MEDIA ARCHIVES & MUSING

“Not everybody likes the wines that we make. And that’s fine, we’re just a small winery.” —Christopher Howell

"Because the rain came at the right time, we have happy vines." —Chris Howell

The character of Howell's wines...is long-lasting, and only now are the wines that were made in the previous decade beginning to reveal their true personalities.

“I always took the winter rains for granted. They always came. I didn’t think about it. Now I know we can take nothing for granted. I feel closer to the reality of nature, to the vineyards.” —Christopher Howell

“When did Americans become obsessed with vintage?” —Christopher Howell

For red wines, Howell sends these guidelines: “Fine wine at 60-65F; high octane ‘big reds’ at 55-60F; ‘refreshment wine’ such as Chianti or Beaujolais at 55F.” —Christopher Howell

Venture up to Cain Vineyard & Winery, remotely hidden atop Spring Mountain, to savor a view of Napa’s valley floor from a western perspective.

“For a bona fide oenologist to come out and say it's not all bad is a brave thing.” —Christopher Howell

This is where the story really begins. Chris feels that Brett, in small parts-per-million, adds tremendous complexity and cohesion to a wine.

“Our experience of wine includes the warmth and sweetness of alcohol, and, of course, it is intoxicating ... There is no doubt that although there can be too much of a good thing, alcohol is intrinsic to wine; it is surely the ‘spirit’ and inspiration of wine.” —Chris Howell