One Faith Vineyards: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
One Faith Vineyards, established in 2013 by Carolyn Harris in Napa Valley’s Oakville appellation, is a boutique winery synonymous with ultra-premium Cabernet Sauvignon. Nestled on a historic 11-acre parcel once part of the revered To Kalon Vineyard, it produces fewer than 500 cases annually, positioning it among California’s most exclusive “cult” wines. Guided by Bordeaux-born winemaker Philippe Melka, One Faith emphasizes terroir-driven intensity, volcanic soil minerality, and Old World elegance. With bottles retailing for 600–1,000+, it targets collectors and investors seeking rarity and critical acclaim. This article delves into its history, winemaking philosophy, and answers key questions about accessibility, taste, and market standing.
What Is One Faith Vineyards?
One Faith Vineyards crafts single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from a prime Oakville estate, leveraging iron-rich volcanic soils for structured, age-worthy wines. The vineyard’s heritage clones, some tracing back to To Kalon, yield dense fruit with dark berry, graphite, and floral notes. Fermentation occurs in small oak vats, followed by 20–24 months in French oak barrels (80% new). The result is a bold yet balanced wine, praised by critics like Robert Parker for its “haunting complexity.” A second label, One Faith “The First Chapter,” offers a more accessible entry (250–400). Allocation is via mailing list, with secondary markets demanding $1,500+ per bottle. One Faith Vineyards for sale.
Key Features
-
Single-Vineyard Focus: Grapes sourced exclusively from the Oakville estate.
-
Philippe Melka’s Expertise: Renowned winemaker blending Old World finesse with Napa power.
-
Volcanic Soils: Imparts structure, minerality, and dark fruit intensity.
-
Micro-Production: Under 500 cases annually across two labels.
-
Luxury Packaging: Heavy bottles, wax seals, and bespoke wooden boxes.
People Also Ask: Top Questions
1. Why Is One Faith Wine So Expensive?
Scarcity drives pricing: Annual production is minuscule (300–500 cases). Labor-intensive practices (hand-sorting, organic farming) and $1,500+ French oak barrels inflate costs. Critics’ scores (e.g., 98 pts from Jeb Dunnuck) and collector demand further elevate its status.
2. How Does It Compare to Screaming Eagle?
Both are Napa cult icons, but Screaming Eagle’s legacy (founded 1986) commands higher prices ($5,000+ per bottle). One Faith offers comparable quality at a lower price, with a younger vineyard yielding slightly less complexity.
3. Where Can I Buy One Faith Wine?
Allocations are via mailing list (long waitlist). Secondary markets like WineBid or Sotheby’s auction bottles at markups. Retailers like Benchmark Wine Group occasionally stock limited quantities.
4. What Does One Faith Cabernet Taste Like?
Young vintages burst with blackcurrant, blueberry, and violets, evolving into truffle, tobacco, and cedar with age. The 2018 vintage (98 pts) is noted for its “velvet tannins” and graphite finish.
5. Is One Faith Vineyards Sustainable?
Yes. Dry farming, organic practices, and solar energy reduce environmental impact. Cover crops prevent soil erosion, aligning with Napa Green certification standards.
6. What Awards Has It Won?
-
2016 Vintage: 97 pts (Robert Parker).
-
2018 Vintage: 98 pts (Jeb Dunnuck).
-
2020 Vintage: “Top 100 Wines” (Wine Spectator).
7. Does One Faith Offer Tours or Tastings?
Exclusive tastings are by appointment for mailing-list members, starting at $300+ per person. Experiences include vineyard walks and library wine samplings.
8. What’s the Aging Potential?
Optimal drinking window is 15–25 years. The 2013 vintage now shows tertiary notes of leather and forest floor. Store bottles at 55°F and 70% humidity.
9. What’s the Story Behind the Name?
Carolyn Harris named it “One Faith” to symbolize her unwavering belief in Napa’s potential to rival Bordeaux. It also reflects her philanthropic focus on faith-based causes.
10. Will Production Increase?
Unlikely. The estate prioritizes quality over quantity, with annual output capped to preserve exclusivity. Climate challenges may further limit yields.
Conclusion
One Faith Vineyards embodies Napa Valley’s pursuit of winemaking perfection, blending Old World craftsmanship with New World ambition. Its limited production, critical acclaim, and volcanic terroir make it a crown jewel for collectors, though its price and exclusivity alienate casual enthusiasts. Challenges like climate change and regulatory pressures loom, yet its focus on sustainability and legacy-building positions it for enduring relevance. For those seeking a taste of Napa’s elite—or a blue-chip wine investment—One Faith delivers, provided you secure an allocation. As the cult wine market grows, its mystique will only soar, cementing its place among California’s liquid legends.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.