Tate Wine

David Tate and Suzanne Tate established Tate Wine in 2011. David Tate, a native of British Columbia, studied enology and viticulture at Brock University before gaining international experience at Rockford Wines in the Barossa Valley and Domaine Richeaume in Provence. He spent five years as assistant winemaker at Ridge Vineyards at the Monte Bello estate, an experience that influenced his focus on mountain grown fruit. Since 2007, he has also served as the winemaker and general manager for Barnett Vineyards on Spring Mountain. Suzanne Tate, originally from Texas, worked in fine wine distribution and studied culinary arts before moving to Napa Valley in 2010. The couple operates the winery together, producing approximately 1,000 cases of wine annually.

The winery focuses on single varietal expressions sourced from micro vineyards across several Napa Valley appellations. Key sites include Jack's Vineyard, a single acre parcel on Howell Mountain located at an elevation of 1,700 feet, and the Dillon Vineyard in Yountville for Chardonnay. David Tate also sources fruit from St. Helena, Mt. Veeder, and Calistoga. In the cellar, the winemaking philosophy prioritizes tannin management and balanced acidity to create wines that are approachable in their youth while maintaining aging potential. The production process emphasizes individual vineyard sites rather than regional blends, often using restrained oak programs to highlight the specific fruit characteristics of each micro lot.

Tate Wine is primarily recognized for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The Spring Street Cabernet Sauvignon and the Jack's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon are central to the portfolio, alongside a Merlot from Calistoga. The brand logo is a silver corkscrew, which serves as a tribute to Donn Reisen, a former president of Ridge Vineyards who mentored David Tate during his early career in California. The winery has built a reputation for producing high quality, site specific wines that compete with more established boutique labels in the region. Critics have specifically noted the Jack's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon for its intensity and the Dillon Vineyard Chardonnay for its balance of old world finesse and new world style.