Their vineyard was originally part of Caroline Bale's dowry when she married Charles Krug in 1860, and from that
point through today Fantesca has become a legacy rich in feminine influence, like its namesake. Today the winery
employs the winemaking expertise of Heidi Barrett, the valley's "First Lady of Wine," also called the "Queen of
Cult Cabernet" by Robert Parker Jr. But it was the Hoffs' dream that returned this spirited wine production to the
estate.
Located on the southeastern side of Spring Mountain, the vineyard plantings benefit from tremendous variation
in slope among the 10 acres of vines. The elevation and mountain terrain offer excellent sun exposure and
a long grape growing season. A team led by Jim Barbour manages the mountain vines, which produce rich,
intense cabernet. Together with the Hoffs, the Fantesca winemaking team possesses a spirit of pride. A sense of
ownership permeates the enterprise, accentuated with a love for the Napa Valley lifestyle; the Hoffs are truly living
the American dream.
ABOVE: Fantesca's caves penetrate 297 feet through the mountain
range. The caves are rumored to be an abandoned silver mine.
Photograph by Leigh Hagen, LHGFX
LEFT: Fantesca's private tasting room provides an elegant
environment to experience its highly acclaimed wines.
Photograph by M. J. Wickham
