The 2018 Howell Mountain Estate Cabernet shows the typical thorny stem fruit that is a Howell Mountain hallmark. Deep, dark nuances of iron, graphite and crushed rock dance around the core of black fruit that coats the palate. The 2018 Amentet Vineyard Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon is simply a massive, iconic example of what is possible in the Mount Veeder AVA.
Dried cocoa flake, pencil shavings, cassis, dark floral undertones and mineral accents all emerge from the glass after a couple of minutes of air. The 2018 Black Sears Zinfandel continues to show that exotic, ground white pepper and spicebox in the nose, and even more so in the mouth. The breadth and length of the wine on the palate is what sets this zinfandel apart from so many others.
Dried cocoa flake, pencil shavings, cassis, dark floral undertones and mineral accents all emerge from the glass after a couple of minutes of air. The 2018 Black Sears Zinfandel continues to show that exotic, ground white pepper and spicebox in the nose, and even more so in the mouth. The breadth and length of the wine on the palate is what sets this zinfandel apart from so many others.
Services
Our founder Robert (Bob) Craig began his long and storied career in wine at The Hess Collection on Mount Veeder in the 1980s. Prior to starting his eponymous winery, Bob's passion for Napa Valley Mountain Cabernet had him spearheading the official recognition of both the Mount Veeder and Spring Mountain District AVAs.
You've likely heard the phrase "winemaking begins in the vineyard." Here at Robert Craig Winery, this concept sits at the very heart of our portfolio. We believe in the crucial importance of vineyard location in producing wines of exceptional depth and character. Our estate vineyard holdings have grown from eight acres in 1993 to 52 acres today.
A highly selective group, our members are considered an extended part of the Craig Crew. They are friends and colleagues. Friends of friends. They find us through sommeliers or by word of mouth. It's an exclusive social network that's a little geeky and a lot of fun. Craig fans, united by a shared passion of mountain cab, and ready to meet Elton or Adam anytime, anywhere for a glass of Craig and conversation.
Events are our very favorite way to meet all you Craig Nation fans out there, so we try to get out as much as possible! We hope to meet up with you - maybe in your neck of the woods - to share a glass of Craig wine and hear about what's going on in your life. In the meantime, join the conversation on our Instagram and Facebook accounts.
Dear Craigers, As we release our noteworthy 2018 wines from Howell Mountain and Mount Veeder to our best customers (this is you), I can't help but think of all the love and work and community that we have built up around our high-quality mountain produce over the last 30 years at Robert Craig Winery.
Reviews (26)
Edward Beckford
Nov 17, 2021
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Som Chivukula
Jun 01, 2021
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Emily Browdy
Dec 05, 2020
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B. K.
Aug 20, 2020
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I had an exceptional experience at the tasting salon with KC, who curated a truly lovely experience for us. All of the wines were incredible, and the whole experience was just fabulous. The Howell Mountain, Veeder and Affinity are our of this world. I wish I could have taken several bottles of everything I tasted home, but this just means I will have to go back and visit again soon. Go and experience what Robert Craig has to offer, and thank me later. A true highlight in world of high end, yet reasonably priced wines.
S. C.
Mar 15, 2020
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Amaaaazing wine!! Elton and Christian were awesome hosts for our wine tasting! They were fun to talk and drink with and informative as well. I loved so many of their wines, it was hard deciding what to get! The Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon Howell mountain, Mount Veeder, Affinity and merlot were my favorites though!
Jim G.
Jan 18, 2020
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One of the most frequent tasting requests we receive from WeWine Napa guests when touring the valley is to visit Robert Craig Winery. The views themselves are worth the visit since the winery is situated along the summit of Howell Mountain among some of Napa's highest vineyards. What makes them so unique is that they specialize in small lot mountain grown cabernets that offer a full body character while being extremely well balanced with fruit showings. If you're a cab lover you'll know this is not an easy feat to accomplish.
Their tasting room is very elegant and includes both
Their tasting room is very elegant and includes both
Gerald H.
Sep 01, 2019
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What a fantastic find! Thanks Lori and team for hosting us on a whim. We love Howell mountain but this place is so convenient! This tasting room is small maybe 6-8 max and is also their admin space and appointment only. We tasted their Mt Veeder Cab which most don't know was grown on Robin Williams's estate. Sadly after 2014 their Mt Veeder wine from this estate is no longer available as the home and vineyard was bought by a French winery. We left with four magnums! Their Howell mountain cabs are fantastic and is probably at the highest on the mountain. They pride themselves on producing
Johnathan Cronan
Jun 24, 2019
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I will be generous unlike the gentleman who helped us. If you have visible tattoos, this may not be an establishment you want to frequent. You will be judged not verbally. However, through actions. You and those with you will be mistreated. This is a classist establishment. With that being said, the decor and wine are great! If it was not for this experience, the wine would have been worth purchasing.
Mike G.
Jun 10, 2019
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I would highly reccomend coming in, the wines are all delicious and we were treated well here.
I'm a young, black man with an afro and less money than most in Napa. My wife has tattoos. I'm not sure what the man in the last review experienced, but I don't believe that these people are "classist", especially as no example were given. Do not hesitate to go here!
I'm a young, black man with an afro and less money than most in Napa. My wife has tattoos. I'm not sure what the man in the last review experienced, but I don't believe that these people are "classist", especially as no example were given. Do not hesitate to go here!
Chris B.
May 14, 2019
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**This review is in reference to a tasting at the winery/vineyards on Howell Mountain.
We had the most amazing experience tasting with Lori up on the top of Howell mountain at their winery overlooking the vineyards and the entire Napa Valley below. Lori's hospitality and knowledge by far exceeded any tastings we have done before in Napa. She told us all about Robert Craig, had a cheese and crackers board for us and we got to sit out on their elevated patio overlooking the vineyards under umbrella shade. It was perfect!
We went through several wines as Lori was able to talk to us about
We had the most amazing experience tasting with Lori up on the top of Howell mountain at their winery overlooking the vineyards and the entire Napa Valley below. Lori's hospitality and knowledge by far exceeded any tastings we have done before in Napa. She told us all about Robert Craig, had a cheese and crackers board for us and we got to sit out on their elevated patio overlooking the vineyards under umbrella shade. It was perfect!
We went through several wines as Lori was able to talk to us about
Sue S.
Apr 19, 2019
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On a recent trip to Napa we were introduced to Robert Craig wines at their spectacular Howell Mountain property. Lori was the perfect hostess! She is so lovely and welcoming, and did a wonderful job of sharing her knowledge of the terroir of the region, and what goes into making each of their wines so special (and delicious).
Highly recommend taking a trip up the mountain and spending some quality time with Lori!
Highly recommend taking a trip up the mountain and spending some quality time with Lori!
Susan H.
Mar 10, 2019
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One for the books- yesterday I and 3 friends had a private tasting at the winery on Howell Mountain with Lori. By far THE best wine tasting experience I've ever had, and I've done dozens. This is well worth the trip up Howell Mountain to be treated like family by Lori who is extremely warm, welcoming, passionate, knowledgeable... and then the wines.... unparalleled...
Such an amazing overall experience. Felt like I was in a slice of heaven for two hours. Add it to your bucket list, make a reservation, and don't miss out on this extraordinary experience and exquisite wine tasting
Such an amazing overall experience. Felt like I was in a slice of heaven for two hours. Add it to your bucket list, make a reservation, and don't miss out on this extraordinary experience and exquisite wine tasting
Manda Bear B.
Feb 11, 2019
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Another awesome tasting in Napa, Napa Valley st Robert Craig Winery Tasting Room. Just off the Main Street of Downtown Napa by less then a mile.
Small, quaint and genuinely service by wine educator KC. My hubby and I drove in the heavy rain and came in for our appointment before heading to Meadowood Restaurant. It was a perfect warm up.
Robert Craig Winery is situated along the summit ridge of Howell Mountain at 2,300 feet of elevation, the highest elevation winery in Napa Valley.
They specialize in small-lot, mountain grown cabernets that feature their shy bearing growing sites in the finished
Small, quaint and genuinely service by wine educator KC. My hubby and I drove in the heavy rain and came in for our appointment before heading to Meadowood Restaurant. It was a perfect warm up.
Robert Craig Winery is situated along the summit ridge of Howell Mountain at 2,300 feet of elevation, the highest elevation winery in Napa Valley.
They specialize in small-lot, mountain grown cabernets that feature their shy bearing growing sites in the finished
Catherine R.
Dec 16, 2018
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Lovely wine. I enjoyed every sip. I wouldn't pour out any! My senses were satisfied with every wine. Lori is the most friendly and warm friend you will ever meet! I revisited the next day for more. My allergies/ nose didn't even act up. My favorite of my trip to Napa. Maybe my favorite wine and I'm picky. Cheers.
Emily L.
Nov 18, 2018
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We had a private tasting at Howell Mountain with Lori. We can't say enough great things about Lori and how special and personal she made our visit. This was our first time in Napa for our honeymoon and out of six tastings all weekend this was by far the best one! It was truly an unforgettable experience and we are thrilled to be new members of the Cabernet club! The wines really do speak for themselves. Looking forward to our first shipment!
Melissa M.
Jul 13, 2018
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A very low key winery with absolute amazing wines. It is in a business office so don't think you are going to come to a venue that is a typical winery setting. There are couches and a bar that the tasting can be done at. The workers were above and beyond friendly and helpful. Make sure you call ahead to schedule because it is appointment only! $25 for 5-6 wines to taste and the bottles range from $50-$90.
N. D.
Jul 06, 2018
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A wonderful experience! We enjoyed a selection of 6 wines from Napa and Sonoma Valley (Chardonnay, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon). KC was an extremely knowledgable and friendly guide to winemaking in Napa. He gave us an overview to the history of Californian wines and the peculiarities of Napa Valley. One of our most pleasant holiday experiences. We highly recommend a tasting at Robert Craig Winery to anyone visiting Napa who wants to know and taste more about local wines.
Julia M.
Apr 10, 2018
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We did a private tasting up at Howell Mountain with Lori and it was amazing. First and foremost, she is an absolute gem and knows so much about Napa! It feels like such a treat tasting with her.
The wine itself is one of my favorite wines in Napa. It is silky smooth and goes with anything. I love the Affinity - it is the perfect dinner wine! We also loved the view of all the vineyards and how exclusive it felt. I highly recommend!
The wine itself is one of my favorite wines in Napa. It is silky smooth and goes with anything. I love the Affinity - it is the perfect dinner wine! We also loved the view of all the vineyards and how exclusive it felt. I highly recommend!
Masato Kuwata
Sep 25, 2017
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Louisa M.
Sep 25, 2017
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After reading time and time again about Robert Craig Winery, I decided to book a tasting visit. We visit the Napa Valley an average of four times per year and it's always exciting to find a new winery to try. I made a hassle-free appointment online for 11:30 am on a Sunday.
The winery itself is a little bit tricky to find as it's in a nondescript warehouse type office park. Siri kept getting confused with her directions leading to a lot of us driving around in circle. Be mindful of this and allow plenty of time to find the winery.
If you're looking for a swanky vineyard view or
The winery itself is a little bit tricky to find as it's in a nondescript warehouse type office park. Siri kept getting confused with her directions leading to a lot of us driving around in circle. Be mindful of this and allow plenty of time to find the winery.
If you're looking for a swanky vineyard view or
Lisa T.
Aug 31, 2017
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By far one of my favorite wineries we visited on our past vacation to Napa. We didn't visit the tasting room, but rather we were fortunate enough to go up on Howell Mt. for some amazing reds and an unbelievable view.
Lori was so sweet, she really has a wonderful personality and was a pleasure to be with. We enjoyed her company as she walked us through the various wines and then took us for a tour of the barrels. We were celebrating our 15th anniversary and she really made it memorable. The delicious cheese plate from Oxbow Market, unbelievably big pine cones, and amazing wines...made
Lori was so sweet, she really has a wonderful personality and was a pleasure to be with. We enjoyed her company as she walked us through the various wines and then took us for a tour of the barrels. We were celebrating our 15th anniversary and she really made it memorable. The delicious cheese plate from Oxbow Market, unbelievably big pine cones, and amazing wines...made
Brian B.
Mar 25, 2016
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I found these guys on Instagram first and quickly went to Yelp to check them out. Reading the reviews for RCW is interesting here. Most of them say the wine is fabulous because, well, the wine is fabulous. Since their vineyards are all way up in mountainous areas, they have this "downtown" tasting room which some here don't seem to like. It makes sense to me however. I love wine and I love mountain driving but not always at the same time.
Approaching the tasting room, we were a bit underwhelmed. It's in an industrial type building and it's way in the back. The website
Approaching the tasting room, we were a bit underwhelmed. It's in an industrial type building and it's way in the back. The website
Amanda N.
Mar 08, 2016
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This is not your normal wineries/vineyards in Napa valley. This is basically a tasting room in part of a commercial business building. By appointment only. Wines here are mainly reds. Not much service here. You get your pour one after another and you're done. I thought with being reservations only you would get more knowledgeable insights about their brand/wines. Basically this was an in and out...and I'm not talking about burgers, which would have been more satisfying. Not worth the price
Janet M.
Jan 23, 2016
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High atop Howell Mountain sits this gem of a winery. We had the pleasure of Lori being our "hostess". It was a rainy and foggy day so we used caution getting up to the tasting room. For a short distance there is a gravel road. We couldn't see much outside due to the fog, no matter! Lori treated us to a memorable day. The wines are fantastic, they embody true Napa Valley, thanks to their rock star winemaker. It was fun tasting from the different regions: Mt. Veeder, Diamond Mountain, Spring Mountain and of course Howell Mountain.
This is definitely a must when visiting Howell
This is definitely a must when visiting Howell
Jenna G.
Nov 11, 2015
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I was not a fan of this place. It is indoors, in a parking lot, with very little greenery- not really how I want to be wine tasting in Napa.
The wine was fine and we were able to try 6 (I think), however, I had to put my credit card information down for a reservation and was going to be charged if we didn't show, but we went and it was very empty and weird atmosphere.
I wouldn't come here again.
The wine was fine and we were able to try 6 (I think), however, I had to put my credit card information down for a reservation and was going to be charged if we didn't show, but we went and it was very empty and weird atmosphere.
I wouldn't come here again.
Sam S.
Oct 03, 2014
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This review is not about the tasting room but about the wine. When we were visiting Twenty Rows for wine tasting they recommended this place. While we were there Robert dropped in for a chat and, we were introduced to him. Unfortunately we were short of time and could not make it to the cellar door for tasting. After the evening I was a bit disappointed that we did not do so.
That evening we were at the Village Pub and there was one of his wines on the list, a 2011 Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon. I decided to pick it as a wine to try considering what had happened in the morning.
This is a great
That evening we were at the Village Pub and there was one of his wines on the list, a 2011 Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon. I decided to pick it as a wine to try considering what had happened in the morning.
This is a great
