Jeff N.
Yelp
Winery Stop #14 of our Napa Valley trip last year saw us enjoying a magical cave wine tasting at Pine Ridge Vineyards, which has become one of my favorites in the area. Their wines are absolutely exquisite and mystical, even more so when you can enjoy them in their beautiful tasting room within the .75 miles of cave passaging underneath the ground.
Located on the Silverado Trail not far from Baldacci Family Vineyards, Pine Ridge comprises lush hills and trees and the vineyards surrounding the main tasting house leading to the caves.
Our host, Steve, was a joy to take us through the cave passageways, showcasing the various barrels of wine that were being aged. He gave us insight into the wines, the winery, and the history of the caves dating back to 1985. After about 10 to 15 minutes of walking through the caves, we reached the tasting room area that seemed like something straight out of Batman with the Batcave. Before we turned towards the private dining area in one of the caves, we had the chance to experience some glass artwork by Chihuly that the winery had purchased a while ago, and it served as the centerpiece when you first arrived at that part.
The wines that Steve curated were terrific and told a story. We enjoyed a 2019 Carneros Merlot, 2019 Epitome Cab, 2019 Knollside Cab (which was one of my highlights), 2019 Stag's Leap District Cab, and a 2019 Circle Hill Cab (which was an appropriate way to conclude the tasting due to its bold and big flavors on the palate). Furthermore, Steve opened up a 2003 Fortis, which was astonishing. The latter was like having a chicken stir fry -- savory, soy sauce, and teriyaki for notes; just a stunner. Steve is a pro for opening up aged bottles of wine like the 2003 Fortis. He was the best. An excellent guide who possesses an impressive knowledge of wine. Pine Ridge is fortunate and lucky to have him. Venturing through the caves at Pine Ridge with my wife was outstanding.