Swanson Vineyards was founded in 1985 by Clarke Swanson and his wife, Elizabeth, and grew into one of Napa Valley's best-known names for Merlot. For years the winery was famous for its intimate, sit-down Salon tastings at its Rutherford winery, a hospitality style that set it apart in the valley. The lineup has long centered on Napa Valley Merlot and the Alexis Cabernet Sauvignon, along with the sweet Angelica. The brand has changed hands in recent years. Swanson was sold to Vintage Wine Estates in 2015, and the former Rutherford winery was sold on May 1, 2021, so the brand no longer has its original home. After Vintage Wine Estates went through bankruptcy, Foley Family Wines & Spirits bought the Swanson brand at auction in 2024. For shoppers, Swanson remains a familiar label on retail shelves, and its Napa Valley Merlot and Alexis Cabernet Sauvignon are the bottles to look for when promotions come around.