Smith-Madrone Winery

Stu Smith

Forbes recently gave a shout-out to Smith-Madrone Winery (who, you ask?) owned and operated by brothers Stu and Charlie Smith. The vineyards and winery are situated in the hills between Napa and Sonoma County. They've been doing this for almost 50 years and are both in their 70s.

Visiting their winery is a trip back to before Napa was the darling of the rich entrepreneur. Their wines are also a trip back in time in that they might come across as dry when young and have noticeable acid! I think their wines are phenomenal.

I had a wine class with Stu Smith at the local junior college in the 1980s. He was a riot, and opinionated, back then and apparently still is according to the article. The brothers' stubbornness is probably what's kept them going.

If you're ever in the neighborhood make an appointment to see them. You'll be glad you did.

Forbes article