For me, 2024 has been all about connecting with domestic wines. My travels took me to Napa, Sonoma, and Oregon, each offering its own unique perspective on wine country. What stood out most was the shift in focus by several wineries—from simply offering wine tastings to creating immersive experiences that connect visitors to the land, the people, and the wines themselves. One such unforgettable experience was the Boathouse Tasting Experience at Cuvaison Winery in Napa Valley’s Los Carneros region.

The Boathouse Experience

Cuvaison’s Boathouse Tasting Experience is more than a wine tasting—it’s a sensory journey into the heart of Napa. Set against the backdrop of a tranquil reflective pond, surrounded by estate vineyards, the Boathouse provides a private and serene environment for guests to fully immerse themselves in the winery’s portfolio.

My visit began with a warm welcome and a glass of the 2020 Sauvignon Blanc, a crisp, aromatic wine bursting with passionfruit and lime. This bright introduction captured the cool-climate vibrancy of the Carneros region and set the tone for what was to come.

A personal wine educator guided me on a private tour of the Tai Estate Vineyard, where I had the opportunity to taste Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes straight from the vines. From there, we visited the state-of-the-art cellar, where I enjoyed a sneak peek into the winemaking process. Tasting wine directly from the barrel was a rare privilege, offering a glimpse into the nuances of wines still in development. One highlight here was the 2019 Estate Chardonnay—a vibrant and complex wine with notes of pear, lemon curd, and a hint of vanilla from subtle oak aging. Its bright acidity and creamy texture spoke to the style that defines Cuvaison.

Back at the Boathouse, the experience reached its peak. A private seated tasting paired a curated selection of wines with gourmet bites designed by Culinary Adviser Chef Ashton Keefe. The seasonal pairings were both adventurous and delicious, perfectly complementing Cuvaison’s cool-climate varieties and mountain-grown selections from the Brandlin Estate on Mount Veeder.

The Wines

Every sip during the Boathouse Tasting Experience reflected Cuvaison’s commitment to estate-grown, sustainably farmed wines. Wines included:

  • 2022 Sauvignon Blanc: Refreshing and aromatic, with lime, passionfruit, and gooseberry, epitomizing Carneros’ energy and vibrancy 2023 current release
  • 2022 Estate Sauvignon Blanc Méthod Béton: Vibrant and complex, with notes of pear, lemon, and mangos. Its balance of bright acidity and creamy texture is unforgettable.
  • 2018 Blanc de Blancs Méthode Champagnoise: This wine is gorgeous with notes of green apples, lemon, ginger and toasted bread. 
  • 2017 Merlot Arcilla: This wine is lush with notes of black cherry, cocoa, thyme and rosemary. 2022 current release
  • 2019 Pinot Noir, Spire: A limited-production wine with layers of dark fruit, spice, and a velvety finish—a true indulgence.
  • 2019 Brandlin Estate Cabernet Sauvignon: The finale was a robust and elegant Mount Veeder Cabernet with notes of blackberry, cassis, and chocolate. This wine’s bold structure and depth were a perfect conclusion to the tasting.

Why Visit Cuvaison?

The Boathouse Tasting Experience exemplifies everything that makes Napa Valley iconic: exceptional wines, breathtaking scenery, and thoughtful hospitality. At $150, it offers remarkable value for anyone seeking an elevated yet approachable journey through Napa’s cool-climate and mountain-grown wines.

The experience is perfect for wine lovers looking to slow down and savor every moment. For groups larger than six, Cuvaison accommodates private tastings with advanced notice, ensuring that each guest feels the personal touch that defines their hospitality.

Bring Cuvaison Home

For those who can’t make it to Napa just yet, Cuvaison’s wines are available for purchase online. Their 2020 Estate Pinot Noir and 2019 Estate Chardonnay make exceptional gifts or perfect additions to your own collection. Each bottle brings the essence of Carneros to your table, offering a taste of the land and the care that goes into every wine. https://www.cuvaison.com/wines