How do you begin to comprehend nature? How do you begin to understand land this beautiful, this unique, and this accomplished at producing wines of this magnitude? Far Niente is a triumph. Of beauty. Of history. Of taking what nature has offered and accomplishing a standard of winemaking that mystifies even Mother Nature.
There's not one aspect of Far Niente that isn't touched by our passion and precision. From the moment we open our gates to your first sip of our wines, you are transported to a place and experience unrivaled in excellence. At Far Niente, we've been growing and making Cabernet Sauvignon in the Napa Valley since 1982.
There's not one aspect of Far Niente that isn't touched by our passion and precision. From the moment we open our gates to your first sip of our wines, you are transported to a place and experience unrivaled in excellence. At Far Niente, we've been growing and making Cabernet Sauvignon in the Napa Valley since 1982.
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Our history was shaped by dreamers, doers, and craftsmen - all in pursuit of perfection in winemaking. Far Niente was founded in Oakville, California in 1885 by John Benson, a forty-niner of the California gold rush and uncle of the famous American impressionist painter, Winslow Homer. Benson hired architect Hamden McIntyre, and together they worked to create an exquisite oasis in western Oakville.
In 1979, we had a vision. 40 years later, that vision persists. To create the quintessential example of Chardonnay, to produce a wine of such stature and complexity, that it truly becomes iconic. For 40 years we've achieved that vision. And we proudly invite you to share in our celebration. Classically beautiful, the 2019 vintage opens with aromas of honeysuckle, white peach blossom and citrus zest, along with soft accents of vanilla.
Our mastery of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is 40 years in the making. Our vast experience is woven with a passion to create timeless wines found in cellars around the world. What started as a labor of love more than four decades ago has transformed into a globally appreciated fine wine. Oakville is the heart of exceptional Napa Valley Cabernet, and it happens to be our home.
Reviews (21)
Linda M.
Dec 29, 2021
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We traveled to Far Niente from South Florida as a family with a reservation only to be informed that our tasting & tour was canceled due to limited staff & that the winery was closed. We had inquired if we could visit the property grounds and were told we could. When we arrived, a man in a suit asked if we were the Davis party of which we responded no. He then proceeded to inform us that they were simply meeting this party to accompany them to Nickel & Nickel winery, Needless to say, we were quite disappointed that this party was invited inside during our scheduled reservation while
Ju L.
Dec 23, 2021
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Far Niente was our last stop of our second day of wine tasting in Napa Valley. I was honestly tired and wanted to get this last tasting over with, as we've already done 3 tastings and I was all wined out.
As we approached the closed gate with our rental car, the gate slowly opened, and we drove inside. Everything about this place was so enchanting. You HAVE to see it. The Far Niente estate is easily one of the most beautiful estates in Napa Valley. It felt like I had stepped into a fairy-tale.
We checked in with one of the staff members who had us wait a short while before our wine specialist
As we approached the closed gate with our rental car, the gate slowly opened, and we drove inside. Everything about this place was so enchanting. You HAVE to see it. The Far Niente estate is easily one of the most beautiful estates in Napa Valley. It felt like I had stepped into a fairy-tale.
We checked in with one of the staff members who had us wait a short while before our wine specialist
Mikey H.
Dec 12, 2021
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Where to start? For our annual birthdays trip, Yolie said she wanted to come here because it is her favorite chardonnay, so she booked us a tasting. We drove up, the woman at the parking lot said to park, and when we checked in with her, she gave us a 2 oz pour of wine to welcome us.
Cynthia - When you're done, come back down and walk around the fountain
What a great way to start our visit! We went up to the lobby of the main house. There was a large tasting going on at one end, and what looked like a small tasting in a corner. We waited for Dimitri in the comfy sofas near the spiral
Cynthia - When you're done, come back down and walk around the fountain
What a great way to start our visit! We went up to the lobby of the main house. There was a large tasting going on at one end, and what looked like a small tasting in a corner. We waited for Dimitri in the comfy sofas near the spiral
Julia Guan
Dec 03, 2021
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We didn't make a reservation in advance, so we couldn't go inside the winery, but the exterior is very spectacular.
Although the outside street is a private road, you can take pictures.
And the security staff aren't really that rude.
I think He seems to be working hard for people's safety.
Some tourists dine openly at the entrance…which is very unsightly. Please do not have a picnic time at the private place.
I will visit here next time again with the reservation! Excited.
FYI, Their red wine is sold at Costco these days..I will get a bottle of wine at Costco first.
Although the outside street is a private road, you can take pictures.
And the security staff aren't really that rude.
I think He seems to be working hard for people's safety.
Some tourists dine openly at the entrance…which is very unsightly. Please do not have a picnic time at the private place.
I will visit here next time again with the reservation! Excited.
FYI, Their red wine is sold at Costco these days..I will get a bottle of wine at Costco first.
Ellen C.
Nov 23, 2021
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Penny Roberts
Nov 17, 2021
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DON'T EVER COME HERE!!! This place is the epitome of TERRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE. I have frequented Napa many times and never have I encountered such horrendous service! This experience was a stark contrast to the pleasant wine tasting I had earlier in the day elsewhere in Napa.
At Far Niente, there are extremely rude and arrogant staff patrolling the entrance shouting at you to leave. They do not allow for pictures either. Is this how you run a business? By being hostile and rude to prospective clientele? Who turns away potential customers and free marketing through word of mouth and pictures on
At Far Niente, there are extremely rude and arrogant staff patrolling the entrance shouting at you to leave. They do not allow for pictures either. Is this how you run a business? By being hostile and rude to prospective clientele? Who turns away potential customers and free marketing through word of mouth and pictures on
Joe R.
Nov 16, 2021
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I recently visited Far Niente winery , and was amazed at the serene beauty of the landscape.
The drive into the winery is very picturesque , with their Ginko trees lining both sides of the road.
I observed numerous tourists. taking photos of the trees , with the leaves turning a golden like color.
I asked the security officer , if my friends could visit inside, and was informed that reservations are required for their wine tasting picnic venues.
I asked if my friend could purchase their wines, and Sara knew a favorite vintage from their on line wines catalog and we were allowed inside.
The hostess
The drive into the winery is very picturesque , with their Ginko trees lining both sides of the road.
I observed numerous tourists. taking photos of the trees , with the leaves turning a golden like color.
I asked the security officer , if my friends could visit inside, and was informed that reservations are required for their wine tasting picnic venues.
I asked if my friend could purchase their wines, and Sara knew a favorite vintage from their on line wines catalog and we were allowed inside.
The hostess
Dave Nam
Oct 31, 2021
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Service - 10/10
Wine Quality - 10/10
Scenery - 10/10
On Oct 17, we stopped by Far Niente hoping to buy a few bottles. We could not make reservation, so we did not have much expectation
However, the winery was generous enough to accomodate us for an outdoor tasting
Our host, Eva, went above and beyond to serve us various wines made at Far Niente and its sister winery in Russian Valley
We were two couples (4 people). After a few glasses, both of us signed up for its membership on the spot. Living in NYC, I am excited to stay connected to Far Niente through its subscription.
Will definitely
Wine Quality - 10/10
Scenery - 10/10
On Oct 17, we stopped by Far Niente hoping to buy a few bottles. We could not make reservation, so we did not have much expectation
However, the winery was generous enough to accomodate us for an outdoor tasting
Our host, Eva, went above and beyond to serve us various wines made at Far Niente and its sister winery in Russian Valley
We were two couples (4 people). After a few glasses, both of us signed up for its membership on the spot. Living in NYC, I am excited to stay connected to Far Niente through its subscription.
Will definitely
Wendy Chang
Oct 21, 2021
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It’s amazing! I love the views so much. Also, their wines are good! We reserved the best wine tasting because there’s no other choice for that day. 😂😂 The host showed us the cellar and told us histories about the Napa Valley and Far Niente Winery. I usually like white wine more than red wine, but I really like their 2011 cabernet sauvignon.
Remember to reserve an appointment, or you can only take photos outside.
Remember to reserve an appointment, or you can only take photos outside.
Mark W.
Oct 15, 2021
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Went here in the spring for a wine tasting and had an awesome time. The vineyards are beautiful and may only be topped by how good the wine was. Sean Marshall was our guide and he was outstanding. Took the time to teach us about the wine, we never felt rushed, or pressured to buy. He was funny and never pretentious. My wife and I were complete wine novices and we learned so much. Sean made sure that we felt comfortable and helped us to enjoy everything that Far Niente had to offer. Highly recommended!
Amy C.
Sep 29, 2021
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Oh man this was such an amazing winery to visit. They are so organized and know how to entertain a group. Upon arrival, they'll give you a glass of Chardonnay and show you where to walk to for the tasting.
Our host published a book (I can't remember her name) but she was so knowledgeable and never pressured us to buy anything. My friends bought some reds and I usually go to wineries more for the views and like learning about the wine process and history. My friends really liked the last two red wine samples. But wow after learning how dry/wet soil is each year makes a big impact on the
Our host published a book (I can't remember her name) but she was so knowledgeable and never pressured us to buy anything. My friends bought some reds and I usually go to wineries more for the views and like learning about the wine process and history. My friends really liked the last two red wine samples. But wow after learning how dry/wet soil is each year makes a big impact on the
Chris P.
Aug 27, 2021
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Pooja Anand Me
Aug 22, 2021
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Stunning winery and delicious wines. Just wish our host hadn't spent 90% of the time with us selling us the wine club membership and to make things worse, offending us by showing us the lowest cost membership. We were going to sign up anyway because we really liked the wine and the property, but the over the top selling of the wine club membership was a huge turn off and ruined what was otherwise a nice visit. It was all very mechanical, salesy and rather condescending. We were also told we couldn't walk around the property with our wines and we weren't even planning on doing that and neither did
Ben Smucker
May 15, 2021
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Giliath E.
Mar 28, 2021
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Incredible. Of the many wineries in Napa, and I've seen many, nothing compares with Far Ninete. We were greeted by Cynthia who is by far the most charming person you can possibly hope to meet. She welcomed us and gave us a golf cart ride to our tasting, even though we expected to walk. Jess, our host was gracious, knowledgeable and so engaging he felt like an old friend. The wines were exceptional and the pairings enhanced their already delectable flavors. The grounds are palatial.
The experience was just this side of heaven. Thank you Jess and Cynthia.
Thank you Gil and Don.
The experience was just this side of heaven. Thank you Jess and Cynthia.
Thank you Gil and Don.
Kenneth Yong
Mar 25, 2021
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Incredibly stunningly beautiful vineyard with beautiful flowers along the stair pathway to the wine tasting area. Our host, Gregory G., made our tasting experience unforgettable with excellent service coupled with excellent wine industry knowledge sharing. Our favorite wine was the 2016 Cab from the library. We will definitely be back again. Cheers!!!
Sarah B.
Mar 02, 2021
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I was so excited to be back at Far Niente after over a year of being away (due to Covid)! They are running a tight ship these days - tastings take place outside, and they keep parties as distanced as possible. There's hand sanitizer at each table, hosts wear face masks while pouring and describing the wines, and guests are of course required to mask up when not seated. Rules aside, my recent trip was relaxing and just as enjoyable as any other visit!
Jess hosted my party of four and could not have been more friendly or knowledgeable about the wines!
Jess hosted my party of four and could not have been more friendly or knowledgeable about the wines!
Dolly S.
Mar 02, 2021
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Far Niente is one of those vineyards that I've known about for a long time, having sold it at fine dining restaurants for years, but had never visited. This past weekend, though, we had the pleasure of being hosted by Jess, and he was wonderful - attentive but not invasive, educational but not dull, and enthusiastic but not obnoxious. Truly, a gracious and knowledgeable host.
The property is gorgeous, with its entrancing gardens, seriously-inspired architecture, and nooks for all types of guest experiences.
The wines speak for themselves, and we were so excited to taste not only the Far
The property is gorgeous, with its entrancing gardens, seriously-inspired architecture, and nooks for all types of guest experiences.
The wines speak for themselves, and we were so excited to taste not only the Far
Aidy R.
Oct 08, 2020
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What an amazing winery and tasting experience!! The grounds were extraordinary, truly beautiful and immaculately maintained. We had the cave collection library tasting which was exquisitely presented. Our guide was phenomenal in educating us and ensuring we enjoyed every sip and every moment of our time at Far Niente. Unfortunately, the home and caves were closed due to the pandemic but we will come back just to visit this winery again. It is worth every dollar and minute spent. A. MUST. GO.
PS - The Dolce was a perfect ending to a perfect afternoon! You'll thank me.
PS - The Dolce was a perfect ending to a perfect afternoon! You'll thank me.
Daniel Jones
Aug 14, 2019
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Absolutely spectacular and quintessential experience. This was our second time visiting after an absolutely amazing first time. Full disclosure, I proposed to my now fiancé here several months ago so this will always have an amazing place in our heart.
The best word I can use to describe the property is whimsical. It’s almost like it is out of a fairy tail. Everything from the drive up, to the gardens, pond, vintage car collection, and the beautiful stone chateau is breathtaking.
We did the cave tasting, which is hosted at the very top of the building in a private room overlooking the vineyard
The best word I can use to describe the property is whimsical. It’s almost like it is out of a fairy tail. Everything from the drive up, to the gardens, pond, vintage car collection, and the beautiful stone chateau is breathtaking.
We did the cave tasting, which is hosted at the very top of the building in a private room overlooking the vineyard
Danny Donovan
Jun 23, 2019
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The winery and grounds are sprawling and beautiful. You'll wish you lived here once you come for a visit. I planned my winery visits well in advance by phone and had no issues what so ever. Wineries such Far Niente are definitely in high demand when it comes to tastings. Probably not a place you can just walk into during peak seasons and hope to take a tour/tasting. All the wines of course are outstanding and the estate guide will seat you at a big dining room like table as you enjoy your wine and cheese pairings. Naturally most everyone comes to Napa for the Cabernets, but Far Niente makes the
