At Sequoia Grove, alignment between vineyard and cellar is less about spectacle and more about the long game—estate control, disciplined farming, and Cabernet built to last.
For me, the spark had faded some time ago—the sense of wonder and excitement that normally comes with spending time in one of the world’s most iconic wine regions had dissipated. Over time, parts of Napa can start to feel more polished than personal—meticulously choreographed, carefully presented, and often priced accordingly. However, everything changed for me after spending 72 hours at Sequoia Grove Winery with Jesse Fox and Jake Terrell, head winemaker and director of vineyards respectively.
From the outset, Sequoia Grove feels like Napa—and yet it doesn’t. It’s not that luxury doesn’t exist here (it does). But the winery prioritizes guests who want to learn every intimate detail of the liquid in their glass. Stepping into this space feels like entering a distant relative’s home. It’s comforting, and without pretense. Elevated experiences and tastings are still available for those seeking upscale Napa. A remarkably talented culinary team offers a multi-course Cabernet Sauvignon pairing exercise that will leave your mind and palate reeling. But behind the namesake sequoia trees, the real experience unfolds—in the vineyards.
If Napa can sometimes feel like Disney, Sequoia Grove feels more like HBO’s reality sports series Hard Knocks—less pageantry, more behind-the-scenes work. What stands out isn’t spectacle, but culture: two leaders aligned around a long-term vision, doing the often unglamorous work that ultimately defines the result—and what consumers get to enjoy…