Charbay Winery & Distillery is based in Napa Valley and is affectionately known as “The Still on the Hill”. Family owned and operated, they live and work among peaceful pine trees on Spring Mountain above St. Helena. Miles and his wife started Charbay back in 1983. Twenty-seven years later, they still ferment and distill an assortment of wines, ports, spirits, and now even tequila. Miles, a 12th generation European winemaker & Grand Master Distiller, has always been a maverick in his field. Now his enthusiasm and wisdom fuels son Marko as generation 13. Marko & his wife, Jenni, add a fresh spark to the quality that Charbay stands for. From generation to generation, the family has been handcrafting wines and spirits. As artisans, they take pride over the fact that they release their bottles when they are ready to drink, not before. When the wine ages well into velvety smoothness, it is served.
In the fall, the aroma of fermenting wine fills the crisp Spring Mountain air. The Cabernets spend 18-24 months in French Oak barrels. The Port stays longer. For their ports and aperitifs, Charbay Winery chooses from their stash of brandies to make tasty blends that are truly unique.
Upon visiting “The Still on the Hill”, visitors can learn how the family distills next to their giant Alambic Pot Still. Presently for tasting, they are pouring Chardonnay 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon from Oakville, Green Tea Aperitif Pomegranate DW, and Distillers’ Port. Visitors can relax on the patio and enjoy a glass of wine with a cigar from the Charbay humidor. Picnic tables are available as well, weather permitting. The Master Distillers, Miles and Marko, are always about, happy to answer questions and show off their family winery and distillery.
