In the early 1980s, after a summer day of working in his grandfather's vineyards, the current owner of Ghost Block Winery, Andy Hoxsey, was enjoying a cold beer at the legendary local Yountville bar, Pancha’s. There, he began a conversation with a retired veteran, who asked Andy if he farmed that vineyard next to the Yountville cemetery. He replied, “yes sir, I do.” The veteran, who may have had one too many beers, proceeded to tell Andy about the ghost he had seen leaving the Pioneer Cemetery walking up the hillside through that very vineyard, which he referred to as the cemetery field, towards the top of the Yountville hill. The veteran told Andy that ghost was the spirit of George C. Yount (founder of Yountville, who planted the first grapevine in Napa Valley in 1839), who haunted that vineyard and made his way to the top of the hill to overlook the town he founded. That next morning Andy went to trademark the name “Ghost Block.” Thus the two legends were born, the ghost of George C. Yount and Ghost Block Vineyard.

The Ghost Block vineyard, named in honor of the historic Pioneer Cemetery for which it borders, is nestled on a gently sloping knoll on the north edge of Yountville. This highly sought after vineyard is composed of 18 acres of unique, rarely found, exposed vertical bedding of tertiary volcanics. It is southeast facing, receiving mid-morning and afternoon sun and cooling in the evening and early morning with down valley marine influence. Planted solely to Cabernet Sauvignon it is 100% certified organic and the crown jewel of the family’s 635 planted acres.

Seductive aromas of black cherry, blackberry compote and plum sauce lure you in as you take the first sip. The wine is seamless from start to finish and fills out the palate with dark fruit continuing as the framework yet the harmonious layers of mocha and cassis along with hints of sage and tobacco leaf are what make the wine alluring and irresistible.