Dare to Dream: New Partner Somnium Joins purple cork

Danica Patrick, Proprietor, Somnium

Retired race car driver Danica Patrick turned her passion for wine into a vision, after a life-changing bucket list visit to Napa Valley in 2006. 

“I fell in love with Napa Valley, and even more with wine,” she says. “I started to imagine how amazing it would be to have a vineyard of my own one day in this special place.”

Winemaker Aaron Pott offered to show her around on her next visit, and the dream began to take shape. He introduced Danica to a property hidden along the switchbacks just below the Howell Mountain appellation that turned out to be exactly what she’d envisioned: “a place with A++ soil and a beautiful view,” she says. Danica seized the opportunity with both hands, and named the vineyard Somnium – which means “dream” in Latin.

The idyllic 22-acre estate sits 1300 feet above sea level, looking down at the valley below. This area is known for its diverse mountain terrain and its intense, balanced and exquisitely structured wines. In 2017, the first Somnium estate Cabernet Sauvignon and first estate-grown, saignée-style Somnium Rosé were released to the world. Since then, Somnium has expanded its portfolio to include a spectacular Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc, and other varietals sourced from sought-after Napa Valley vineyards. The six plantable acres of the estate vineyard are certified organic by CCOF and thriving in their chemical-free environment.

Danica’s winemaker is Julien Fayard, one of Napa Valley’s most respected winemakers, producing California varietals with French finesse. He believes in producing wines with an identity, exploiting what makes each one unique. Julien’s wines are a pure expression of their terroir, highlighting the specificities and characteristics of the fruit, vineyard management, soil and climate. He has an impressive track record of building brands both in terms of quality and market presence – and a whole lot of Gallic charm.

Marketers looking to engage fans of Napa Valley’s hidden gem wineries can plan an event with purple cork and Somnium. Host your top women customers and prospects for a tasting with Somnium’s strong, female-led team, whose roots in Napa Valley run generations deep.

Want to brainstorm ideas for your next virtual wine-tasting event? Reach out to learn more about Somnium and all our incredible wine partners.