Visited Goosecross Cellars on Saturday. Located down a side road (the famous? State Lane) near Yountville, Goosecross was always a fun, low key, rustic kind of place with "ok" wines and one stellar Howell Mountain Cabernet.
Anyway, a few years ago, one of the Coors heiresses purchased the winery. Major changes ensued, with a beautiful modern Napa-Rustic tasting room/hospitality center which is simple but beautiful and offers full-window views of the vineyards as well as an outdoor patio. As the storms fizzled, we sat outside on the lovely November fall day and had a very personable host.
More importantly, they have REALLY stepped up the winemaking here. A former Duckhorn winemaker is now in charge, and everything was pretty classic Napa-and delicious. The Viognier was balanced and had an acidic core that provided some savory freshness. The Chardonnay and Pinot (Carneros) had lovely balance as well, with a savory core that avoided the too typical overblow character and was delicious. The Cabernet, a blend of vineyards, was also outstanding, showing the lovely licorice and earth I enjoy in Cabernet.
Impressive place, and a lovely experience. May lack the funky charm of the old Goosecross, but the wines are frankly much better, and if you are going to go upscale, this is the way to do it!
