Calwineries

Ardente Winery

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Like many future winemakers, Carlo and Marie Francoise arrived in the Napa Valley with the intention of retiring. But they altered their plan when they came upon a 25 acres estate on Atlas Peak which was already planted with five acres of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Originally from Italy, Carlo was reminded of the warm, dry climate of his family home. He knew the distinct mountain soil would produce excellent Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Because the vineyard is over 1,400 feet above the valley floor, it is exposed to longer sunny days and cooler nights.

These unique mountain conditions allow the grapes to stay on the vines for a longer period of time. Although this decreases the volume of grapes and wine produced, it gives the wine unique and intense flavor characteristics.

Ardente Winery’s first release was their 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine’s success caused many people to take a serious look at this new winery. Recently, they released their 2000 Sangiovese.