We are currently enjoying our dinner in San Rafael accompanied by your family’s gorgeous 1991 Zinfandel.
The wine was stored properly (air conditioned wine closet) since purchasing in 1998 at your vineyard.
We find the wine remarkable for its flavour, body and finish. A superb Zinfandel…
Thank you
Alan Jarach and Charlie Parmelee
Hello from Galena, Illinois,
Just wanted to let you know that I opened my last bottle of your Petite Sirah ’09 last evening. Friends and I gathered at the inn in front of the fireplace with pizza.
I purchased this from your winery in 2011, I think. We stayed with Susan and Jim, Rustridge. They suggested we visit with you. It was a lovely and memorable time.
The bottle only had a little sediment at the neck where it laid. Cork was nice. Upon opening it, the taste was very good and after a little time the wine was so fabulously delicious. We wished we had more.
Would love to visit again, maybe some day.
Wishing you all the best.
Carole Volenec
My wife was rooting around old books and piles of paper and came across a flyer for your winery. She recalled it because I said it was a fabulous place. 50 years ago some friends and I rode our motorcycles through the hills and we came upon your vineyard. As I recall, the building was up against the road, cut into the hill under it. I recall everyone being very warm and low-key. Clearly you wouldn’t have spotted us for big customers, but everyone was lovely and kind, and the wine was fabulous.
I guess I went back a decade or two later with my wife–I don’t remember that visit as well, but I guess like everything in the industry it was more polished. But I remember that first visit with such fondness. I just wanted you to know that the work you do and the feel of your labor was not wasted on a couple of guys on motorcycles almost a half century ago.
Dan Phillips
I re-visited your winery last year after 50+ years when I was in my 20s. I must have visited a dozen times in my youth. Your grandmother Rosie and grandfather Jim were always there to greet us with a smile and her jokes (zinfandoodle). Jim was such a hard working man. The wonderful fruits of his and her labors. Enough rambling…we opened a bottle of Anton Lot 20 last night and it was wonderful. So smooth and delicious. Just wanted to pass on a nice memory to you and family.
James Rose
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25). I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that
my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. 
We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA
Hello from Galena, Illinois,
Just wanted to let you know that I opened my last bottle of your Petite Sirah ’09 last evening. Friends and I gathered at the inn in front of the fireplace with pizza.
I purchased this from your winery in 2011, I think. We stayed with Susan and Jim, Rustridge. They suggested we visit with you. It was a lovely and memorable time.
The bottle only had a little sediment at the neck where it laid. Cork was nice. Upon opening it, the taste was very good and after a little time the wine was so fabulously delicious. We wished we had more.
Would love to visit again, maybe some day.
Wishing you all the best.
Carole Volenec
Hello from Galena, Illinois,
Just wanted to let you know that I opened my last bottle of your Petite Sirah ’09 last evening. Friends and I gathered at the inn in front of the fireplace with pizza.
I purchased this from your winery in 2011, I think. We stayed with Susan and Jim, Rustridge. They suggested we visit with you. It was a lovely and memorable time.
The bottle only had a little sediment at the neck where it laid. Cork was nice. Upon opening it, the taste was very good and after a little time the wine was so fabulously delicious. We wished we had more.
Would love to visit again, maybe some day.
Wishing you all the best.
Carole Volenec
My wife was rooting around old books and piles of paper and came across a flyer for your winery. She recalled it because I said it was a fabulous place. 50 years ago some friends and I rode our motorcycles through the hills and we came upon your vineyard. As I recall, the building was up against the road, cut into the hill under it. I recall everyone being very warm and low-key. Clearly you wouldn’t have spotted us for big customers, but everyone was lovely and kind, and the wine was fabulous.
I guess I went back a decade or two later with my wife–I don’t remember that visit as well, but I guess like everything in the industry it was more polished. But I remember that first visit with such fondness. I just wanted you to know that the work you do and the feel of your labor was not wasted on a couple of guys on motorcycles almost a half century ago.
Dan Phillips
I re-visited your winery last year after 50+ years when I was in my 20s. I must have visited a dozen times in my youth. Your grandmother Rosie and grandfather Jim were always there to greet us with a smile and her jokes (zinfandoodle). Jim was such a hard working man. The wonderful fruits of his and her labors. Enough rambling…we opened a bottle of Anton Lot 20 last night and it was wonderful. So smooth and delicious. Just wanted to pass on a nice memory to you and family.
James Rose
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25). I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA
My wife was rooting around old books and piles of paper and came across a flyer for your winery. She recalled it because I said it was a fabulous place. 50 years ago some friends and I rode our motorcycles through the hills and we came upon your vineyard. As I recall, the building was up against the road, cut into the hill under it. I recall everyone being very warm and low-key. Clearly you wouldn’t have spotted us for big customers, but everyone was lovely and kind, and the wine was fabulous.
I guess I went back a decade or two later with my wife–I don’t remember that visit as well, but I guess like everything in the industry it was more polished. But I remember that first visit with such fondness. I just wanted you to know that the work you do and the feel of your labor was not wasted on a couple of guys on motorcycles almost a half century ago.
Dan Phillips
My wife was rooting around old books and piles of paper and came across a flyer for your winery. She recalled it because I said it was a fabulous place. 50 years ago some friends and I rode our motorcycles through the hills and we came upon your vineyard. As I recall, the building was up against the road, cut into the hill under it. I recall everyone being very warm and low-key. Clearly you wouldn’t have spotted us for big customers, but everyone was lovely and kind, and the wine was fabulous.
I guess I went back a decade or two later with my wife–I don’t remember that visit as well, but I guess like everything in the industry it was more polished. But I remember that first visit with such fondness. I just wanted you to know that the work you do and the feel of your labor was not wasted on a couple of guys on motorcycles almost a half century ago.
Dan Phillips
I re-visited your winery last year after 50+ years when I was in my 20s. I must have visited a dozen times in my youth. Your grandmother Rosie and grandfather Jim were always there to greet us with a smile and her jokes (zinfandoodle). Jim was such a hard working man. The wonderful fruits of his and her labors. Enough rambling…we opened a bottle of Anton Lot 20 last night and it was wonderful. So smooth and delicious. Just wanted to pass on a nice memory to you and family.
James Rose
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25). I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25. I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25. I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25. I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25. I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25. I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA
I visited my brother Steve, St. Helena resident on last week (10/10-10/14/25. I had never visited a winery and my brother selected Nichelini. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon on October 15th. The waiters were extremely helpful and very pleasant. I love Moscato and tasted a glass that was recommended on the menu. It was excellent. My brother also purchased a bottle of the Moscato for us to enjoy during my visit. Thank you for a great first experience of wine tasting.
Kathryn Edwards-Aston
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I bought my first case of wine from Nichelini during a visit to the winery in the summer of 1980. The ‘tasting room’ was a long table outside adjacent to the building. The weather was beautiful that day, and everyone was so friendly and cheerful. In my memory, all of the bottles I bought were of different varietals, and each one retailed for $3.00.
Lindsey Mohn
I made my first trip to Nichelini in 1997 with friends from Napa who took me to my first outdoor tasting with you. That’s me in the photo holding that pretty blonde lady who is now my wife. My friend Bob Moglia, who lives in the Bay area, joined us that day as well.
Rick Elmore
Winery Update!
The results of the 2025 California Commercial Wine Competition, part of the 2025 California State Fair, are in! We are beyond proud -and deeply grateful- for the recognitions we received! With 7 Double Gold, 1 Gold, and 6 Silver medals!
Double Gold:
2021 Reserve Merlot – 99 pts, Best of California
2023 Primitivo – 99 pts, Best of Region – Red
Roman Press Red Lot 22 – 98 pts
Porchlight Lot 14 – 99 pts
2023 Caterina Reserve – 98 pts
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé – 99 pts
2024 Muscadelle – 99 pts
Gold
2024 Roman Press White
Silver
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – 91 pts
2024 Moscato – 91 pts
2023 Muscadelle – 93 pts
2022 Petite Sirah – 93 pts
2024 Sauvignon Blanc – 93 pts
2022 Sparkling Brut – 93 pts
Team Nichelini
I first visited the Nichelini Winery in 1969, when I was in the Air Force and assigned to Beale AFB near Marysville. A fellow lieutenant enlisted my help (and others) to go to the Nichelini Winery during the last week in October, after the grape harvest was done. My friend had previously struck up a friendship with Jim Nichelini, who gave him permission to pick from the late-ripening grapes (after the main harvest was already done). Four of us loaded the back of a pick-up truck heaped high with these gamay grapes, which would otherwise never have been used. We returned to Beale AFB, where my friend used a variation of the Roman press to press the grapes: An earthenware crock with a disk made from plywood and a four-by-four nailed onto the center of the disk. Then, after putting the grapes into the crock, he jacked up the front of his 1966 Dodge, slid the crock under the frame in the front, and lowered the car onto the four-by-four to press the grapes. He called it his “Dodge press.” He had no casks to ferment the grape juice, but he had several hundred bottles of all kinds: wine bottles, quart soda bottles, anything you can imagine. The grape juice was fermented for four months in the bottle. In March of 1970, we had a party at his house, where we cracked open few bottles and discovered that we had sparkling gamay — a real surprise! Thereafter, over the next five years, we made the Nichelini Winery a treasured stop on the way home whenever we went to San Francisco for the weekend. We’d sit for an hour or two around the table (which was then positioned under the Roman press), and drink wine with Jim and his wife. How I would love to go back in time and do that again!
Bill Dettmer
Uncorked, Episode #2: Historic Napa Wineries: Charles Krug & Nichelini | St. Helena, California
Join us on the second episode of our St. Helena Uncorked Passport series as we visit two of Napa Valley’s most historic wineries: Charles Krug and Nichelini. Experience a blend of food, wine, family heritage. Learn about the history and the delicious offerings at these wineries.
00:00 Welcome to St. Helena Uncorked Passport Series
01:33 Exploring Charles Krug Winery
02:40 Tasting and Dining at Charles Krug
05:12 Discovering Nichelini Winery
06:09 Wine Tasting at Nichelini
08:54 A Friendly Game of Bocce Ball
09:47 Thank You and See You Next Time
Grant & Teresa
I had to report that your 1993 CAB purchased at Nichelini was un-corked. After all the years in our wine pantry, your 1993 Cab kept and was tasted this past weekend with our wine drinking friend(s). The aroma was exquisitely gentle suggesting a smooth textured body-taste. The wine color was deep-dark burgundy without any brown tinting. But as I always say the proof of a pudding is with and in the pudding itself. The first sip proved extraordinarily surprising, sensing an almost balance soft feel, between its acidity and tannins on the tongue. BUT… in swallowing of the wine… OMG, our opinion(s), it was uniquely smooth with a big front end that tapered-off with no sharpness, bitterness or out-of proportion brightness of sort… 😮
We initially savored your 1993 Cab and decided to finish the remaining half-filled bottle at dinner. BTW… it did not distract the food served at our dinner that was a simple Caesar salad served along with pasta with shrimp.
I first visited Nichelini back in 1979 and met with the late owner. Whenever visiting Napa/Sonoma/Russian river… Nichelini is a must visit for us!
Keep up the great wine making!!
Duane Kaya
While an undergraduate student at Cal Davis in the early 1960’s we stopped at Nichelini on our way to the Napa Valley. Usually 3 or 4 couples in a two cars, we had previously passed by Nichelini. We decided to stop to see what this winery with the funky sign and no parking lot was all about. We walked around the house and down the steps and was greeted by the Nichelinis. We sampled the wine with the roman press arm over the table. Being poor and thirsty college students, we pooled our resources and bought a case of wine to take advantage of the case discount. Over the next couple of years we stopped by often and one time we were invited back for a picnic in the backyard, we bought the wine, cheese and bread provide by the winery. Nichelini became our winery. On subsequent busisness trips back to California, I often took a detour to stop by Nichelini. I saw the changes occurring in the winery, initially trouble competing with the valley wineries. Later on with the advent of the wine club and the internet, I saw a resurgence. Disappointed to find the tasting was now indoors in the house not in the back under the Roman Press, just missed the informal outdoor tastings. I hope Nichelini continues to produce great wines and keeps it welcoming atmosphere. Photo of some business friends sampling the wine under the Roman Press.
Karl Frank
Nichelini Family Winery was the very first winery I visited after my cross country move from Connecticut to Napa. My mom and I decided to take a scenic drive around Lake Berryessa and came upon it by mistake. We were new to wine tasting protocol and didn’t realize most wineries require a reservation. A distant cousin of ours happened to be kayaking and offered to meet us there afterwards so it was a small family reunion. Nichelini Family Winery holds a very special place in my heart.
Phoebe Ziegler
We had a wonderful stay in your B&B, I think, in the ‘90’s. Used the hot tub!!! Have your T-shirt & 2 wine glasses we used tonight, on Valentine’s Day. Wonderful memories.. and great wine!!!
Richard & Elaine Richardson
I just wanted to let you know that my wife and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday and enjoyed a bottle of your 1985 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon with dinner. I had purchased the bottle many years ago and have been saving it for a special occasion.
Understandably, the cork broke in two when trying to extract it but our waiter was able to get the rest out without a problem. The color was a fresh ruby red and the taste was fruity and smooth with no unpleasant sediment to the last glass.
Congratulations on a great long-lasting wine!
Pat & Francy McGinnis
Walnut Creek, CA
1893 – My Great, Great Grandfather William Thomas Bradley rented the Charles Smith cellar to crush 300 tons of grapes and Anton Nichelini being an experienced winemaker helped bring W.T. Bradley’s grapes to market.
We visited in 2002 and loved the barn, the vibe, and most of all the wine. We bought 6 bottles of 1999 Cabernet shipped them to Colorado, and drank most of them within the next few years. One bottle remained, and we kept it.
In 2016 we moved to Maryland and carted our wine collection, with our one bottle of Nichelini’. We had quite a collection– over 300 bottles from all over the world. Fast forward to 2018, and we find out that the proprietor if the wine storage where we had our wine stored stole all but 10 bottles–a couple of Chateau Musar, a random bottle with a damaged label, and our one bottle of Nichelini’.
We saved that bottle– we loved our memories of the wine tasting and the chickens and the barn, but we finally decided to crack it open. Tonight we had our Nichelini’ 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon with beef tenderloin.
It. Was. Worth. The. Wait.
I am elated and sad at the same time: we no longer have our bottle, but it was so integrated, full bodied, and still had so much of it’s original terroir that it brought us back to the vineyard. It was magical, and we loved it!!
Mary Holley
Just sitting having Christmas dinner and reminiscing with my parents about the old days. My father brought up one of his favorite wines, that he used to buy at Genova deli….we Googled you and are so happy you are still here, my father is 82, and lives in Utah so chances are he’s not going to find you in any state run liquor stores there, so as soon as this SIP lifts, we’ll be up to bring him back to the “good ole days”
Alison Butler
Celebrating the winery’s survival with tri tip, taters & a bottle of 2015 reserve Primitivo! Yay!
Looking forward to the next wine club pickup and the vintages to come. Congratulations to you on your planning ahead for this disaster & to the the firefighters who stood their ground.
Kate Aldrich
Celebrating a COVID-19 Lockdown Easter in Cork Ireland. I hope everyone at the Nichelini family Winery is keeping safe.
Pat Hannon
We moved to TN, 4 years ago. Before we left CA, we took our son and daughter-in-law to one of our favorite wineries, Nichelini. They loved the visit and Nichelini wines made quite an impression. This year for Christmas, they sent us three bottles of wine as a gift. It brought back wonderful memories of that special visit and the awesome wines the Nichelini Winery produces.
Debbey Cozzone
Earlier this year in June, my wife and I traveled across the country to California to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. I had done some research to try to find the perfect spot for us to have a picnic and enjoy some wine oh, and as soon as I found Nichelini Winery, I knew that was the place. When neither of us knew until we stepped into the winery and surrounding grounds, was that Nichelini surpassed our expectations more than we could imagine. The friendly people the beautiful scenery oh, and last but not least the fantastic wine! We joined the wine club, but are already planning our next visit to Napa Valley and Nichelini Winery.
Bruce Southers
In 1968 My wife and I were living in Oakland California finishing up my last six months in the Coast Guard. We visited your winery and were introduced to Zinfandel – wonderful robust wine. I still remember the hospitality that you so freely gave. All these many years and miles I still cherish that memory.
Michael Trank
On our 1st visit to Napa we discovered this amazing winery. We were in love after the first sip. My husband and I became members and have thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Every bottle has been absolutely delicious! Salute’
Christiane Housley
Sometimes you know your family, and can be proud, but I think it’s always nice when you hear about how special your family is from the “outside”.
Fred Nichelini was my Dad, David Cooney’s supervisor at Mare Island. I showed my Dad the postcard w/the 2018 Pic#2 of Fred and Catherine (and pet) and he said, “He was a great boss. We’d make a suggestion and he’d say, ‘Let me think about it’. Then he’d come back to us guys and say, ‘Well it’s not how they want it, but this is how we’re going to get it done.’ And he’d always back us up if there was any flack.” Thank you for providing my Dad and me a special time of good memories.
Colleen (Cooney) Tortorice
My father was Ruben W Phillips, his mother (my grandmother) was Pauline Vivian Leoni and her mother (my great grandmother) was Caroline Felicitia Nichelini. My father told stories of when he was young staying with his grandparents and working on the winery. I took my dad to see the winery and visit with Jimmy who died shortly after are visit. We went to the family picnic which was a nice memory for my dad.
Sandy Sommers
I visited the winery 2 years ago as an add on to a work trip. After spending the day frustrated at how Napa has changed to high cost tastings, I headed back to Sacramento over the mountains with a bag full of great picnic food and no wine to share it with. Much to my surprise, I passed a sign that said “Yes, way!” While driving a winding mountain road. I found a way to turn around to get back to this magical place. After parking, l walked down stone steps with the sound of an accordion play in the distance and was greeted by a smile and free sample of cool and delicious white wine with watermelon and cheese. I then proceeded to taste all of the offerings and made a friend at the tasting bar. It was her birthday and she brought her newly married husband to Napa for his first wine weekend. We enjoyed our company so much that I offered to share my picnic food and a bottle of the 2010 Reserve Zinfandel with them. We sat at a picnic table for 2 hours and talked / shared wonderful food, wine and stories. All the while, the according played along with our stories. Toward the end, the winery rep from the tasting brought down some Porchlight for us to cap off our amazing experience. Today, I received a promotion at work and am drinking another glass of the same Zinfandel that I brought home, saved for a special occasion. Opening the bottle brought back the memory from that visit 2 years ago. I think the best of life is shared with great conversation, food and wine. This wine and that day made a very special memory for me.
Terry Beatty
We wanted to share with you our framed picture of several of the postcards we have received from you over the past few years. We saved so many of them thinking that we would use them somehow, and this Christmas I had them framed for my husband as a gift. He was thrilled!
Our best to everyone at Nichileni Winery & a prosperous new year!
Kindest regards,
Connie & Michael Alexander
Tulsa, OK
“It was summer, 1959, my best friend, Cindy, invited me to spend time with her Grandparents at their winery…..astonishingly, I was allowed to go. They were the loveliest people. The winery was such a mysterious, cool, dark place for this kid who never even saw a bottle of wine before. We fished in the stream, “discovered” crawfish in the shallows, Cindy took me up the hill to the spring that fed the house, and all else, I believe, at the time. There was a big old white horse out in the pasture, who didn’t seem to mind two kids making a fuss over it. Your Grandmother, God bless her!!, actually cleaned and fried up some tiny trout for me. It was my first experience with drinking wine, with DINNER! Wow! It truly is one of the shining memories of my growing up in California…..and sleeping in the bed by the window made of glass blocks, it was all sort of a lazy, sweet, magical bit of time out of mind.”
-Cheryl Thacker (once upon a time, Carroll)
“In 1984, on a cold and rainy night in January we had the pleasure of coming upon the Nichelini winery, where an older gentleman -Mr Nichelini- was hosting a small group by a big furnace, offering wine tastings in the pouring rain. That night we tasted the best wines and port we’ve ever tasted in our lives. We brought some port back. It was wonderful and this gentleman was the best! Sitting around that furnace, looking down over the vines in the rain was magical!”
–Maggie Dunaway Bedford, Texas
“My friend and I passed by several vineyards and wineries during our 40 mile bike ride of Napa tour from Yountville to Saint Helena on Sunday, August 20, 2017. When I got to the top of our ride along lower Chiles road, which is roughly 20 miles from where our bike ride started, I came upon the only winery on that road. It looked so inviting, that I flagged my friend to stop and park our bikes so we could take a break at this beautiful winery. When we walked down the steps to the tasting area, Doug greeted us with such a warm welcome and a big smile that melted all the difficulty that I felt during the climb of our bike ride. Doug offered us tastings of their new release and told us stories of their winery and the grapes. I enjoyed the Caterina Semillon the best, which was named after his mother. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope to visit again soon. I wish your family the best and for your vineyard to thrive for many more generations to enjoy. Cheers!”
-Manggo Licauco
“I used to come to Nichelini Winery when I was in grad school at UC Davis and when working in the SF Bay area. You were my favorite! Not much for alcohol, I fell in love with you Sauvignon Vert with its crisp and clean flavor. I then learned the grape was only present in something like 66 acres in the US mostly in Europe. I was in love! Your tasting room boasted one of my favorite pictures I took of myself there, and the hummingbird feeders in the back is still one of my favorite places to be in the Napa Valley. Keep up the good work Nichelini, and I hope to see you again soon!
-Cindi
“My husband, Rick and I were at the Nichelini Winery 5 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it and the scenery. The wine was wonderful and have saved a bottle yet to be touched. We are returning January 2014 and you winery is on our list of priorities to visit. Looking forward again to seeing your establishment. You made us feel at home and my husband still wears your hat.”
-Julie Mason Dover, Ohio
“When I was just a little boy in the 60’s, my mom and dad would take my sister and I over to Napa from Sacramento on wine tasting trips. I remember the stops at Nichelini more than any other. While Mom and Dad tasted, the proprietor would let my sister and I eat grapes. The smells of barrels, musk, and wine always take me back to Nichelini. It was just 10 years ago that I took my dad there one last time. Today, his Parkinson’s pretty much keeps him in bed. I’ve returned many times since, and will continue to go for as long as I’m able. I have a wonderful connection to Nichelini’s friendliness, coziness and shared history.”
-Jeff Wedge Roseville, CA
“When I was a little girl in the early 80’s my family used to visit your winery. My father’s (John Wainright) great-aunt was related to your family and she sought us out wen we lived in Oakland. I distinctly remember teh old house with the wood-burning fireplace and the old stone barn with the huge casks. I know we picnicked there a couple times. My family lives in Pennsylvania now, but we always remember your winery fondly.”
-Elizabeth Ivers Wainright
“I stopped by your winery last Friday, May 3rd, and wanted to comment about my visit. First, I have driven past it a dozen or so times, but always in route to or from the valley. This time I had time and decided to stop.
I want to say: 1) how much I enjoyed your wines and 2) how much I enjoyed the young lady who served me. She indicated that she only works one day a week and is a family memeber, by the name of Janette. But she really made the stop worthwhile. I have a small 400-700 case winery and would love to have individuals as pleasant as her working for me. We enjoyed a bottle of your Cab-Sauv with dinner this evening at home and it reminded me that I wanted to express my pleasure with my visit. We get to Napa every 2-3 years and look forward to making a point of stopping by.”
–John Girt
Owner/Winemaker at Tiger Mountain Winery, LLC
“My wife and I were at your winery in early August and very much enjoyed the tasting you provided. We arrived unannounced and during a time you were not normally open, but you took us in and gave a great presentation. In addition you gave us a thorough wine education. I wish I could remember half of what you said. We purchased a couple bottles of wine and have enjoyed them. Thanks for being so kind and I hope you enjoy a great year of wine.”
– Jim T.
“Hello all. Just thought I would drop you a note about how much my wife and I enjoy your wine, The Primitivo is still my favorite, and have enjoyed it with lamb and all by itself. We were there just as the vines were waking up and thought your Vineyard was the most relaxed and made the tasting very personal. Keep up the good work.”
– Bob
“If walls could talk, the old stone winery of Nichelini would tell amazing tales of 5 generations of family winemakers and the historic creek side winery that is the oldest in the Napa Valley. For over 120 years, the Nichelini family has produced exquisite estate wines in the Napa Valley. The historic stone winery, on the banks of Sage Creek, was built in 1895. Through Prohibition and beyond, 5 generations of this legendary family have honed their skills producing award-wining wines that are only availableat the winery. Visit any day chat with the family over a glass of wine. Learn about the wines and their rich history in the Napa Valley. By the time you leave, you’ll have made a few new friends and already be planning your next visit!”
– Jonelle January 31, 2012
“My father frequented Nichelini winery on numerous occasions in the early 70’s. Remember running around out back and on those chilly mornings/days sitting on the small kegs. All this while my dad and I think another Mr. Nichelini talked about wine. Each time we left the cases were stacked in the back of the station wagon and the camping equipment on top. My brother and I were squeezed in on those rides back to the city. Liked looking at the pictures. Hasn’t changed that much in the areas I remember. Cheers!”
-Tim Lewis January 10, 2012
“I visited Napa for the first time ever! We were so disappointed! Went to a small winery on the Napa-St Helena hwy, and the young man at I would rather not mention where, didn’t care, notice, or give a hoot about who we were, we could have been from Mars! It wasn’t anything personal, just take a number, pay your tasting fee and buy some wine and move on so I can get off work. On the way home, we drove the road to Lake Berryessa and luckily stopped in at the Nichelini Family Winery and were wowed by the personal touch beyond our dreams! After opening up for us, because we told them about our non-descript and sad experience in the valley, they said that we couldn’t leave Napa that way. We tasted all their wine, shared our Organic Nation spirits with them and got invited, per tradition, to their family BBQ/Bday party, an entire pig! Everyone was so nice, beyond our expectations. We now have friends for life, and besides, the wine is great! The service and care is beyond what anyone expects, We dream of this and they made our dream come true!! Come visit us soon in Oregon, so we can return the favor!”
– Diane and David from Organic Nation, Ashland, OR
“I was looking for a wine to go with a pork roast and thought of Gamay which brought me back to 1982 and a trip to Nichelini Winery to buy wine for a party. Jim was working that day and we bought four cases of Gamay.”
– Bill Conlon, Palo Alto, CA