Smith-Madrone Vineyards & Winery

“Our first stop arriving in Napa and what a wonderful time at this vineyard. We were greeted by a man named Francois with an enchanting accent who is another winemaker there. He was funny but also so knowledgeable. Stu and Charles were not there but he gave us a great tour and tasting. The place is not huge, but I love that we simply just tasted these beautiful wines right in the barrel room/ office. It was low key, non pretentious and he told us wonderful stories about the history of the land, the wine and family. We went during off season so there wasn't much to see on the vines per se, but getting to walk around and seeing all of it from a high vantage point was pretty stellar. Of course we all took a couple bottles with us and look forward to having it soon! We got to go down to the cellar and see some super old wines stored. What a cool experience!”

“We got extremely lucky to get a private tour and tasting on a Saturday in September at 10am and it was our first visit and tasting in Napa! Charles was amazing and super knowledgeable / friendly. We got to see/hear a lot about the process and history that we might not have in a bigger group. Definitely visit if you are in Napa if you want a truly memorable experience!”

“Smith-Madrone is a must! We had family from Holland visiting who wanted an old-school Napa experience and this place didn't disappoint. The drive up the mountain is breathtaking! We were then greeted by Charlie and taken to the barn where we began our tasting. We tried their Riesling (the best in the valley), a bright Rosé, a refreshing and crisp Chardonnay, their current release Cabernet Sauvignon and their cook's flat Cabernet Sauvignon. Delicious! Smooth, nice acidity, mineral, crisp red fruit forward and different than the valley floor wines. Better! I could have listen to Charlie talk all day about the history of the property and his predictions of what the future holds for Napa Valley. I loved seeing the wine makers out there pouring their love and care to their vines. No chandeliers, wine snobs in suits and no overpriced wine here. This is an old-school Napa experience and that's what put Napa on the map to begin with. Enjoy! 🍷”

“The drive to Smith-Madrone was absolutely spectacular. When we arrived, we were greeted by their sweet dog Tucker. One of the owners (Charles) came out & walked us in to a rustic building with wine barrels and an open office space and kitchenette. And so began what would become our favorite vineyard experience in Napa. The tasting was very relaxed, interesting, genuine, education, and so fun we didn't want to leave. Charles fished through boxes and the refrigerator to allow us to sample whatever felt right in that moment. Tucker disappeared when he realized we weren't there to play with him. A little while later, Charles walked us up a hill while he told us more fascinating stories. When we reached the top of the hill, no more words were spoken-they didn't need to be. As we stepped on to a soft, grassy area, we saw the panoramic view of all of Napa Valley below us-it was awesome. It was so spectacular that we nearly missed seeing sweet Tucker in the grass already enjoying the view (smart dog!). For us, Smith-Madrone offered us the best variety of wines. We left with rose, Riesling & cabernet sauvignon and have served them at multiple dinner parties-everyone loves them. In fact, one of our friends placed her own order with them after one of our dinners. Finally, Charles & Stu are the most wonderful & interesting folks you will ever meet. Highly, highly recommend Smith-Madrone.”

“Absolutely incredible wine! Loved walking through the vineyard and seeing the grounds. Stu, one of the owners is a wealth of wine knowledge. I highly recommend a wine tour here while you're in Napa!”