Marin School of the Arts – Divine Wine Online Auction 2016
Auction Ends: May 19, 2016 12:00 AM PDT

Wine, Beer & Spirits

Markham Vineyards - Tour & Tasting for 2 PLUS Bottle of Merlot

Item Number
173
Estimated Value
100 USD
Sold
70 USD to NKS
Number of Bids
7  -  Bid History

Item Description

Bordeaux immigrant Jean Laurent came to California in 1852 to seek gold but instead founded one of the first wineries in Napa Valley. Laurent built his first winery in 1874, which was a modest wooden structure. Business was good and in 1879 he built the stone cellar that is the heart of the present-day winery. Laurent was one of the largest producers in the California wine boom of the 1880s. In those days, wines were sold in bulk and shipped by train to the east coast. After Laurent’s death in 1890, the winery continued operating under a succession of owners.

Bruce Markham arrived in Napa Valley almost 100 years later, also looking to start a winery.

He purchased vineyards in Yountville, Oak Knoll and Calistoga and the old Laurent winery, which was operating as a cooperative at the time. In 1978, he founded Markham Vineyards and the old Laurent winery was reborn. Markham focused on Cabernet Sauvignon in its early days and introduced the Markham Merlot with the 1980 vintage. From 1978 to 1988 the winery's production increased from 3,500 cases to 20,000 cases. The wine quality and praise from wine critics and consumers increased as well.

Winning bidder will enjoy a tour and tasting for 2 of the St. Helena winery and take home a bottle of Markham Vineyards Merlot.

Item Special Note

Reservations required. Expires 5/14/17.