In 1880, a wealthy sea captain named Gustave Niebaum purchased 86 acres in Rutherford and began building the wonderful Inglenook Château and winery. Gradually more land was acquired, and after numerous changes of ownership, Francis Ford Coppola and his wife Eleanor purchased 1,560 acres of the estate. In the French tradition, they joined their name with the original owner, naming the property the Niebaum-Coppola Estate Winery. In 1995 Coppola purchased the remainder of the original estate, including the famous Château that has now been fully renovated after years of decline, and eventually changed the name to Rubicon Estate Winery. In 2011 the name has been changed back and is known again as, Inglenook.

The wine experience at Inglenook is like no other. In 2006, a VIP-visitor-experience program began that personalizes each guest’s experience at the estate. Visitors are greeted curbside by complimentary valet service, and led down a red carpet beneath an intricate trellis system by a personable staff member. You are escorted to the main vine-covered Chateau, where a newly constructed grand staircase is the dramatic centerpiece of the entry hall. There a third staff member formally welcomes you, and the touring and tasting program is outlined.

For a $25 fee you will be able to sample five estate wines, take the historical tour, and have access to the Chateau, the estate wine library and the centennial museum and exhibits. There are a number of other regularly scheduled tasting and touring options including cave tours, sensory programs, and private wine experiences.

The spacious and inviting tasting room highlights the original sandstone rockwork, along with elegant large display cases filled with unique gift items from all over the world. Dark wooden columns support the ceiling, and rich oriental rugs adorn the floors. Small tasting tables covered with white tablecloths are available, lit by exquisite overhead chandeliers. The multiple tasting counters are as elegant and refined as the dark-vested tasting room staff. There is also a more leisurely tasting experience at the Mammarella Wine Bar on the other end of the Château; here you can relax in a setting reminiscent of a European café, with a beautiful outdoor courtyard and fountain.

The flagship wine uses organically farmed Cabernet Sauvignon and other classic Bordeaux grapes sourced from the estate vineyards. Also produced are Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, a predominantly white Rhone blend and Zinfandel.