
Napa Valley
Burgess Cellars
WINERY SUMMARY

Perched on Howell Mountain's volcanic slopes at 1,000 feet elevation, Burgess Cellars commands one of Napa Valley's most historic vineyard sites, where Italian-Swiss immigrants first planted vines in the 1870s. This mountain terroir produces wines of exceptional structure and age-worthiness from 65 acres of distinctive volcanic soils.
Tom Burgess acquired this legendary property in 1972, transforming the former Souverain estate into one of Napa's enduring legacy producers. Today, winemaker Kelly Woods continues this five-decade tradition, employing minimal-intervention techniques that honor the mountain's unique character. Woods' philosophy centers on native yeast fermentation and gentle handling, allowing the volcanic terroir to express itself authentically in every bottle. The estate's elevation and stony hillsides create natural stress that concentrates flavors and develops the complex tannin structure that defines great mountain Cabernet.
Burgess Cellars specializes in ultra-premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux varietals that showcase Howell Mountain's distinctive personality. The flagship Cabernet Sauvignon represents the pinnacle of mountain winemaking, offering intense concentration and remarkable aging potential. These investment-grade wines demonstrate the power and elegance that only high-elevation Napa vineyards can deliver. Limited production ensures exclusivity, with many releases available only through allocation. The winery's commitment to quality over quantity has earned consistent critical acclaim and a devoted following among collectors seeking authentic mountain character.
Following the 2020 Glass Fire, Burgess relocated its hospitality operations to the Oak Knoll District, where the volcanic loam soils provide an ideal setting for intimate tastings. The new location offers visitors a more accessible way to experience these mountain wines while maintaining the estate's commitment to personalized service. Private tastings are available by appointment, allowing guests to explore the full range of Howell Mountain expressions. The intimate setting provides the perfect backdrop for discovering how elevation and volcanic terroir create wines of uncommon depth and longevity.
Discover why Burgess Cellars remains one of Napa's most respected mountain producers. Contact the winery directly to arrange your private tasting and experience five decades of Howell Mountain mastery, where volcanic terroir meets unwavering dedication to quality.
WINEMAKER
Kelly Woods
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