Stony Hill Vineyard has remained a small family business for over 58 years. In 1943, Fred and Eleanor McCrea fell in love an bought the 160-acre goat ranch on the northeast slope of Spring Mountain, little did they envision turning it into a winery. But, 60 years later, their original sign, “Stony Hill Vineyard…visitors by appointment only” now still hangs on the bend of the road, a testament to their passionate dedication to producing the quality wines that Stony Hill still proudly offers.
The property sits between two creeks, Richie and Lyman creek, on the western slope of the Napa Valley. The McCrea’s originally wanted to plant Chardonnay exclusively but were heavily advised otherwise. No one was planting Chardonnay in Napa Valley at that time, it being a low yielding vine. Taking the professional advise into consideration, the McCrea’s followed their dream and their determination paid off: they still have 25 acres of exquisite Chardonnay as well as a multitude of acres dedicated to Gewurztraminer, White Riesling, and Semillon.
In the summer, Stony Hill Vineyard offers tastings under an old oak tree on the north terrace of the ranch house overlooking Napa Valley. In winter, they offer tastings at the dining room table inside the ranch house. From the terrace, visitors have a lovely view of Howell Mountain and the Vaca range to enjoy. In the winery, the current generation of the McCrea family happily gives tours and educates visitors about winemaking and wine styles. Willinda and Peter McCrea both own and run the family vineyard now.
