The Antinori family of Italy claims to have been making wine for the past 630 years. It is a business they are in for the long term. Relatively recently in their history, they acquired a huge tract of vineyard land in the Atlas Peak AVA of Napa Valley. They have 600 acres of vineyard. They sell about 85% of their grapes to well-known wineries in Napa Valley and keep 15% for their own vintages. They built the Antica winery in 1994, choosing to combine the Anti from their family name with Ca for California. Their first wine release under their label was a Cabernet Sauvignon in 2004.
Antica is off the beaten track from Napa, being located at the end of a very curvy road—Soda Springs Canyon. Our tasting was hosted by the winemaker herself, in the Antica kitchen where we sampled four wines accompanied with cheese, fruit, nuts, bread, and Antica olive oil. Afterwards, we had a tour of the extensive cellars.
Antica Winery plans to open an official tasting room this summer. The building is almost complete. Those wanting to taste fantastic wine in a truly spectacular setting will enjoy the drive to Antica.
