Founded in 1861 by Prussian immigrant Charles Krug, this namesake estate is widely regarded as Napa Valley’s first commercial winery. Today, it sits just north of the town of St. Helena and is best known for its range of estate-grown wines, especially its Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and single-vineyard bottlings from prime locations across the valley. Charles Krug plays a dual role in Napa’s wine narrative: as a legacy institution with over 160 years of history and as a standard-bearer of quality under the stewardship of the Mondavi family, whose influence on American wine is unparalleled. The estate's iconic red wines continue to draw visitors and collectors alike.

Charles Krug Winery has been owned and operated by the Mondavi family since 1943, when Cesare and Rosa Mondavi purchased the estate from the original founder’s heirs. Today, it remains under the leadership of Peter Mondavi Jr. and Marc Mondavi, grandsons of Cesare and Rosa. The brothers share management responsibilities, with Peter Mondavi Jr. overseeing winemaking and operations, and Marc Mondavi involved in vineyard management and broader business strategy. Their continued commitment to family ownership and long-term stewardship sets Charles Krug apart as one of the few historic Napa wineries still controlled by descendants of its early proprietors. The wines are made by Angelina Mondavi and Stacy Clark.

Charles Krug, a Prussian immigrant and early pioneer of winemaking in Napa, founded the winery in 1861, introducing new techniques such as the cider press and advocating for scientific winemaking. Following his death in 1892, the estate changed hands several times and eventually fell into disuse. In 1943, Cesare and Rosa Mondavi acquired the dilapidated property and restored it, marking the beginning of the Mondavi family's deep connection with Napa Valley. Their son, Robert Mondavi, worked at Charles Krug before leaving in 1966 to start his own winery, which would become equally famous. The Krug estate has been steadily modernised over the decades, while preserving its heritage structures, including the original Redwood Cellar, which remains central to its hospitality today.

Charles Krug is located on Highway 29 in the heart of the St. Helena AVA, one of Napa Valley’s most prestigious sub-appellations. The estate’s proximity to key valley-floor and hillside vineyards gives it access to a wide range of fruit sources. The winery sits close to renowned neighbours such as Beringer and Louis M. Martini, positioning it among the valley’s most historic winemaking zones. In addition to its St. Helena estate, Charles Krug draws fruit from other AVAs, including Yountville, Howell Mountain, and Rutherford, allowing for both blended and site-specific expressions.

Charles Krug farms over 500 acres of estate vineyards across Napa Valley, including significant holdings in Yountville and Howell Mountain. The home vineyard in St. Helena provides fruit for several estate wines, while single-vineyard bottlings such as the Family Reserve Generations Cabernet Sauvignon benefit from hillside terroirs like Howell Mountain’s Voltz Vineyard. The winery has invested heavily in sustainable farming and water conservation, and the Mondavi family has focused on matching specific varietals to optimal terroirs. Cabernet Sauvignon is the dominant variety, but Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay also feature prominently in the estate’s viticultural landscape.

Charles Krug’s winemaking philosophy blends tradition with innovation. The estate has modernised its facilities over the years, most recently with the construction of a state-of-the-art winemaking cellar. Small-lot fermentation is used for premium red wines, and oak barrel ageing is carefully calibrated to enhance varietal character without overpowering it. Winemaker Stacy Clark, who joined in 2011 after two decades at Pine Ridge, brings a nuanced, site-driven approach to the wines. The winery is particularly known for its Bordeaux-style red blends and varietal Cabernet Sauvignons that balance structure, ripeness, and freshness. White wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, are made in a bright, fruit-forward style.

Charles Krug produces a broad portfolio, but its most important wines are centred around Cabernet Sauvignon. The Family Reserve Generations, a Bordeaux-style blend, is a flagship cuvée showcasing structure and ageability. The Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is another standout, offering depth and concentration from mountain fruit. More accessible offerings include the Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, while the Sauvignon Blanc from estate vineyards offers a crisp, citrus-driven alternative to the reds. Across the range, the wines are designed to express varietal purity and a sense of place, reflecting the estate’s mix of valley-floor and hillside vineyard sources.

Charles Krug offers a full hospitality experience centred around its restored 19th-century Redwood Cellar. Visitors can choose from a variety of tastings, including seated tastings, estate tours, and food pairings. The Cucina di Rosa trattoria serves Italian-inspired small plates and charcuterie, enhancing the experience. The winery regularly hosts concerts, cultural events, and private tastings, with the Great Lawn providing an elegant venue for larger gatherings. With its blend of historic architecture and modern hospitality, Charles Krug remains one of the most visitor-friendly estates in Napa Valley. Reservations are recommended, especially for the private library tastings and seasonal events.