Our first release back in 1984 was just 500 cases. We celebrated by throwing a party in a Carneros vineyard and haven't had time to look back since!

Michael and Kathryn Havens started making wine in the early seventies, while Michael was working on his doctorate in Humanities at Syracuse University, NY. The nearby Finger Lakes provided ample distraction and he began working seriously with some of those interesting local grape varieties. Edging ever closer to the Napa Valley, Michael's academic career took him to UCLA, where he taught Literature; transferring to UC Davis, (handy for sliding into the odd enology class) in 1983.

In 1984 Michael and Kathryn formed a working partnership with long-time friends Jon Scott and his wife Russell - and Havens Wine Cellars was created. It took another 10 years though until three of the four could give up their 'day' jobs and work full time for the business: Jon continued as a CPA; Russell as a Social Worker; and Kathryn still works as a graphic artist (designing our own label as well as those of many other winery clients). Employed as the Truchard Vineyards Winemaker for five years through 1993, Michael continued to make several vintages of our own wine at the Truchard winery in Carneros.

The extended Havens crew now runs our 16,000 case winery on Hoffman Lane in the heart of the Napa Valley.

Established: 1984

Owners: Michael & Kathyrn Havens, Jon & Russell Scott

Winemaker: Michael Havens

Production: 16,000 cases annually

Varietals: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah

Vineyard Sources:
Carneros: Beau Terroir Vineyard, Hyde Vineyard, Hudson Vineyard, Truchard Vineyard, Falstad Vineyard
Wooden Valley: Rancho Chimiles
Southern Napa Valley: Estate Vineyard & Chateau Chevre, Hoffman Lane, Paradigm Vineyard, Rodgers Vineyard

Tours & Tastings are by appointment: Please call 707-945-0921

Havens Wine Cellars / 2055 Hoffman Lane / Napa, CA 94558 / 707-945-0931

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