Chateau Montelena #173
Chateau Montelena – The Winner of the "Judgment of Paris"
Chateau Montelena has a celebrated history, most widely known for winning the “Judgment of Paris” in 1976 and putting California at the forefront of the wine world. Today, Chateau Montelena stands as a quality icon, consistently producing some of the finest and sought-after wines in the country. Bo Barrett stands as current CEO & Owner and Matt Crafton serves as Winemaker. The story started in 1882 when entrepreneur Alfred L. Tubbs bought 254 acres (103 ha) of land just north of Calistoga at the foot of Mount Saint Helena. He planted vines, and by 1896 Chateau Montelena was the seventh largest winery in the Napa Valley.
With the onset of Prohibition in the United States, winemaking ceased at the Chateau and in the period that followed Tubbs sold grapes but did not make wine. In 1958 the Tubbs family sold the Chateau to Yort Wing Frank, a Chinese electrical engineer, and his wife Jeanie. The Franks created a garden in the style of their homeland, and excavated Jade Lake. The revival of the winery begins with the purchase and reunification of the estate by Jim Barrett in 1972. Jim recognized the potential in the exceptional property and moved forward with replanting the vineyard, investing in modern equipment and improving all farming and winemaking processes. In a few short years, Chateau Montelena became the winner of the “Judgment of Paris” in 1976. At this pivotal event, Chateau Montelena’s 1973 Chardonnay was selected as the top-ranking wine in a blind tasting of 4 white Burgundies and 6 California Chardonnays. A bottle of that vintage is in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
Honoring Tradition Through Innovation
Chateau Montelena’s story is woven with history, passion, and a deep respect for the land. While the Judgment of Paris in 1976 remains a defining moment, it is just one chapter in the winery’s ongoing journey. For over fifty years, under the ownership of the Barrett family, Chateau Montelena has cultivated an intimate understanding of its vineyards, embracing the nuances of each vintage. The philosophy here is not about replicating a single flavor year after year but about capturing the essence of each growing season, allowing nature to express itself through every bottle. Innovation and tradition go hand in hand. Modern technology is used not to replace craftsmanship, but to expand creative potential. Every decision, from vineyard management to winemaking techniques, is guided by thoughtful consideration and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Each bottle of Chateau Montelena tells a story – not just of the land it comes from, but of the people who craft it.
Stewarding a Legacy: Bo Barrett, Matt Crafton, and the Future of Chateau Montelena
As Chateau Montelena’s Chief Executive Officer, Bo Barrett oversees strategic planning for the winery and vineyard operations. His commitment, however, extends beyond the wine, to the people, the creative spirit and the story behind it all. Bo has been involved in every vintage at Montelena since his family assumed ownership in 1972. While completing his degree in Viticulture and Enology at Fresno State, Bo spent each fall at Chateau Montelena working harvest. The work proved to be difficult yet rewarding, and motivated him to take on more responsibility. In 1982, Bo earned the appointment to winemaker, and was subsequently appointed to Chief Executive Officer in 2013. He credits his father, and winery founder, Jim Barrett for his work ethic and unrelenting persistence. “When my father started this winery, his goal was to take the incredible fruit from this historic piece of land and make the best wine we possibly can.” Bo continues to honor his father’s mission by creating wines that transcend ratings or trends, and remain true to the origins of Montelena. This foundational philosophy extends to the team of employees he has built. “We hire the very best people we can, communicate our expectations, and give them the freedom to do their jobs well.” Bo continues to propel Montelena forward with the same commitment to excellence it was founded upon.
Matt Crafton leads the production team as Winemaker at Chateau Montelena. He not only oversees all production and operations, but in addition to overseeing the largest vineyard replant of the last 40 years, plays a critical role in strategy, education, and technology at the winery. When it comes to winemaking, Matt’s approach follows no template. Instead, he works towards creating terroir-driven wines that embrace the unique expression of the vineyard and vintage.
Breathtaking vineyard with a mountainous backdrop
Chateau Montelena is located at the top of Napa Valley in Calistoga. Please allow at least 45 minutes from downtown Napa and two hours from San Francisco. We offer an extensive list of reserved experiences, while also welcoming walk-ins. Stepping through the shade of the redwoods, up the staircase blanketed in ivy and greenery, a magnificent, 100+ year old chateau, carved into the hillside comes into view. To the left is a curious, “Parking for Irish Only” sign. To the right, a sparkling, turquoise lake adorned with Chinese pavilions and a garden brimming with flora and fauna. In the distance is a breathtaking vineyard with a mountainous backdrop as far as the eye can see. At first, these disparate elements may seem out of place; but rather, are unique artifacts that tell the history of Chateau Montelena and its three, distinct owners over the past century. Whether a seasoned collector or a newcomer to fine wine, every person who experiences Montelena finds something unique, something that speaks to them.
Photo: www.montelena.com / and Chateau Montelena Social Media pages
