We are updating the website as details for the 2011 program are confirmed. Please check back for regular updates. In the meantime, familiarize yourself with the caliber of the weekend events by viewing the list of 2010 featured wineries below.
NORTH AMERICA
All Featured Wineries are listed alphabetically by region. Scroll down for Canada, Oregon, and California Featured Wineries.‣CANADA
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HENRY OF PELHAM FAMILY ESTATE WINERY (St. Catharines, Ontario)
Represented by Paul T. Speck & Ron GiesbrechtHenry of Pelham Family Estate Winery is located in the Short Hills Bench along the Niagara Escarpment. Founded by the Speck family in 1988, the land was first deeded to their ancestor, Nicholas Smith (ca. 1778), a United Empire Loyalist. In 1842 his youngest son Henry built an Inn and planted vineyards along Pelham Road. When signing for the liquor license he chose the moniker Henry of Pelham in reference to the British Prime Minister, Sir Henry of Pelham. The joke stuck and Henry was thereafter "Henry of Pelham." More than two centuries later, as teenagers, the Speck brothers spent weekends and summers clearing the land of Henry's original vineyards, orchards, and a sheep farm. They replaced it with modern grape varieties. The oldest shovel planted vines contribute the fruit for reserves and their Cuvée Catharine Brut. The vineyards are all sustainably farmed. |
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TANTALUS VINEYARDS (Kelowna, British Columbia)
Represented by David Paterson & Stephanie MosleyTantalus Vineyards is situated on the eastern slopes of the Okanagan Valley overlooking the shores of Lake Okanagan and the city of Kelowna. Tantalus is dedicated to growing and vinifying limited quantities of exceptional Riesling, Pinot noir and Chardonnay. Originally known as Pioneer Vineyards, the site was first planted to grapes in 1927 and is one of the oldest continuously producing vineyards in British Columbia. Today, Riesling vines planted in 1978 and Pinot noir planted in 1983 make up the backbone of the vineyard. Tantalus' winemaking philosophy is centered on the concept of terroir, or sense of place. All wines are made from fruit organically grown at our 50-acre vineyard. A non interventionist approach to the winemaking process allows each wine to convey the fine quality and unique character of this historic site. We are committed to sustainable business practices and as a result we are pleased to announce the opening of our new and British Columbia's first LEED certified winery (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) in March 2010. |
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TAWSE WINERY (Vineland, Ontario)
Represented by Moray Tawse & Paul PenderThe philosophy behind creating the Tawse Winery was a blend in itself. The Tawse family passionately believes in traditional, artisanal winemaking techniques combined with innovative techniques such as state-of-the-art gravity-fed processing and natural geo-thermal energy in order to gently process each varietal to highlight its individual nuances and characteristics. The Tawse family owns two distinctive vineyards both located along the gentle slopes of the Niagara Escarpment. The winery opened in spring of 2005 on the lower slopes of the Vineland Double Bench. With its unique hillside terrain, the climate beautifully echoes the golden slopes of Burgundy. Today the Tawse Winery produces exceptional premium wines in very limited quantities. Thankfully their hard work has been appreciated, as many critics have graciously noted that Tawse is successfully creating some of the most outstanding wines in Ontario. |
‣OREGON, USA
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ADELSHEIM VINEYARD (Newberg, OR)
Represented by David Adelsheim & Michael AdelsheimEstablished in 1971, Adelsheim Vineyard's family-owned and operated winery and estate vineyards are located in Oregon's northern Willamette Valley. Company co-founder, David Adelsheim, leads a new generation of experienced wine industry professionals devoted to crafting consistently transcendent wines. Adelsheim Vineyard uses sustainable farming practices and takes great care to bring out the best in each of their unique vineyard sites. In the winery, they combine traditional and modern techniques, crafting wines in a style that centers on elegance, complexity, and richness in flavor and texture. Their new tasting room opened in 2009, with an emphasis on upper-tier single vineyard Pinot noir. Their wines and service, combined with a unique tour program, makes Adelsheim Vineyard a "must visit" destination during your next stay in wine country. |
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ANAM CARA CELLARS (Newberg, OR)
Represented by Sheila & W.D. Nick NicholasNick and Sheila Nicholas planted their 30-acre LIVE vineyard in 2001 on the site of an overgrown walnut, hazelnut and plum orchard in the Chehalem Mountains. Intending from the start to make estate wines that truly reflect their origin, the vineyard was planted with five Pinot noir clones on differing rootstocks to compensate for soil depth and type. Careful farming includes organic and biodynamic practices to encourage outstanding blending options in every vintage. In just a few short years the vineyard has already shown its potential with exceptional Pinot noirs, and a small amount of Riesling and Gewürztraminer. A further six acres divided between Riesling, Chardonnay and Wädenswil Pinot noir were planted according to the biodynamic calendar in 2008. In addition to the Nicholas Estate and Reserve Pinots, this small producer makes limited amounts of Heather's Vineyard (single clone), the series of Mark's Pinots as well as a rare Rosé. The name "Anam Cara" is Celtic for Soul Friend. |
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ANDREW RICH WINES (Carlton, OR)
Represented by Andrew Rich & Justin Van ZantenAfter growing up in New England in a family that sold furniture, followed by a brief stint as a magazine editor, Andrew Rich turned to winemaking in 1988. He was first a "cellar rat" at Bonny Doon Vineyard, eventually working his way up to the position of Assistant Winemaker. 1988 also marked his first trip to Oregon, where his destiny was sealed. Andrew Rich Wines was founded in 1995 and has been producing a broad and eclectic array of wines ever since. With the glorious 2002 vintage, Andrew Rich Wines settled into the Carlton Winemakers Studio, where it is increasingly focusing on Washington State Rhône varietals and Willamette Valley Pinot noir. Production is just under 5,000 cases. |
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ANNE AMIE VINEYARDS (Carlton, OR)
Represented by Thomas Houseman & Kim McLeodPinot reigns supreme at Anne Amie Vineyards with Pinot noir, Pinot gris, and Pinot blanc forming the heart of their production. Complimenting the pinot family is old-vine estate Riesling and Müller Thurgau, planted in 1979. All of Anne Amie's estate vineyards are Salmon Safe and LIVE certified and they are currently working towards their carbon neutral certification with the state of Oregon. Anne Amie's mission is to produce wines that, while inspired by Burgundy and Alsace, express the unique characteristics of Oregon and their two estate vineyard sites. Their Pinot noir winemaking is minimalist, focusing on small fermentation lots using indigenous yeast. The wines are all aged in French oak, only about 25 percent of which is new in each vintage. Their estate vineyards are located in the rolling hills of the Yamhill-Carlton District and on the steep hillsides of the Chehalem Mountains, both nestled in Oregon's verdant Willamette Valley. Their LIVE certified winery is located on their Yamhill-Carlton property, a few miles from both Lafayette and Carlton, Oregon. |
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BENTON LANE WINERY (Monroe, OR)
Represented by Steve & Carol GirardSteve and Carol Girard founded Girard Winery in Napa Valley in 1980 and were known for producing deep, flavorful Cabernets, but like many folks were seduced by the spicy Pinots produced in Oregon. In 1988 they purchased the 1,860 acre Sunnymount Ranch after a five-year search for the planet's best Pinot dirt. After years of realizing that none of the available farming systems were complete on their own, their 140-acre vineyard utilizes a combination of organic, bio-dynamic and sustainable methods and produces sexy, silky Pinot and crisp, floral Pinot Gris. |
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BERGSTROM WINES (Newberg, OR)
Represented by Josh & Caroline BergströmBergström Wines is a family owned and operated business located outside of Newberg on the southern facing hillside of Chehalem Mountain. With five estate vineyard holdings totaling 75 acres (all farmed Organic and Demeter-certified Biodynamic) in the Dundee Hills, Yamhill Carlton District and Chehalem Mountains appellations, Bergström Wines focuses on farming and producing small lots of high quality Pinot noir and Chardonnay. Josh Bergström is general manager, winemaker, and vineyard manager and works alongside his parents John and Karen Bergström and his wife Caroline Bergström. He brings a blend of Oregon work experience and Burgundian education to his family's growing operation. Current production is 8,000 cases Pinot noir and 800 cases Chardonnay. |
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BOEDECKER CELLARS (Portland, OR)
Represented by Stewart Boedecker & Athena PappasWhen Stewart Boedecker and Athena Pappas started Boedecker Cellars in 2003, they decided to stay hands-on with every aspect of the winery, serving as winemakers, cellar rats, sales staff, and everything in between. Their philosophy revolves around a fanatical attention to detail, focusing on creating Pinot noirs that reflect the characters of Oregon's greatest vineyards and each winemaker's unique palate. The Stewart Pinot Noir is red fruited, full of bright acidity, soft tannins and hints of herbal complexities exemplified in the Wädenswil and Pommard clones grown in volcanic soils. The essence of the Athena Pinot Noir displays a black fruit core, heartier tannins, and spice notes rooted in the Dijon clones grown in sedimentary soils. All wines are crafted following minimal intervention principles, and sustainable winemaking practices, the fruit is hand harvested; the wine fermented in small lots, and matured over 18 months in French oak. Photo courtesy of Bob Smith. |
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BRANDBORG VINEYARD & WINERY (Elkton, OR)
Represented by Terry & Sue BrandborgTerry and Sue Brandborg believe they have found an ideal site to grow world class Pinot noir in Elkton, which lies in the northernmost reach of the Umpqua Valley. At an elevation of 900 feet, the vineyard features southern slopes and sandy loam soil. This coast range area is characterized by the marine influence that brings morning fog and afternoon sea breezes. A new winery with a beautiful, spacious tasting room was built in Elkton on Highway 38, the most scenic route to the Central Oregon Coast. The Brandborgs brought 17 years of commercial winemaking experience to Oregon and began crafting wines from Umpqua Valley fruit in 2002 while their own vineyard comes into production. In addition to Pinot noir the winery also produces Syrah, Pinot gris, Riesling, and Gewürztraminer. |
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BROOKS WINES (Amity, OR)
Represented by Janie Brooks Heuck & Chris WilliamsBrooks Wines is a reflection of visionary Portland native, Jimi Brooks. His reverence for the land and vines inspired him to become a practitioner of organic and biodynamic farming. The great respect for vineyard individuality and mastery of blending, allowed his wines to achieve the greatest depth, flavors, and balance. While Jimi is no longer with us, his dynamic spirit lives on through his wines, family, and friends. With the outpouring of generosity and friendship by the Oregon wine community, Brooks Wines continues, as a serious producer of Old World style Riesling wines and New World style Pinot Noir wines. Jimi's son Pascal, who was the ultimate source of his passion for life, is now the sole owner of the winery (at age 11, the youngest winery owner in the world). Jimi's sister Janie Brooks Heuck has volunteered to lead it and friend, Chris Williams, took on the full-time position of winemaker in 2006. |
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CHEHALEM (Newberg, OR)
Represented by Mike Eyres & Wynne Peterson-NedryChehalem (Chuh-hay-lum) is an American Indian word meaning "gentle land" or "valley of flowers." The winery, owned by Harry Peterson-Nedry and Bill and Cathy Stoller, is dedicated to creating Pinot noir that permits site and climate to be reflected in complex, structured, and intensely fruited wines. Chehalem's four distinct Estate Vineyards, Ridgecrest, Stoller, Corral Creek, and Wind Ridge allow them to do just that. These vineyards represent different soils, elevations, and aspects, which contribute to unique single-vineyard wines and complementary blends. |
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CRISTOM VINEYARDS (Salem, OR)
Represented by Steve Doerner & John D'AnnaPaul and Eileen Gerrie established Cristom Vineyards in 1992. They had been attending IPNC for years, and there developed a passion for Pinot noir. Present from the beginning were winemaker Steve Doerner and vineyard manager Mark Feltz, both arriving with prior knowledge of Pinot noir. The estate has 75 acres in vine, which are planted primarily to four distinct Pinot noir vineyards named for Gerrie family matriarchs. Hallmarks of Cristom's winemaking are a large percentage of whole clusters, native yeast fermentation, and minimal handling throughout the winemaking process. Estate Pinot Gris, Estate Viognier and Estate Syrah make up the balance of their 10,000 case production. |
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DE PONTE CELLARS (Dayton, OR)
Represented by Scott Baldwin & Isabelle DutartreDe Ponte Cellars is a boutique winery located in the heart of the Dundee Hills. The Baldwin Family, who bought the vineyard and transformed it into the working winery it is today, lives among the 17 acres of planted Pinot noir vines that create the De Ponte vineyard. De Ponte Cellars specializes in elegant, hand-crafted Pinot noir, based upon knowledge passed down over centuries of winemaking in Burgundy to the uniqueness of Oregon. The vineyards are planted to combine tried and true Burgundian formulas adapted to the unique Oregon terroir. French winemaker Isabelle Dutartre, who spent many years producing wine in both Burgundy and Oregon, now makes wine exclusively for De Ponte Cellars. De Ponte's Pinot noir reflects her philosophy of allowing the grapes to direct the style of the wine. She advocates gentle handling of the fruit, using gravity flow and the minimal use of new oak to encourage maximum body and fruit expression with soft, elegant tannins. |
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DOMAINE SERENE (Dayton, OR)
Represented by Allan Carter & Eleni PapadakisA passion and commitment to produce the world's best Pinot noir led Ken and Grace to Oregon in 1989. They founded Domaine Serene in the Dundee Hills located in the North Willamette Valley, where Oregon Pinot noir began and where its heart remains. With three vineyard estates totaling 312 acres and planted exclusively to Pinot noir and Chardonnay, Domaine Serene's environmentally friendly farming practices and extremely low crop yields produce consistently concentrated, award-winning wines. The most famous wine critic in the World, Robert Parker, rated Domaine Serene as one of only two outstanding producers of Pinot noir in Oregon, and the 17th Annual Wine & Spirit's "Restaurant Poll" named Domaine Serene Pinot noir as the 'Most Popular Oregon Pinot Noir' in the country. In the now legendary Domaine Serene vs. Domaine de la Romanée Conti blind tasting, Domaine Serene bested the most sought after Pinot noir wines in France, while renowned wine writer, Anthony Dias Blue, declared Domaine Serene the "Château Lafite of Oregon." |
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ELK COVE VINEYARDS (Gaston, OR)
Represented by Adam Godlee Campbell & Shirley BrooksElk Cove Vineyards produces wines from outstanding vineyards in the Northern Willamette Valley of Oregon. Through site selection and meticulous vine management they achieve concentration and depth of flavor in the vineyard. At their winery they employ gravity flow and gentle handling to protect the inherent qualities of their estate-grown fruit. Their focus is on Willamette Valley Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Pinot blanc, and Riesling. Elk Cove Vineyards is a second generation family winery that has produced single vineyard Pinot noirs since 1979. Five Mountain, Mt. Richmond, Windhill, La Boheme, and Roosevelt Vineyard Pinot noirs have all been selected for specific site characteristics. Yields are kept to under two tons per acre for these special reserve bottlings. Find out for yourself why they say, "True quality is timeless." |
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ERATH WINERY (Dundee, OR)
Represented by Gary Horner & Jerry OlsenAs one of Oregon's wine pioneers, Erath Winery's founder, Dick Erath, was driven by the belief that the future of Pinot noir was in Oregon. Today Erath wines are an expression of the land that the winery has cultivated for more than 40 years, longer than any other winery in the Dundee Hills of Oregon. Winemaker Gary Horner, who shares Dick Erath's background in science and a reverence for Oregon's unique terroir, strives to reveal classic Oregon Pinot: light, delicate and fruit-forward. Horner takes pride in making a range of Pinot noir styles, from the hugely popular Oregon blend to the highly-acclaimed, limited-edition single-vineyard selections. His goal is to make the best Pinot noir the region has to offer – it's time-honored, authentic and uniquely Oregon. |
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THE EYRIE VINEYARDS (McMinnville, OR)
Represented by Jason Lett & Russ MargachStarting with "3,000 grape cuttings and a theory," in 1965 the late David Lett (aka Papa Pinot) rooted the Willamette Valley's first plantings of Pinot noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot gris. Together, David and his wife Diana founded The Eyrie Vineyards, producing the Willamette Valley's first bottled vintage in 1970. In 1979 and 1980, the Eyrie Vineyards 1975 South Block Reserve was the first New World Pinot noir to compete successfully against the Pinot noir of Burgundy. Through the years, Eyrie wines have maintained a reputation for elegance, refined expression, and ageworthiness. Today, Eyrie is helmed by Jason Lett, who grew up in the vineyards and winery. He continues his parents' philosophy of interfering as little as possible with the processes of Mother Nature and encouraging the expression of true varietal flavors. |
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ILLAHE VINEYARDS & WINERY (Dallas, OR)
Represented by Brad Ford & Michael LundeenLowell Ford, first planted grapes in 1983 at Glen Creek Vineyard in Salem. He was one of the first in Oregon to experiment with varietals like Grüner Veltliner and Lagrein. In 2000, Lowell planted the 80-acre Illahe Vineyard. Though its main production is Pinot noir, his love of white wine and experimentation ensured that its future will always include a broad view of world wine grape production and not simply copy a Burgundian domaine. In the vineyard and winery Illahe's focus is on sustainable and historical practices such as using horses in the vineyard, harvesting rainwater, utilizing solar power, and participating in certified sustainable, Salmon Safe, and LIVE programs. Brad Ford and Michael Lundeen collaborate as winemakers at Illahe bringing differing philosophies and palates to the cellar. Their focus is on producing distinguished wine with minimal intervention and gentle handcrafted techniques, letting the varietals show their true characteristics from soil to bottle. |
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LANGE ESTATE WINERY (Dundee, OR)
Represented by Don & Wendy LangeDriven by a passion for world-class Pinot noir, Wendy and Don Lange founded their estate winery in 1987 and produced 1,000 cases with their first vintage. Since then, production has increased to 16,000 cases annually including more than five separate Pinot noirs each year. Winemakers' Don Lange and Jesse Lange program of single-vineyard Pinot noir wines reaches across a broad spectrum of microclimate and terroir, and focuses on the vital components of texture, structure, and balance. The Lange's 45-acre estate and 6,000 square foot winery lie in the prestigious Dundee Hills appellation surrounded by panoramic views of the North Willamette and Chehalem Valleys. Their winemaking philosophy is guided by a simple commitment to making exceptional wines that express their varietal and regional characters. That is to say, wines that taste like Oregon Pinot noir, pure and complex. |
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LEMELSON VINEYARDS (Carlton, OR)
Represented by Anthony King & Eric LemelsonEric Lemelson planted two acres of Pinot noir as a hobby on a hillside farm near Newberg in 1995. He enjoyed viticulture so much that within two years he planted 17 additional acres near Carlton and began to design a winery. Today Lemelson Vineyards owns and manages 156 acres at seven sites in three AVA's (Yamhill-Carlton, Dundee Hills and Chehalem Mountains) in Yamhill County, taking advantage of terroir diversity from multiple soil types and elevations ranging from 250 to 1000 feet. All vineyards have been farmed organically from the beginning, and have been certified organic since 2004. The gravity-flow winery reflects both a strong commitment to sustainability, grounded in Eric Lemelson's background as an environmental lawyer, and a "no-compromises" approach to wine quality. Winemaker Anthony King crafts ageworthy Pinot noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot gris using wild yeasts, long patient elevage, and gentle processing. Their goal is to produce distinctive wines that speak clearly of their origins. |
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PANTHER CREEK CELLARS (McMinnville, OR)
Represented by Michael StevensonPanther Creek Cellars, located in McMinnville, Oregon, has been producing ultra-premium Pinot noir since 1986. Their wines are made from grapes grown at some of Oregon's finest vineyards. The goal in making Panther Creek wine is simple: each wine should express the personality of its vintage and the character of its vineyard as clearly as possible. Panther Creek Cellars believes that this expressiveness is the essence of great Oregon Pinot noir. |
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PATRICIA GREEN CELLARS (Newberg, OR)
Represented by Patricia Green & Jim AndersonPatricia Green Cellars is located in the Ribbon Ridge AVA of Yamhill County on the 52-acre estate purchased in 2000 by Patty Green and Jim Anderson. In addition to their Estate Vineyard's production, fruit is sourced from some of the outstanding older vineyards in the Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills AVAs. The focus over the years has increasingly tilted toward producing distinct and provocative single-vineyard and individual block bottlings of Pinot noir to display the beauty and uniqueness of the terroir of these sites. This has led to the bottling of as many as 20 separate Pinot noir wines in any given vintage. This obsessive, Seinfeldian-like focus on the excruciating minutia and intricacies of growing and making Pinot noir has created a winery with all sorts of interesting and fun dysfunctions that are, surprisingly enough, apparently appealing to lovers of Pinot noir. While seemingly chaotic from the outside, the view from within reveals a finely formed process capable of this diverse range of distinct, nuanced, complex, and wholly individual Pinot noir wines. Throw in some extremely good, though rare and largely unknown, Sauvignon blanc into the mix and you have an eclectic and thoroughly Oregon winery. |
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PATTON VALLEY VINEYARD (Gaston, OR)
Represented by Monte Pitt & Derek EinbergerLocated in the northern reaches of Oregon's Willamette Valley, Patton Valley Vineyard was founded in 1995 by Monte Pitt and Dave Chen. All of Patton Valley's efforts are focused on expressing the character of their site in the handcrafted estate-grown Pinot noir wines they produce. Set on a hillside overlooking the Patton Valley outside of Gaston, Oregon, the vineyard comprises 24 acres of densely planted vines. Farmed using only sustainable vineyard practices, certified by LIVE, yields are kept at approximately two tons per acre to ensure proper ripening and fruit complexity. At Patton Valley the winemaking philosophy is decidedly low-impact, with the foremost tenet being to handle the wine as little as possible. New wines from 100-percent estate-grown fruit typically go directly into barrel following primary fermentation, often without settling, are aged on their lees, with minimal racking prior to being bottled without filtration. Current production of Pinot noir is approximately 3,500 cases annually. |
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PONZI VINEYARDS (Beaverton, OR)
Represented by Luisa Ponzi & Maria Ponzi FogelstromCelebrating 40 years in 2010, Ponzi Vineyards continues to set the standard for New World Pinot noir. Thriving for the past 20 years under its second generation, the winery maintains its unwavering commitment to producing top quality cool climate varietals and practicing responsible stewardship of the land. One of America's first women to be formally educated in Burgundy, Winemaker Luisa Ponzi, carefully blends her passion with true expertise, crafting wines of complexity and depth. Her brother-sister management team, Michel and Maria, oversee the operation and the family's 120 acres of LIVE Certified Sustainable vineyards, located within the Chehalem Mountains AVA. Ponzi wines are represented nationally by Wilson Daniels Ltd. |
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R. STUART & CO. (McMinnville, OR)
Represented by Rob & Maria StuartR. Stuart & Co. was founded in January 2002 in an old granary in downtown McMinnville in the neighborhood affectionately known as the "Pinot Quarter." The team includes winemaker Rob Stuart, his wife Maria who manages public relations and collaborates with Trish Rogers on sales and marketing, as well as resident "champagne-ophile" Frank Blair. Sourcing fruit from their favorite vineyards around the state including Temperance Hill, Melrose, Courting Hill, and Weber, R. Stuart & Co. makes the wines they love: Pinot noir, Pinot gris, and their beloved sparkling wine, Rose d'Or. The R. Stuart & Co. wines are made in the classic Rob Stuart style ; true to the fruit each vineyard offers, graceful, honest, and warm. They call their blended Pinot "Autograph," as they consider it the quintessential Rob Stuart Pinot noir. The everyday Pinot wines are bottled with the Big Fire label, a whimsical reflection of their passion for new adventure and, of course, for wine. |
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RAPTOR RIDGE WINERY (Scholls, OR)
Represented by Annie & Scott ShullFounded in 1995 by winemaker Scott Shull, Raptor Ridge winery gets its name from the many families of raptors – red-tailed hawks, kestrels, sharp-shinned hawks, and Owls – that share the winery's 27-acre estate. The vineyard is named "Tuscowallame" the indigenous word for "place where the owls dwell." Raptor Ridge produces about 6,500 cases of wine per vintage year. Approximately nine different cuvées comprise this case quantity, including Pinot gris, several distinct vineyard designates, and consistent blends of Reserve and Willamette Valley Pinot noir. Owners Scott and Annie Shull regularly taste through and segregate every barrel into these select cuvées. Uncompromised quality is the focus, not quantity. In addition to the Raptor Ridge brand, Scott is the consulting winemaker to four other Oregon wine brands. Annie manages business development, and both are very active throughout the Oregon wine industry. Occasionally, the Shulls see each other at home. |
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REDHAWK VINEYARD & WINERY (Salem, OR)
Represented by John D. & Betty PataccoliJohn Pataccoli is the owner and winemaker at Redhawk Vineyard and Winery. After he and his wife, Betty, purchased the neglected property 5 years ago, they have been dedicated to improving the health of the vineyard, the beauty of the property, and the quality of the wines. He strives to produce distinctive, reasonably priced wines. Prior to running Redhawk, John spent the first 20 years of his career in the investment business. An avid wine collector, he and Betty decided to pursue their dream of owning and operating a winery. John grew up in the restaurant business in Rochester, NY, and loves all things connected to food and wine. |
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ROCO WINERY (Newberg, OR)
Represented by Corby & Rollin SolesWhen Rollin Soles began Argyle Winery in 1987 he also purchased a unique property on the southern slopes of the Chehalem Mountains. Yet, not until late 2001 did Rollin and Corby (ROCO) plant their Wits' End Vineyard to Pinot noir. The '03 Private Stash was their first release. The vineyard is high density planted to three Dijon Pinot noir clones in marine sedimentary soil. The site is enhanced by the presence of two natural springs. The private, cloistered nature and tranquility of the site flows into the essence of the ROCO Pinots. In '09 the Soles built a winery just 5 miles from their vineyard and son, Cody joined the winemaking team. ROCO produces two distinctive Pinot noirs : Willamette Valley and the Private Stash and a small quantity of Chardonnay. The thunderbird image on the label is a representation of an ancient petroglyph discovered in Columbia River Gorge area in Oregon. |
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SCOTT PAUL WINES (Carlton, OR)
Represented by Scott Wright & Kelley FoxScott Paul Wines is dedicated exclusively to the artisanal production of Oregon Pinot noir of uncompromised quality. They believe that Pinot noir, at its peak of expression, is the ultimate wine of elegance and finesse, and all of their efforts in the vineyards and winery are directed at capturing the intoxicating aromas, the silky textures, and the complex array of flavors that can only come from true cool-climate Pinot noir. Low yields (averaging less than 1.7 tons per acre) and sustainable viticulture is their mantra in the vineyard. All wild yeast fermentations, no inoculations, no enzymes, no additives, and biodynamic practices provide Scott Paul Wines focus in the cellar. New oak is kept to no more than 20 percent. |
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SOKOL BLOSSER (Dundee, OR)
Represented by Russ RosnerIn 1971, Susan Sokol Blosser and Bill Blosser planted grapes on just five acres in the Dundee Hills. As one of the pioneering wineries of the region, Sokol Blosser has played a key role in developing and shaping the now prominent Oregon wine industry, leading the way with research in vineyard cover crops, crop load, canopy management, and sustainable vineyard and winery practices. Their barrel cellar set a precedent as the first winery building in the country to attain the U.S. Green Building Council's prestigious LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. The winery is family-owned and operated with second-generation siblings, Alex and Alison Sokol Blosser, at the helm. Drawing from a now 75-acre certified organic estate vineyard, winemaker Russ Rosner works to create wines of world-class quality, produced in a sustainable manner, which reflect the distinctive flavors of the grapes, soil, and climate, as well as the winery's values and sense of place. |
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ST. INNOCENT WINERY (Salem, OR)
Represented by Mark & Vickianne VlossakMark Vlossak founded St. Innocent Winery in 1988. Fruit for six vineyard-designated Pinot noirs, Chardonnay, Pinot gris, and Pinot blanc wines are sourced from eight of the northern Willamette Valley's best winegrowers. Mark works closely with each grower to fine tune the viticultural practices in St. Innocent's vineyard blocks. His goal is to reveal the individual terrior of each vineyard by defining the individual textures and flavors in the wine from each site. Mark chooses winemaking techniques to produce wines with balanced complexity, a backbone of acidity, and the ability to age. Together these qualities ensure St. Innocent's place at the dinner table. In 2006, St. Innocent Winery joined with Tim and Kari Ramey as partners in Zenith Vineyard (formerly O'Connor Vineyard) in the Eola Hills. St. Innocent's new winery and Zenith's wedding and event facility are now open. St. Innocent is named for Mark's father, John Innocent Vlossak, who introduced his son to the pleasures of fine wine. St. Innocent's annual wine production is 9,400 cases. |
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VAN DUZER VINEYARDS (Dallas, OR)
Represented by Tanna Massar & Jerry MurrayVan Duzer Vineyards is located in the scenic foothills of the Van Duzer Corridor where temperate Pacific air flows into the Willamette Valley at the close of summer days. The 82-acre vineyards experience a more dramatic temperature drop than sites down valley, a cooling effect that shapes the ripeness, complexity and structure of the grapes. The estate vineyard achieves a consistent purity of fruit and texture in its Pinot noir and Pinot gris wines as well as elegance and balance. Upon purchasing the vineyard in 1998, the owners Carl and Marilynn Thoma gradually implemented sustainable agricultural practices and precision farming and, in 2007, built an eco-friendly winery. Pinot noir, the dominate varietal, is grown in nine clonal varieties including Pommard, Wädenswil and Dijon 777/667/113/115. Two estate blends and four block designates benefit from the multiplicity of grape clones and microclimates. Van Duzer Vineyards is certified "sustainable" by LIVE and Salmon Safe. |
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WESTREY WINE CO. (Dundee, OR)
Represented by Amy Wesselman & David AutreyFounded in 1993, Westrey represents the collaborative winemaking of Amy Wesselman and David Autrey. Westrey employs traditional techniques such as small, indigenous-yeast fermentation, hand punch-downs, and a very limited use of new oak. A philosophy of minimal intervention dictates few rackings and no fining or filtration. Techniques are adapted to individual lots, so that each wine communicates its vineyard of origin. Reserve and single-vineyard bottlings emphasize Westrey's commitment to Pinot noir. Amy and David farm 20 acres of Pinot noir, Pinot gris, and Chardonnay, planted between 1977 and 2008, on their 50-acre parcel of land in the Dundee Hills. They named their vineyard "Oracle" out of reverence for the importance of "consulting the land first" when making decisions in the winery. |
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WILLAMETTE VALLEY VINEYARDS (Turner, OR)
Represented by Jim Bernau & Erik McLaughlinFounder Jim Bernau of Willamette Valley Vineyards, purchased the Estate site in 1983 and cleared away the old pioneer plum orchard hidden in scotch broom and blackberry vines. He planted Pinot noir (Pommard and Wädenswil clones), Chardonnay (Dijon and Espiguette) and Pinot gris. In the beginning he hand watered the vines with thousands of feet of hose. A combination of determination and extraordinary people has brought Willamette Valley Vineyards from an idea to one of the region's leading wineries, earning the title "One of America's Great Pinot Noir Producers," from Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Willamette Valley Vineyards approach is to grow, by hand, the highest quality fruit using careful canopy management, and to achieve wines that are truly expressive of the varietal and the place where they are grown. Since they ferment and barrel each vineyard lot separately (sometimes as small as two barrels) they can save the best barrels for single vineyard bottlings and Signature Cuvée. Willamette Valley Vineyards stylistic emphasis is on pure varietal fruit characters, with attention to depth, richness of mouthfeel, and balance. The wines are truly a collaborative effort of the entire vineyard and winemaking staff. |
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WINDERLEA VINEYARD & WINERY (Dundee, OR)
Represented by Bill Sweat & Donna MorrisWinderlea Vineyard & Winery is a boutique winery specializing in the limited production of Pinot noir and Chardonnay from Oregon. Transplanted Bostonians, Bill Sweat and Donna Morris founded Winderlea in 2006 with the purchase of the renowned Goldschmidt Vineyard in the Dundee Hills. The earliest plantings on Winderlea's 20 acre estate vineyard date back to 1974 and include Pommard, Wadenswil and the Coury clones. In the late 90s, the Dijon clones 115, 667 and 777 were introduced giving us a varied palette when it comes to crafting our final blends. The vineyard has always been farmed gently. With our purchase in 2006, we introduced more sustainable practices allowing the vineyard to earn its LIVE and Salmon Safe certifications in 2008, a year in which we farmed organic. In 2009 we began employing biodynamic practices. We have made Dundee Oregon our home – and are committed to continuing the traditions of responsible stewardship of the land and the highest quality artisan winemaking. |
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WITNESS TREE VINEYARD (Salem, OR)
Represented by Steven Westby & Dennis D. DevineWitness Tree Vineyard believes that only by tending their own vines can they produce the finest wines, using only grapes grown in their 52 acres of vineyard. Located nine miles northwest of Salem, nestled in the Eola Hills, the site benefits from a southeastern exposure, which allows the vineyard to warm early in the morning sun and stay warm all day. The vineyard is farmed using sustainable agricultural practices and is certified by both the LIVE and Salmon Safe organizations. Witness Tree Vineyard mainly produces premium quality Pinot noir but also grows limited quantities of Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot blanc, and Dolcetto. The winery is owned by Dennis and Carolyn Devine. Steven Westby, in his 15th year at Witness Tree Vineyard, is winemaker and vineyard manager. |
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ANTHILL FARMS WINERY (Healdsburg, CA)
Represented by Anthony Filiberti & David LowAnthony Filiberti, David Low, and Webster Marquez started as an unusual partnership in 2004. All former cellarhands, they were passionate about meticulously farmed North Coast vineyards as well as the elegant, poised, and tightly-structured wines that these vineyards can produce. Together as co-owners and co-winemakers (but with day jobs), they purchase and produce very small quantities of of single-vineyard Pinot noirs from several family-farmed sites in Sonoma and Mendocino Counties. They also farm a small plot named Abbey-Harris themselves, high above Boonville in the Anderson Valley. |
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CALERA WINE COMPANY (Hollister, CA)
Represented by Mike & Jenny WallerMike Waller grew up in Hollister, California just 10 miles from Calera Wine Company. His life of fermentation began with homebrew in Santa Cruz. Mike decided to pursue his craft of fermentation at UC Davis with a degree in Viticulture and Enology. After graduation Mike moved to Napa and worked a harvest with Saintsbury Winery and another with Beringer Vineyards. Mike took the opportunity to move his family closer to home when he accepted the Assistant Winemaker position at Chalone Vineyard where he remained for three years. In 2007 Mike began working at Calera. Three harvests later he is fully enjoying the world of Pinot noir and the opportunities he has found in his own backyard. |
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DREW WINES (Elk, CA)
Represented by Jason DrewPerched on a ridge top with a view of Anderson Valley to the East and the Pacific three miles to the West, Jason and Molly Drew have embarked on an odyssey. They believe the northern coastal ranges provide an ideal climate for growing Pinot noir. Jason brings 20 years of industry experience in both vineyard farming and winemaking to their endeavor. They built their winery in 2005 with the Pinot noir pursuit in mind. They have sought long-term relationships with vineyards that share in the philosophy for sustainable and quality-oriented farming practices. They source fruit from Anderson Valley, Sonoma Coast, Mendocino Ridge and the Yorkville Highlands. Jason's vineyard selection criteria are clear: low yielding hillsides and benches, a cool climate, and clonal diversity. Whole cluster, balanced ripeness, native yeasts, non-fined, and non-filtered winemaking are all part of the program. Jason's wines are known for their impeccable balance, varietal correctness and beautiful aromatics. |
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DUTTON-GOLDFIELD WINERY (Sebastopol, CA)
Represented by Dan GoldfieldDutton-Goldfield Winery began in 1998 when longtime colleagues and friends Steve Dutton and Dan Goldfield recognized a shared vision between them – to craft wines that express the personalities of their cool-climate vineyards, and which they'd enjoy drinking at their own dinner tables. Steve's father, Warren Dutton, began growing grapes in the coolest western reaches of Russian River Valley in the mid-1960s. Today, along with his mother and brother, Steve manages Dutton Ranch, which has grown to over 80 separate vineyards comprising more than 1,000 acres throughout western Russian River Valley. Dan Goldfield received his M.S. in Enology from the University of California at Davis in 1986. He found his passion in Pinot noir and Chardonnay, first as the winemaker at the Burgundian-focused La Crema Winery, and then at Hartford Court, which was created under his direction. Focusing on Chardonnay, Pinot noir, Syrah and Zinfandel, Dutton-Goldfield's mission is to craft world-class wines that display the brightness of fruit, complexity, structure and balance that are reflective of our cool coastal home. |
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EXPRESSION WINES (Napa, CA)
Represented by Bill Hill & Patrick MahaneyExpression Wines represents a commitment to producing the finest quality Pinot noir on the West Coast. Expression Wines' vineyards, at different latitudes, represent different "Expressions" of Pinot noir and proprietor, Bill Hill, is dedicated to crafting the best wines from each region. Expression Wines' winegrowing regions include the Santa Rita Hills (34°), the Sonoma Coast (38°), the Anderson Valley (39°), and the Eola-Amity Hills (44°) of Willamette Valley, Oregon. The winery's goal is to showcase both the "Grand-Cru" vineyards and the terroir of each sub-appellation. Each vintage, Expression Wines will bring you finest Pinot noirs from each latitude. |
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FIDDLEHEAD CELLARS (Lompoc, CA)
Represented by Kathy Joseph & Tom DoyleAt Fiddlehead Cellars, we simply believe the love of making wine must be reflected in every sip. With a stellar history under her belt, the "Head Fiddle", Kathy Joseph, passionately produces silky, place-driven Pinot noir and stylistic Sauvignon blanc. Her Sta. Rita Hills Estate Vineyard, Fiddlestix, is planted exclusively to Pinot noir and is touted as one of the best. Her pinots from the Willamette Valley are equally expressive of their place. Kathy crafts approximately 5,000 cases of wine each year, with hands-on care and attention and personal interest in each and every barrel. Fiddlehead Cellars invites you to experience the personal touch of Fiddlehead wines for yourself to learn more about Fiddlestix, Fiddlechix, and Lollapalooza! |
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FLOWERS VINEYARD & WINERY (Cazadero, CA)
Represented by Darrin Low & Dave KeatleyFlowers Vineyard & Winery is a pioneer of the true Sonoma Coast. The three estate vineyards, Camp Meeting Ridge, Frances Thompson and Sea View Ridge, are all located less than two miles from the Pacific Ocean with elevations ranging from 1150 to 1875 feet. They are ideal sites for growing cool-climate Pinot noir and Chardonnay. Flowers respects the natural environment of the Sonoma Coast by adhering to the Code of Sustainable Winegrowing and has a dedicated vision to farming practices that will endure for generations to come. The state-of-the-art winery is outfitted with many high-tech features allowing wine to be made in a low-tech, minimal intervention way respecting the hands-on craft of traditional Burgundian methods. Flowers' commitment is to grow and produce cool-climate wines that authentically express the unique character of the rugged Sonoma Coast appellation. |
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LA FOLLETTE WINES (Healdsburg, CA)
Represented by Greg La Follette & Simone SequeiraLa Follette is a small Sonoma County winery zealously focused on crafting wines that offer benchmark expression of vineyard site and appellation. Winemaker Greg La Follette's remarkable career is an illustration of how science, coupled with passion, can produce extraordinary art. One of California's most accomplished and thoughtful winemakers, La Follette has spent his career delving deeply into the science behind the art of winemaking. His unparalleled understanding of yeast – specifically, how different yeasts affect the mouth feel and flavors of the finished wine – is a defining aspect of his winemaking talent. This expertise, combined with a fascination with old world winemaking techniques, leaves an indelible mark on every wine he crafts. La Follette's small-lot Chardonnays and Pinot noirs are a celebration of individuality. The portfolio includes a Sonoma Coast Pinot noir, three vineyard-designate Chardonnays and three vineyard-designate Pinot noirs from renowned appellations such as Russian River Valley, Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma Coast, and Mendocino Ridges. |
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LYNMAR ESTATE (Sebastopol, CA)
Represented by Bibiana González RaveLynn and Anisya Fritz believe that individuals do not own a piece of land, they are only granted access to it for a period of time. During this window, it is their responsibility to make a meaningful impact. The philosophy of stewardship guides the decisions they make for Lynmar Estate, an exquisite 100-acre property of vineyards, organic vegetables, beneficial borders and frontage on the Laguna de Santa Rosa. The approximately 70 acres of estate vineyards that include Quail Hill have over 14 clones of Pinot noir selected for their expressions of the Russian River terroir. Located in a secluded enclave, a visit to Lynmar is a destination for all five of the senses – providing a complete wine, culinary, and educational experience. |
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NAVARRO VINEYARDS (Philo, CA)
Represented by Jim Klein & Bill MitchellNavarro Vineyards is a sustainable farm owned by Ted Bennett and Deborah Cahn in the Anderson Valley of coastal Mendocino County. Founded in 1974, Navarro began by planting five acres of Pinot Noir, clone UCD-4. Today there are 33 acres with nine clones on eight unique parcels ranging from 350 to 1500 feet in altitude. The Deep End Blend is a reserve made exclusively from our higher elevated sites, while the Méthode à l'Ancienne is produced both from Navarro's estate fruit and a small percentage of grapes from other growers located in the Anderson Valley. Navarro's fruit is night harvested, fermented in half ton bins, and aged in Burgundian barrels which 50 to 35 percent are brand new. Navarro is also known as a leading producer of Alsatian style wines. Jim Klein has been Navarro's winemaker since 1992. |
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THE OJAI VINEYARD (Oak View, CA)
Represented by Adam Tolmach & Helen HardenberghThe Ojai Vineyard began in 1983 with the dream of producing distinctive California wines using traditional wine making practices learned in Burgundy. Twenty-seven years later Adam Tolmach continues to pursue the craft at his artisanal winery in Ojai, California, purchasing grapes from the finest terroirs in the coolest districts of northern Santa Barbara County. His quest to bring together European sensibilities of balance and finesse with the exuberant fruit from coastal California vineyards is expressed in the wines he makes today. |
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SAINTSBURY (Napa, CA)
Represented by Jérôme ChérySince 1981 Saintsbury has been committed to demonstrating that world-class Pinot noir is a California mainstay. The winery was founded by Dick Ward and David Graves who believe innovation and a critical look at vineyard, terroir, and winemaking is the best route to quality. Today with winemaker Jérôme Chéry and associate winemaker Chris Carlson, Saintsbury continues to pursue the "philosophy of investigation" that has helped make Saintsbury one of America's foremost Pinot noir producers. |
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SCHUG CARNEROS ESTATE WINERY (Sonoma, CA)
Represented by Michael Cox & Axel SchugFounded in 1980, Schug Carneros Estate Winery is the showcase and life-long dream of one of California's most celebrated winemakers. Drawing on his long experience in the production of fine wines in Germany and as founding winemaker for Joseph Phelps in California, Walter set up the winery so that he could focus on the Pinot noir that had always been close to his heart. Walter and Gertrud were joined by their son Axel in 1989 who has directed the sales and growth of the winery in the ensuing years and is currently the managing partner. In 1995 Sonoma native Mike Cox joined the team as winemaker with Walter Schug now overseeing the business as winemaster. Nestled in the hills of the cool, marine climate of the Carneros Appellation, the winery continues to operate as a family enterprise dedicated to Walter's original passion for graceful and elegant Pinot noirs. |
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STEPHEN ROSS WINE CELLARS (San Luis Obispo, CA)
Represented by Stephen R. Dooley & Paula E. DooleyStephen Ross Dooley founded his artisanal winery Stephen Ross Wine Cellars in 1994 after 17 years of winemaking at Louis Martini Winery and Edna Valley Vineyard. He believes quality is everything and that it starts in the vineyard. Stephen Ross produces single-vineyard Pinot noir from Bien Nacido Vineyard, Aubaine Vineyards and Stone Corral Vineyard as well as appellation Pinot noir from the Edna Valley and Central Coast. Also produced is a vineyard-designated Chardonnay from Bien Nacido Vineyard and an appellation Chardonnay from the Edna Valley. Balance, elegance, flavor concentration and consistency are hallmarks of the Stephen Ross style. |
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TALLEY VINEYARDS (Arroyo Grande, CA)
Represented by Brian Talley & Leslie MeadTalley Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery that specializes in estate grown Chardonnay and Pinot noir ideally suited for the climate and soils of the Arroyo Grande and Edna Valleys. The Talley's farming history in the area dates to 1948 when Oliver Talley began growing vegetables in the Arroyo Grande Valley. Guided by this legacy and a commitment to long term sustainability, Talley Vineyards focuses on attention to detail in all aspects of farming and winemaking operations. The goal is to produce distinctive wines of consistently high quality that best express the unique character of each of the Talley family's six vineyard sites in the two valleys. |