So on a random Thursday a few weeks ago, we decided to schedule a tasting there, and headed upvalley. The drive there is a bit mysterious, so do yourself a favor and look on the map before you venture too far. Once you're in the woods, off Silverado trail, the cell phone service diminishes, and you'll be without your trusty GPS guide if that's what you rely on. From Silverado Trail, you'll take a right on Sage Canyon Rd. and drive about three miles up there. Just before you hit Lake Hennessey, you'll find a small, barely noticeable road on your right called Long Ranch rd. - take it. You could easily drive right by this road and get lost if you don't.
Drive all the way up the long, winding road, to the top of the mountain, where you'll find the tasting room. While you're up there, make sure to take a walk around the property and get a good view of the valley floor beneath you; this is one of the best views you'll find in the area. I've seen similar ones at Viader and Burgess, and also at Waugh Cellars, but this is probably the best.
Tastings are small, and done by appointment only, which is nice because it encourages a more intimate experience that you can enjoy. We were treated to a range of wines, from their crisp Chardonnay to the big, powerful, Pritchard Hill Cabernet. All of them were excellent, and our host was extremely accommodating and not at all snobby. They are also a member of the Pritchard Hill wine club known as GEMS, which includes five other wineries; so if you decide to become a member, you'll get great privileges at a number of exclusive wineries in the Valley.
For more information, or to plan a visit, check out the Chappellet Wine website
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