Starmont Winery and Vineyards Review
Address: 1451 Stanly Lane Napa,California 94559.
Phone Number: 707-252-8001
Tasting Hours: 10:00-5:00
Region: Napa Valley AVA, Los Carneros AVA, California
Reviewer: Laura Cropper
Review Date: 10/19/2015
Reviewer: Laura Cropper
Rating: 5
The Review
Starmont Winery is located just off scenic Route 12, about a mile down Stanly Lane. As the winery comes into sight, youll see the production side first, and then just beyond production there is parking for tasting room visitors. The winery has a beautiful and inviting outdoor patio with comfortable couches and chairs surrounding two fire-pits, a perfect spot for enjoying the picturesque views of Carneros’ vineyards and hills. There are also bistro style tables, Adirondack chairs and additional seating in the tasting room if the weather is not cooperating. There is usually an afternoon Carneros Breeze that comes in from the San Pablo Bay so a light sweater can come in handy! Soft music in the background contributes to a relaxing place to have a tasting.
The tasting room features bistro tables and barstools at the bar where I was greeted by at two very friendly and welcoming tasting room associates. I was hosted by Tristin who was both knowledgeable and hospitable. She met me with a smile, made me feel right at home, and after explaining the menu, told me that I could sit anywhere.
Tristin started the tasting with a refreshing Pinot Gris. This wine would be perfect for a warm afternoon, as we often have in Napa, and would pair beautifully with fish or even something as simple as chips and guacamole. Starmont also has two chardonnays available to accommodate those who prefer different styles of Chardonnay. My personal favorite was the Stanly Ranch Estate Chardonnay. This featured a light body, fruit notes of lemon, some baking spice and a smooth finish. They also have a Carneros Chardonnay, which is also delicious but made in a completely different style. This wine delivers a nose of oak and on the palette a full body of oak, butter and acidity. The Carneros Chardonnay is distributed, and you may find it in stores.
Luckily for me, when I was ready to move on to reds they had some special bottles open. Tristin poured extra splashes of Pinot Noir for me which allowed me to try three side by side to compare. They each highlighted a different aspect of the Carneros region, and I enjoyed them all. Starmont’s delicious Syrah, with its beautiful, deep and dark colors, conveyed hints of blueberry and cocoa. I have a feeling that the next time Im there, this vintage will not be!
Starmont is also a dog-friendly winery. There were a couple of dogs present when I was there tasting. The tasting room features logo wear as well as some dog accessories for sale.
The Starmont Winery club provides complimentary, seated tasting for up to four people, discounts on wines, invitations to club exclusive events and access to limited release wines. There are six bottles in every shipment, and shipments are released four times per year, shipping is included on all orders.
I had a wonderful experience at Starmont Winery; it’s a great place to bring guests, and I will be back!