Why We Recommend Smith-Madrone Vineyards
Smith-Madrone is essential for its status as a pioneer in dry farming and high-altitude viticulture. The winery’s commitment to estate-only production and its rare success with Napa Riesling sets it apart from the valley floor giants.
Recommended For
- Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon enthusiasts
- Adventurous off-the-beaten-path travelers
- California wine history enthusiasts
- Fans of unpretentious family estates
- Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc lovers
- Mountain terroir and viticulture students
Why Visit
- Taste world-class Riesling from mountain slopes
- Explore a historic 200-acre volcanic estate
- Learn about pioneering dry-farming vineyard techniques
- Enjoy intimate tastings at 2,000 feet
- See century-old Picholine olive tree groves
Good to Know
This historic estate is best known for pioneering dry-farmed mountain viticulture and producing high-elevation Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Tours and tastings are strictly held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
The estate features 120-year-old Picholine olive trees and historic sites from the 1880s.
The property is located at high elevations between 1,300 and 2,000 feet with very steep slopes.
A pioneering family winery known for dry-farmed, high-elevation estate wines grown on the steep slopes of Spring Mountain.
Individually numbered Cook's Flat Reserve bottles and occasional library releases are available for purchase through the winery's online store.
Why Visit Smith-Madrone Vineyards?
You have to visit for the incredible views and the chance to meet the legends who shaped Spring Mountain. It’s a rustic, intimate escape where the focus is entirely on the craft and the stunning volcanic terroir.
Popular Wines
"Our first stop arriving in Napa and what a wonderful time at this vineyard. We were greeted by a man named Francois with an enchanting accent who is another winemaker there. He was funny but also so knowledgeable. Stu and Charles were not there but he gave us a great tour and tasting. The place is not huge, but I love that we simply just tasted these beautiful wines right in the barrel room/ office. It was low key, non pretentious and he told us wonderful stories about the history of the land, the wine and family. We went during off season so there wasn't much to see on the vines per se, but getting to walk around and seeing all of it from a high vantage point was pretty stellar. Of course we all took a couple bottles with us and look forward to having it soon! We got to go down to the cellar and see some super old wines stored. What a cool experience!"
Nina Cash
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about Smith-Madrone Vineyards?
This isn't your typical polished Napa tasting room; it's a raw, beautiful encounter with the Smith brothers' decades of dedication. You’ll walk among centenarian olive trees and taste wines that truly capture the wild, volcanic energy of Spring Mountain.
Where is Smith-Madrone Vineyards located within the Napa Valley?
You will find Smith-Madrone Vineyards perched on the steep, volcanic slopes of the Spring Mountain District at 4022 Spring Mountain Road in St. Helena, California. The drive up the mountain leads you to a high-elevation site that offers a dramatic contrast to the valley floor. Because the property spans elevations up to 2,000 feet, the terrain is rugged and steep, providing a true mountain wine-country experience that feels worlds away from the more crowded tourist corridors.
What specific wines are offered at Smith-Madrone Vineyards?
Smith-Madrone Vineyards specializes in estate-grown wines that reflect the unique volcanic soil and high elevation of Spring Mountain. Their portfolio includes world-class Riesling, which is a rare mountain-grown gem for the region, alongside Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Additionally, the estate produces Rosé, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Each bottle is a testament to their commitment to dry farming, a practice that emphasizes the purity and historical integrity of the fruit grown on their historic property.
What can I expect during a tasting experience at Smith-Madrone Vineyards?
A general tasting at Smith-Madrone Vineyards is an authentic encounter with Napa Valley history and mountain terroir. Unlike the highly polished tasting rooms elsewhere, this experience is raw, unpretentious, and deeply connected to the land. You will likely walk among centenarian olive trees and learn about the property's 1880s origins while sampling their acclaimed dry-farmed wines. It is an educational and scenic experience designed for those who appreciate the wild energy and dedication required for mountain winemaking.
What are the visitor hours for Smith-Madrone Vineyards?
Smith-Madrone Vineyards maintains a very specific schedule for guests, with tours and tastings strictly held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The estate is open from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on these select days. Because the schedule is limited to these three mornings a week, planning ahead is essential to ensure you don't miss the opportunity to explore this historic Spring Mountain property and its high-elevation vineyards.
Does Smith-Madrone Vineyards accept walk-in visitors?
Yes, walk-ins are welcome at Smith-Madrone Vineyards, though it is important to keep their limited operating hours in mind. The winery is only open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. While you can stop by without an appointment, the strictly scheduled 10:00 a.m. tours mean that arriving early is the best way to fully experience the property’s rugged beauty and historic charm during their short window of operation.
Are there scenic views to enjoy at Smith-Madrone Vineyards?
Visitors to Smith-Madrone Vineyards are treated to stunning scenic views that define the Spring Mountain experience. From its high-elevation vantage point between 1,300 and 2,000 feet, the estate offers panoramic vistas overlooking the Napa Valley floor. The rugged terrain, combined with the presence of 120-year-old Picholine olive trees and historic 19th-century sites, creates a dramatic backdrop. It is a perfect spot for those who want to see the wilder, more mountainous side of California wine country.
How can I book a tasting at Smith-Madrone Vineyards?
You can book your tasting experience at Smith-Madrone Vineyards through their website or by using their dedicated booking link on Tock. Since tastings and tours are strictly scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, securing your spot in advance is highly recommended. Utilizing the online booking system ensures you have a confirmed place for their general tasting, allowing you to focus on the spectacular views and historic dry-farmed wines of this St. Helena estate.
