Freemark Abbey Unveils New Tasting Room, Hospitality Program

Freemark Abbey today debuted its remodeled tasting room and welcomed visitors with several new tour-and-tasting experiences.

A pioneer of the Napa Valley, Freemark Abbey began crafting premium cabernet sauvignon in 1967. The new tasting room reflects the winery’s rich history, and a major focal point of the redesign is a climate-controlled Vinotheque unit showcasing Freemark Abbey cabernet dating to 1973. Additional features include a fireplace, a 25-foot bar and a private Estate Room which can accommodate up to 12 people.

Visitors can also broaden their wine knowledge through three new tasting options that combine education and enjoyment:

• The Historic Estate Tour and Tasting recounts the history of Freemark Abbey, which was founded in 1886, when Josephine Marlin Tychson became the first woman to own and operate a winery in California. Guests explore the winery’s cellar, built from hand-quarried stone from nearby Glass Mountain. The tour concludes with a guided tasting of four current releases. Cost is $25 per person.
• The Wine and Artisanal Cheese Pairing features the best local farmhouse cheeses coupled with Freemark Abbey wines. Guests enjoy a guided tour through this fun epicurean experience and uncover the secret of successful pairings. Cost is $25 per person.
• A red wine lover’s dream, this innovative Cabernet Sauvignon Comparison showcases Freemark Abbey’s cabernets, from its “Bootleg” blend to its prized single-vineyard offerings. Particular focus is given to the winery’s highly acclaimed Sycamore and Bosché vineyard cabernet sauvignon offerings. Guests also discover how Freemark Abbey wines evolve over time as they sample a library wine. Cost is $25 per person.

Additionally, Freemark will continue to offer its traditional tasting, which includes four current release wines at the tasting bar.

“People come to the Napa Valley from all over the world,” said Ted Edwards, winemaker for Freemark Abbey. “They have different interests and levels of wine knowledge. Our new programs offer something for everyone and create memorable experiences for our guests.”

One of the first 16 wineries in the Napa Valley, Freemark Abbey possesses a long history that is deeply entwined with the region’s ascendancy to fame. Freemark Abbey was the only winery invited to present both red and white wines in the 1976 Paris Tasting, the event which put Napa on the map. Today, the St. Helena winery is best-known for crafting elegant cabernet sauvignons that age gracefully for many years. To learn more, visit www.freemarkabbey.com.