Slow and steady, the 2025 growing season in Napa Valley was a welcome reset. This return-to-classic vintage showed balanced acids, moderate sugars, and excellent phenolic ripeness. Built for structure and longevity, the wines also show beautiful terroir expression, especially on Spring Mountain. 

The season began with a wet winter, delivering a replenishing rainfall. Though spring temperatures stayed on the cooler side, budbreak was on time and the vines responded with slow, even growth through flowering. Fruit set was strong, with healthy, uniform clusters throughout. Summer continued the theme of moderation. Fruit ripened gradually, allowing aromatics, color, and tannins to develop without pushing sugars too quickly. By mid-season, it was clear this would be a vintage defined by poise and place, not power.

A moderate fall allowed harvest to unfold smoothly. Winemakers were able to wait for flavor and tannin maturity rather than chasing sugars. Up on Spring Mountain, the higher elevations and cooler nights stretched the ripening curve even further. The extended hang times allowed flavors and phenolics to mature fully while sugars remained restrained. The wines this year show a compelling balance — the classic mountain structure is there, but with a lovely grace and clarity. Expect elegant, ageworthy wines that you can drink now and cellar for years to come. 

A vintage that rewarded patience and delivered nuance in the cellar, 2025 will likely be remembered for its clarity, balance, and a renewed conversation about classicism in California winemaking.