"It's a scenic drive up Howell Mountain, a cozy seat, with a bountiful view from the picnic table (a.k.a. tasting room.) This is one of those instances where I am conflicted about telling others about it, as I'd like always ample space at the table for us! But, I rest assured that the accommodating folks at this family-run winery will always make room.
I came to know of this very special place from friends that somehow found it while on a honeymoon layover, between Boston and Hawaii. My wino-friends told me a tale of a wonderful couple, living the dream. Apparently, Bob and Sue had bought some land 30 years ago, and had grown with the place. They made great Zin, and welcomed visitors in a friendly, casual way.
I'll never forget the story my buddy told of passing the time sitting in the Brakesman kitchen and chatting with Sue, while Bob "pushed the dirt around with his tractor, with the cat sitting on the fender beside." This was the life we stressed-out Bostonians dreamt of!
Needless to say, I made it there. And, I'll keep going back. And, I'll keep ordering wine by the case. Not only is the juice really good, but drinking it reminds us of "the dream" so many of us share - finding our own spot on a mountain somewhere, and growing with the vines...
Someday, I'm gonna pitch a tent, and tie some wire!"
Phil G.
Massachusetts
"I discovered Summit Lake Vineyards at the opening day festivities of Copia several years ago. Their new Zinfandel label posters attracted me to their tasting table (the Zin with the blonde lounging in the Vineyard wasn't even released yet). I signed up for their mailing list so I could get some of that wine, mostly for the label. I fell in love with the label because it reminded me of how I feel when I visit the wine country or even how I feel when I open and relax with special wines.
Later that summer we received an e-mail inviting us to the release party at the winery of the 1999 Zin with the new label. My husband and I attended and had a wonderful time up on the mountain with Heather and her extended family. They shared wine - Cab, Zin & Port - and food - soft tacos, grilled yellow corn, brownies and other treats with us and their other guests. We also sat and chatted with the artist who designed the label. I was amazed that we could still have such an experience in Napa! The label of the Zin captures the spirit of Summit Lake Vineyards."
Lisa F.
California
"Summit Lake is, quite simply, a wonderful experience which, after you have been to some wineries in and around Napa, CA, reminds you that, at its heart, wine is an agricultural product.
Heather Griffin and her family do a wonderful job at producing an excellent product at what is, essentially, a working farm. The hard work they put into every barrel of wine is evident after you have been to the winery for only a few minutes. Nonetheless, they take the time from their busy schedule to show you their operation and allow you a taste of their wine. Her father and siblings are a joy to speak with, as they tell you the history of their winery.
Their Zinfandel rivals any from a larger producer and is a favorite in our house."
Scott G.
Illinois
"Summit Lake wines are tasty wines and solid values too. And from time to time they are better than merely tasty, they're terrific.
Heather is a delight to deal with. Never a hassle or an unpleasant moment.
I recommend Summit Lake wholeheartedly."
Bob R.
New Jersey
And please let us know what you think! After drinking Summit Lake Vineyards wines, tell us about your wine club experience on our Testimonials page.
To join the Summit Lake Vineyards' wine club, contact Heather Griffin by e-mail
or call at 707-965-2488.
Return back to the Summit Lake Vineyards highlight page.
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