19th-century vintner and how again—80 years later—it enticed yet another enterprising winemaker by the name of Robert Keenan.

Visitors are greeted by a friendly tasting room staff. They learn that the winery was started by the late Robert Keenan and is now operated by his son Michael. They also enjoy anecdotes of Keenan family winemaking while tasting Keenan’s acclaimed varietals.

As tempting as it may be to linger in the tasting room, the best way to experience Keenan Winery is to carry a glass of 2008 Napa Valley Merlot, 2008 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010 Spring Mountain District Chardonnay, or another varietal favorite outside to the winery’s lawn. Here, at a picnic table, guests may drink in the exquisiteness of the Keenan Winery experience—from the rich, deep ruby fruits of the wine to the awe-inspiring scenic views.

Wine critic Robert Parker proclaimed: “If you haven’t discovered the wines of Robert Keenan, it’s time to jump on the bandwagon as quality appears to go from strength to strength. ”In the last eight vintages, he has rated 43 of Keenan’s wines between 90 and 97 points.

Keenan subscribes to sustainable farming techniques and has substantially reduced pesticide use. In 2007, a 41-kilowatt solar power system was installed to offset the winery and vineyard’s electrical usage. Keenan’s wine labels now read “Solar Powered and Sustainably Farmed.”

Thanks to the foresight of a 19th-century viticultural pioneer, the mastery of Robert Keenan, and now the hard work of his son Michael, this verdant place in the mountains of St. Helena has become renowned for its excellent wines.