Located in the heart of Napa Valley, Clos Pegase is a winery with a rich history and a commitment to producing exceptional wines. Founded by Jan Shrem in 1984, the winery was named after the ancient Greek god of wine, Dionysus, and the mythical winged horse, Pegasus. The winery's name translates to "enclosed by Pegasus," and it's a fitting name for a winery that has soared to the top of the Napa Valley wine scene.
The Terroir of Clos Pegase
Clos Pegase's vineyards are located in the Calistoga AVA, an area known for its volcanic soils and warm climate. The winery's estate vineyards are planted on a combination of volcanic ash and alluvial soils, which provide the grapes with excellent drainage and the perfect environment for ripening. This unique terroir results in wines with intense flavors and complexity.
The Winemaking Philosophy of Clos Pegase
At Clos Pegase, the winemaking philosophy is to produce wines that are true to the terroir and express the unique character of the grapes. To achieve this, the winemakers use a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. The grapes are hand-harvested, and the wines are fermented in small, open-top tanks to allow for maximum flavor development. The wines are then aged in French oak barrels for a period of time that is specific to each wine.
The Wines of Clos Pegase
Clos Pegase produces a wide variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery's flagship wine is the Clos Pegase Mitsuko's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, named after Jan Shrem's late wife. This wine is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor and long finish.
Other wines of note include the Clos Pegase Chardonnay, which is known for its buttery, tropical fruit flavors, and the Clos Pegase Pinot Noir, which is known for its delicate, nuanced flavor.
The Winery and Tasting Room
Clos Pegase is more than just a winery; it's also a work of art. The winery's architectural design is inspired by the ancient Greek and Roman ruins, and the tasting room is home to an impressive collection of modern art. Visitors can take a tour of the winery and the art collection, and then enjoy a tasting of the winery's wines.
