When Mike and Kara Dunn established Retro Cellars in 2003, their goal was to honor the rich history of both the vineyards and their family's legacy in the Napa Valley wine industry. Mike's family had founded Dunn Vineyards on Howell Mountain in 1978, the same year Kara's family began Pecota Winery in Calistoga. Upon meeting, Mike and Kara discovered that they shared similar experiences growing up in the Napa Valley of the 1970s, a time when the community was comprised of modest farmers.

They chose the name "Retro" to pay tribute to the generational groundwork that had been laid for their venture. This sense of continuity is further reflected in the label artwork, which was created by their then 11-year-old son, Alex. Now 28, Alex is a graduate of the San Francisco Art Institute, a part-time cellars hand at both Dunn Vineyards and Retro Cellars, and a builder of hiking and biking trails in Napa and Sonoma counties.

In 1987, Jim Summers acquired a 28-acre vineyard nestled in Knights Valley, a region located northwest of Calistoga between Mount St. Helena and the Alexander Valley. At the time, the property was predominantly planted with Merlot grapes, established 30 years earlier by Dan Duckhorn, along with some Muscat Canelli. The inaugural vintage of Summers Ranch Reserve Merlot was produced in 1992, yielding 900 cases. Today, the estate also produces Petite Sirah from the Knights Valley vineyard. Known for its warm climate, volcanic soils, and proximity to Napa Valley, Knights Valley has recently garnered increased attention for its Bordeaux varietals.

In 1996, Summers expanded their vineyard holdings by acquiring 25 acres at the intersection of Highway 128 and Tubbs Lane in Napa Valley. This property, now known as Summers Estate Wines, is home to the Villa Andriana Vineyard, named in honor of their daughter. While the estate has been fully revitalized to maximize its potential, the 40-year-old Zinfandel vines are meticulously preserved. The winery and tasting room, surrounded by over 22 acres of Zinfandel, Charbono, and Cabernet Sauvignon vines, strike a perfect balance between pleasure and productivity.

Summers' signature wine is the distinctive Charbono, a varietal believed to be an early Italian adaptation of Charbonneau, a French grape. Some argue it is closely related to the Dolcetto variety, which is commonly grown in northern Italy. The Charbono vine produces large berries that create a deeply colored red wine, known for its rich fruit flavors and low tannin content when subjected to extended skin contact during fermentation.

The Summers Estate, with its scenic vineyard views in Calistoga, California, stands as a testament to the region's rich winemaking heritage.

We were given the opportunity to check this place out through the wine tour we scheduled. Their operation is also one of the most intimate experiences you will have in terms of a winery visit. You literally taste their wine on some super comfy patio furniture in the middle of a field/clearing right next to their vineyard! The owner, Donny, is very knowledgable and guides you through his wines.

m2 Wines was founded in 2004 with the aim of creating dynamic artisan wines from distinctive vineyards in Lodi, the Sierra Foothills, and Napa Valley. The winery blends traditional and modern winemaking techniques to ensure each bottle captures the true essence of its vineyard. Their wines are enjoyable right away and improve with age. Whether visitors are in the stunning tasting room or savoring a bottle at home, they can feel the passion and care that goes into every wine.

Guests are invited to join for a tasting and experience the dedication and artistry that define m2 Wines. The state-of-the-art facility, surrounded by picturesque vineyards, provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying their award-winning wines. From bold Zinfandels to elegant blends, there is something to delight every palate. Visitors can explore the legacy of m2 Wines and become part of its story.