Markham Vineyards occupies a historic stone winery building on Highway 29 in St. Helena, one of the older structures on the valley floor still in active winery use. Founded in 1977 by Bruce Markham, the estate has built a reputation for Merlot that overdelivers at accessible price points, and for an art photography program that adds a cultural dimension to the tasting experience.

History of Markham Vineyards

The stone winery building at 2812 St Helena Highway North was originally constructed in 1874 as the Ewer and Atkinson Winery, one of the earliest commercial wineries in the St. Helena area. It operated through the late 19th century before Prohibition ended production and the property fell dormant.

Bruce Markham purchased the historic property in 1977 and reestablished it as Markham Vineyards, launching the Merlot program that would define the brand. The winery changed hands in 1988 when a Japanese investment group acquired it, and subsequent ownership has maintained the winemaking direction and the art program that Bruce Markham initiated.

The stone building at Markham dates to 1874 and served as the Ewer and Atkinson Winery before Prohibition shut it down. When Bruce Markham purchased the property in 1977 and began producing wine, he inherited a century of winemaking history in the walls. The Merlot program that followed became one of the most consistent value propositions in Napa Valley.

Vineyards and production

Markham Vineyards sources from estate and long-term contract vineyards across Napa Valley, with properties in Calistoga, Yountville, and Oakville contributing fruit to different tiers and varieties. The diversity of sources across the valley gives the winemaking team flexibility to match varieties to their optimal growing sites.

Merlot from cooler southern Napa Valley sites produces the plush, dark cherry character that defines the flagship. Cabernet Sauvignon from warmer northern sites like Calistoga contributes structure and concentration to the blends. The Chardonnay program draws from cooler Carneros and Oak Knoll sites where the variety achieves the balance of weight and acidity that suits the Markham style.

The wines of Markham Vineyards

Merlot is the variety that built the Markham reputation and remains the most acclaimed wine in the portfolio. The Napa Valley Merlot draws from multiple valley sources and consistently earns high scores relative to its price point. The Reserve Merlot, produced in select vintages, adds depth and aging potential to the accessible style.

Cabernet Sauvignon at both Napa Valley and Reserve tiers represents the second major program. The Chardonnay from cooler Napa Valley sites is well-regarded for its balance and food-compatibility. A Petite Sirah, produced from older valley floor vines, is a cult favorite among collectors who seek out inky, structured reds at prices below the prestige tier.

Food pairings with Markham wines

Markham Merlot is one of the most reliable food-friendly reds at its price level in Napa Valley. The variety’s natural plushness and dark cherry fruit work across a wide range: roasted chicken with pan drippings, mushroom risotto with shaved truffle, pork tenderloin with cherry glaze, or a charcuterie board with aged cheeses and cured meats.

The Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon wants richer preparations: grilled rib-eye steak, lamb chops with rosemary and garlic, or braised short ribs where the tannins find the fat they need to open. The Petite Sirah is the boldest wine in the lineup and suits the richest, most intensely flavored food: slow-smoked brisket, wild boar ragu, or aged hard cheeses that can match the wine’s inky concentration.

Markham Vineyards: common questions