Bunnie, Judd and Holly Finkelstein represent two generations of Napa vintners, and their philosophy is one that focuses on an “intimate and personal approach,” which is why they have limited their annual production to less than three thousand cases total – a literal drop in the bucket of Napa Valley wine. Equally, their southern Silverado Trail-based winery, completed in 2006, was one of the first Napa Valley Vintners certified “Green Wineries” because of the incorporation of environmentally-efficient drainage, solar lightning, and an uncompromising recycling and composting program. Add in that Judd’s Hill is known for throwing great parties like the Lobster Luau Winefest, Musical Bonanza and Hanukkah Hootenanny and you’ve got the recipe for success for sure.

The proof is in the glass, of course, and that’s where the Finklesteins, first Art and now Judd, have been winning rave reviews for forty years. As Judd says, “Our idea is that great fruit makes fine wine, and we want that fact to show through. To that end, we use oak subtly, keep the alcohols at moderate levels, and blend carefully. We let the grape shine.” How good is this philosophy?  Well, the winery is well-known for amazing small-lot releases – multiple Cabernet Sauvignons, Founder’s Art Reserve Cabernet, Magic red wine blend, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel – which means you’re all set for a party.

Judd’s Hill also has a fantastic tasting room and a wine club with lots of free member events, including invitations to wine-and-food gigs featuring ukelele-playing Judd’s band, The Makai Gents Featuring the Mysterious Miss Mauna Loa.  Saturday, February 11th from 12 to 3 p.m. marks the first opportunity for folks to party with Judd and the gang in 2012 and it’s one not to be missed!  What better way to get ready for fun than spending time at the winery in Napa most known for it?

Kick-start your Valentine’s Day weekend festivities with delicious Judd’s Hill wines and light bites, all served with a healthy portion of “Judd Love!”  As always, they will have live entertainment; lots of different wines open, including current and library releases; and a few surprises up their sleeves to keep things interesting – they usually have two massage therapists giving complimentary back rubs during the events, for example! Call Pat Burke at (707) 255-2332 to purchase tickets or RSVP if you’re a club member. The Valentine’s Day party is $25 per person to attend, but free for members. Sound tempting? Information about joining their wine club can be found on their website, www.juddshill.com. So, come on in for wine, food and fun from one of the founding families of the modern Napa Valley!