Spottswoode is an historic, family-owned estate vineyard and winery located on the western edge of St. Helena in Napa Valley. The estate was established in 1882 by George Schonewald, whose historic Victorian home is depicted on the label. Spottswoode was christened by Mrs. Albert Spotts, whose family owned the property from 1910 until its purchase in 1972 by Mary Weber Novak and her husband, Dr. Jack Novak. After Jack died unexpectedly in 1977, Mary carried out their shared dream, and Spottswoode’s debut Cabernet Sauvignon was produced in 1982, exactly one hundred years after the estate’s founding.

The 40-acre Spottswoode Estate Vineyard is an ideal terroir for growing wine grapes. Situated on the apex of the Sulphur Creek fan, the alluvial soils comprised primarily of sandy clay loam provide superb drainage. The gap between the Mayacamas Range and Spring Mountain admits cooling maritime breezes that temper the sun’s heat, creating an ideal microclimate for winegrowing.

It has been a couple vintages since I last tasted the Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc. The 2024 Sauvignon Blanc reminds me of what I have missed! The combination of fermentation vessels which includes French oak, stainless steel barrels, clay amphora, and concrete and ceramic vats adds to the complexity of this stunning white wine. This wine contains 5% Semillon grapes from old vines. In the glass the color is pale yellow with a fragrant mix of candied lemon, grapefruit, peach and hint of dried herbs, and stone minerality. The palate is clean, harmonious, layered with perfectly ripe fruit and fresh minerality giving vibrancy and lift to a long mouthwatering finish. Spottswoode shows its pedigree with this noble grape offering a world class Sauvignon Blanc and a most memorable tasting experience.

By Perry Miroballi