Impensata is a family-inspired project with two estate vineyards: the historic Engelhard Vineyard in the western hills of Calistoga and the Ciminelli Vineyard maturing at the summit of Howell Mountain, a project most thought not possible to achieve. In addition to the estate vineyards, Impensata is privileged to source from two legendary vineyards on Howell Mountain: Ecotone (formerly known as Thorevilos) and David Abreu’s Las Posadas.
The vision for Impensata started the way it continues today—around a table laden with wine and brimming with conversation. With a shared passion for Tuscan winemaking. With a daring spirit to build something new..
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Steeped in Italian tradition yet pioneering in our endeavors, we have ingrained in us a proverb as old as Ancient Rome ~ Festina Lente, make haste slowly. In the arc of Napa Estates, we are newfound, but the idea of Impensata has been nurtured for decades. Our team is patient but persistent, chasing this vision with daring and steadfast hands.
Impensata is stewarded by Mike Laipple, but it’s a dream shared by many and would be impossible without irreplaceable growers. David Abreu’s touch in the vineyard is the stuff of legend. Visionary builder Louis Ciminelli partnered to develop the ultimate mountainside Merlot vineyard on Howell Mountain specifically with this project in mind. Jack Bittner’s fruit from Ecotone and David’s from Las Posadas lend us their greatness as well. Together we make something greater than any one of us could alone, and we hope you will join us on our journey as well.
