The Hess Collection Winery was founded in 1985 when Swiss entrepreneur Donald Hess bought 500 acres of land on Mount Veeder, in Napa Valley. The winery now owns 725 acres in various parts of Napa Valley and in Monterey. About two-thirds of the estate’s vineyards are planted to Chardonnay, and Hess is known for its consistently excellent Chardonnays. The estate also grows Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc and small amounts of other white wine grapes. Of special note is the estate’s collection of contemporary art, which is located at the Mount Veeder estate and is open to the public. Hess Family Estates also owns wineries in Argentina, South Africa and Australia.
Zinfandel is a black-skinned grape, but 85% of the wine produced is made into a rosy “White Zinfandel.” Red Zin is far more complex and bold, while still being light-bodied. It grows in popularity as winemakers continue to experiment with new styles and blends.