Turnbull Wine Cellars



An updated 2012 review may be viewed here: Turnbull Wine Cellars Revisited

Turnbull Wine Cellars is a family owned winery that has a regular tasting area and a reserve area.  We went there on 5/21/10 and tried the regular tasting. Turnbull is a fine example of a Napa Valley winery that produces good wines at reasonable prices.  Of course the do have higher end wines as well.  The service was very pleasant, knowledgeable but unpretentious and helpful.  Our server was a young woman originally from Colorado. Turnbull is in the Napa Neighbor Program although we did not know this at the time of our visit.

Our first tasting was the 2008 Sauvignon Blanc.  This was a full, round SB, less dry than I prefer but with a full citrus flavor of grapefruit with some melon.  Its softer presentation makes it very drinkable, and I think many people will like it, especially at only $15 a bottle or $12 if you are in their Wine Club.  The 2006 Merlot is well balanced with a nice finish.  Turnbull also had an unusual wine, a 2007 Tempranillo ($40), a famous Spanish grape. They add a little Petite Sirah, Sangranitino, Sangiovese and Zin to make a wine that is complex and interesting with a great nose, good fruit and a nice balance.  It was the favorite for both of us. I'm glad that some wineries are offering some different varietals in addition to the usual lineup. Our final tasting was the 2007 Petite Sirah ($36), one of my favorite varietals. This had the traditional peppery spice of a PS with full but soft tannins that delightfully blanket the mouth.  If you want a pleasant tasting experience with good wines that are affordable, Turnbull should be added to your list.  We hope to do a follow up visit to try their reserve wines.

Turnbull Wine Cellars 

8210 St. Helena Hwy
Oakville, CA 94562
(800) 887-6285

Visited 5/21/2010