Known for producing terroir driven wines, RustRidge Ranch Winery and Bed & Breakfast is located in Chiles Valley. Nestled in the Vaca Mountains, the tranquil haven offers guests an unforgettable experience, full of country charm and beauty.
In 1972, The family of Susan Meyer purchased the secluded, Chiles Valley Ranch. Originally a thoroughbred horse ranch, the family was inspired to restore the property and produce premium Napa Valley wines. In 1985, Stan and Grant Meyer launched RustRidge Winery based in a renovated cattle barn. Today, Susan Meyer and her husband, Jim Fresquez, own and operate the property, aligning their two passions, wine and horses.
“I love waking up every morning to this beautiful place. I love the people, the horses, telling our story and educating guests on our wine,” said Owner, Susan Meyer.
A short jaunt from the valley floor, RustRidge Ranch Winery and Bed & Breakfast overlooks gorgeous countryside. Providing an authentic one-on-one experience, guests can enjoy a selection of current release premium estate wines while overlooking their spectacular vineyard.
“Everything is from our estate,” said Meyer. “Our wines represent Chiles Valley. They have spice, are bold,well-balanced and sophisticated.”
Collaborating with the incomparable Consultant Winemaker, Kent Rosenblum, Susan Meyer attributes the success of the RustRidge wine portfolio consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel and Petite Syrah to the close-knit relationship Kent shared with Jim and Susan and the ranch.
“Kent Rosenblum has played a big part in our lives and the ranch,” said Meyer. He recognized our Zinfandel early on and promoted it under his label and always was involved in the final blending before bottling of all of our wines.”
RustRidge wines capture the essence of the ranch with their equine inspired labels. A fully functioning thoroughbred horse ranch, RustRidge continues to breed and races thoroughbreds each spring.
“Our Ranch is a throwback to the past. It’s like no other experience in the Napa Valley,” said Meyer.“Guests can overlook our whole operation, the vineyard and spend time with our horses right outside our tasting room.”
Along with award-winning wines, and a respected thoroughbred horse ranch, RustRidge is home to a southwestern ranch-style bed and breakfast. Offering a wide range of amenities in a country setting, guests can escape and revel in the magnificent grounds,horses and wines that make up RustRidge Ranch Winery and Bed and Breakfast.
RUSTRIDGE RANCH WINERY AND BED & BREAKFAST
2910 Lower Chiles Valley Road, St. Helena, CA 707-965-9353, RustRidge@RustRidge.com
Article By: Valerie Owens
