WINERY SUMMARY

Where world-class Cabernet Sauvignon meets contemporary art and life-affirming philosophy, Memento Mori transforms Calistoga's volcanic terroir into some of Napa Valley's most coveted ultra-premium wines. This 17-acre estate at the northern tip of Napa Valley represents a bold fusion of artistic vision and winemaking excellence that challenges conventional luxury wine experiences.

Founded on the Latin principle 'remember you must die,' Memento Mori embraces life's fleeting beauty through exceptional wine and immersive art. Under winemaker Sam Kaplan's direction, the estate has evolved into a cultural destination where viticulture intersects with contemporary artistic expression. The philosophy centers on creating profound experiences that celebrate both the ephemeral nature of great vintages and the enduring power of artistic creation, establishing Memento Mori as one of Calistoga's most distinctive luxury wine destinations.

Kaplan crafts investment-grade Cabernet Sauvignon from the estate's four-acre vineyard alongside fruit sourced from Napa's most prestigious sites, including Beckstoffer Dr. Crane, Beckstoffer Las Piedras, Vine Hill Ranch, and Oakville Ranch. These 'Grand Cru' equivalent vineyards provide the foundation for wines that consistently earn critical acclaim for their power, elegance, and age-worthiness. The winemaking approach emphasizes minimal intervention techniques that allow Calistoga's volcanic soils and warm climate to express themselves fully, resulting in Cabernet Sauvignons with remarkable concentration and complexity that command premium allocations.

The estate experience centers around the renovated 1887 farmhouse and the celebrated 'Stone Sky' installation by renowned artist James Turrell. This underground art piece, housed within the property's hydro-heated cave system, creates an otherworldly environment where light, space, and wine converge. Tastings are exclusively by appointment and often incorporate the Turrell installation, offering visitors a multi-sensory journey through both wine and contemporary art. The intimate setting accommodates small groups seeking personalized experiences that extend far beyond traditional wine tasting protocols.

Memento Mori represents the pinnacle of Calistoga's artistic wine culture, where Sam Kaplan's exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon meets transformative contemporary art. Reserve your exclusive appointment to experience this remarkable fusion of viticulture and artistic vision in one of Napa Valley's most unconventional luxury destinations.