Koves-Newlan began as Newlan Vineyards in 1967 when Bruce Newlan first purchased a 13 acre walnut orchard in the Napa Valley. He converted the orchard to Cabernet Sauvignon and began selling his grapes to Clos du Val, Inglenook, and later to Robert Mondavi. When Bruce discovered that his grapes usually ended up in their reserve or cask programs, he decided to create his own wine. The Newlan Winery was established in 1981, with the release of a 1980 vintage Cabernet Sauvignon. Newlan Vineyards quickly became recognized for its red wines, winning awards both internationally and domestically. The awards have continued to this day for all varietals produced.
In 1999, the Newlan family and the Sato family joined forces and became Koves-Newlan Vineyards & Winery. The Sato's, Napa residents and vineyard owners, shared Bruce's passion for the land, the art of winemaking and the wines.