Chappellet is a Napa Valley icon, known for powerful wines from the legendary Pritchard Hill.
Chappellet Winery in Napa Valley
Chappellet was founded in 1967 by Donn and Molly Chappellet. They were pioneers who believed in the potential of the hills above Napa Valley. Their choice for Pritchard Hill turned out to be visionary. Today, this area is one of the most sought-after sites for cabernet sauvignon in California. Chappellet has grown into a true family winery, now run by the second generation.
History and family legacy
When the Chappellets moved to Pritchard Hill, it was still wild and undeveloped. The first vines were planted in the mid-1960s, at a time when Napa Valley was barely known outside the US. The winery quickly gained recognition for producing elegant yet powerful cabernets. Today, Chappellet remains family-owned with a strong focus on sustainability and expressing the unique terroir of the hill.
The vineyards on Pritchard Hill
Pritchard Hill rises above the eastern side of Napa Valley. The vineyards sit between 210 and 600 meters in elevation. This altitude brings long sunny days and cool nights. The soils are mostly volcanic rock and red clay, which produce small, concentrated grapes. Cabernet Sauvignon is the flagship, but Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot also play a role in the blends.
Climate and wine style
Napa Valley’s climate is shaped by cool air drifting in from San Pablo Bay. It allows grapes to ripen slowly while keeping their freshness. Pritchard Hill, however, is a touch warmer and drier, giving wines extra depth and intensity. The result is cabernet with power, layered flavors and the structure to age for decades. The combination of elevation, warmth and volcanic soils is rare in California, making Chappellet stand out.
Fun facts about Chappellet
- Chappellet was among the first Napa wineries to focus on mountain vineyards.
- Pritchard Hill is not an official appellation, yet the name has become a marker of quality.
- The iconic label, designed in the 1960s, has hardly changed and is instantly recognizable.
- Chappellet wines are served at top restaurants worldwide and are highly sought by collectors.
Order Chappellet wine online?
At Grandcruwijnen you can find Chappellet in our collection. The bottles are stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse. When you order online, shipping is safe and fast. Prefer to pick up in Dordrecht? You’ll get an immediate discount, visible as soon as you select ‘Afhalen’ (Pick up) during checkout.
