Description

Del Dotto Vineyards Summary

Del Dotto Vineyards, distinguished by its exquisite winemaking and renowned Cabernet Sauvignons, operates a prestigious vineyard on Pritchard Hill. This summary provides an overview of the vineyard's history, viticultural practices, visitor information, and notable wines.

History and Background

Del Dotto Vineyards reflects a deeply rooted wine tradition symbolized by its long-standing presence in Napa Valley. With its sister winery situated on the scenic Pritchard Hill, Del Dotto is especially famed for producing top-tier Cabernet Sauvignons, epitomized by their flagship wines.

Vineyard Details and Wine Production

Nestled on a 20-acre estate on Pritchard Hill overlooking Lake Hennessey, the vineyard excels in crafting world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. The soil composition is primarily rocky-clay-loam with vineyards facing west, allowing for cool evenings that tenderly nurture the grapes.

Vine Growing and Processing Techniques

• Grape Varietals: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon with vines averaging 20 years of age.
• Farming Practices: Embraces organic methods, including seeding with cover crops and seasonal mowing.
• Harvesting Techniques: Involves manual picking, green harvesting in early June, followed by bunch thinning and de-leafing in September.
• Wine Production: Utilizes a meticulous process involving sorting of grapes, a five-day cold soak, fermentation over 7-10 days, and exclusive use of free-run juice.
• Barrel Aging: The wine matures in 100% new French Oak barrels for 18-24 months.

Visitor Information

The principal vineyards and tasting rooms are located at multiple addresses in Napa Valley, providing ample opportunities for visitors to explore and enjoy Del Dotto's offerings. However, it's important to note that the Pritchard Hill site itself is not open to the public.

Locations and Contact

• Napa Valley Estates:
  • 7466 St. Helena Hwy. Napa, CA 94558
  • 1445 St. Helena Hwy. South St. Helena, CA 94574
  • 1055 Atlas Peak Road Napa, CA 94558 Each facility can be reached at 707-963-2134 for more details or arranging visits.

Notable Wines

Del Dotto Vineyards takes pride in its refined Cabernet Sauvignon offerings, notably:

• Villa Del Lago Cabernet Sauvignon: Nicknamed "The Beauty," this wine is known for its feminine, fruit-forward profile, providing a softer counterpart to "The Beast" Cabernet Sauvignon. The Villa Del Lago showcases an elegant but robust mouthfeel, exemplary of the vineyard's exceptional wine crafting philosophy.

Conclusion

Del Dotto Vineyards stands out in Napa Valley not only for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon but also for its commitment to organic viticulture and innovative winemaking techniques. While the Pritchard Hill estate remains exclusive, wine enthusiasts can experience the magic of Del Dotto's wines at their other Napa Valley locations.