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Tina and Brett
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Located at:
8815 Conn Creek Road Rutherford, CA 94573
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But this isn’t just another Napa Valley winery. Oh, no. With its unique approach to winemaking, sustainable practices, and engaging history, Frog’s Leap offers a wine experience that is about the joys of wine and wine-making without any of the pretenses that Napa is famous for.
Established in 1981 by John Williams and Larry Turley, Frog’s Leap Winery has long held a place in Napa’s viticultural history. The name “Frog’s Leap” was created to playfully reference the famous Stag’s Leap Winery with a touch of humor and whimsy. But it’s not just the name that stands out. The founders were clear about their mission from the beginning: to produce stellar wines with character while also stewarding the land responsibly.
What truly sets it apart from its contemporaries is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. Long before organic farming became a trend, this winery was already leading the way. By 1988, Frog’s Leap became one of the first Napa Valley wineries to farm 100% organically, earning its CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) certification.
Additionally, they practice dry farming, which means they don’t irrigate their vineyards. Instead, they rely on natural rainfall and a deep root system that allows the vines to access water stored deep in the soil profile, even during periods of drought. This not only conserves water but also drives the roots of the vines deeper into the soil, enhancing the grape’s connection to its terroir and resulting in more complex and concentrated flavors.
Visiting Frog’s Leap isn’t just about the wine (though that’s undoubtedly a highlight); it’s about immersing oneself in the winery’s ambiance. The estate is a beautiful amalgamation of historic buildings, lush gardens, and, of course, expansive vineyards.
The iconic red barn, which was constructed in the late 1800s, stands as a testament to the winery’s commitment to preserving Napa’s heritage. This barn, now restored, serves as the winery’s production house.
Adjacent to it is the lovely farmhouse, which offers a warm, inviting space for guests. A trip around the estate often feels like a step back in time, with its antique touches, rustic charm, and a sense of tranquility.
Of course, while the winery’s sustainable practices and beautiful grounds are impressive, it’s the wine that truly steals the show. We tasted five wines while at the vineyard and were fortunate enough to have a fantastic guide, Jazz (yes, that was his name), to take us through the history of the vineyard and the wines. And provided a few tasting tips to help us identify the aromas and flavors. Amazing service!
2021 Sauvignon Blanc Concrete Aged, Rutherford, 13% ABV – $55
Rating: 95 – Outstanding Value Rating: 5
It is a beautiful representation of what Sauvignon Blanc can be. Just the grape and the terroir are front and center here, and it just works. Wine Note
2021 Chardonnay “Shale & Stone” Napa Valley, 13.4% ABV – $42
Rating: 90 – Very Good Value Rating: 4
This chardonnay sees NO oak, and that is a very good thing. The label ‘Shale and Stone’ represents the vineyard’s shale soils, which give the wine a nice minerality. It is fresh and full-bodied, thanks to long sur lie aging in concrete. Wine Note
2020 Zinfandel, Napa Valley, 14.6% ABV – $40
Rating: 91 – Very Good Value Rating: 5
A fantastic wine with a blend of 85% Zinfandel, 9% Petite Sirah, and 6% Carignane pulled from the best blocks. This wine looks to have the ability to age, so if you grab a few bottles you may want to put one in the cellar for a few years as this will only get better. Wine Note
2018 Williams Rossy Merlot, Rutherford, 13.9% ABV – $80
Rating: 95 – Outstanding Value Rating: 5
This is a near-perfect merlot. We were blown away. The blend of 81% Merlot, South Creek block, 14% Merlot, North Creek block (Old vines), and 5% Cabernet Franc, Rossi Vineyard, really works here. This is a deep wine that will not disappoint. Wine Note
2018 Williams Rossi Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, 14.2 ABV – $125
Rating: 95 – Outstanding Value Rating: 5
This wine is outstanding. Black fruit, nice mouth feel, long finish, and is very well-balanced. Blended from 3 different sections of Rossi Vineyard, 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, South Creek block, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, North Creek block, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, “Hilltop” block, this represents the best that Frog’s Leap has to offer, and it does not disappoint. Wine Note
If you’re planning a trip to Napa Valley, a visit to Frog’s Leap should be on your itinerary. The winery offers several tasting experiences tailored to provide an in-depth look into their wines, farming practices, and history. Whether you’re seated on the porch of the farmhouse overlooking the vineyards or exploring the cellars, the genuine passion of the team is palpable.
For those interested in deepening their wine knowledge, the guided tours offer a comprehensive overview of the winemaking process, from grape to bottle, emphasizing the organic and dry farming techniques that have become synonymous with Frog’s Leap.
Frog’s Leap Winery isn’t just a place; it’s an experience. It offers a delightful blend of rich history, sustainable practices, breathtaking landscapes, and, above all, outstanding wines. In a region where there’s no shortage of excellent wineries, Frog’s Leap stands out not just for the quality of its wines but for its genuine commitment to the land and the community. A visit here is a toast to tradition, innovation, and the sheer joy of wine. Cheers!
