Araujo Family Sells Wheeler Farms Winery to Bella Oaks Owner: A New Chapter in Napa Valley’s Wine Legacy

Winemaker Nigel Kinsman is set to produce both Suzanne Deal Booth’s Bella Oaks wines and his own creations at the Rutherford custom-crush facility and hospitality center.

Suzanne Deal Booth, the proprietor of the historic Bella Oaks Vineyard located in Napa Valley’s Rutherford appellation, has successfully finalized the acquisition of the Wheeler Farms winery facility from the Araujo family, as confirmed by Wine Spectator. Wheeler Farms boasts a notable roster of custom crush clients, which prominently includes Booth’s own Bella Oaks label. Other wines crafted at the facility comprise the Araujos’ Accendo Cellars, as well as various brands associated with winemaker Nigel Kinsman—this includes Kinsman Eades, Annulus, and J.H. Wheeler, along with other projects.

This acquisition also encompasses an almost 7-acre vineyard surrounding the facility, which is located on Zinfandel Lane, just east of Highway 29. The details regarding the purchase price remain undisclosed.

With this transaction, Wheeler Farms remains in familiar hands. Booth acquired the historic Bella Oaks estate in 2010, and her wine has been produced at Wheeler Farms since its inaugural vintage in 2017. Additionally, she has been an investor in Wheeler Farms since 2021.

“My friendship with the Araujos extends back many years, even before I contemplated owning a property in Napa Valley,” Booth shared. “I became acquainted with them through the Staglins. Our relationship has grown over time, especially with us being neighbors, so to speak. I’ve always resonated with the Araujos and their commitment to farming, particularly their use of organic and biodynamic practices in their vineyards. This aspect is of great significance to me. Thus, it seems to be a perfect alignment in that respect.”

In 2021, Booth took ownership of the previous Swanson winery site, situated on Manley Lane next to Bella Oaks. She has been working on securing permit approvals from Napa County to modernize the facility. “The permitting process might take several years. Therefore, Wheeler Farms appears to be a natural extension of my efforts,” Booth explained.

“Suzanne’s acquisition represents a significant step in the ongoing transformation of Wheeler Farms into a premier world-class winegrowing and experiential visitor venue,” stated Bart and Daphne Araujo. “Suzanne embodies our shared dedication and enthusiasm for excellence concerning Napa Valley’s history and traditions, as she’s clearly illustrated at Bella Oaks. The legacy we initiated is being handed over to a very kindred spirit.”

Shae Kinsman, Nigel’s spouse, now serves as the general manager for both Bella Oaks and Wheeler Farms, which not only includes its production facility but also features upscale hospitality amenities for its diverse clientele. The hospitality program boasts an in-house culinary team and is supported by a vegetable garden cultivated using biodynamic methods on the premises.

Wheeler Farms traces its roots back to the late 1800s, founded by Charles H. Wheeler, who was among the most significant landowners in the St. Helena region at that time. In the beginning, the estate featured a winery alongside grapevines and various fruit and nut orchards.

J.H. Wheeler, the son of Charles, became a trailblazer in the fields of viticulture and winemaking. The J.H. Wheeler label tied to the Araujos honors his legacy. However, by 2013, only 11 acres of the original property remained within the Wheeler family, and the Araujos, along with a select group of investors, acquired the last portion of the historical estate. This acquisition followed the Araujos’ sale of Eisele Vineyard in Calistoga to Artémis Domaines, known for owning prestigious French properties such as Château Latour and Château Grillet.

“My experience with Bella Oaks has been very positive,” Booth remarked. “This project offers me ongoing emotional rewards. Wine represents one of the oldest drinks known to humanity. I appreciate the thought of producing something that is valued for its craftsmanship and the methods of farming. I hold a very optimistic outlook.”

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About the Author: Chris Lehoux

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