For many years, Napa Valley’s northern appellations received most of the attention, overshadowing the city of Napa and its surrounding vineyards. Recently, the city of Napa has experienced a rapid revitalization, alongside growing recognition for the lesser-known Coombsville AVA, established in 2011 just east of downtown Napa. Coombsville’s cooler climate, volcanic soils, and long growing season produce elegant wines with fresh acidity, refined tannins, and distinct minerality. This quiet gem, favored by pioneers like Bernard Lacroute, offers a fresh, artisanal take on Napa wine, showcased beautifully in his Vichy & Vine estate.
The majority of the fruit for this wine comes from Bernard’s personal vineyard in Coombsville- one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive and underrated American Viticultural Areas. Coombsville and the other vineyard areas surrounding the City of Napa, sit in a volcanic caldera shaped like a horseshoe, formed by ancient volcanic activity, which has left behind soils rich in volcanic ash, pumice, and diatomaceous earth. The area also has close proximity to San Pablo Bay, resulting in cool sea breezes and persistent morning fog. This creates one of the coolest and longest growing seasons in Napa Valley, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop balanced acidity, refined tannins, and nuanced aromas.
The Vichy & Vine Napa Valley Red Blend was founded by Bernard Lacroute, a Bugundian-born engineer and noted wine entrepreneur who previously established WillaKenzie Estate in Oregon. After retiring to the Bay Area, Lacroute discovered and began farming a small, organically managed estate vineyard on Vichy Avenue in the Coombsville area of Napa Valley. The wine is crafted at the Lithology winery in St. Helena by accomplished winemaker Avery Heelan, who is also known for her work at Larkmead Vineyards.
The fruit is hand harvested from rigorously vetted, sustainably farmed vineyards. The wine making is minimal intervention, with gentle fermentation and then aging in French oak for 20 months. All with the goal of producing a balanced, terroir driven blend in the classic Napa Valley style- rich fruit character, well-integrated oak, and structured tannins.
The wine features aromas and flavors of dark berries such as blackberry and black cherry, enhanced by herbal notes reminiscent of Provençal garrigue. On the palate, the wine is balanced with medium-plus body, featuring a plush mouthfeel and velvety tannins that provide structure without overwhelming the fruit. Secondary layers of spice and subtle earthiness add complexity, while the overall profile maintains freshness and a lingering finish.
