Merryvale winery
Merryvale Vineyards, located in the heart of Napa Valley, stands as a testament to the region’s rich winemaking history and innovation. Established in 1983, the winery occupies a historic building that was the first winery constructed in Napa Valley following the repeal of Prohibition. Over the decades, Merryvale has built its reputation on crafting elegant, balanced wines that express the unique terroir of Napa’s diverse sub-appellations.
Family-owned and operated by the Schlatter family since 1994, Merryvale emphasizes a hands-on approach to both viticulture and winemaking. The team, led by winemaker Andrew Wright, works closely with select vineyard sites throughout Napa Valley, including estate vineyards in St. Helena and Carneros. Sustainable farming practices are central to their philosophy, with careful attention paid to soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity to ensure the long-term vitality of the land and the quality of the fruit.
Merryvale is especially celebrated for its Bordeaux varietals, notably their Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which showcase the depth and structure characteristic of Napa Valley reds. Their flagship wine, the Profile, is a Bordeaux-style blend that epitomizes the winery’s commitment to complexity, balance, and age-worthiness. In addition to red wines, Merryvale produces Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir, each crafted to highlight varietal purity and regional expression.
The winemaking process at Merryvale combines traditional techniques with modern technology. Grapes are hand-harvested and sorted to ensure only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation occurs in small lots, allowing for precise control and the opportunity to express the nuances of each vineyard block. Aging takes place in French oak barrels, with careful selection of cooperage to complement the style of each wine. The result is a portfolio of wines that are approachable in their youth but also possess the structure to develop beautifully with time in the cellar.
Merryvale’s historic winery in St. Helena serves as both a production facility and a destination for visitors. The iconic Cask Room, lined with century-old 2,000-gallon casks, provides a dramatic setting for tastings and private events, reflecting the winery’s deep roots in Napa’s winemaking heritage. Guests can enjoy a range of tasting experiences, from casual flights to curated food and wine pairings, all while learning about the winery’s history and commitment to quality.
Community involvement and hospitality are at the core of Merryvale’s mission. The winery supports local charities and participates in initiatives that promote sustainability and the arts within Napa Valley. Through educational programs and events, Merryvale seeks to share its passion for wine and foster a deeper appreciation for the region’s unique attributes.
With a legacy that bridges Napa Valley’s past and future, Merryvale continues to evolve, embracing new techniques and ideas while remaining true to the principles that have guided the winery for over four decades. Their dedication to quality, sustainability, and hospitality makes Merryvale a distinguished name in California winemaking, offering wines that capture the essence of Napa Valley in every bottle.