Discover How Clos du Val Winery Is Reviving Its Legendary Status

Reviving a Napa Valley Icon: The Journey of Clos du Val

In the astoundingly picturesque Napa Valley, the story of Clos du Val stands out as a tale of revival and perseverance. Established in 1972, this winery was once a trailblazer that contributed significantly to the Napa Valley's reputation as a premier wine-growing region. Its magnificent Cabernet Sauvignon found acclaim at the legendary 1976 Judgement of Paris tasting. This historic event not only showcased the prowess of American wines but also placed Clos du Val at the forefront, celebrated for its elegance and character.

From Historic Greatness to New Beginnings

However, as time marched on, Clos du Val faced challenges. The winery, once a staple in wine lovers' conversations, struggled to maintain its status amid newer, trendier competitors. Despite offering a range of solid, quality wines, its unique legacy was overshadowed by flashier names, causing it to fade from the spotlight it once enjoyed. The revival journey began anew under the stewardship of Olav Goelet, who took the reins in 2023, having deeply assessed the winery’s heritage and significance in the wine community.

A Purposeful Return: The Yettalil Blend

Goelet's vision involved an embrace of Clos du Val’s roots in producing exquisite Bordeaux-style wines. The introduction of the Yettalil, a $200 Bordeaux-style blend from their estate vineyards in the Stags Leap District, illustrates this commitment. The Yettalil has quickly become a beacon of the winery’s aspirations and reflects a wonderful blend of tradition and modern winemaking. "Yettalil, to us, is reconnecting our past through a wine of purpose and sense of place," Goelet expressed. This blend showcases a meticulous focus on the Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc varieties that once defined Clos du Val’s illustrious past.

The Future Looks Bright: Family Legacy at the Heart

Working collaboratively with winemaker Carmel Greenberg and viticulturist Ryan Decker, Goelet is shifting back to the properties and varietals that once made the winery great. As part of this strategy, they divested from their Carneros vineyard to streamline their focus on Bordeaux varieties and improve their winemaking quality. Goelet and his family, who all share a rich legacy in the winery, understand the weight of family tradition and modern innovation. "We just needed to focus on what made us great in the first place," he said, highlighting the importance of lineage in their business.

Why This Matters to Wine Lovers in Philadelphia

For top wage earners in Philadelphia, the story of Clos du Val is more than just about wine; it's an embodiment of resilience and heartfelt dedication to quality. As consumers increasingly seek unique, engaging experiences, the revival of this storied winery presents an opportunity to connect with a narrative that goes beyond the bottle. With each sip of Yettalil, wine lovers can partake in a legacy steeped in history, making their wine experiences richer and more meaningful.

Join the Revival Movement

As Clos du Val charts its course back to greatness, wine enthusiasts are encouraged to be part of this immersive journey. Exploring the nuances of Yettalil not only offers a delightful taste experience but also connects drinkers to an inspiring story of rebirth within the historic Napa Valley. The revival of this legendary winery serves as a reminder of the importance of tradition, quality, and community in the world of wine.