In the mountains above St. Helena, in the rugged Spring Mountain AVA, Terra Valentine was born from its owners’ determination to capture the subtleties of its terroir in an exceptional portfolio of wines.
The nuances of Spring Mountain district terroir rely on its uniquely diverse topography, climate, and collection of soils. Terra Valentine draws its grapes from the terrain of its two estate vineyards that capture the best of Spring Mountain District winegrowing: Wurtele Vineyard and Yverdon Vineyard. Each vineyard possesses a unique set of soils, exposures, and microclimates, producing wines of distinction and personality. Tending to mountain grapes is not an easy task, but it is definitely worth it. The resulting wines are intense in color, aroma, and flavor. They’re balanced, yet elegant.
“My goal is to capture the vineyard, the appellation, and the passion of the people involved,” Winemaker and General Manager Sam Baxter says. “I want people to fall in love with Spring Mountain and with Terra Valentine wines.”
According to recent accolades, Sam’s wish has come true. In 2011, the 2008 Terra Valentine Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain District was awarded 91 points by Wine Enthusiast and 92 points by Wine Spectator, who named it one of 18 outstanding 2008 Napa Cabernets. The 2007 Wurtele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon garnered 95 points from Wine Enthusiast and a spot on its list of T op 100 Cellar Selections for 2011.
A visit to Terra Valentine requires an appointment, but it’s well worth the phone call. Guests enjoy the magnificent climb up Spring Mountain to the grounds where the winery’s castle-like fortress (complete with a medieval tower and thick stone walls) greets them. Terra Valentine offers a splendid estate tour along with private wine and food pairing experiences. There’s even an exquisite villa set in the vineyard where wine club members can stay and fully appreciate the terroir of Terra Valentine.