Winemaker Notes
Critical Acclaim
All Vintages
Bella Union specializes in the art of blending Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. It was founded in 2012 by the partners of Far Niente and Nickel & Nickel, who, for more than 30 years, have been growing, making and enjoying Napa Valley Cabernet. Bella Union is the natural next step in our evolution as Cabernet winemakers.
The winery is located on a 25-acre Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard along Bella Oaks Lane, a storied Cabernet growing area in the heart of Rutherford. The name, Bella Union, is a nod to the history of Bella Oaks Lane, which was known as the Bella Union Roadway in the 1880s. At that time, the country lane led into the Mayacamas Mountains and eventually to the Bella Union Mining Company.
Creating a truly beautiful and harmonious union of vineyards across the Napa Valley requires an artful blend of carefully selected sites and traditional varietals complementary to Cabernet Sauvignon. It is in this spirit that the Bella Union winery was born.
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.