Vine Cliff

Vine Cliff was established in 1871 and has recently opened a new chapter under the Vine Cliff 1871 name. The flagship is Accola, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grown on the upper benchlands of the estate and made in fewer than 100 cases a vintage. Alongside it sit a Cabernet Sauvignon, a special selection Cabernet and a Zinfandel.

Winemaking is led by Mayaan Koschitzky, whose team came up through some of Napa's most recognised cellars. Michael scores the ambiance and the staff at 8 apiece, which is as high as this stretch of road gets. It belongs on a central Napa itinerary for anyone who wants small-production Cabernet rather than volume.