Notre Vin

is a boutique Napa Valley winery founded by husband-and-wife team Denis Malbec and May-Britt Malbec, whose careers in the wine industry began at the legendary Château Latour in Bordeaux. Denis came from a family deeply rooted in French winemaking, with both his father and grandfather having worked at the renowned First Growth estate. May-Britt, originally from Sweden, built a successful career as a sommelier before meeting Denis. After visiting Napa Valley in 2000, the couple fell in love with California wine country and eventually relocated from France to pursue their own winemaking vision. The name “Notre Vin,” which translates to “Our Wine,” reflects their shared commitment to creating wines that express both their heritage and their passion for Napa Valley terroir.

Established in 2003, Notre Vin quickly gained recognition for producing premium Cabernet Sauvignon from carefully selected vineyard sites, particularly on Howell Mountain. The winery’s flagship Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced primarily from high-elevation vineyards situated more than 1,700 feet above sea level, where volcanic soils, cooler temperatures, and extended growing seasons contribute to wines of remarkable concentration and structure. The portfolio also includes Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and limited-production blends crafted from fruit sourced from Atlas Peak and Conn Valley vineyards.

A defining feature of Notre Vin was Denis Malbec’s meticulous winemaking philosophy, shaped by decades of experience in Bordeaux and Napa Valley. The wines were aged extensively in French oak and produced in limited quantities, emphasizing elegance, balance, and age-worthiness. Denis also became one of Napa Valley’s most sought-after consulting winemakers, working with several prestigious wineries throughout the region.

Although Denis Malbec tragically passed away in 2016, Notre Vin remains an enduring reflection of the couple’s dedication to excellence. Through its mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux-inspired craftsmanship, and commitment to vineyard expression, Notre Vin earned a respected place among Napa Valley’s boutique wine producers.