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VGS Chateau Potelle Winery Review

VGS Chateau Potelle Winery Review

Address: 3875 Mount Veeder Rd. Napa,California 94558.
Phone Number: 707-255-9440
Tasting Hours: By appt.

Region: Napa Valley AVA, Mount Veeder AVA, California
Reviewer: Laura Cropper
Review Date: 1/26/2016
Reviewer: Laura Cropper
Rating: 5

The Review

Chateau Potelle aka “VGS” is located in a small, country house on the northbound side of picturesque Route 29 just south of the historic town of St. Helena. You’ll know you’re there by the beautiful surroundings and the famous, yellow front door. The tasting room blends French country elegance and modern Napa style. My tasting partner and I booked an appointment for a tasting of wines and small food pairings prepared and designed by the one and only, Chef Ken Frank of La Tocque. This tasting is priced at $45, which is a steal for the quality of the wine and the food. Chateau Potelle, like most prestigious wineries, requires a reservation, but if there is a cancellation, a walk-in can be accommodated.

Our very hospitable and friendly host, Tony, greeted us at the door and led us to our seated tasting. Our table, set with stemware and literature, also had a tasting mat which described the wine and food pairings. Every seated area is pre-set with four glasses ready for the next tasting appointment. The tasting room has warm colors and artwork on display. You’ll also see large format bottles on display telling the story of how Chateau Potelle came to be in the Napa Valley.

Tony began our tasting with the VGS Still Rose made entirely from Cinsault. With a beautiful color of peach hues, it was a light and delicate wine, a perfect way to start the tasting. My personal favorite of the day was the 2012 The Illegitimate. A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Syrah, The Illegitimate showcased the VGS characteristics of rich, smooth and deep flavors. Get yours now as the blend is for The Illegitimate is different every year.

We visited the winery in January so naturally our tasting was inside, but the property offers lovely outside accommodations. There are tables, cushioned chairs, a water fountain, and a long dining table protected from the sun by a decorative canopy.

Tony was very knowledgeable of the wines and the property. This must be a great place to work as he has been with the company for fourteen years. For committed customers, Chateau Potelle provides three different wine club options: The Collector’s Club, Connoisseur’s Club, and Club VGS. The levels include 4, 6 or 12 bottles per quarter, and the selections here include Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon depending upon the season. There is also a red wine exclusive club if you prefer.

Chateau Potelle also offers wine club members a very exclusive package including a four course lunch paired with Chateau Potelle wines. Hosted on the winery’s Mount Veeder property, this event usually concludes after about three hours and is well worth every penny. The food is again prepared by Chef Ken Frank and the event is limited to approximately twenty guests.

I had a wonderful winter experience at Chateau Potelle, but I am already planning to visit in the summer to experience the garden and patio with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc! Can’t wait for summer!