Titus Vineyards is a family-owned winery and estate spanning 50 acres in the heart of Napa Valley's St. Helena AVA, nestled at the base of Howell Mountain along the Silverado Trail. Established in 1968 by Dr. Lee and Ruth Titus, the vineyard has been under the stewardship of the Titus family for over five decades. Today, the second generation—brothers Eric and Phillip Titus—continue the legacy, with Eric managing vineyard operations and Phillip serving as Director of Winemaking.
Vineyards and Terroir
The estate comprises two distinct vineyards:
The Ranch Estate: This 50-acre property stretches between the Silverado Trail to the east and the Napa River to the west, offering picturesque views of the Mayacamas range and Mt. St. Helena. The vineyard's sandy, alluvial soils are ideal for Bordeaux varietals and Zinfandel. Replanting efforts in the 1970s and late 1980s introduced clonal selections of Cabernet Sauvignon and preserved old Zinfandel blocks from the 1970s.
The Ehlers Lane Family Estate: Located less than a mile north of the Ranch Estate, this 10-acre vineyard features rocky volcanic soils, producing lower yields of small, concentrated berries. Planted with Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Verdot, the fruit from this vineyard contributes to the Titus Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.
Winemaking Philosophy
Titus Vineyards employs sustainable, low-intensity farming practices, avoiding pesticides and unnecessary fertilization. The focus is on maintaining soil health through cover crops and compost applications, ensuring balanced vine growth. Hand labor is emphasized for tasks like pruning, thinning, and harvesting, allowing for meticulous care of the vines. The modern winery, completed in 2015, is designed exclusively for crafting Titus wines, providing complete control over the winemaking process. The family's philosophy centers on artful blending to create wines that express the unique characteristics of their vineyards.
Visiting Titus Vineyards Tasting Room
The tasting room at Titus Vineyards offers guests panoramic views of the historic vineyards and the surrounding Mayacamas range. The modern design brings the outdoors inside with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, providing a serene setting to enjoy their wines.