Newton Vineyard in Napa Valley Closes Permanently After 2020 Glass Fire

Newton Vineyard in Napa Valley will not reopen after being destroyed by the 2020 Glass fire. The winery, known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, announced its permanent closure on February 13. Owned by LVMH since 2001, Newton Vineyard had been operating in a temporary space since the fire. The decision to close was attributed to the extensive damage caused by the fire.

Founded in 1977 by Peter Newton, the winery was a boutique gem located at the base of Spring Mountain near St. Helena. Visitors were greeted by English gardens and a pagoda-inspired winery. The 560-acre property was mostly hidden by forest, with 74 acres of vines planted on steep hillsides. These vines were primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, spread across 70 blocks at elevations from 500 to 1,600 feet. The winery also had vineyards in Mt. Veeder, Yountville, and Carneros.

LVMH had invested $10 million to renovate the winery and convert the vineyards to organic farming. Newton's Unfiltered Chardonnay, originally crafted by winemaker John Kongsgaard, became a benchmark in the industry. However, the 2020 fire devastated the property, leaving only 5 acres of vines intact. Despite initial plans to revive the estate and a temporary tasting room in Calistoga, the brand's closure was unexpected.

LVMH, which also owns other Napa properties like Colgin, Joseph Phelps, and Domaine Chandon, decided not to rebuild Newton Vineyard. The closure marks the end of an era for a winery that had a significant impact on the wine industry.