Elyse Winery

Family Winery in Yountville Countryside Setting

Family-owned Elyse Winery is the happy result of two people risking a big chance in life—and succeeding.

Back in 1983, Cape Cod restaurant workers Ray and Nancy Coursen decided to move to California so that Ray could pursue his dream of making wine. Starting off as a grape picker, Ray studied, learned and worked his way up to become winemaker at Napa’s Whitehall Lane Winery.

In 1987, only four years after leaving Cape Cod, the Coursens founded Elyse Winery.

The result? Over the years many Elyse wines have received 90+ scores from Robert Parker, the Wine Enthusiast, and others.

The unpretentious winery has a beautiful countryside setting that’s enhanced by the winery’s friendly dogs hanging around the entrance to greet visitors (they’re among the “stars” in a book about Napa’s winery dogs). Inside, the tasting room is small, simple and no frills.

A tasting here is all about the wine; the relaxed and knowledgeable staff is happy to discuss Elyse wines in particular or wines in general, as well as answer questions. Soft jazz, blues, or classical music plays in the background, and the pours are generous.

Fascinating Fact:

Elyse Winery is named for the Corsen’s daughter.

Amenities: Wine Club (complimentary tastings)
Founded: 1987
Signature Wines: Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, La Peche, C’est Si Bon, Le Corbeau
Wine Tasting: By appointment only
Hours: Daily, 10–5

Elyse Winery
2100 Hoffman Lane
Yountville, CA 94559
707-944-2900

info@elysewinery.com
www.elysewinery.com

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Suzie Rodriguez writes about travel, food, and wine from her home in the wine-country town of Sonoma, California. You can follow her travels and musings at The Culinary Gadabout.

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