Bouchaine Vineyards to build ‘ambitious’ new winery cave
Napa Valley producer Bouchaine is embarking on an architectural project which will see more than 5,000 square feet of cave “blended” into a nearby hillside. db finds out more.
Bouchaine Vineyards has announced a new architectural project, which the Napa producer says will “redefine what a winery experience can be”. Described as a “fusion of modern design and natural drama”, the undertaking is expected to take around one year to complete, with the building work due to be finished by autumn 2026.
When finished, more than 5,000 square feet of cave will blend seamlessly into a hillside just west of the main tasting room in Carneros, framed by two outdoor courtyards lined with olive trees, the design masterminded by Californian architects Backen & Backen.
According to a release issued by the winery, guests will enter an arched corridor lined with barrels, passing a private tasting cellar before arriving at a large space that can accommodate up to 80 guests. The plans also reveal that a defining feature will be a dramatic “triple barrel-vaulted ceiling” that draws the eye upwards. Two stone fireplaces will help to create a cosy atmosphere, while sweeping views over the vineyard and San Francisco Bay can also be expected.
New experiences
Speaking to db, Bouchaine explained that “the new space will be used for wine storage and ageing, as well as providing a new ‘wow factor’ site for tastings and events.”
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“As a family-owned winery, this project embodies our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and beauty,” said Bouchaine owner Tatiana Copeland. “We have always sought out new and exciting ways for our guests to experience Bouchaine, and this project will certainly take them in a new direction…underground. Our fabulous winery team is great at providing a guest experience full of attention, knowledge, and of course, great wines, and with this new cave, we’ll have the opportunity to take those experiences to a new level.”
Copeland added: “We have always been in love with Carneros, from the rolling hills to the blankets of fog and the beautiful light that provides some of the best sunsets in California. And what we try to do is bring that same beauty and welcoming nature to our guests.
“With this new project, we hope to bring new visitors to Bouchaine, underground, to see a side of our gorgeous estate that few have been able to experience until now.”
During construction, Bouchaine, which is a leading producer of sustainably-farmed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Carneros AVA, will remain open to visitors daily from 10am. to 5pm.
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