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Montage Estate & Aperture Cellars Unveil Stunning New Napa Valley Wine Cellar

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. unveil-stunning-new-napa-valley-wine-cellar.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 0:48 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

Napa Valley, CA - February 1st, 2026 - Montage Estate, the renowned luxury resort nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, has unveiled its dramatically expanded wine program and a breathtaking new wine cellar and tasting room, forged through a strategic partnership with Aperture Cellars. The 12,000-square-foot space, officially opened to guests this week, isn't simply an addition to the resort's amenities; it represents a significant investment in the evolving landscape of wine tourism and luxury hospitality, catering to a growing demand for immersive and personalized experiences.

The collaboration between Montage Estate and Aperture Cellars signifies a shift in how luxury resorts are approaching wine offerings. No longer content with simply providing a wine list, establishments like Montage are actively curating experiences that delve into the art, science, and culture of winemaking. Jennifer Montgomery, Montage Estate's Director of Food and Beverage, explained the impetus behind the project: "We envisioned a space that truly embodies the Aperture Cellars ethos, a place where our guests can connect with the land, the process, and ultimately, the passion behind the wine."

The new facility is far more than a mere storage space for bottles. The cellar boasts a capacity for 3,000 cases, carefully organized into distinct zones designed to cater to a variety of preferences and experiences. The main tasting area provides a convivial setting for larger groups and guided explorations of Aperture's portfolio. For those seeking a more intimate encounter, a private salon offers secluded tastings and personalized consultations. Perhaps the most captivating space is the dedicated barrel room, allowing guests to witness firsthand the magic of wine aging and gain insight into the intricacies of the winemaking process.

Beyond the Bottles: Design & Immersive Experience

The architectural design of the cellar is a masterclass in understated elegance, a hallmark of the Montage Estate brand. The space seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, utilizing natural materials like reclaimed redwood and locally sourced stone. Luxurious details, such as custom brass accents and meticulously crafted hand-blown glass lighting, elevate the ambiance without feeling ostentatious. The goal, according to lead designer Eleanor Vance, was to "create a space that feels both grand and inviting, a true reflection of the Napa Valley terroir." Vance further elaborated that the design team drew inspiration from Aperture Cellars' own philosophy of blending art and nature, mirroring their label designs and vineyard practices.

Guests can choose from a range of curated experiences, designed to appeal to both novice wine enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs. Options include guided tours led by Aperture's winemakers, allowing a deep dive into the estate's history and winemaking philosophy. Private pairing dinners, featuring seasonal cuisine expertly matched with Aperture wines, provide a culinary journey that stimulates all the senses. Furthermore, bespoke tasting flights are available, tailored to individual palates and preferences.

Napa Valley's Evolving Wine Tourism Landscape

The Montage Estate and Aperture Cellars partnership is emblematic of a broader trend within Napa Valley: the increasing prioritization of experiential luxury. For years, Napa has been a premier destination for wine lovers, but the modern traveler is seeking more than just a tasting. They crave authenticity, immersion, and a deeper connection to the place and the people behind the wine.

"We're seeing a real shift in the way people travel," says Michael Davies, a wine tourism analyst. "They're willing to spend more for experiences that are truly memorable and enriching. Napa Valley is perfectly positioned to capitalize on this trend, and resorts like Montage Estate are leading the way by investing in offerings that go beyond the traditional tasting room model."

The influx of investment in luxury wine experiences is also impacting the local economy. Beyond the immediate benefits to Montage and Aperture, the enhanced tourism draws increased revenue to surrounding businesses, from transportation services to local artisans. The valley is seeing a rise in collaborative ventures between luxury hotels, boutique wineries, and culinary institutions, all striving to provide a holistic and unforgettable Napa Valley experience.

Looking ahead, industry experts predict that the demand for immersive wine tourism will only continue to grow. Montage Estate's new wine cellar and tasting room represents not just a beautiful space, but a glimpse into the future of luxury travel in Napa Valley - a future where wine is more than a beverage, it's a gateway to a richer, more meaningful experience.