Freemark Abbey’s annual Estate Events revolve seasonally around the release days for three of the winery’s most prized red wines, while the fourth event celebrates the harvest. Each event—two in the spring and two in fall—has its own flavor, but our staff’s dedication to hospitality and enthusiasm for the wines showcased at each event ensure great experiences across the board for club members and winery guests. These are, without a doubt, some of the best winery events in St. Helena.
This early March event is a unique opportunity for guests to taste Freemark Abbey’s original single-vineyard wine—also one of Napa Valley’s most legendary Cabernet Sauvignons—upon its release. Bonus corks are popped on past vintages from this classic Rutherford vineyard. As a Cabernet with a history at Freemark dating back to 1970, the Bosché release gets a much-deserved celebration, with delicious small bites and live entertainment.
The second spring event of the year recognizes the legacy of Josephine Tychson, the founder of the property back in 1881. Josephine was a pioneer in 19th century Napa Valley and one of the first ladies of winemaking in the valley. The complex, cellar-worthy red wine named after her is a Cabernet-Merlot-Malbec blend. It’s one of the great examples of St. Helena wine, produced from three St. Helena vineyards very close to the winery, and worthy of a celebratory release day.
Freemark Abbey’s signature party of the year, which takes place in early September as summer turns to fall, is its celebration of the impending grape harvest. Oysters and hors d’oeuvres are served, rounded out by a wine country buffet, dancing and live entertainment. The yearly grape stomp also takes place, a fun and highly participatory activity that symbolizes the beginnings of the fabulous Freemark wines being shared.
The Sycamore Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford came along in 1980s, a decade after Bosché fruit arrived at the winery to lay the groundwork for one of Napa Valley’s most unique Cabernets. Sycamore has always displayed an equally unique sense of place. Taken together, these single-vineyard wines deserve equally great, all-day celebrations of their releases. On the heels of the Harvest Party and with its own live entertainment, the Sycamore event in October is a reminder of the promise every fall season brings to Freemark Abbey in the form of world-class Napa Valley grapes.
