Vineyards From the valleys of Napa and Sonoma
Sourcing a vineyard relies on a strong intuition, great relationships, and often dumb luck. Instead of having an idea of the wines that I wanted to make, I found the vineyards I wanted to work with.
Wood Valley Vineyard Sonoma Valley
Directly East of the town of Sonoma, up and over the hills, this vineyard grows on chalky white terraces that face East towards the morning sun, in a valley formed by the long finger ridges of the southern end of the Mayacamas Mountain Range, reaching out toward the San Pablo Bay. Blanketed by fog in the mornings and sheltered from sun in the afternoons, this cool vineyard site is one I have had my eye on for years.
Yates Family Vineyard Napa Valley
About halfway up Mount Veeder, there is a very special Redwood grove that has drawn humans and vines to it for 100s of years. This is the site of of the historic vineyard and ghost winery Castle Rock Vineyard which was built in the 1800s. North-Western terraces cut into chalky white soil. This tiny block is only 4 rows and planted a mix of Chardonnay clones, yielding only one barrel each vintage.
Farella Vineyard
Black Vineyard Napa Valley
Coplan Vineyard Sonoma Valley
Grown on loamy clay soils in the sprawling mouth of Sonoma Valley. Its proximity to the cooling influence of the San Pablo Bay paired with its heavier soils very well suited for the Merlot grape that thrives in these conditions. Farmed by the careful attendance of friends, Shaunt and Diego of Les Lunes. These guys are masters of their craft, listen closely to natures cues and strive to allow maximum expression from each vineyard in each vintage.