Freemark Abbey: A Pillar of Napa Valley's Winemaking Tradition
Foundation and Early Years
Freemark Abbey, located in Saint Helena, California, has a rich history dating back to 1886. It was founded by Josephine Tychson, a pioneering woman in the Napa Valley wine industry. Originally from Pennsylvania, Josephine moved to Napa Valley with her Danish husband, John, in 1881. They purchased nearly 150 acres of land and planted Zinfandel, Riesling, and Burgundy vines. John, who had been involved in farming before their move, tragically succumbed to tuberculosis in 1886. Despite this loss, Josephine continued their dream, establishing Tychson Cellars in 1886, making her one of the first female winemakers in Napa Valley.
Transition and Ownership Changes
In 1898, Josephine sold the property due to the devastating impact of the vine disease phylloxera, which struck her vineyard in 1893. This parasite destroyed a significant portion of her vines, making it difficult for her to continue operating the winery. She sold the estate to her foreman, Nils Larsen, who later sold it to Antonio Forni. Forni renamed it Lombarda Cellars and constructed the stone winery that still stands today. The winery faced a significant challenge during Prohibition, which forced its closure for twenty years. During this time, Forni managed to keep the winery operational by producing sacramental wine for the Catholic Church.
In 1939, three Southern California businessmen—Charles Freeman, Marquand Foster, and Albert "Abbey" Ahern—purchased the property. They combined their names to form "Freemark Abbey" and reopened the winery. They also established one of the first tasting rooms in Napa Valley, known then as a "Sampling Room."
Modern Era and Notable Events
In 1967, seven partners—Charles "Chuck" Carpy, John Bryan, Laurie Wood, Bill Smith, Jim Warren, Chuck House, and Tom Selfridge—acquired Freemark Abbey, focusing on producing high-quality Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. This period marked the introduction of the Freemark Abbey Cabernet Bosché, one of the earliest vineyard-designated wines in California.
A significant moment in Freemark Abbey's history was the 1976 Judgment of Paris. This blind tasting competition saw Freemark Abbey as the only California winery with both a red and white wine represented. The 1972 Freemark Chardonnay placed ahead of prestigious French wines, bringing international recognition to Napa Valley wines.
Current Ownership and Legacy
Freemark Abbey is currently owned by Jackson Family Wines, which is owned by the family of the late Jess Jackson. The winery continues to produce a range of wines, with a focus on Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford. The winery's notable wines include the Bosché Cabernet and Sycamore Vineyard Cabernet. Over the years, Freemark Abbey has received acclaim for its elegant and long-lived wines.
In 2016, the winery's success was highlighted when the National Football League selected the 2013 Freemark Abbey Spring Mountain Fiftieth Reserve Bordeaux Blend as the commemorative Super Bowl 50 wine.
Freemark Abbey's history reflects its ability to adapt and thrive through changing times, securing its place as a key player in Napa Valley's wine industry.