Vineyards

Brown Estate is located in the heart of the Chiles Valley District, a small valley within the Napa Valley whose distinct microclimate is ideal for growing wine grapes – particularly Zinfandel and Bordeaux varieties. We currently have forty acres under vine, planted in nine blocks comprised of Zinfandel (27.0 acres), Cabernet Sauvignon (8.5 acres), and Chardonnay (4.5 acres).

The Chiles Valley enjoys relatively dry days and cool nights during the summer, with summer evening fog bringing dramatic nighttime temperature drops. The soil consists of moderately fertile silt loam on alluvial fans; our vineyards are situated for maximal southern exposure. Gentle slopes lead to a series of creeks that facilitate natural surface and subterranean drainage. Four on-site reservoirs provide ample resources for frost protection via overhead sprinkler systems throughout the vineyards.

The notion of producing wine under our own label arose in the early nineties when we began hearing of the favored status our grapes enjoyed among local winemakers who had been working with Brown Estate fruit. Today our fruit is the hallmark of all of our wines – for winemaking happens foremost in the vineyard.