Schweiger Vineyards

What it's like

Schweiger Vineyards is a family estate on Spring Mountain Road, on the western hills above St. Helena. It is small and personal, the sort of place where the host is often a member of the family. Visitors come for the mountain setting and for wines grown on steep slopes well above the valley floor.

Who it's best for

Visitors who want a slower, off-the-main-road experience and are comfortable with a winding drive. It is a fit for couples and small groups curious about mountain Cabernet. If you prefer a large, polished tasting room with a restaurant, you will find other places that match better.

What to book

The winery is open seven days a week, 10 am to 4 pm. Its menu includes Wine Tastings, Estate Events and an In-Home Tasting service. Because Spring Mountain Road wineries typically work by appointment, contact the family before you drive up: call (707) 963-4882 or email thefamily@schweigervineyards.com, and check the Wine Tastings page on their site for current pricing and booking details.

The road is narrow and curving, so choose your driver carefully. A designated driver, a car service or a tour is a better plan than a rideshare, which can be hard to arrange up here.

How it fits into a day

Schweiger is one of several producers on the same road, including Pride Mountain and Smith-Madrone. Pick one or two for the morning, allow generous drive time between them, and plan on lunch back in St. Helena. Because the road takes longer than it looks on a map, resist the urge to add a third stop.