Each spring in Calistoga, something remarkable happens in the vineyards. The rows that were quiet and brown through winter suddenly burst into brilliant yellow as mustard flowers bloom between the vines.
For many visitors to Napa Valley, this moment feels almost magical. The hills turn vibrant, photographers arrive early in the morning for the perfect shot, and vineyards look like they’ve been painted with ribbons of gold.
At Bennett Lane Winery, our 7-acre estate vineyard of Cabernet Sauvignon becomes part of this beautiful seasonal transformation. In fact, our vineyard is even included on the Visit Napa Valley Mustard Season map, highlighting places where visitors can experiencethis iconic Napa Valley moment.
But the mustard bloom isn’t just beautiful—it plays an important role in the health of the vineyard.
More Than a Pretty Flower
Mustard grows naturally between vineyard rows during the cooler winter months. As temperatures begin to warm in early spring, the plants bloom before eventually returning organic matter back to the soil. In vineyard farming, this is known as a cover crop, and it provides several important benefits:
Soil Health
Mustard helps build organic material in the soil, improving structure and encouraging beneficial microbial life.
Erosion Control
Winter rains can be intense in Napa Valley. Cover crops like mustard help anchor the soil, preventing erosion and protecting the vineyard floor.
Nutrient Cycling
As the plants decompose, they return nutrients to the soil that support the vines during the growing season.
Biodiversity
The flowers attract beneficial insects that contribute to a balanced vineyard ecosystem.
A Natural Expression of Napa Valley
Mustard has become such a signature of Napa Valley that many visitors plan their trips around mustard season, typically from February through early March. It’s a brief window, but one that captures the beauty of the region and the connection between farmingand landscape.
At our estate vineyard in Calistoga, the contrast is especially striking: vibrant yellow mustard blooms running between rows of dormant Cabernet Sauvignon vines, with the hills of the northern Napa Valley as a backdrop. It’s a reminder that even in the quietermoments of the growing season, the vineyard is alive with activity.
Sustainability in the Vineyard
At Bennett Lane, we take great pride in farming our estate vineyard with intention. Our vineyard is certified Napa Green, reflecting our commitment to responsible, sustainable farming practices.
Programs like cover cropping are just one part of a broader approach that focuses on soil health, water conservation, and maintaining a thriving vineyard ecosystem. These practices not only support the environment here in Napa Valley—they also help us grow the exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon that defines our estate wines.
A Season Worth Experiencing
Mustard season is short, but it’s one of the most beautiful times of year in Napa Valley. The vineyard feels fresh and vibrant, winter rains have brought the landscape to life, and the promise of the growing season ahead is just beginning.
If you find yourself visiting Calistoga in early spring, take a moment to walk through the vineyard and enjoy the view. The golden blooms may only last a few weeks, but they are one of the most iconic—and meaningful—signs that a new vintage is on its way.