Napa Valley’s Spring Mountain District lies up to 2,600 feet along the eastern slopes of the Mayacamas Range, receiving influences from the Pacific coast that create a cool to moderate climate for viticulture. Many vineyards in the wine appellation sit above the fog line, where cool daytime and warmer nighttime temperatures regulate the development and ripening of grapes. Well-drained soils and geographical diversity, including its topography of varying elevations and aspects, also provide distinct pockets for fruit to flourish.

As picking concluded in 2016, Spring Mountain producers had high expectations from a growing season that initially seemed underwhelming, with descriptions like “spectacular” and “easy harvest” defining the vintage.