A Sense of Place — Scalon Cellars

A collaboration composed of passion, talent, and camaraderie unveils the story behind the success of Scalon Cellars. Together, Jesus Espinoza and Cruz Calderon developed a kinship driven by 30 years of vineyard management experience and a career entrenched in winery construction.

“In 2005, Cruz started construction on the wine cave at Caldwell Vineyard in Coombsville,” explained General Manager of Scalon Cellars, Tim Goodwin. “Jesus was the Vineyard Manager and still is to this day. During that time, they became friends. They shared a love for good wine and eventually asked John Caldwell to sell them one barrel. Well, one barrel turned into seven, and in 2010, Scalon Cellars was born.”

Scalon, derived by the blending of the founding partners’ last names, commemorates heritage and family. With agricultural roots, the brand embodies a “sense of place.” The gravelly loams and rocky volcanic soils of the Coombsville region set the tone for their 36-year-old, three-acre
estate of Cabernet Sauvignon.

In collaboration with the incredible talent of Julien Fayard, Jesus and Cruz work tirelessly to produce premium Napa Valley terroir-driven wines. Emphasizing estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon and small lots of unique varietals, the Scalon Cellars wine portfolio showcases the strength and finesse of the region.

“The brand has done well since the beginning,” said Goodwin. “Julian joined our team in 2016 and really took the wine to the next level. Our goal has always been to stay true to who we are. The success of the brand is beyond our dreams, and it’s been quite nice. We all work together and are excited for the next step of the journey with the opening of our new tasting room.”

Whether joining their allocation list or enjoying the wines at a few local spots, oenophiles can appreciate Scalon Cellars limited production wines locally at their new tasting room located in the old Sawyer Tannery building off downtown Napa overlooking the Napa River and the Vacca Range. The new space was designed and constructed by Cruz and provides guests with an intimate wine experience. Open seven days a week, tastings are limited to eight guests and are by appointment only.

A composite of two friends with a vision, Scalon Cellars is a culmination of talent and extraordinary wines, leaving a legacy for wine enthusiasts to experience for years to come.

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Story By: Valerie Owens // Photos By: Suzanne Becker Bronk