Photo Credit: Leigh-Ann Beverly

By: David Morris

Harlan Estate and Dalla Valle have long been regarded as the pinnacle of Napa Valley’s oenological excellence. With their limited production and exceptional quality, these estates have created an aura of exclusivity, often accompanied by lengthy waitlists for eager wine lovers seeking to join their direct-to-consumer mailing lists. Fortunately, the next generation of these iconic estates is now reshaping accessibility (and innovation) in the Valley. Here, Amanda and Will Harlan, alongside Maya Dalla Valle, offer insights into how they are evolving their family businesses, and we explore opportunities for visitors to experience these rarefied wines firsthand. Additionally, we take look at how rising stars like MacDonald Vineyard and Memento Mori are carving their own paths and cultivating cult-like followings.

Harlan Estate: Upholding Tradition With Innovation

Photo Credit: Harlan Estate

Located amidst the picturesque western hills of Oakville, California, Harlan Estate stands as a testament to both tradition and innovation in winegrowing. And for Amanda and Will Harlan, stewardship of their family’s estate seamlessly blends heritage with personal passion. “Growing up among these vines, we were immersed in winemaking from the outset,” reflects Amanda, who guides marketing and serves as an ambassador for the family’s winegrowing portfolio. “Our goal remains steadfast—to uphold the exacting standards that define Harlan Estate,” she continues, emphasizing their commitment to crafting wines that express the distinct characters of the land. Her brother Will now oversees the entire Domain H. William Harlan (a position he inherited from his father, Bill) which includes Harlan Estate, BOND, Promontory, and The Mascot.

For Will, it’s also about helping to recognize the 200-year plan his father laid out more than40 years ago to cultivate a truly hallowed estate.  He explains that this is particularly apparent with the family’s most recent venture, “Promontory [which] allows us to explore new frontiers while staying true to our core values.” Like Harlan and BOND, Promontory has become incredibly sought after, but the success of this second-generation endeavor is rooted in the family’s core ethos and dedication to advancing winegrowing artistry.

Visitors to Napa Valley often plan to embark on an immersive journey where tastings and vineyard tours are de rigueur, but scoring a reservation at Harlan Estate or BOND is not easy. While the family is slowly opening access to BOND, the doors to Promontory are in fact open and an appointment affords a rare opportunity to immediately join their mailing list, bypassing a multiyear wait (not to mention views of all three wineries). To arrange a visit email hospitality@promontory.wine or call 707.944.0125.

Dalla Valle Vineyards: A Legacy Of Craftsmanship And Innovation

Photo Credit: John Bedell Photo

Founded in the 1980s after Naoko and Gustav Dalla Valle moved from the island of Mustique to Napa Valley, this esteemed estate just off the Silverado Trail quickly ascended to iconic status, producing wine that epitomizes craftsmanship and familial dedication. Nearly 40 years in, Naoko and Gustav’s daughter Maya (whom their flagship bottling is named after) is gracefully carrying forward the vineyard’s storied tradition as its lead winemaker. To note, this role was not simply handed to Maya, as her mother proudly boasts she “may now be over-qualified,” having trained extensively in viticulture and enology, first at Cornell University and then at legendary wine houses like Ornellaia e Masseto, Bodegas Rolland, Pétrus, and Château Latour. Today, under Maya’s stewardship, Dalla Valle Vineyards continues to redefine luxury winemaking, blending traditional practices with forward-thinking approaches. Organic farming techniques honor the land, preserving its natural splendor while enhancing the richness and complexity of their blends.

While closed to the public, our conversation with Maya unfolded amidst Dalla Valle’s serene vineyard, and offered an exclusive glimpse into where these exceptional wines originate. It’s a rare privilege that underscores the estate’s allure and the dedication poured into every bottle. While Dalla Valle wines grace the cellars of discerning connoisseurs and celebrated establishments worldwide, those visiting California’s oenological hinterlands can procure a bottle at renowned dining rooms like The French Laundry.

MacDonald Vineyard: Preserving Legacy In Napa’s To-Kalon

Photo Credit: MacDonald

In the heart of To-Kalon, MacDonald Vineyard stands as a testament to family heritage and unparalleled viticultural prowess. For over 70 years, the MacDonald family has nurtured this hallowed ground, crafting wines that embody the essence of their historic terroir. This is a story that began in the late 1800s, when the family’s ancestors first recognized their land’s potential, but today the legacy is carried forward with unwavering dedication by brothers Alex and Graeme MacDonald, who meticulously tend their vineyard to produce exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.

“Our family’s commitment runs deep,” reflects Graeme MacDonald. “From our great-grandparents’ initial plantings to our organic farming practices today, MacDonald Vineyard is a testament to our heritage.” Central to this narrative is also the defense of the To-Kalon area’s historical significance in Napa Valley as others have attempted to stake claim to areas name as a trademark. Amid legal pressures and attempts to commercialize their heritage, the MacDonalds have steadfastly uphold their vineyard’s unique identity. “To-Kalon has always been renowned for its exceptional terroir,” explains Alex. “It’s not just a brand; it’s a historic vineyard site that embodies authenticity and history. Preserving this legacy is paramount for us.”

It’s this terroir and the MacDonald’s dedication to quality that has earned global acclaim among discerning wine collectors. Their sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon, nurtured in gravelly soils that impart distinct minerality, epitomize the estate’s terroir and meticulous farming practices. “Our wines reflect this remarkable place,” Graeme emphasizes. “The stress our vines endure from gravelly soils results in grapes of exceptional concentration, creating wines that capture the essence of Napa Valley.”

The MacDonald vineyard is, in fact, positioned adjacent to Opus One and other historic To-Kalon sites. Here, amidst the sun-drenched slopes and renowned soils, MacDonald wines benefit from a microclimate that enhances their complexity and depth. This has stricken a chord with collectors, as Alex shares that, “After our very first tasting event, word spread quickly, and we were fortunate to create a customer list far in excess of what we can produce.” While one may wait well over a decade to procure an allocation of this highly prized juice, the MacDonalds do occasionally grant visits to those patiently waiting their turn.

Memento Mori: Redefining Artisanal Winemaking Photo Credit: Jak Wonderly

While mere mortals will have to wait a bit longer for Memento Mori to officially open to the public at their new Calistoga homestead, those lucky enough to get their hands on a bottle of the label’s wines will experience some of the most exquisite and rare vino in the valley. Once this gorgeous property can accept visitors (fingers crossed for 2025), lucky collectors will be able to more fully immerse themselves in the openness that embodies Memento Mori’s ethos and philosophy of cherishing life’s fleeting beauty through extraordinary wine. It’s this very openness that embodies the brand’s ethos and philosophy of cherishing life’s fleeting beauty through extraordinary wines and experiences. Co-founded by Adam Craun, Adriel Lares, and Hayes Drumwright, their journey from tech entrepreneurs to vintners began with a serendipitous exploration of Napa’s vineyards. “We literally drank our way through the valley,” Craun recalls, recounting their initial leap into winemaking and the challenges of selling their first 151 cases priced at only $125 a bottle.

Today, Memento Mori commands attention and a premium commensurate with their meticulously curated vineyards. These include Dr. Crane and Vine Hill Ranch, of which Craun emphasizes their commitment to quality and quotes Andy Beckstoffer’s wisdom: “Grapes are like people,” underscoring the importance of superior fruit.

Once Memento Mori is finally open to collectors, visitors to Memento Mori enjoy postcard-perfect vistas of the estate’s vine-draped slopes abutting Diamond Mountain and panoramic views of the Vaca Mountains across the valley, offering an intimate setting to sample their acclaimed portfolio. From their inaugural 100-point wines to recent expansions into additional vineyard acreage, Memento Mori continues to push boundaries while remaining rooted in craftsmanship and terroir expression. For enthusiasts, immediate access to Memento Mori’s flagship blend is available with minimal wait and “those who purchase this blend gain exclusive entry to our single-vineyard designates,” Craun notes. Additionally, the winery’s longest-tenured customers have the rare opportunity to acquire a super limited RTL blend, priced at $1000 per bottle.

Where to Dine

The French Laundry

Photo Credit: marleyPug/Shutterstock.com

The French Laundry epitomizes culinary excellence, drawing discerning food enthusiasts from around the globe. Through chef Thomas Keller‘s visionary guidance, this iconic restaurant elevates French cuisine to an art form, celebrating the bounty of local, seasonal ingredients in every dish. It’s also Keller’s meticulous attention to detail that has made his signature creations like his Oysters and Pearls hallmarks of the American culinary lexicon. Naturally, the menu evolves with the seasons. Securing a reservation at The French Laundry affords a coveted experience, with bookings opening at 10 AM PST on the first of the month prior to the desired date.

Where to Stay

Meadowood

Photo Credit: Meadowood Napa Valley

This picturesque retreat is reminiscent of a posh country club and is handedly one of the country’s very best resorts. Meadowood’s impeccably designed cottages are set up as standalone structures amidst tranquil woodland, merging rustic charm with contemporary elegance. The Spa at Meadowood beckons with bespoke treatments set amidst lush, forested hills, promising a rejuvenating escape from the everyday. Dining at The Forum is a gastronomic journey through locally sourced flavors, expertly curated to complement the region’s finest wines. Whether unwinding in opulent tranquility or exploring nearby vineyards, Meadowood captivates with its seamless blend of sophistication and Napa Valley’s natural allure.