Fodor's Expert Review Corison Winery

Respected for three 100% Cabernet Sauvignons, Corison Winery harks back to simpler days, with tastings either amid oak barrels inside an unadorned, barnlike facility or alfresco in view of the half century–old Kronos Vineyard. The straightforward approach suits the style of Cathy Corison. One of post-1960s Napa Valley's first women owner-winemakers, she eschews blending because she believes her sunny St. Helena AVA vineyards (and other selected sites) can ripen Cabernet better than anywhere else in the world. Critics tend to agree with her approach, often waxing ecstatic about these classic wines. Discovery tastings, a showcase of current releases—and always a Cabernet—begin with a brief look at Kronos. Library tastings, which start with a winery and vineyard tour, include recent releases and older vintages that together illustrate Corison's consistency as a winemaker and how gracefully her wines mature. Tastings are by appointment.