El Molino Winery

Technical Description:

• Span: 12 ft
• Rise: 9 ft
• Length: 48 ft

El Molino was one of the first wineries built in the Napa Valley. The original winery was founded in 1871 and operated until Prohibition in 1920. This unique family-owned and operated facility, including the original tunnel, has been completely restored by Reg and Marie Oliver, owners since 1976.

Tucked into a hillside at El Molino is a 72 foot CON/SPAN ^® tunnel connector built during an expansion and restoration project. CON/SPAN ^® adapted its precast modular arched units to serve as an underground vault, offering ideal natural conditions for wine creation. Reg Oliver explains the two problems the structure solved: “First, the slope of the hill on the tunnel site was gradual and didn’t allow for much clearance above the structure. Secondly, we needed carrying capacity for a work area and road above. CON/SPAN ^® fit our needs – providing the strength we needed for above as well as within the tunnel itself”

Technical Description:

• Span: 12 ft
• Rise: 9 ft
• Length: 48 ft