Duckhorn Vineyards #168
A Premier Producer of Napa Valley Wines
Co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has spent nearly fifty years establishing itself as one of North America’s premier producers of Napa Valley wines. From its modest inaugural vintage of 9000 bottles each – Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot – in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today.
Dan and Margaret Duckhorn founded Duckhorn Vineyards, which becomes one of the first 40 Napa Valley wineries. They also purchased the original 10-acre property in beautiful St. Helena. Named Marlee’s Vineyard, after Margaret, this idyllic property will later become home to the beautiful Duckhorn Vineyards Estate House.
The First American Winery to Pioneer Luxury Merlot
In 1978, Duckhorn Vineyards celebrated its inaugural harvest of Merlot from the now-legendary Three Palms Vineyard and Cabernet Sauvignon from Stag’s Leap District and Howell Mountain. Building on their role as the first American winery to pioneer luxury Merlot, they make the debut vintage of Napa Valley Merlot. This iconic wine plays a key role in establishing Merlot as one of North America’s great varietals. In 1982, building on Dan and Margaret’s early passion for Bordeaux-varietal wines, and their desire to make an elegant and enticing white wine, Duckhorn Vineyards produced their first vintage of Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc. In 2012, Duckhorn Vineyards produced their debut vintage of Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Chardonnay applying classic techniques of French oak barrel fermentation with lees stirring, resulting in a Chardonnay that balances the complexity and richness of Napa Valley.
“To Let the Vineyards Speak…”
The Estate vineyard program now encompasses 298 acres in Napa Valley, throughout five premier winegrowing sub-appellations. The Duckhorn Vineyards winemaker, Renée Ary works in small lots to preserve the rich complexity of the fruit in the Duckhorn winegrowing program. “I am incredibly fortunate to work with some of Napa Valley’s most exceptional grapes,” says Renée. “There is no recipe or formula. My job is to let the vineyards speak and convey the soul of the wine.”
From the first vintage in 1978, Duckhorn Vineyards has been committed to crafting wines of distinction. In 2017, their 2014 Napa Valley Merlot Three Palms Vineyard was named Wine Spectator’s 2017 #1 Wine of the Year. Duckhorn Vineyards has been named one of the “Top 100 Wineries” in the world eleven times by Wine & Spirits. This honor serves as a testament to producing wines of the highest quality, under the stewardship of winemaker Renée Ary.
The Duckhorn Vineyards 10th Annual Derby Party and Discussion Release
In 2000 the company unveiled their stunning new Duckhorn Vineyards Estate House. With a beautiful setting of vineyard and garden views, the site is ideal for pioneering an intimate and sophisticated sit-down wine tasting experience that quickly sets the standard for wine country hospitality.
Duckhorn Vineyards offers a variety of lively and refined winery events throughout the year at St. Helena estate. Enjoy wine-paired dinners from top chefs, private dinners, and the annual Derby Party at the winery.
In 2025 the 10th Annual Derby Party will take place on May 3.
Celebrate the run for the roses at one of Wine Country’s most anticipated events of the year, explore St. Helena estate house and gardens as you enjoy Southern-inspired bites paired with signature Duckhorn Vineyards wines at food and wine pairing stations.
Be among the first to experience the premiere Bordeaux-inspired blend – the 15th vintage of “The Discussion” while reveling in the excitement of the Kentucky Derby. And take part in the Best Dressed Competition where guests are invited to showcase their finest Derby Day attire – from big hats and fascinators to sport coats and bow ties.
The stunning Napa Valley setting is an ideal place to attend a memorable wine country event.
