Del Dotto Historic Winery & Caves Guide

Location and Hours

Address: 1055 Atlas Peak Road, Napa, CA 94558
Hours: Open daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
Plan your visit and explore the historic caves and rich winemaking heritage at Del Dotto here.

Del Dotto Historic Winery & Caves is a cornerstone of Napa Valley’s winemaking tradition, blending centuries-old methods with innovative practices. Founded by the Del Dotto family, this winery has become renowned for its handcrafted, small-lot wines and unparalleled tasting experiences. The property features historic caves dating back to the 1800s, where visitors can explore the aging process of some of Napa Valley’s most exquisite wines. Learn more about the winery’s storied history below!

About Del Dotto Historic Winery & Caves

The historic caves, originally dug in 1885, are a testament to Napa’s rich wine history and provide a stunning backdrop for barrel tastings. These caves are an integral part of the winemaking process, allowing wines to age gracefully in a cool, humid environment that enhances their complexity and depth. Del Dotto’s philosophy combines tradition and innovation, focusing on small-lot, single-vineyard wines that showcase the unique characteristics of their carefully selected vineyards. With an emphasis on barrel fermentation and aging in a mix of American and French oak, their wines embody richness, balance, and elegance.

Today, Del Dotto continues to set the standard for quality and experience, offering visitors the chance to explore winemaking up close and enjoy the beauty and history of Napa Valley. Discover more about their story and heritage here.

Vineyards and Terroir

Del Dotto sources grapes from premium vineyards across Napa Valley, Sonoma Coast, and their estate properties, each selected for its unique characteristics. Their single-vineyard approach allows the winery to produce wines that express the terroir of specific regions.

Rutherford Estate & St. Helena Appellation Vineyards

Rutherford Estate: Known for producing bold and structured Cabernet Sauvignon with refined tannins and a rich, earthy profile.
St. Helena Vineyards: Highlights the vibrant fruit and elegance of the St. Helena appellation, ideal for expressive red wines.

Explore more about their vineyard practices and appellations here.

Winemaking Philosophy

Del Dotto takes a meticulous approach to winemaking, emphasizing traditional methods that honor Napa Valley’s storied legacy. Barrel fermentation is key to their process, blending the wine’s flavors with American and French oak. This aging adds complexity, structure, and texture, highlighting the unique traits of each vineyard and vintage.

Every wine is crafted in small lots, ensuring attention to detail at every step, from hand-harvesting to fermentation and aging. Del Dotto’s commitment to traditional techniques is complemented by innovative practices, resulting in wines of exceptional balance and depth. Guests can explore these methods firsthand through immersive tastings in the historic caves, gaining insight into the artistry behind each bottle. Learn more about their winemaking process during a visit here.

Wine Selection

Del Dotto offers an expansive portfolio of wines, reflecting the diversity of their vineyards and the artistry of their winemaking. Below is a detailed overview of their offerings:

Red Wines

Cabernet Sauvignon:
- Rutherford Estate: Known for its bold structure and layers of black fruit, earthy undertones, and refined tannins.
- St. Helena Mountain: Expressive and elegant, with ripe berry notes and a touch of minerality.
- Villa del Lago: A flagship offering showcasing richness and depth with dark cherry, cassis, and luxurious texture.
- Howell Mountain: A robust Cabernet with firm tannins and a savory finish, highlighting mountain fruit intensity.
- The Beast: A blend that exemplifies power and opulence, with concentrated dark fruit flavors and a velvety finish.
Pinot Noir:
- Sonoma Coast & Fort Ross-Seaview AVA: Vibrant cherry, earthy notes, and a silky texture, ideal for those seeking finesse in their reds.
Merlot: Rich and velvety with ripe plum, mocha, and subtle spices, making it a standout among their offerings.
Zinfandel: Juicy and jammy with notes of black pepper, bramble fruit, and a smooth, lingering finish.

White Wines

Chardonnay:
- Sonoma Coast: A balance of creamy texture, bright citrus, and mineral nuances showcasing the terroir’s cool climate influence.
Sauvignon Blanc: Bright and aromatic with tropical fruit, citrus zest, and refreshing acidity.

Dessert Wines

Late Harvest: Intensely sweet with concentrated dried apricot, honey, and caramel flavors. Perfect for pairing with desserts or enjoying on its own.

Large Formats and Collectible Wines

Villa del Lago Collection: A hallmark of luxury, this Cabernet Sauvignon features refined tannins and layers of flavor, ideal for aging.
The Beast: Offered in large formats for collectors, exemplifying the pinnacle of bold Napa Valley red blends.
Explore library vintages and large-format bottles for special occasions or cellaring here.

For a closer look at Del Dotto’s full collection, including new releases, single-vineyard wines, and exclusive offerings, visit here. Each wine reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and terroir-driven approach that has made Del Dotto a Napa Valley icon.

Visiting Del Dotto

Visiting Del Dotto Historic Winery & Caves offers a truly immersive and unforgettable journey into the heart of Napa Valley winemaking. This one-of-a-kind experience invites guests to explore the historic caves, originally constructed in the 19th century, where the perfect conditions of cool temperatures and high humidity allow wines to age gracefully. During the visit, knowledgeable hosts guide guests through the caves, offering fascinating insights into the winemaking process and the role of barrel aging in developing the wines’ rich flavors and complexity.

Tasting Experiences

Del Dotto provides a variety of curated experiences to suit every wine enthusiast:

Cave Tour & Barrel Tasting: This signature experience allows guests to taste wines directly from the barrel in the historic caves. Discover how different oak barrels—both American and French—influence the flavor, aroma, and texture of the wine. It’s a hands-on exploration of wine at its most dynamic stage.
Estate Tours: Journey to the breathtaking Rutherford Estate or St. Helena Estate, where you’ll delve into the unique terroir of Napa Valley. These tours provide an in-depth look at the vineyards and highlight how soil composition, climate, and vineyard practices contribute to the distinct character of the wines.
Food and Wine Pairings: Some experiences include thoughtfully crafted pairings featuring locally sourced bites to complement Del Dotto’s wines, elevating your tasting to a culinary adventure.
Private Tours and Events: For those seeking a more personalized experience, Del Dotto offers private tours and tastings tailored to your group, ideal for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or intimate getaways.

Plan your visit and book one of Del Dotto’s exceptional tasting experiences here. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or new to Napa, Del Dotto promises a memorable journey through the art and history of winemaking.

Wine Club

Join the Del Dotto Wine Club to enjoy exclusive access to limited-release wines, priority reservations, and invitations to private events. Members receive customizable shipments throughout the year, including access to small-lot wines unavailable to the public. Club benefits include discounted pricing on wines and tastings.

Explore membership options and benefits here.

Membership Events

Del Dotto hosts exclusive events for wine club members, such as vineyard tours, winemaker dinners, and seasonal celebrations. These events offer a deeper connection to the winemaking process and the Del Dotto community. Stay updated on upcoming events here.

Cannabis Pairings For You

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Elevate your wine-tasting experience with curated cannabis pairings from Abide Napa. Combining Del Dotto’s wines with premium strains from Abide’s Private Reserve creates a unique sensory journey, enhancing the flavors and aromas of both. Here are some recommended pairings to try:

Villa del Lago Cabernet Sauvignon & Grapes ‘N’ Cream (Hybrid)
The velvety tannins and dark fruit layers of the Villa del Lago Cabernet are beautifully complemented by the sweet, creamy grape notes of Grapes ‘N’ Cream. Together, they create a smooth and indulgent pairing perfect for a relaxing evening.
The Beast Red Blend & Lemon Cherry Runtz (Hybrid)
The bold complexity and deep richness of The Beast blend harmonize with the tart citrus and sweet cherry undertones of Lemon Cherry Runtz. This pairing is vibrant and luxurious, ideal for those who love bold flavors.

2019 Villa del Lago Cabernet Sauvignon & Pluto (Indica)
Abide’s Pluto, an indica-dominant hybrid, complements the bold complexity of Del Dotto’s 2019 Villa del Lago Cabernet Sauvignon. Pluto’s rich aromas of sour berries, fig, and earthy pine mirror the dark fruit, cassis, and subtle vanilla notes in this Cabernet. Together, they create a luxurious pairing that offers deep relaxation and euphoria.
Sonoma Coast Chardonnay & Pineapple Express (Sativa)
Del Dotto’s Sonoma Coast Chardonnay’s bright acidity and tropical fruit notes shine alongside Abide’s Pineapple Express. This sativa-dominant strain features aromas of mango, pineapple, and earthy minerals, echoing the Chardonnay’s vibrant citrus and creamy finish. Together, they create a refreshing and uplifting experience that energizes outdoor adventures or pre-tasting explorations.

Discover premium strains from Abide Napa’s Private Reserve here. For wine pairings, explore Del Dotto’s exceptional wines here.

Health and Safety Tips

When enjoying wine and cannabis together, it’s important to prioritize health and safety.

Here are some tips for responsible consumption:

Moderation: Consume both wine and cannabis in moderation to avoid over-intoxication.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Personal Tolerance: Be aware of your own tolerance levels and consume accordingly.
Avoid Mixing with Other Substances: Do not mix with other intoxicants.
Designated Driver: Ensure you have a safe way to get home; use a designated driver or ride-share service.

Shop Cannabis and Wine Products!

Bring the essence of Napa Valley into your home with Del Dotto’s exceptional wines and elevate your experience with premium cannabis from Abide Napa Dispensary. From bold reds to elegant whites and exclusive collections, there’s a perfect pairing for every occasion. Whether you’re exploring their handcrafted wines, planning a visit to the historic caves, or discovering curated cannabis products, Del Dotto and Abide Napa offer an unparalleled Napa Valley experience.