Brown Napa Valley

Brown Downtown Napa is a stylish urban tasting room offering Brown Estate's acclaimed wines in a modern, loft-like space in downtown Napa

Visiting the Brown Estate tasting room in Napa had been on my list for years, and finally walking through those doors felt like more than just achieving a goal – it felt deeply personal.

This was a moment of celebrating Black Excellence in the heart of Napa Valley.

Parking was a breeze. Since I’d stayed at the Andaz Napa before, I knew I could use the same nearby parking structure, which offers complimentary daytime parking.

Stepping into the tasting room, I was immediately struck by the beauty of the space. Every detail felt intentional, from the thoughtfully placed quotes to the inviting interior design. The entire vibe whispered a soft, resounding “yes.”

After a warm and gracious welcome, I was led to the most charming little tasting couch for one — perfectly cozy and just right for the experience ahead.

I started with 2022 BETELGEUSE SAUVIGNON BLANC and 2022 BETELGEUSE ROSÉ.

I continued with 2022 CHAOS THEORY alongside the 2021 CHILES VALLEY ZINFANDEL.

I also had the 2021 EASTSIDE ZINFANDEL to compare.

After comparing the price of the tasting to the value of buying two bottles and having the tasting fee removed, I chose to buy bottles of the 2021 Chiles Valley Zinfandel and the 2022 Chaos Theory.

I knew before I even arrived that I’d be leaving with a bottle for my friend and real estate mentor, Carla. Because, some wines aren’t meant to be handed off in passing. They’re meant to be opened, poured, and shared in good company to commemorate the power of resistance in the face of devastation.

I thought of everything she’s endured: losing her home in the Eaton Canyon fires, and choosing, with quiet strength, to rebuild instead of remaining in the ruins of grief. That kind of resilience deserves more than acknowledgment. I wanted to celebrate it.

I’m looking forward to the moment we open it together, standing in her new home. Visiting and tasting at Brown Winery’s tasting room was a  toast to Black excellence, to starting again, and quiet kind of strength of perseverance that doesn’t ask for recognition –  but deserves it all the same.

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