16 Oakville AVA DESIGNATED 1993 Oakville was one of the first wine-growing regions in the Napa Valley to be given the AVA status. Named for the dense groves of dark green oak trees still in the area, Oakville is known as the most expensive vineyard land in the world. Most undeveloped acres in Oakville sell for millions of dollars. Screaming Eagle, the most expensive American wine, hails from this AVA. FAR NIENTE WINERY Far Niente was founded in 1885 by John Benson, a prospector who discovered Napa during the California Gold Rush. Far Niente was a prosperous winery but was left in a state of disarray at the onset of Prohibition. The winery was restored to its original glory in 1979 by Gil Nickel, whose family owned a nursery in Oklahoma. Nickel went on to study oenology, the science and study of wine and winemaking, at UC Davis and later bought and restored this historic winery. Today, the main building, visible along our route, is on the National Register of Historic Places. A private tasting includes the well-regarded chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon and Dolce dessert wine. OAKVILLE GROCERY The Oakville Grocery, the longest operating grocery store in California, has been in business since 1874. It has changed a lot over the years but continues to define itself as a commerce hub featuring a world-class array of wines, local meats and cheeses and is a wonderful picnic spot to enjoy a mid-day bite between tastings. Step back in time as you experience Napa today by taking a visit through the Grocery’s history. OPUS ONE WINERY The first French-American joint venture in wine was Opus One between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. A passionate approach at cabernet sauvignon, Opus One today continues to deliver world-class wines every vintage at luxury prices, selling for no less than $300 per bottle.
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