Napa
Elizabeth Spencer Winery
A rich history, diverse wine portfolio, and commitment to quality continues with the Boisset family.
Overview
If you’ve ever driven through Rutherford and thought, “That little brick building is cute,” this is your sign to actually pull in. Elizabeth Spencer’s tasting room lives inside a historic 1872 Rutherford Post Office, and the best part is that the real hangout is behind it—quiet gardens, shaded seating, and that calm, tucked-away feel that makes you forget Highway 29 is right there.
Wine-wise, we come here when we want classic Napa comfort (Cabernet is the anchor), plus a fun little detour into whites and off-the-beaten-path bottlings sourced around Northern California. People consistently call out the rosé, Viognier, and the estate-style Cabs as standouts.
History
Elizabeth Spencer started as a “partners in life and partners in wine” project—Elizabeth Pressler and Spencer Graham built the label around relationships with great growers, then later snagged the corner-post-office building in 2005 and opened it for tastings in May 2006. It’s the kind of origin story that makes sense the minute you walk in: small, personal, and built for hospitality.
Fast-forward to 2021, and the winery joined the Boisset Collection under Jean-Charles Boisset—same Rutherford charm, just with more resources behind the scenes.
Sustainability
This is one of the spots where sustainability isn’t a side-note—it’s baked into the culture. The winery talks openly about commitments to sustainable farming and organic/biodynamic practices, and their winemaker, Sarah Vandendriessche, is deeply involved in Napa’s broader environmental stewardship work.
On the bottle side, they also produce at least one Cabernet made with organic grapes certified through CCOF (you’ll see this referenced in trade/brand materials).
Atmosphere
Think: warm brick, exposed structure, and a tasting space that feels intentionally intimate—like a “local secret,” not a scene. Then you step outside and it shifts into garden mode: sun-dappled paths, greenery, and an English-style courtyard vibe that’s made for lingering.
Experience
Guests love that it feels personal and un-rushed, with a cozy setup up front and a “why is this so peaceful?” garden moment out back. The hospitality gets described as warm and attentive, and the setting is a repeat-visit kind of place—especially for couples and small groups who want Napa without the big-production energy.
Unique Elements
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That 1872 post office tasting room—historic, photogenic, and genuinely different from the usual Napa facades.
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The “hidden” garden courtyard feel (people mention the flowers and outdoor space constantly).
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A surprisingly wide-ranging lineup: multiple appellations, classic Napa staples, and some “ooh, I didn’t expect that here” whites.
