Chappellet Winery is a family owned winery based in Napa Valley. Donn and Molly Chappellet started the winery in 1967 by purchasing land on Pritchard Hill at the advice of legendary California winemaker André Tchelistcheff. Pritchard Hill, just west of Rutherford, was an appealing site for a vineyard due to its steep aspect, high elevation, and east-facing slopes.

The Chappellet Petaluma Gap Calesa Vineyard Pinot Noir for me is another first timer. This is the second impressive Petaluma Gap AVA wine from this producer. The color is deep garnet in the glass. This lush and expressive wine opens with aromas of black cherry, currant, licorice, clove, and toasted oak. The palate has depth along with a juicy, creamy mouthfeel. The silky tannins provide polish and length to the flavors. There is plenty of length carrying the wine to a long finish with notes of sweet oak, coffee bean and white pepper accents. A beautifully made and sophisticated Pinot Noir from the winemaking team at Chappellet.
By Perry Miroballi