Whitehall Lane Winery
1563 St. Helena Hwy South
St. Helena, CA 94574
(707) 963-9454
greatwine@whitehalllane.com
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Open daily 11 to 5:45 pm
Tasting fee $10, $20 for reserve
10% case discount
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Tours:
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Tours by Appointment
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Price Range:
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$15 to $75 per bottle
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Established:
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1979
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Vineyards:
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120 acres, 6 vineyards
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Production:
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40,000 cases
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Description
Whitehall Lane Winery stands out amid the surrounding countryside with its modern stucco building, a colorful mix of mustard-colored and blue-gray paint. The winery site itself has been growing grapes and making wine since the late 1800s.
The winery has had an extensive overhaul since new ownership took over in 1993. The talented new team purchased additional vineyard properties and began an ambitious replanting program. There are now six vineyards owned by the winery, from Carneros to Oak Knoll to Rutherford. According to owner Tom Leonardini, the fruit is the single most important part of the quality equation. To begin the new era the winemaking was updated and a new barrel program was instituted. The vineyards are now in full production and the winery is best known for its rich red wines.
Inside through the glass doors is a bright, stylish tasting room with stained concrete floors, large-format art on the walls, and windows that look into the winery operation. The angled concrete-topped tasting counter and sloped ceiling give a hip, asymmetrical feel to the place. The mood is casual and comfortable.
The Chardonnay is barrel-fermented in 35 percent new and 65 percent one-year-old French oak barrels. Approximately two-thirds of the wine is put through malolactic fermentation to enhance the wine's aroma, while retaining crispness and varietal characteristics. The Cabernet is made with a traditonal blend, adding Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, and Merlot. A dessert wine is also produced.
Wines and Awards
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
2001 - 93 Points, Wine Spectator Magazine
2000 - 91 Points, Wine Spectator Magazine
2000 - Top 10 Wine - Napa's Top Ten Cabernets, Quarterly Review of Wines
Merlot
2002- 5 Stars. "Impressive Merlot, with a dark, rich, concentrated core of flavors, dominated by earthy currant, blackberry, cedar, and anise. Tight and focused with a complex finish. Drink now through 2010."
2001 - The Caifornia Merlot tasting report scores Whitehall Lane 2001 Merlot, Napa Valley their FOUR STAR AWARD.
Sauvignon Blanc
2002 - 92 Points, Connoisseur's Guide to California WIne, February 2004
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