Sterling Vineyards

Sterling Vineyards stands as one of Napa Valley's most distinctive and visually striking wineries, offering an experience unlike any other in the region. Founded in 1964 by English paper company executives Peter Newton and Michael Stone, Sterling was conceived as an ambitious project to create not just exceptional wines, but an unforgettable destination that would capture the essence of Napa Valley from above.

The winery's iconic white buildings, inspired by the Greek island of Mykonos, were strategically positioned 300 feet above the Calistoga valley floor on the slopes of Mount St. Helena. This elevated location was chosen not merely for its dramatic visual impact, but for the unique terroir it provides – cooler temperatures, increased sun exposure, and well-draining volcanic soils that would prove ideal for premium grape cultivation.

Sterling's most famous feature, the gondola system installed in 1973, was revolutionary for its time and remains the only aerial gondola providing winery access in North America. This four-minute sky-high journey transports guests from the valley floor to the winery, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Napa Valley, San Francisco Bay, and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Over the decades, Sterling has changed hands several times, being acquired by Coca-Cola in 1977, then Seagram in 1983, and finally becoming part of Treasury Wine Estates. Through each transition, the commitment to quality winemaking and the unique visitor experience has remained constant, with Sterling continuing to produce wines that reflect the distinctive character of its mountain terroir and the vision of its founders.