Prior to Prohibition (1920 -1933) there were around 700 wineries operating in California - many of them dating to the mid-to-late 1800's.  By the time the 18th Amendment was repealed the country was still gripping with the Great Depression, when the dust settled, roughly only 40 wineries had managed to survive. Many of which barely made it by exploiting legal loopholes and producing sacramental wines, while others thumbed their noses bootlegging their way through underground channels and taking the chance of distributing their wines on the black market. These special few are referred to as ghost wineries. 

While the moniker may suggest otherwise, ghost wineries are not necessarily haunted. That being said, some of these historic beauties are known to have a few "spirited" visitors, just ask the staff at Trefethen Family Vineyards.  Spooky stories and tall tales aside, ghost wineries offer an amazing peek into the past as these are wineries and tasting rooms that were abandoned during Prohibition and brought back to life by the next generation of vintners.

Several of these magnificent properties remain in Napa Valley for all to enjoy today. The wineries of yesteryear that were saved have been lovingly renewed by a new generation of vintners that have invested millions to meticulously preserve the historic structures and of course share the amazing stories of their predecessors.

Today, they open their doors inviting you to celebrate past and the present, and exploring the pure engineering marvels of a bygone era featuring their hand-crafted stone cellars, gravity-fed production areas (long before electric pumps), riddling racks and historical pictures and artifacts on display.

Make this Halloween weekend spooktacular by booking an experience at one of Napa Valley's ghost wineries. Even though it is not a ghost winery, the NIGHTFall tasting at NIGHT Wines in St. Helena is an experience that is sure to thrill. This unique tasting in the dark it Napa Valley's most sensory experience within a 1905 bank vault. You will be surrounded by candles, velvet chairs, and beautiful stone walls.  Perhaps the wine won't be the only thing that gives you a chill... happy sipping.


-The Vineyard Vixen

Ghost Wineries

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