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Burgess Cellars Summary

1108 Deer Park Road
St. Helena ,CA 94574
United States
burgesscellars.com

Burgess Cellars Description

Burgess Cellars is a renowned winery nestled on the slopes of the Howell Mountain in Napa Valley, California. Established in 1972 by Tom Burgess and his family, the winery has gained a well-deserved reputation for producing exceptional, age-worthy wines. Spanning over 45 acres of vineyards, Burgess Cellars embraces the unique terroir and microclimate of Howell Mountain, resulting in wines of great character and complexity.

The winemaking philosophy at Burgess Cellars revolves around expressing the true essence of the grapes, allowing each varietal to showcase its distinct qualities. The estate is primarily known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, which benefits from the mountainous terrain, rocky soils, and cool afternoon breezes. These factors contribute to the development of concentrated flavors, structure, and elegant tannins in the wines.

One of the notable features of Burgess Cellars is its commitment to sustainable farming practices. The vineyards are farmed organically, utilizing cover crops and natural pest control methods. This dedication to environmental stewardship ensures that the grapes are grown in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem, resulting in wines that reflect a sense of place.

Visiting Burgess Cellars offers a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts. The winery provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, allowing visitors to not only taste their exquisite wines but also to immerse themselves in the breathtaking views of the valley. The knowledgeable staff offers insights into the winemaking process, sharing the rich history and legacy of this family-owned estate.

In summary, Burgess Cellars stands as a true gem among California wineries, showcasing the best of what Howell Mountain has to offer. With its commitment to quality, sustainable practices, and stunning wines, Burgess Cellars is undoubtedly a must-visit destination for wine connoisseurs seeking an authentic Napa Valley experience.

What Makes Burgess Cellars Different From Other Nearby Wineries?

Burgess Cellars stands out from other wineries in the region due to several unique aspects that distinguish it and contribute to its overall excellence in winemaking.

Firstly, Burgess Cellars boasts a rich history that spans over four decades. Established in the late 1970s, this winery has been crafting exceptional wines for wine enthusiasts and collectors alike. This long-standing tradition and experience have allowed Burgess Cellars to perfect their winemaking techniques, resulting in wines of exceptional quality and flavor.

Secondly, Burgess Cellars has a distinct location within the Napa Valley region. Situated in the renowned Howell Mountain AVA (American Viticultural Area), the winery benefits from the unique terroir and microclimate specific to this area. The higher elevation and cooler temperatures on Howell Mountain contribute to longer growing seasons, allowing for extended grape maturation and complex flavor development in the wines.

Furthermore, Burgess Cellars is dedicated to a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to winemaking. They prioritize environmentally conscious practices, such as organic farming and low-intervention winemaking techniques. The winery's commitment to sustainable viticulture ensures that their wines not only taste exceptional but also preserve the natural resources and biodiversity of their vineyards.

Another aspect that sets Burgess Cellars apart is their focus on small production and handcrafted wines. With their limited production, every bottle is meticulously crafted to highlight the unique character and expression of the grapes. The winery's dedication to quality over quantity is evident in each sip of their wines.

Additionally, Burgess Cellars is known for its commitment to age-worthy wines. They specialize in producing wines that have excellent aging potential, allowing them to mature and develop in bottle over time. This focus on producing age-worthy wines sets Burgess Cellars apart from other wineries that primarily offer young and ready-to-drink wines.

Lastly, Burgess Cellars offers a variety of wine experiences and tours that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the winery's heritage and winemaking process. From guided winery tours to tasting experiences, guests have the opportunity to learn about the winemaking techniques, explore the vineyards, and taste a range of exceptional wines.

In conclusion, Burgess Cellars stands out from other wineries in the region due to its extensive history, unique location, sustainable practices, focus on small production and handcrafted wines, dedication to age-worthy wines, and immersive visitor experiences. These elements combine to create an exceptional winery that consistently produces high-quality wines of distinction.

What Some Possible Concerns About Burgess Cellars ?

While it is important to highlight the positive aspects of Burgess Cellars, it is equally important to consider any potential negatives that visitors may have mentioned. Keep in mind that opinions can vary, and what one person may dislike, another may appreciate. Here are a few potential criticisms that some visitors have expressed about Burgess Cellars:

1. Limited parking space: Some visitors have mentioned that parking can be limited or challenging at Burgess Cellars, especially during peak tourist seasons. This can create inconvenience and may require visitors to park farther away from the winery.

2. Limited availability of certain wines: Some wine enthusiasts have mentioned that certain wines from Burgess Cellars are only available in limited quantities or need to be pre-ordered. This can be disappointing for visitors hoping to purchase specific wines during their visit.

3. Minimal food options: While Burgess Cellars primarily focuses on wine production, some visitors have expressed a desire for more food options on-site. While they may offer light snacks, it may not be enough for those who wish to have a complete dining experience during their visit.

4. Limited tour availability: Some visitors have expressed disappointment in the limited availability of winery tours at Burgess Cellars. This can be problematic for those who prefer a guided tour experience to enhance their understanding of winemaking processes.

5. Cell phone reception: Due to its location in the hills or valleys, some visitors have mentioned that their cellular signal strength can be weak or non-existent at Burgess Cellars. This can make it inconvenient for visitors who rely on their phones for navigation or staying connected.

Remember to present these potential drawbacks in a fair and unbiased manner, as they may not necessarily detract from the overall experience for everyone.

Burgess Cellars History

Burgess Cellars is a renowned winery located in the picturesque Napa Valley, California. This winery has a rich history that dates back several decades, showcasing its commitment to producing exceptional wines and upholding the legacy of its founders.

The winery was established in 1972 by Tom Burgess and his wife, Linda. However, the story of the Burgess family in winemaking started even earlier. Tom's grandfather, an Italian immigrant named Tomasso Burgess, had a deep passion for grape growing and winemaking. He settled in the hills of the Howell Mountain region, where he began cultivating grapes in the late 1800s.

Inspired by his grandfather's love for viticulture, Tom Burgess purchased a 17-acre property on Howell Mountain, near the city of St. Helena, in the 1960s. This marked the beginning of Burgess Cellars, even before the winery itself was established. Tom and Linda embarked on the immense task of renovating the vineyards and winemaking facilities, as the property had been neglected for several years prior.

Initially, Burgess Cellars focused on grape growing and selling the fruit to other winemakers. However, Tom's passion for winemaking quickly led to a transformation of the estate. In 1972, Burgess Cellars officially became a winery, allowing Tom to fully express his winemaking talent and create his unique wine portfolio.

The location of Burgess Cellars is one of its distinguishing factors and contributes significantly to the quality of its wines. Situated at an elevation of 1,000 feet on Howell Mountain, the vineyards benefit from a cooler climate and volcanic soils, which impart distinct characteristics to the grapes. The estate comprises approximately 50 acres of vineyards, with a primary focus on Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by small plantings of other varieties such as Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay.

Burgess Cellars gained recognition for its wines early on, and Tom's dedication to quality and craftsmanship garnered critical acclaim. His wines have consistently showcased the elegance and intensity emblematic of Howell Mountain wines. Throughout the years, the winery has remained steadfast in its commitment to traditional winemaking methods, emphasizing hand-harvesting, gentle fermentation, and aging in French oak barrels.

Notably, Burgess Cellars has faced numerous challenges over the years. In 1996, a devastating wildfire swept through Howell Mountain, causing considerable damage to the winery and vineyards. However, the resilience and determination of the Burgess family allowed them to rebuild and continue producing exceptional wines.

Since its inception, Burgess Cellars has thrived under the leadership of successive generations. Upon Tom's retirement in 2013, his son, Steven Burgess, took the helm as winemaker and general manager. Steven's passion for winemaking and focus on sustainability are strongly aligned with the winery's philosophies.

Today, Burgess Cellars remains committed to producing limited-production, terroir-driven wines that reflect the distinct character of Howell Mountain. Their portfolio includes a range of red and white wines, with their Cabernet Sauvignon wines being the crown jewels of the collection. The wines consistently capture the essence of the Howell Mountain appellation – displaying power, structure, and a remarkable ability to age gracefully.

In conclusion, Burgess Cellars is a winery deeply rooted in the rich winemaking history of Howell Mountain. The passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence exhibited by the Burgess family have allowed them to create wines that stand among the finest in California. As the legacy continues to be passed down through the generations, Burgess Cellars remains a true testament to the enduring allure of Napa Valley winemaking.