Viader Proprietary Red 1996

Born in Argentina, Delia Viader came to the United States after spending many years in Europe. In 1986 the love of wine Delia acquired during her time in Europe lead her to purchase a 25 acre property 1200 feet above the Napa Valley floor northeast of St. Helena on the steep, rocky slopes of Howell Mountain. During this time when 99% of Napa’s vineyards were planted on the valley floor, Delia was considered a bit crazy-headed to plant vineyards in such foreboding terroir. But it was exactly terroir that she was after.

Delia’s first release was a proprietary red blend from the 1989 vintage called simply Viader with a blend of almost equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The wine quickly gained an international reputation as one of the iconic wines of the Napa Valley and has become the signature wine for the winery.

With the release of the 2003 vintage the winery introduced the Dare label; a group of varietally labeled wines which are produced from a selection of estate fruit along with fruit sourced from their neighbors and friends. Current releases include a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and a Tempranillo.

While raising four children on her own, Delia forged the vision and design for this unique estate vineyard property, wine blend and brand. In the last few years, Delia’s children have come back to help manage and operate the business making this a true family concern. Alan Viader is Director of Operations and Winemaking, Janet Viader is Director of Marketing and Sales. Mariela Viader (married to Alan) is in charge of the Culinary Program.