It’s always a great time to have wine. Regardless of the season, wine is a mysterious, social, and enjoyable beverage to be shared anytime with friends and family or as a treat to yourself. And the best part of enjoying wine year-round is pairing it with the weather and seasonal foods to elevate the experience. As we enjoy the tail end of winter and look forward to summer’s warm, sunny days, learn more from Cornerstone Cellars about the best wines and food to pair them with to bring out the best flavors.

Best Wines for Winter

Characteristics of Winter Wines

There’s something truly unique about enjoying wine during the cold and snowy months. After a day out skiing, settle in with a cozy and warm bottle of wine that’s full-bodied and offers bold flavors of fruit and spice. Their high tannin levels give them even more depth, ideal for sipping slowly and swirling into their complexity. Often served at room temperature or slightly warmed, it’s best to let them breathe a bit to bring out the complete flavor or aroma of the wine.

Top Wine & Food Pairing Recommendations for Winter

Should winter wines go with pasta or a salad? If you’re looking for wine and food pairing recommendations and not sure where to start, consider these options:

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its richness and bold dark fruit flavors like blackberry and cherry, this wine goes well with hearty meats. You can’t go wrong with a grilled steak or a tender roasted lamb. Cabernet is obviously a favorite of Cornerstone Cellars as we offer an entire portfolio of single vineyard Napa Valley bottlings.
• Syrah/Shiraz: Spicy and full of flavors such as peppers, tobacco, or coffee, a Syrah/Shiraz is ideal for pairing with a stew or potato gnocchi with red sauce.
• Malbec: A favorite in the winter, this type of wine is known for its smooth, dark fruit flavors such as plum. Savor this wine with a roasted pork or skirt steak.
• Chardonnay (Oaked): Don’t pass on a white wine during the winter. Often buttery and toasty, this delectable wine is best paired with chicken alfredo or even a creamy mac and cheese.
• Port and Dessert Wines: Sweet, rich, and perfect for holiday desserts, enjoy a glass of Port or Riesling to cap off the night.

Best Wines for Summer

Characteristics of Summer Wines

Swap full-bodied wines for light, refreshing wines as the days become longer and warmer. For the ultimate summer experience, sip on an acidic, crisp wine by the pool or pour yourself and your friends a glass while enjoying a picnic by a lake. Best served chilled and typically fruity, summer wines are the perfect refreshment and turn any day into a celebration.

Top Wine & Food Pairing Recommendations for Summer

Exchange hearty meals for light, fruit-forward dishes that bring out the flavor of each wine. Draw some inspiration from these wines and foods to pair with them:

• Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp, citrusy, and known for its vibrant flavors of honeydew and grapefruit, this wine is an excellent choice with summer salads, chicken, or even an eggplant dish. Our Sonoma Mountain Sauvignon Blanc has long been a club member favorite for its versatility and palate-pleasing presence.
• Rosé: Iconic for a hot summer day, rosé wines are versatile, ranging from light and minerally to rich and savory. Pair these wines with a nice pesto pasta dish or a lobster roll.
• Pinot Grigio: Bursting with fruit flavors of lime, lemons, and more, this wine pairs perfectly with slightly roasted vegetables and would be an excellent choice for a charcuterie board.
• Sparkling Wines: Perfect for celebrations, toast with a glass of sparkling wine. From Prosecco to Champagne, these wines range anywhere from dry and zesty to fruity and floral. They’re great to pair with a wide selection of food, such as oysters, smoked salmon, salted nuts, and more.
• Beaujolais: A rustic red, this easy-to-drink wine gives off notes of pomegranate and blackberry. This versatile partner can go along with roast chicken, fish, or even cooked sausages. Look for Beaujolais Nouveau right before the Thanksgiving holiday.

Explore Seasonal Wine Pairing at Cornerstone Cellars

Maximize each season with unique varieties of wine. Experimenting with different styles throughout the year can be fun and an opportunity to bring out flavors in the food you pair it with. Although you may be excited for warmer weather and summer wines, enjoy these last weeks and months of winter by popping open winter wines and relishing hearty meals.

At Cornerstone Cellars, we want you to taste the best wine every season. Browse our range of wines to find your favorite for summer, winter, and everything in between. From Cabernet Sauvignons to Pinot Noirs to Sauvignon Blancs, we offer delectable holiday wine selections sourced from acclaimed AVAs across California. Discover our Yountville tasting room, where creative and exciting experiences await. Book a tasting today to reserve your spot. We can’t wait to give you a taste of Yountville.

The post The Best Wine Pairings for Winter and Summer appeared first on Cornerstone Cellars.

These are all common questions that many of us face. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a waiter, or someone who wants to learn more about the varieties of wine, many of us would enjoy making an informed choice that aligns with our preferences and what’s being served. Cornerstone Cellars can help, and we love nothing more than to share our knowledge and help you find your favorite. Learn more about what makes each wine distinct and when to reach for a specific variety.

Understanding the Types of Red, White, and Rosé Wines

What Is Red Wine?

Red wine is a classic favorite amongst wine lovers. Iconic for its deep purple and burgundy hues, red wine’s characteristics, color, flavor, and texture from grape skins. Winemakers create these beloved wines by pressing the grapes and allowing the juice to ferment with the grape skins and seeds. Grapes with thinner skin produce lighter red wines, resulting in Pinot Noir and Garnache. On the other hand, if a grape’s skin is thicker, those grapes produce darker wines, known for being robust and fuller bodied. Those wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Tempranillo, and more.

What Is White Wine?

White wine offers a lighter flavor profile, typically sweeter and more refreshing than full-bodied red wines. Generally made with light-skinned grapes (although white wine can be achieved with red or black grapes), white wine gives off a pale or honey color. Instead of keeping the seeds and skins left on during the red wine fermentation process, white wine winemakers discard those items, and the end product is a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, aromatic Albariño, Chardonnay, and countless other varieties.

What Is Rosé Wine?

A delicious mix between red and white wine, rosé wine can be fruity or dry and has a distinct dragon fruit or salmon pink hue. Made with red or purple grapes, after crushing the grape skins, they are left macerating with the juices for a few hours or even up to a couple of days. The juices and flavors embody the color of the skin, giving it its color and profile. Typically, the shorter the maceration period, the lighter the color. Well-known rosé wines include a bold Syrah, savory Tempranillo, spice-forward Cabernet Sauvignon, and more.

Aging a Wine to Perfection

Aging is a huge part of winemaking for red, white, and rosé wine, which is why winemakers are extremely meticulous about how they want to age their products. Two of the preferred options are oak barrels or stainless steel tanks.

Oak Barrels

Oak has several advantages for winemakers. It can add layers of complexity to a wine, adding notes of vanilla, spice, or nuttiness. Since it allows for oxygenation, oak barrels can also smooth and round out the flavors of the wine. Additionally, these barrels can add tannins over time to the wine, so it’s important to know when to stop barreling the wine and start bottling. Oak barrels are often used for red wines and even white wines that need a bit more flavor enhancement.

Stainless Steel Tanks

Unlike oak barrels, stainless steel preserves the wine’s original characteristics and wine sweetness levels. Not adding any additional flavors, this form of aging is ideal for winemakers who want to maintain the freshness of a wine, such as a white wine or rosé. Since steel tanks are airtight, winemakers can control the speed of oxidation, having more control on how the wine will taste over the years.

Choosing the Right Wine for the Occasion

At the end of the day, it’s important to choose the wine that satisfies your cravings. But if you’re interested in pairing wine with food, an event, or even the weather, here are some occasions for wine!

Red Wine Occasions

• Romantic dinner
• Fall or winter evening
• Formal event
• Meals involving hearty food such as beef, venison, duck, pasta, or stews

White Wine Occasions

• Spring or summer gatherings
• Meals involving lighter fare such as seafood, chicken, or pasta
• Brunches
• An aperitif before a meal

Rosé Wine Occasions

• Summer picnics
• Poolside gatherings
• Meals involving tapas, charcuterie, desserts, or fruits and vegetables
• Bridal showers

Get to Know Our Wines

From white to red, we have a variety of unique boutique wines that are approachable and delightful. We invite you to learn more about the Cornerstone Cellars wine club and choose the best option for you. Our Classic, Collectors, and Case options are designed to go deeper into our portfolio and experience the complexity of each variety of wine.

As you plan your 2025 calendar, come visit us in Yountville for a tasting. Whether you pick our Taste of Cornerstone or our Pairings Flight, get ready for a day full of delightful sipping. Our knowledgeable staff will even be happy to discuss the difference between white, red, and rosé wine with you. We look forward to seeing you soon!

The post Red, White, and Rosé: Exploring the Distinctions of Each Wine appeared first on Cornerstone Cellars.

Winemaking and sustainability do go hand-in-hand. As global warming continues to change our planet, eco-friendly winemaking practices are more important than ever before. Winemakers around the world have the opportunity to implement practices that support the Earth and make a difference. At Cornerstone Cellars, we partner with farmers to implement sustainable agriculture in winemaking. We invite you to learn more about winemaking and sustainability practices and their benefits. Cheers!

What is Sustainable Winemaking?

Sustainable winemaking leverages environmentally friendly practices that help minimize waste, water use, chemical inputs, and more to preserve our planet. It often centers around economically practical methods, environmentally conscious practices, and improved working conditions for those making the wine. Since harmful pesticides are typically avoided, vineyards that strive for sustainability have a higher potential for ensuring healthier soil and energy efficiency.

Eco-friendly Winemaking Practices

Sustainable winemaking begins in the vineyard. Winemakers must pay close attention to how the land is managed and watch closely for any chemicals or other harmful properties that may cause damage to the soil or ecosystem. It’s recommended that wine makers use natural methods such as cover crops or compost to bring nutrients to the vine. These methods can even enhance each wine bottle’s flavor profile, expressing the grapes’ unique terroir. At Cornerstone Cellars, we prefer to partner with growers utilizing natural methods, which in our opinion more closely connects our wine to their land.

Once the grapes are ready for harvest and fermentation, winemakers can incorporate sustainable practices into their process. For example, using energy-efficient machinery and water recycling during production can improve the reduction of waste. Even using lightweight packaging materials when shipping bottles can lead to lower emissions during transportation.

Advantages of Eco-Friendly Winemaking for Sustainability

Implementing sustainable winemaking practices goes a long way. The benefits reach far beyond the vineyard, impacting those around you and changing how we think about wine.

1. Protecting the Environment: To achieve carbon-neutral wine production, simply reducing the amount of water used or using cover crops can make a long-term difference. It protects air quality, preserves ecosystems, encourages biodiversity in the soil, and lowers your carbon footprint.
2. Ensures Brand Quality and Authenticity: Sustainable wine tastes extremely flavorful, as it concentrates distinct terriers grapes are grown in. Additionally, consumers desire more sustainable wines, disrupting traditional wine production. Brands that advertise as sustainable or organic will draw consumers, particularly a younger audience, and have the potential to gain brand recognition and trust.
3. Promotes Sustainability Efforts: We all have a social responsibility to the earth, and the more we practice sustainability, the stronger the movement becomes. The push towards sustainability helps set the standard that more wineries aim to achieve.

Obstacles to Achieving Sustainable Winemaking

While efforts are being continually made, winemakers face a variety of challenges.

1. Balancing Economics and Sustainability: There’s no denying that sustainable practices can be costly. For example, production costs can rise 25-30% above the cost of traditional winemaking just through higher utility products that are perceived to be healthier and environmentally friendly. Companies often have to balance what fits within their budget vs. what supports greener initiatives.
2. Education and Training: Many staff members may not have experience with sustainable wine practices. This lack of knowledge can cause delays in implementation since education and training can take a considerable amount of time. The sooner sustainable practices are encouraged, the better.
3. Environmental Changes: Climate change is rapidly changing grape quality and the winemaking industry itself. As the years pass, winemakers will be forced to reevaluate their process and create new practices that drive sustainability.

Support Sustainable Green Wineries

Consumers have the unique opportunity to help steer the wine industry. Conscious choices to support sustainable winemakers and their products can drastically change the industry and bring eco-friendly wines to the spotlight. When looking for a bottle to enjoy, keep an eye out for wines that have the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA) certification or the Sustainable Wine Ltd, to name a few. 

At Cornerstone Cellars, we remain committed to creating wines that spark joy and capture the essence of unique vineyards. Come out to our Yountville, CA, tasting room for your chosen tasting experience. Our staff would love to take you on an exceptional journey into the world of Napa Valley wines and explain in more detail our winemaking process. Book a reservation with us today.

The post Sustainable Winemaking: Practices, Benefits, and Why It Matters appeared first on Cornerstone Cellars.

Are you ready to learn more about how wine is made? We invite you to explore more about vineyard stages and winemaking, as well as vineyard management practices.

Seasonal Vineyard Care & Changes

Pruning and Cover Crop

The sun is starting to peek out after a chilly winter, and the buds are nestled in their vines. During this time, winemakers work with their vineyard managers and turn their attention to the cover crop that best suits that vineyard site. Among the most photogenic of many options, mustard-colored fields provide a lush habitat for insects and form a natural fertilizer to support the vines, which are pruned for the upcoming season.

Budbreak

The beginning of a vintage starts with a budbreak. These pruned canes push out tiny buds that flower and become grape clusters. Although this is such an exciting season for winemakers, it’s an extremely delicate one, as frost and an abundance of rain can cause damage. Those buds lucky enough to make it through the season will begin to ripen over the summer.

Suckering

Once the budbreak is complete, a season of rapid growth occurs. With so much moisture within their vines, our team has to make sure they strike a balance between forming and growing grapes—this process is known as suckering. If too many leaves and canopy overwhelm the fruit, it can block ventilation and introduce mold or mildew which keeps the vines from producing high-quality fruit.

Veraison

With the arrival of mid-summer, comes the veraison season. Green grapes change color and develop a red skin as sugars start to accumulate. This signals to the winemaker that grapes that will eventually be turned into red wine are ripening. Harvest season is on the horizon. This also creates a second opportunity to drop any unevenly ripening clusters.

Harvest Season: Timing and Technique

As harvest quickly approaches, our winemakers sample the grapes, checking for a balance of sugar, acidity, and phenolics. Weather can play a large role in this season, as heat waves or too much rain can delay harvest. When the weather conditions are suitable for picking, our team will begin picking grapes that span anywhere from two to three months, usually conducting multiple passes over the same vineyard over a period of time. Ripened grape clusters are collected by hand and are taken to be prepped for fermentation.

From Grape to Fermentation: The Winemaking Begins

Once the ripe and healthy grapes have been picked, they are taken to the cellar to be sorted, crushed, and fermented. During the sorting process, stems, leaves, and other unnecessary materials (sometimes called MOG or “material other than grape”) are removed from the grapes. After sorting is complete, it’s time for the grapes to be crushed! The grapes are split to release their juice and contact the skin to bring out color and flavor. As the sugars in the juice are exposed, fermentation begins.

Fermentation isn’t possible without yeast. Yeast converts sugar into alcohol and releases aromatic compounds that build the flavor profile of the wine. Two common types of yeast assist with wine fermentation and aging:

• Indigenous yeast: Native and wild, this yeast naturally occurs on the grapes’ skin. Although this yeast gives the wine unique characteristics, using it solely can potentially lead to “stuck fermentation,” where the wine is unable to organically finish fermentation. 
• Commercial (cultured) yeast: There are a wide variety of commercial yeasts, and they can give the winemaker more control over the fermentation process. 

Regardless of the yeast we choose to use, we pay close attention to the temperature at which the wine is fermenting. Temperature can change the structure of the wine and even change the flavors. 

Why Winemaking at Cornerstone Cellars is Unique

From grape to glass, we put excellence first. Every winemaking technique is thoughtfully completed, and every vineyard we partner with is farmed sustainably and often utilizes organic practices. Committed to belief in quality over quantity, we remain a boutique winery, producing limited batches of wines that capture the essence of the region they come from. Every glass of wine you enjoy from Cornerstone Cellars should spark a conversation filled with joy and celebration.

Kari notes, “I am thrilled to be part of the team at Cornerstone Cellars. We are committed to producing great wines from great vineyards, and making the kind of wines that we want to drink.”

Come Visit Us

If you’re ready to experience Cornerstone Cellars, we welcome you to visit us! Book a tasting, and bring family and friends for a delightful introduction to Yountville CA wineries. We’ll tailor your tasting to your needs and interests, and our team will be more than happy to give you additional insight into the Cornerstone Cellars winemaking process. You’ll even have the opportunity to learn more about our wine clubs and the finest wines in our portfolio. Elevate your wine journey today!

The post Behind the Scenes: A Tour of Our Winemaking Process appeared first on Cornerstone Cellars.

Why Wine Storage Matters

At Cornerstone Cellars, we know a thing or two about wine storage. We want nothing more than for you to experience maximum flavor, so we recommend these seven quick wine storage tips for beginners and more experienced wine enthusiasts. Your palette will thank you.

1. Avoid Temperature Fluctuations in Wine Storage

Temperature is an extremely important factor when deciding where to store your wine and protecting your wine flavor. It’s best to avoid storing your bottles near windows, heaters, appliances, and anywhere that experiences extreme temperature jumps. Otherwise, your wine will spoil and lose its flavor. 

When choosing your cellar, aim for an ideal wine storage temperature of between 45°F (7°C) and 65°F (18°C), with around 55°F (13°C) being ideal, especially for temperature-sensitive wines. However, different styles of wine require different storage temperatures. For example, full-bodied reds like our Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon should be stored at a slightly warmer temperature than light white wines. 

What are the Best Temperatures at Which to Store Wine?

• 55-60°F for full-bodied red wines
• 50-55°F for full-bodied whites and light red wines
• 40-50°F for light white wines, rosé, and sparkling wines

2. Store Wine in Dark Places to Protect Quality

We recommend keeping your bottles in a relatively dark, cool place. The effects of direct light on wine can harm the product, causing it to age prematurely and develop off-flavors. To maintain the quality of your wine, consider investing in a wine cabinet with doors or away from windows—just to name a few suggestions. 

3. Avoid Vibrations

Vibrations, too, can disturb the aging process of your wine. Heavy foot traffic areas, washing machines, refrigerators, and anything else shaking your cellar’s foundation can impact the quality of the wine. Vibrations can also disrupt the sediment in the wine, impacting its taste and texture, especially in aged wines. And just to be safe, we recommend that you cushion your wine shelves with rubber, place padding on the floor around the shelves, and keep your wine low to the ground. 

4. Maintain Humidity Levels

Aim for a wine storage humidity level of 50-70% in your wine storage area. Low humidity can cause your corks to dry out, which can spoil your wine, and too high humidity can cause mold and mildew growth. A hygrometer can be a useful tool in monitoring your humidity levels and can alert you if your humidity levels are too high or too low.

5. Store Wine Bottles Horizontally to Maintain Cork Integrity

Another way to dry out your corks and prematurely age your wine is to store your bottles standing up. Simply storing them on their side keeps your cork moist and properly sealed, and it makes the most of your space. A dry cork can lead to oxidation, spoiling the wine’s flavor. Prioritizing density allows for condensed rows, maximizes storage capabilities, and even keeps your wine more accessible and within reach. 

6. Don’t Move Your Wine Too Much

Moving your wine from place to place can greatly disturb the aging process, causing the wine to become cloudy or even gritty. Stability is important for maintaining the flavor of wine, so if you need to move them, keep them at a level position to minimize disturbing the sediment and stability of the wine. It also doesn’t hurt to plan ahead where you plan to store your bottles to avoid constant change and motion.

7. Keep Track of Your Inventory

Every bottle of wine needs different lengths of time to age to perfection. One of the best ways to store wine at home is simply to stay organized! Start by labeling your bottles with vintage, producer, and other relevant information to track their aging potential and get the most out of your collection. 

Visit Cornerstone Cellars

If you’re ready to start wine preservation at home, there’s no better place to get started than at a winery. Come out to Cornerstone Cellars for a tasting, and we’ll introduce you to delicious wines from our vineyards. We’ll be more than happy to help you find the perfect bottle that suits your palette and give you the best wine storage practices and wine storage mistakes to avoid. We hope to see you in Yountville soon!

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Why a Wine Club Subscription is the Ultimate Gift

A wine club subscription is the gift that keeps on giving. Every bottle offers a new adventure for the palette, providing unique tasting experiences that are individually and collectively shared. Through Cornerstone Cellars, subscription holders can expect not only quarterly shipments featuring our most captivating releases but also a world of exclusive benefits, including special discounts, member-only events, and personalized recommendations. You’ll be automatically part of our passionate wine community, joining a family that puts your tastes first. 

Choosing the Right Wine Club: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cornerstone Cellars offers unique wine gift subscriptions for every type of wine enthusiast. Our three tiers each offer an exceptional experience to represent the range of our offerings:

• Classic: Curious about our Sauvignon Blanc or Cabernet Franc? A great introduction to Cornerstone Cellars, the Classic Club offers a glimpse into the heart of our wines. With each purchase, you can expect a four-bottle selection of the finest wines we produce, along with benefits such as first access to allocated, reserve, and library releases and unlimited complimentary Taste of Cornerstone visits for four guests in the company of active members. 

• Collectors: If you have a friend or family member passionate about wine and learning more about its varietals, a Collectors Club subscription may be the best wine club gift! Go deeper into our portfolio with a six-bottle selection shipped to your door four times a year. With more wine to sample, discover the fruits of our passion through delicious Merlots, Pinot Noirs, and more. Additional wine club membership benefits include 15% savings on wine purchases, $20 flat rate ground shipping for club shipments, and more. 

• Case: Our most special offering, any serious wine collector will savor the Case Club subscription. Specifically crafted for careful aging in your cellar, each exclusive wine selection we send is curated by our very own winemakers. They offer complexity and rewarding flavor for those patient enough to store each wine to its perfection. Along with a twelve-bottle selection shipped to your door four times per year, subscribers can expect savings on our culinary supplements, including our Pairings Tasting, and 20% savings on wine purchases.

No matter which subscription you choose—you can rely on curated wine deliveries that echo each year’s season through unique flavors.

Why Choose Cornerstone Cellars Wine Club

At Cornerstone Cellars, we do things differently and carry that same ideology into our subscriptions. Distinctly approachable (and delicious), each wine offered through our clubs authentically represents the qualities of the region they come from. True to our classic boutique winery title, we produce limited quantities of each type of wine, striving to deliver a first-rate wine tasting experience every time. 

“I gave this five stars only because there wasn’t a sixth star available. The only negative thing I could remark about our visit there was the fact that we wanted to bring home everything we tasted. Needless to say we are now a club member. The setting is welcoming, the wine is sublime and the service is above and beyond.” —Joseph

“Always an amazing experience. My wife and I have been Cornerstone members for 4 years now. While the wines are of course delicious, it’s truly the great people on the Cornerstone team that stand out the most.” —Kevin

Purchase a Wine Club Subscription Today

What holiday wine gift will you choose? Would the wine lover or enthusiast in your life enjoy our Classic Club subscription, or would they prefer to dive into the complexities of Cornerstone through our Case Club? Whatever their interests, we have wine gift ideas for everyone. Purchase a wine club subscription present today and give them the gift that keeps giving. This holiday season, bring people together through the shared joy of wine.

The post Wine Club Presents: The Perfect Holiday Gift for Wine Lovers appeared first on Cornerstone Cellars.

Cornerstone Cellars has truly crafted the ultimate wine-lover’s experience in Napa Valley. Commonly recognized among the top wineries in Yountville, our vineyard goes beyond the typical wine tasting experience. Our knowledgeable staff tailors each wine tasting to your preferences, ensuring a delightful discovery for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers.

Welcome to Cornerstone Cellars: A Wine-Lover’s Dream

Not only does Cornerstone Cellars serve up delicious wine, but we are also located in one of the top culinary destinations in the world. Located in Napa Valley, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the environment and all that it provides for us. Think: sun, water, and wind, resulting in lush vines covered in plump grapes. The true magic happens in the vineyards—our winemakers simply help the process along. 

The ambiance of our winery’s tasting rooms and outdoor patio areas are designed to offer relaxation and comfort as you sip on our wines and receive personalized recommendations and insights from our knowledgeable and welcoming staff. Come experience it for yourself. 

Exceptional Wine-Tasting Experiences 

Unlike sprawling vineyard estates, Yountville offers a walkable tour for wine lovers. Our charming tasting rooms are steps from each other, allowing you to compare and contrast offerings from one Yountville winery to the next, all within a delightful afternoon. This, coupled with the town’s world-class restaurants and art scene, makes Yountville a truly unique Napa Valley wine tasting experience. 

We offer two signature experiences: the classic Taste of Cornerstone, a personalized selection of five wines for $50 per guest, or the seasonally available Pairings Flight with small bite accompaniments at $95 per guest. Our own curated cheese and charcuterie board can also be added to any experience for $35. Wine Club Members receive preferred pricing and booking.

The Ultimate Itinerary for Wine Enthusiasts 

If you’re in search of the ideal itinerary for a Napa Valley vacation, you’ve come to the right place. We recommend a late morning arrival at Cornerstone Cellars, followed by lunch at any of our highly acclaimed neighboring restaurants. Regardless if you prefer an intimate tasting or a larger group experience, we’re happy to accommodate your preferences. Our private events and group tastings are ideal for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate retreats. Because our bookings fill up, we suggest making reservations in advance to ensure a personalized and memorable visit.

Why Cornerstone Cellars Is a Must-Visit on Your Napa Valley Trip 

Our personalized service, small-batch wine production, and the overall intimate experience truly sets us apart from other wineries. Cornerstone Cellars is the ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Napa Valley’s wine culture, but don’t just take our word for it.

“Five stars is not enough. Unassuming on the outside, but honestly, world-class wine, and the tasting experience felt so personal. Truly spectacular and highly recommend.” – Doug

“We have been to over 250 wineries. One of our best experiences ever. One of the best hosts we’ve ever had. Not a single wine there that we did not like. Great experience. Highly recommend!!” -Scott

“This is my 3rd visit to Cornerstone, and it gets better and better every time. Each time I walk in, the staff makes me feel welcomed, and like I’m family.” -Cici

Join Us at Cornerstone Cellars

Ready to enjoy a wine tasting experience in Napa? Regardless if you’re a regular member or a traveling visitor, we look forward to welcoming you to our community. Browse our wine club offerings and upcoming events to get to know more about us and what we offer. When you’re ready, book a tasting for your next trip to Yountville. We can’t wait to provide you with an exceptional journey into the world of Napa Valley wines.

The post How We Made a Wine Lover’s Paradise for Your Napa Valley Trip appeared first on Cornerstone Cellars.

As a boutique winery, etiquette can enhance your experience here at Cornerstone. Whether you’re in our salon or on your patio having proper etiquette can enhance your tasting. For your next sipping adventure, follow these essential wine tasting tips.

Understanding Wine Tasting Etiquette 101

Wine has historically been associated with tradition and sophistication, not only in Napa Valley or Yountville but across the globe. How to enjoy fine wine is an art form that calls for practices that show respect for the wine in your glass and the people at your table. While the majority of people are not sommeliers, you can still maximize the enjoyment of tasting fine wine. 

Before Tasting 

Even before a glass of wine is served, it’s important to begin practicing etiquette. For example, at Cornerstone Cellars, we may ask that guests arrive on time, let us know of any underage or furry companions, or abstain from coffee or gum before their tasting. In fact, if you aren’t sure what our policies are you’re invited to call ahead of time to be fully informed. 

During Tasting

The Right Glass for the Wine

Serving in the right glassware is essential to wine tasting. Not just an old wives tale, the shape of your wine glass can influence how well (or poorly) you can detect the subtleties in your wine. Different Cornerstone varietals can show better in specific glass shapes and sizes.

• The 2022 Farina Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is enhanced when served in a stemmed glass with a smaller, more narrow bowl.
• The 2020 Fiddlestix Vineyard Pinot Noir shines in a stemmed glass with a very wide bowl.
• The 2019 Benchlands Cabernet Sauvignon should be served in a stemmed glass with a taller, larger bowl.

But First, Temperature…

Further enhance your wine tasting experience by serving wine at the proper temperature. Properly chilled (or what we may call “cellar temperature”) wine can significantly impact the experience and enjoyment. Here are the ideal serving temperatures for our wines.

• The 2022 Farina Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc should be served at 45°-50°F.
• The 2020 Fiddlestix Vineyard Pinot Noir can be served at 55° F.
• The 2018 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon and other full-bodied red wines can be served at 59°-64° F.

The Art of Pouring 

How wine is poured allows for optimal aeration and aroma release. Proper etiquette calls for a one to two-ounce pour for a tasting or flight and five-ounce for a full pour. At your home, here’s how to properly pour your Cornerstone Cellars wines:

• Have a clean napkin or cloth nearby.
• Leaving the wine glass on the table, hold your bottle from the bottom half and tilt the neck over your glass to pour.
• Pour slowly and steadily to allow for slight aeration.
• To finish, tilt the bottle upwards with a slight twisting motion.
• Wipe the bottle’s lip with your clean napkin to prevent wine from dripping down the bottle.

Taste Wine With Purpose

Make the most of your tasting and avoid simple mistakes such as downing the glass quickly, talking loudly while others are sipping, or overfilling the glass. To fully appreciate the complexity of your Cornerstone Cellars collection, consciously sip your way through tasting. \

• See: Look at your wine. What color is it? How concentrated is the color?
• Swirl: Swirl the wine in your glass to release the aromatic compounds in the bowl of the glass.
• Sniff: Smell the wine. What aromas do you pick up on?
• Sip: Take a sip of the wine and notice any flavors or textures.
• Savor: Swish the wine around in your mouth and take note of how flavors and texture develop, change, or fade. How long or short is the finish?

After Tasting

Upon completion of your tasting experience, it’s important to continue wine salon etiquette by showing gratitude and leaving feedback. The conversation and social aspect of wine is truly important! If you’re at home surrounded by friends and family, ask them what their favorite wine was and why. Or if you’re visiting our Yountville salon, let our servers know your tasting notes and what stood out to you. You’re even welcome to purchase more Cornerstone varietals before you leave. 

Enhance Your Yountville Wine Tasting Experience

We strive to give each and every guest the best Cornerstone Cellars wine tasting in Yountville. Apart from our craft wines, we invite you to enhance your tasting by pairing each wine with food. Whether you’re pairing the Farina Sauvignon Blanc with tortellini and arugula salad or the Benchlands Cabernet Sauvignon with filet mignon, you can create harmonious pairings that embellish your wine and the dish you’re savoring.

Plan Your Next Cornerstone Cellars Visit 

From everyone here at Cornerstone Cellars, we hope to see you soon. Regardless if you’re a regular member or a traveling visitor, we look forward to welcoming you to our community. Visitors can choose between two signature experiences, from our classic Taste of Cornerstone, a personalized selection of five wines for $50 per guest, or our seasonally available Pairings Flight with small bite accompaniments at $95 per guest.

Browse our wine club offerings and upcoming events to get to know more about us and what we offer. When you’re ready, book a tasting for your next trip to Yountville. We can’t wait to provide you with an exceptional journey into the world of Napa Valley wines.

The post Wine Etiquette 101: A Guide to Enjoying Cornerstone Cellars Wines with Elegance appeared first on Cornerstone Cellars.

Getting to Cornerstone Cellars 

No visit to the area is complete without a scenic drive through Napa Valley. We recommend planning your route prior to your visit and consider starting early or late to avoid traffic. Drive along Highway 29 or Silverado Trail for stunning vineyard views, using the scenic pullouts along the way that allow you to get out of the car and fully enjoy the landscape before stopping in charming Yountville and one of the best Napa Valley wineries.

Our town is known for its charming atmosphere and excellent culinary scene, so you may just want to extend your day trip into a weekend getaway. When it comes to overnight accommodations, we have a few favorites in the area. For an ultra-luxury experience, opt for the nearby Poetry Inn. It’s well worth a weekend stay, as it offers a high-end experience in the heart of Napa Valley. If you prefer a boutique hotel experience, we recommend Hotel Yountville, which features elegant rooms, a spa, and beautiful grounds. Lastly, The Estate Yountville is a classic choice, as it provides you with a quintessential Napa Valley experience complete with cozy rooms and an outdoor pool.

The Wine Tasting Experience at Cornerstone Cellars

At Cornerstone Cellars, we offer two signature experiences: our classic Taste of Cornerstone, a personalized selection of five wines for $50 per guest, and our seasonally available Pairings Flight with small bite accompaniments at $95 per guest. We take pride in the fact that we go beyond the typical wine tasting experience, as our knowledgeable staff tailors each wine tasting in Yountville to your preferences, ensuring a delightful discovery for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers. 

Our vineyard sites capture many distinct terroirs of the Napa Valley, influencing the character of the wines produced here. The cool fog and consistent breezes rolling off the San Pablo Bay extend the growing season, allowing grapes to develop intense flavor profiles while retaining balanced acidity. This translates to elegant, nuanced wines that wineries in Yountville are renowned for.

You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the Cornerstone Cellars wine tasting experience. We’ll share with you the keys to an ideal tasting, like starting by taking small sips and swirling the wine to release its aromas, focusing on identifying the different scents and flavors, and considering the wine’s body and finish. Feel free to ask questions—our team loves to share their knowledge about our wines and Yountville’s offerings in general.

Creating the Perfect Itinerary for Your Day Trip 

In search of more day trip ideas in Napa Valley? In addition to a vineyard tour, explore the area’s hiking trails at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park or the nearby Alston Park. Or, pair your tasting with a day of local art galleries, like the Yountville Art Walk and the Jessel Gallery, before picnicking at Yountville Park. For any history buffs, we recommend checking out Napa Valley Museum or taking a historic wine train ride, combining the natural beauty of the area with a bit of culture.

Why Cornerstone Cellars Is a Must-Visit

Cornerstone Cellars is known for its California wines and its Southern hospitality—the perfect blend. From the start, we set out to make wines that have familiar qualities but still pleasantly surprise the palate. In part, we owe this to our hands-on winemaker Kari Auringer who gladly immerses herself in all aspects of the winemaking process, from vineyard to bottle. If you don’t find her tasting barrel samples in the winery, she is probably kicking the dirt in a vineyard. Here, we are committed to producing great wines from great vineyards and making the kind of wines that we want to drink. In short, you’ll find a wine you adore at Cornerstone Cellars. Our team’s creativity and craftsmanship are what makes our wines unique—and so lovable.

Join Us at Cornerstone Cellars

Ready to enjoy a wine tasting experience in Napa? Regardless if you’re a regular member or a traveling visitor, we look forward to welcoming you to our community. Browse our wine club offerings and upcoming events to get to know more about us and what we offer. When you’re ready, book a tasting for your next trip to Yountville. We can’t wait to provide you with an exceptional journey into the world of Napa Valley wines.

The post Planning A Napa Valley Day Trip to Cornerstone Cellars appeared first on Cornerstone Cellars.

Get ready to taste some of the best wines in the Napa Valley wine region that shine in flavor and variety. Wineries including our very own boutique Cornerstone Cellars (our members’ exclusive Yountville Cabernet releases in 2025!) showcase the world-class quality that comes from Yountville vineyards. The wine’s elegance stems from Yountville’s more southerly position, creating specific conditions that serve as a favorable growing area. We invite you to learn more about the significance of Yountville AVA and how its climate has created the ideal conditions for premium wine. 

A History of Yountville AVA

To learn more, we travel back to the 19th century. Originally called Sebastopol, the Town of Yountville was renamed after American pioneer, trapper and frontiersman George C. Yount. Mr. Yount was the first American settler in the area and was given land in 1836 by Governor Nicolas Gutierrez. He is known for planting the first grapevines in the area in the1840s and making wine using traditional processes. Mr. Yount would trample grapevines with his bare feet and store grape must in suspended ox skins. After fermentation, the wine was drained and enjoyed. 

In the late 19th century and into the early 20th century, Yountville’s production of wine halted. The devastating vine disease Phylloxera along with Prohibition cut supply and didn’t rebound for decades. Flash forward to today, and wine production is soaring. Yountville is home to over one-hundred winegrowers and over twenty winemakers. In 1999, the area was officially recognized as an American Viticultural Area (AVA). 

A Gentle Micro-Climate Ideal for Winemaking

Yountville AVA’s climate creates a wine lover’s paradise. Sitting at an elevation of 20 to 200 feet, the land is sedimentary in origin with gravelly silt loams. Because of its close proximity to San Pablo Bay that brings in cool marine winds, the location makes it an ideal environment for the soil that grows the grapes. Drops in temperature at night allow the grapes time to develop bold flavors during the day and retain fresh acidity at night. In the mornings, fog and cooling influence from the bay allow the grapes to stay cool while the sun shines. This gives the wines of this area fresh fruit aromas and a lighter weight.

Wines of Yountville AVA

Yountville AVA’s wines are some of the most desired in California. The cooler growing conditions produce wines with a deep concentration and chunky tannins. Most of the vineyards are planted to produce Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot wines, with other varieties including Syrah, Petite Sirah, and a few white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. These delicious varieties are perfect to pair with a diverse range of food from scallops to creamy cheeses like brie. 

Visiting Cornerstone Cellars in Yountville: A Wine Lover’s Paradise

Tasting a wine from Yountville vineyards is to experience what a cooling influence has on a warm, sunny climate: balance, complexity, and finesse. The area is home to many small production wineries that have made international names for themselves. Cornerstone Cellars is no exception. We’re unique people making unique wines, and our varieties of wine from Pinot Noir to Cabernet Sauvignon hail from acclaimed AVAs across the Napa Valley wine region. 

Rooted in Southern hospitality, we welcome each of our guests into our community, giving them an unforgettable experience. In a comfortable and welcoming setting, tasters can select from two unique experiences: our classic Taste of Cornerstone, or our seasonally available Pairings Flight. We even provide culinary supplements as an additional accompaniment to pair with each wine you enjoy. 

Make It an Experience to Remember

For your next trip to the wine region, make a visit to Yountville, CA. Visit Michelin-starred restaurants, small-town shops, and relax in incredible natural surroundings. And while you’re there, don’t miss a chance to experience Yountville wine tasting. Book a tasting today with Cornerstone Cellars. Yountville AVA is a place like no other. 

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