Are you looking for a more laid back vineyard experience that still exudes that idyllic Napa Valley charm? Take a journey off the beaten path in the heart of wine country to make Swanson Vineyard your next stop. From its famous wine blends and complimenting chocolate bars to its friendly staff and quaint atmosphere, it’s the perfect addition to your Napa vacation.
Swanson Winery was purchased in 1985 by Clarke Swanson of the famous Swanson TV Dinner family. While attending Stanford University, majoring in history and minoring in political science, Swanson often escaped the world of textbooks and exams to make weekend trips to Napa Valley. He became so enamored with the area that he had professed on numerous occasions that he always thought it would be a wonderful life to farm and grow grapes for wine. Although Swanson went on to get his master’s degree at Columbia University and start a family, he never forgot his Napa Valley dreams, eventually buying 100 acres for a cool $2.5 million, which at the time was a steal at $25,000 per acre. He moved his family from Naples Florida to his Oakville property to pursue his wine endeavors, where Swanson and his wife still reside today.
The winery still stands just as Clarke Swanson had envisioned it, except of course with small, chic modern twists here and there. It was originally modeled after a Parisian saloon of the mid 1800’s, inspired by old-fashioned ways of elegant living and conversation with the goal that each guest would feel as though they are coming to a party held in their honor. Today the winery continues its mission through its friendly staff who share their wine (and knowledge) with open arms and invite you to enjoy the winery as if it were your second home.
Its surrounding scenery is lush and inviting as the winery itself and is rich with equally as intriguing quirks, like their octagon table in their salon that was made in such a way so that no one is ever at the head of the table making it easier to engage in conversation. This special room can be reserved in advance, giving you a tasting experience that intertwines storytelling, savory bites and luscious wines. It’s a must for any foodie and wine enthusiast looking for a fun twist on the winery experience.
The winery today is an exciting innovator of fruit forward wine blends, mixing cabernet grapes with merlots and finding the delectable balance that wine lovers from all around make a point to experience.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to take life one sip at a time and add the idyllic charm of Swanson Winery to your next Napa Valley vacation. The best part? When you stay at RiverPointe Napa Valley, see the concierge for an exclusive discount on tastings at Swanson Winery! Book online or call (877) 351-3852.
