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Far Niente a private tour.Jan 31 '00 Write an essay on this topic.In 1975 I worked at Franciscan Vineyards and had the fortune to become good friends with the gentleman that became the VP of sales for Far Niente Vineyards. On several occasions I have had the privilege of a private visit and tour of Far Niente. Far Niente is not open for tours by the public so I will try to get across what a fantastic place this is. Far Niente is located a short drive outside of Oakville in the Napa valley and specializes in the production of Cabernet and Chardonnay. Access to the winery building is via a long driveway through some of their prime vineyards. Entrance to the winery property is through a locked security gate. After being buzzed in the drive way winds up to the top of the rise the winery is situated on. The greystone winery building is an old 19th century structure that was completely gutted and rebuilt by the current owners. Two huge oak doors provide entrance to multi story cathedral ceiling common area. The interior is done entirely in stained wood and is highlighted by a wooden spiral staircase to an office area on the winery roof. The office has a fantastic view on the central Napa Valley and has to be one of the most amazing work environments I have ever seen. There are several basements under the main common area. The first basement includes the crushing and tankage facilities. While the facility may be small compared to some of the huge production wineries of the valley the production area is immaculate and high tech. The second basement is filled with oak storage. The winery is situated on top of a rise and Far Niente has taken advantage of this to build wine storage tunnels. These tunnels extend from one side of the rise to the other and feature a domed tasting room in the center. The tasting room is lined with wine racks containing bottles from all of Far Niente's vintages. The grounds of the winery are professionally landscaped and maintained and feature a built in stainless steel outdoor kitchen. The kitchen is the wineries main entertainment area during the Napa Valley Wine Festival. In addition to the fantastic winery and tunnel system the grounds are home to a large barn that contains a high class collection of classic cars, hotrods, motorcycles and 50's memorabilia. Many of the cars have been published in classic car collector magazines. Having a private tour of such a gorgeous facility has left a lasting impression that will be hard to match. This winery has spared no expense in the production of its facility or its wine. It's a shame it can't be shared by more people but I guess that's what makes it so special.  |
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