History, Rebuild, and What’s Next
Sterling Vineyards is the only winery in the world accessed by an aerial tram. Since the 1970s, the tram has carried guests to the hillside winery while delivering panoramic views of Napa Valley.
At its peak, the aerial tram transported nearly 300,000 guests per year.
As tram assistant manager Brian Bortolussi shared:
“We’re the first and last thing people see when they visit Sterling Vineyards, and we do our best to make sure they’re happy on both sides.”
Following the 2020 Glass Fire in Northern California, it was determined that the tram system and its support structures needed to be fully replaced. While bittersweet, the decision allowed Sterling to modernize and enhance the experience for future visitors.
The Impact of the Glass Fire
The Glass Fire burned through Napa Valley in September 2020, affecting numerous wineries and properties.
Although Sterling Vineyards was not completely destroyed, the historic tram system could not safely continue operation. The rebuild presented an opportunity to upgrade the infrastructure while preserving the iconic arrival experience.
New Aerial Tram System by Doppelmayr
The new tram system is being manufactured by Doppelmayr, the world-renowned Austrian ropeway engineering company.
Production Timeline
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Terminal equipment production began in 2022
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Completion of terminal systems targeted for mid December
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Lift packaged and shipped from Wolfurt, Austria
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Arrival at Sterling Vineyards expected late January
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13 new cabins assembled in Olten, Switzerland
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Cabin delivery expected late February or March
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Final on site assembly and installation to follow
Once installation is complete, commissioning will begin. This includes:
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Final safety inspections
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System testing
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Acceptance procedures
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Licensing with California State authorities
What Guests Can Expect
The upgraded tram will continue to deliver:
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Elevated panoramic views of Napa Valley
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A signature hilltop arrival experience
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Modernized engineering and safety systems
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Enhanced cabin comfort
The redesign ensures the Sterling aerial experience remains one of the most distinctive winery arrivals in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the original Sterling tram replaced?
After the 2020 Glass Fire, structural assessments determined the system required full replacement for safety and modernization.
Who manufactures the new tram system?
The new system is built by Doppelmayr, an Austrian company specializing in advanced ropeway systems worldwide.
How many cabins will the new tram have?
The updated system includes 13 newly assembled cabins.
When will the tram reopen?
Following final installation, testing, and state licensing, Sterling Vineyards planned to welcome guests back in 2023.
The Sterling aerial tram is more than transportation. It is the beginning of the Sterling Vineyards experience.
We look forward to welcoming guests back for another generation of unforgettable Napa Valley views.
