Grapes first grew on the land that is now the Bouchaine estate vineyard more than 130 years ago. The parcel changed hands a few times between the first owner, a man with the improbable name of Boon Fly, and the Copeland family who purchased it from Beringer in 1981. Though wine production there started well after the first planting, Bouchaine is nonetheless the oldest, continuously operating winery in the Carneros AVA.

For roughly 20 years after their purchase, the Copelands worked with experts to replant the vineyards and construct a new winery. They also added 60 abutting acres of vineyard to the original 30. The estate lies in the Napa County side of Carneros. It’s on Buchli Station Road, about 2 miles south of Highway 12 and three-quarters of a mile north of the Napa River wetlands.

Bouchaine produces Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Some are from estate fruit. Others are vineyard-designates sourced from respected growers and sites. Michael Richmond, who had previously founded Acacia winery, oversaw the replanting, winemaking and more for Bouchaine from 2002 until he retired in 2015. Chris Kajani succeeded him, serving as GM and winemaker. The Chardonnay below is one of the last Bouchaine wines grown and made by Richmond.

Bouchaine is open for visits and tasting from 10:30am to 5pm daily. No appointment is required for groups of five or less.

2014 Bouchaine Chardonnay Estate Vineyard Carneros, Napa Valley 91 13.9% 750ml $30

This four-year old wine, still a current release, is bright in the glass with an intense, lemon-yellow color. Aromas of yellow apple, lemon curd and sweet cream lead into a sleek, focused palate of yellow apple and lemon curd with medium-plus body and mouthwatering acidity. The finish is long with toast emerging, as the fruit gradually subsides, and then appetizing mineral at the close.

Copyright Fred Swan 2018. Photos courtesy of Bouchaine. All rights reserved.