
Historic Calistoga Estate Finds Perfect Buyers: A $13.5 Million Success Story
Arthur Goodrich of Sotheby's International Realty closes Napa Valley's largest 2025 sale. Historic Calistoga vineyard estate with Backen design sells for $13.5M.
At a Glance
Sale Price: $13.475 million
Location: 225 Franz Valley School Road, Calistoga, CA
Size: 46 acres with 6.3 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards
Buildings: 6 structures including Howard Backen-designed main house
Listing Agent: Arthur Goodrich, Sotheby's International Realty
Sale Date: September 2025
Significance: Largest Napa Valley residential sale in 2+ years
After expertly marketing one of Napa Valley's most unique properties for nearly three years, I'm thrilled to announce the successful sale of 225 Franz Valley School Road in Calistoga for $13.475 million – marking the region's most significant residential transaction since 2023.
Luxury Napa Valley Real Estate: A Property Unlike Any Other
This extraordinary 46-acre Calistoga estate, which I've had the privilege of representing since fall 2022, truly exemplifies what makes Napa Valley special. As I often told prospective buyers, "Napa Valley is filled with unicorns – every property is unique and different." This particular unicorn, however, was exceptional even by our standards.
The property's rich history as a former boys' school evolved into what became known as Heritage School Estate and Vineyards under the previous owners, David and Linda Jenkins. What made this wine country estate particularly special wasn't just its size or amenities – it was the feeling it evoked. This wasn't merely a compound; it was, as I described it to clients, "more like a camp, because it's a lot more fun."
Howard Backen Architecture Meets Calistoga Wine Country Charm
The crown jewel of the property is the main residence, masterfully designed by the late Howard Backen, often referred to as the "Frank Lloyd Wright of Napa Valley." Having worked with many luxury properties throughout my career, I can attest that Backen's 2005 creation here represents some of his finest work – a perfect blend of farmhouse elegance and modern sophistication.
This vineyard estate's six buildings provide incredible flexibility for extended family living:






