The historic 1855 Bordeaux Classification stands as the single most important and famous classification of any wine region in the world. Nearly 170 years later, this document, accomplished by Napoleon III, has stood the test of time and remains today as a sense of quality and prestige for Bordeaux’s left bank as well as a sense of pride for the French. As an American, I began to wonder if Napa Valley’s best wineries could be classified in a similar fashion. Rating them “first growths” to “fifth growths” as it is done in Bordeaux and releasing each “growth” list over the next few weeks. I decided to take this task upon myself. It was important to me to take not only wine quality into account but history as well. Some Napa wineries have been around since the 1800s and this reputation needs to be recognized and respected as many wineries today would not exist without their contribution. Only producers that are a minimum of ten years old were chosen. Some of the choices were especially difficult because there are so many incredible wineries in Napa making high-quality wine.

Many will agree with my selections. Many will disagree. This list is made strictly from my opinion and personal preferences and in no way depreciates the quality or prestige of other Napa producers. It is intended for fun and playful musing. I start First Growths of Napa with names that many will recognize and not be surprised to see. Names like Harlan and Screaming Eagle whose quality, reputation, and history are of legend.