Founded in 1978 by Nils Venge, the first American winemaker to score 100 points from Parker (1985 Reserve Cab). The 14-acre estate on a dead-end lane in Oakville grows Cabernet, but they also bottle Charbono, Vermentino, Tannat, and Petit Verdot from other vineyards.
Checked against the winery’s website on September 3, 2026.
When to visit Saddleback Cellars
Monday10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Good to know about Saddleback Cellars
Yes, Saddleback Cellars has a tasting room open to visitors. Visits are by reservation, so book ahead rather than dropping in.
Saddleback Cellars focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Charbono, Vermentino, Tannat, and more. Signature bottles include 1985 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Chloe's Blend. When booking a tasting, ask which current release best represents the estate's style.
A tasting at Saddleback Cellars costs $40 per person, as listed on the winery's own website on September 3, 2026. Our tasting fee of $35 includes white wines, blends and red wines (always a Cabernet!). Fees change with the season and the experience booked, so confirm the current price when you reserve.
Saddleback Cellars doesn't serve food on-site. Plan to eat before you arrive or head out after. Tasting on an empty stomach limits how many wines you can assess accurately.
Yes, Saddleback Cellars has a picnic area. Call ahead to confirm any corkage fee or outside-food policy. Some estates allow you to bring provisions; others have restrictions. Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot.
Yes, Saddleback Cellars welcomes dogs. Policies usually cover outdoor areas only and expect dogs on a leash. Call ahead if you're bringing more than one, or if the weather is pushing everyone indoors.
Yes, Saddleback Cellars is family-friendly and welcomes children. Kid-friendly estates tend to have space to move and something non-alcoholic on hand. Weekday visits are calmer than weekends.
Yes, Saddleback Cellars offers vineyard tours. Options include: Wine Tasting and The Posse Wine Club. Tour spots fill before standard tasting reservations. Book your tour and tasting together when you reserve.
Saddleback Cellars is in Oakville, CA, in the Napa Valley wine region. Phone: (707) 944-1305. Confirm hours before visiting. Winery schedules vary seasonally.
Saddleback Cellars was established in 1976, giving the estate 50 years to develop its wine program and farming practices.
The winemaking at Saddleback Cellars is led by Nils Venge. Visiting during special events or release weekends is often the best chance to meet the winemaking team and ask questions about specific vintages or techniques.
Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Hours may vary seasonally. Confirm by phone or on their website before visiting.
Yes, Saddleback Cellars has outdoor seating. Availability is weather-dependent. Call ahead to confirm, particularly outside summer months.
