Duckhorn - Merlot

Duckhorn Vineyards became one of the first 40 Napa Valley wineries when Dan and Margaret Duckhorn bought the estate in 1976. From its inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978 to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyard is an example of quality and excellence that remains today.

Duckhorn Vineyards has spent forty years establishing itself as one of North America’s premier producers of Napa Valley wines. What have been the biggest challenges? I’d say our biggest challenges revolve around the changing climate and the natural unpredictability of weather. This is one of the most difficult, yet intriguing, aspects of winemaking and being rooted in the agricultural world. It is also what allows me as a winemaker to explore and create a unique expression of our wines every vintage. - Renée Ary

While many North American states make wine, California (along with Washington State and Oregon) drives the fine wine industry. In 2005 it accounted for 200,000 hectares of vinous vines. Napa Valley is acknowledged to be the world's second-best source of Cabernet Sauvignon/Bordeaux blends and Chardonnays, while Santa Barbara and Sonoma Counties are home to world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.