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Open Daily: 10:00am – 5:00pm Tours by Appointment Only www.lairdfamilyestate.com


Laird Family Estate


Right off of Highway 29 in the Oak Knoll district of Napa is the gorgeous and thriving Laird Family Estate winery. Only ten minutes north of downtown Napa, and five minutes south of Yountville, this location is perfect when visiting Napa for the day. The founder and owner, Ken Laird, a third generation farmer from outside of South Boston, Virginia, fell in love with Napa while visiting with his family as a young boy.


Although he grew up to be a mechanical engineer


in New York City, Ken Laird was called to Napa Valley by his deeply rooted passion. Staying loyal to his farming family roots, Laird bought his first piece of Napa Valley land in 1970, and he had the ambition to turn 70 acres of depleted prune trees into a grape vineyard. Not knowing much about turning orchards into vineyards or having the financial means, Laird sought out the help from Robert Mondavi, one of eight other winemakers in Napa at the time. After Mondavi walked the property with Laird, he agreed to help finance the vineyard if he would agree to plant 50% Gamay. Laird’s vineyard ultimately ended up being 50% Gamay and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon.


Years later, Laird Family Estate winemakers Paul Hobbs and Julian Gonzalez have crafted wines that are detail oriented and reminiscent of their regions. Today, the winery is known for their Chardonnays and Cabernets, as well as their burgeoning unusual wines such as the Phantom Ranch Pinot Noir. The Laird family is one the largest and oldest vineyard organizations in the area and is still family owned. The Laird family is also the largest landholder in Napa Valley with 2400 acres, meaning they own 5% of Napa’s vineyards. The top 2% of their fruit is used for their own wines, while everything else is sold to other wineries. This winery is known to be casual and fun, with a knowledgeable and friendly staff. Outside on the patio, one can indulge in the crisp air and classic, picturesque Napa Valley scenery while enjoying a glass of the popular “Jillian’s Blend” red wine. The wooden and stonework décor enhance a rustic and warm experience that is inviting and cozy. Laird Family Estate wines are known for their elegant and polished tastes and offer tours by appointment.


Wine


Laird Family Estate 5055 Solano Avenue Napa, CA 94588 (707) 257-0360


Photo Credit: Laird Family Estate 26 OFF THE EASEL MAGAZINE – WINTER 2015


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