My Artesa Winery experience was highly anticipated but ultimately disappointing. Ugh, I hate to start with that, but its sadly true! My first mistake with Artesa was not making a reservation... It took me two tries as a walk-in to figure out I NEEDED to make a reservation. I suggest making a reservation even if it is just two of you; also note they require reservations for larger parties (8 or more). Artesa's property is stunning, this contemporary hilltop estate in Carneros gives you unobstructed views of Napa Valley! The winery first opened its doors in 1991 under the ownership of the Codorníu-Raventós (yup don't know how to pronounce it either) historic Spanish winemaking family. They originally opened their doors under a different name, "Codorníu Napa," with a mission to make California's top sparkling wine. The Artesa name was born in 1998 when the vineyard proved its success at still wines, and they've continued to grow and expand ever since. Though they produce about 60,000 cases, only a few are being distributed outside of the tasting room. To taste all they have to offer, you need to visit the tasting room and then, and only then will you be able to taste through the gamut.
Now all the above information I gathered from the Artes website, which brings me to the disappointing experience when I finally visited Artesa. As I mentioned, this was a highly anticipated event for me, and I was extremely excited! It started so strong too, we arrived for our reservation about 15 minutes early, which wasn't a problem. We were informed that the exterior patio was fully booked; this happens quickly, and during the busy season (March thru May & August thru October) the exterior patio is reserved for club members and those purchasing the Signature Tasting only. Even though we were hoping to sit out there to witness the scenic views, they have a beautiful courtyard that is still outside but more sheltered from the wind. We were seated and given a glass of the Artesa sparkling wine, which was great. Usually, I would expect the host/hostess to ask us what brought us in or exchange pleasantries, but we didn't get any of that, didn't even get our hostesses name until we asked. At first, I thought that maybe she was giving us a minute to get adjusted until she handed us the tasting menu and just walked away. Now for the tasting, you are given two options, the Signature Tasting $45 or the Classic Tasting $35.
Since I wanted to taste it all, my boyfriend and I decided to do one each. He did the Classic Tasting, and I did the Signature Tasting, and we just shared the glasses between the two of us. The first wines were brought out to us, and no description or information was really given regarding the wines. And the lack of communication continued as we moved through the tasting. I tried to ask questions and gain some more insight into Artesa and their winemaking style with little luck. The wines were decent and a wide range of profiles-- zesty Albariño to full-bodied Carneros Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Tempranillo. These were pretty easy drinking but not much depth. The Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon were still full-bodied but more tannic. Generally speaking, the red wines were dominant, and the higher alcohol levels could be felt on the palate. I ended up preferring the wines from the Classic Tasting and wouldn't recommend the more expensive tasting unless you've already had them, and you know it's your preference. Ultimately, I would say Artesa is one of those wineries you need to know what you are doing. If you are new to wine or don't know much about unique varietals, I wouldn't suggest a tasting here to start. I am not going to write them off entirely, but if you are looking for a more intimate interactive tasting, this isn't it. I was talking to another friend in the industry who happens to be a member. He was shocked to hear that this was my experience.
So would I revisit them? Maybe but probably not, the wines were fine, and we did purchase a few bottles, but that's about it. Perhaps it was a busy day, or maybe our hostess was having a rough day, I don't know. Perhaps if I went with a club member, it would be different, but if I go off first impressions, my experience was underwhelming and disappointing. There are so many places in Sonoma and Napa Valley your money and time would be better spent elsewhere.
So sad that you were disappointed! Hopefully the next winery will be a better experience.