Founded in 1972, the winery and home vineyards of Joseph Phelps are located in Spring Valley near St. Helena on a 600-acre ranch that is characterized by rolling hills, California native oaks, and l60 acres of meticulously tended vines. The first Phelps wine, a 1973 Johannisberg Riesling, was introduced in the fall of 1974. Since then, production has grown to l00,000 cases annually with Cabernet Sauvignon Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot serving as the winery's core varietals. The Phelps portfolio also includes - in years when weather conditions permit- luscious dessert wines made from Johannisberg Riesling, Scheurebe, Semilion and Muscat.

Long known for his innovative spirit and passion for quality, Joe Phelps pioneered a number of "firsts" in the early years of the winery. The 1974 Insignia - released in the spring of 1978 - was the first Bordeaux-style blend produced in California under a proprietary label. The release of the 1974 Syrah in 1977 sparked industry-wide interest in a remarkable French varietal whose plantings in California had disappeared and been virtually Forgotten for over half a century. And in 1990, after years of research a whole new family of Rhone-style wines was introduced under the Vin du Mistral label and included Syrah, Viognier, Grenache Rose, and an impressive red wine blend named Le Mistral.

The architecture of the winery reflects the same commitment to quality and attention to detail as the wines crafted within. A massive wisteria-covered trellis made from 100 year-old recycled bridge timbers dominates the entrance way, visually anchoring the redwood building to the surrounding terrain. From the tree-shaded back terrace, visitors are afforded a spectacular view of Spring Valleys St. Helena, and the Mayacamas Mountains to the west. And, after many years of planning, the newest jewel in the winery's architectural "great hall" with vaulted ceiling, floor-to-ceiling bay windows and elegant furnishings.

The key figures in the winery are Tome Shelton, President; Craig Williams, Winemaker; Joseph Phelps, Chairman; Vance Schram, CFO; and Bulmaro Montes, Vice President of Vineyard operations.

Joseph Phelps Vineyards / 200 Taplin Road / St. Helena, CA  94574 / 800-707-5789

Visitors welcome daily, tours and tastings by appointment.


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