The Chappellet family has been crafting world class wines from their Pritchard Hill estate since 1967. Spurred by the notion that Bacchus loves the hills and that mountain fruit would make superior wine, Chappellet followed the advice of legendary winemaker Andre Tchelistcheff and settled on the rocky eastern slopes of the Napa Valley. The Chappellet’s were the first to plant vineyards exclusively on high elevation hillsides and the second winery to be established in Napa Valley after Prohibition.

Carissa Chappellet hosted our tasting of Chappellet 2008 Chardonnay, 2007 Red Cuvee, 2007 Cabernet Franc, and the 2007 Pritchard Hill Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (rated 96 by Wine Spectator).

Following the tasting, members enjoyed lunch on the picnic grounds with spectacular views overlooking Lake Hennessy and the Napa Valley. The four tasting wines were served with lunch that featured Grilled Flank Steak with Balsamic BBQ Sauce and Baby Arugula; Roasted Fingerling Potato Salad with Red Onions, Prosciutto, Ricotta Salata and Parsley Vinaigrette; Blue Lake Beans with Red Peppers, Calamata Olives and Roasted Eggplant; Assorted Artisanal Cheeses, Fruit and Toasted Nuts; and for dessert, Puff Pastry Tarts filled with Lemon Curd and Seasonal Fruit.

A beautiful early summer day overlooking Napa Valley with fantastic wines and food was enjoyed by all.