Far Niente Winery, located in Napa Valley's Oakville sub-appellation, has a rich history dating back to 1871 when John Benson, a former gold miner, acquired over 300 acres. Benson initially cultivated Muscat grapes and produced wine, building a stone winery in 1885. After his death in 1910, the property changed hands multiple times and fell into disrepair until it was revitalized in 1979 by Gilliland "Gil" Nickel and partners. They restored the historic winery, which is now a picturesque site featuring extensive gardens. Far Niente focuses on producing high-quality Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, utilizing only French oak for aging. The winery's first modern vintage was in 1979, with the first on-site production occurring in 1982. Today, it operates under the ownership of Gi Partners, a private equity firm. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that showcase the winery's history and beautiful grounds, particularly vibrant in April when azaleas bloom. The winery is also notable for its solar energy initiatives and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a significant destination in Napa Valley.
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Oakville, CA, United States of America