Ampelos Vineyard, situated in the cool climate eastern end of Sta. Rita Hills, is ideal for growing Pinot Noir, Grenache, Syrah, Viognier, and Riesling. Notably, it benefits from cooling breezes originating from the Santa Rita Hills, Santa Rosa Hills, and La Parisima Mountains. Funky Town, in line with newer-wave millennial brands, emphasizes white, pink, orange, and sparkling wines over reds. Ampelos unique Piquette, a lower-alcohol sparkling wine, is crafted from pressed and rehydrated Grenache and Syrah grapes sourced from Ampelos Vineyard, the first estate in the country to be third-party certified as sustainable, organic, and biodynamic.
In 1999, Peter and Rebecca acquired 82 acres in Sta. Rita Hills, which they named "Ampelos," Greek for vine, reflecting their belief in the importance of vineyard origins. Inspired by their close ties to Greece, they chose this name due to their marriage there and ownership of the Ampelos Hotel on Folegandros island. A fateful moment on September 11, 2001, redirected their lives, prompting them to pursue their dream of winemaking. They left corporate careers, moved to their vineyard, and dedicated themselves to organic, sustainable, and biodynamic farming.
In Bell's five-acre Estate Vineyard, they cultivate three types of Chardonnay (clone 96, clone 15, and clone 22), Merlot clone 3, and their flagship Clone 6 Cabernet Sauvignon. Planted in 2001 on clay and sandy riverbed soil, this vineyard stretches out from Bell's tasting room toward the east, offering a view of Mount Veeder in the distance. Thanks to the Yountville AVA's long growing season and the cool influence of San Pablo Bay, the grapes develop rich color and freshness. These ideal conditions help Bell craft luxury wines that everyone can savor.
Bell Wine Cellars, co-founded in 1991 by Anthony Bell and a local Napa Valley grower, emphasized the significance of terroir and the elements of elegance, fruit, and balance in winemaking. Over the years, the winery expanded its vision, focusing on vineyard aspects, increasing production, and evolving into a partnership with Ron Berberian, Alex Spanos, and family, culminating in a commitment to creating exceptional wines with elegance and balance.
Benessere, a small, family-owned winery nestled in Napa Valley, specializes in crafting exquisite Italian varietals, echoing the essence of "well-being" and warm hospitality. Founded by John and Ellen Benish in 1994, the vineyard's rich history, from its origins as a cattle ranch to its transformation into a vineyard, embodies a legacy of passion and dedication to producing exceptional wines, including their signature Sangiovese and a variety of other Italian blends.
Nestled in the northern Napa Valley, our Benessere property boasts an ideal terrain for cultivating classic Italian varietals like Sangiovese, alongside other favorites like Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. With exclusive offerings for wine club members and a dedication to sustainable practices through our involvement in the Napa Valley Grapegrowers Association, we're committed to crafting exceptional wines while preserving our environment.
With over 17 years in Napa Valley's wine scene, Brittany's journey from Reno to winemaking entrepreneur is fueled by a passion for crafting vibrant, crushable wines. As the former HBIC of MTGA Wines, she honed her expertise and decided it was time to create something uniquely her own.
In 2022, Blaire Payton Wines made its debut, offering an inaugural release of Grenache that embodies Brittany's love for fun, approachable wines that elevate any occasion. From poolside sips to styled-out dinner tables, these wines are for everyone to enjoy.
Dusty Nabor Wines is all about making California wines that truly express their unique locations and characteristics. Established in 2015, Dusty Nabor Wines is a small, down-to-earth winery in the industrial heart of Camarillo, CA. The mission is to create wines that capture the essence of the land with as little interference as possible. Right now, Dusty Nabor Wines sources grapes from the stunning Sta Rita Hills, Ballard Canyon, Los Olivos District, and Happy Canyon regions, and the lineup includes Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Grenache, Syrah, Viognier, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Dusty, a Southern California native, is known for his insatiable curiosity and dedication to new challenges. His journey led him through skateboarding, surfing, professional motocross racing, poker, car racing, and golf, all while holding down a 30-year job at his family's steel business. In 2015, his interest in winemaking sparked, and he began crafting wines with great success. Dusty and Karin Langer, his life partner and curator of Bolt To Wines, share a love for triathlons and a passion for animals, actively supporting various animal research institutions and rescues.
Jeff Runquist Wines offers unique and diverse Californian varietals, perfect for adventurous wine enthusiasts. Their balanced wines, initially enjoyable but also capable of aging beautifully, highlight the essence of fresh fruit tied to each grape variety. Jeff's preference for rich, flavorful grapes with zest and vibrancy guides his selection process, resulting in a range of limited-production wines. While they craft various wines from different Californian regions, their four core wines, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Barbera, and Petit Verdot, are consistently available throughout the year.
Jeff's wine journey began in 1977 when he interned at Paul Masson Sherry Cellars while studying enology at UC Davis. After graduation in 1980, he worked at Montevina, eventually becoming a winemaker in 1982. He continued his career, including a stint at the Napa Valley Cooperative Winery from 1987 to 1990 and as the winemaker for J. Lohr in San Jose. In 1995, Jeff crushed ten tons of zinfandel from Massoni Ranch, releasing 700 cases in 1997 under his own label. His winemaking adventure continued at various locations, and in 2008, he and Margie opened their tasting room in Amador County. Jeff's dream to make wine for himself became a reality, and by 2011, he was able to produce the majority of his wine in Amador.
Lussier (pronounced Loo-see-aye) is a veteran-owned brand with a mission to craft "First Growth" terroir-driven wines from small, sustainable, organic and biodynamic vineyards. They challenge conventions, push boundaries, and view each step as an art form that brings joy and gratitude into people's lives, with wine as their chosen canvas. Their winemaking philosophy centers on letting the exceptional terroirs speak and capturing the essence of the land.
After serving seven years as a U.S. Army Infantry Officer, including combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, G.W. returned to his hometown of St. Helena in the Napa Valley in 2015. His wine journey began as an intern at Pahlmeyer Winery, furthering his education at Williams Selyem in 2016. After three years in the wine industry, in 2019, G.W. launched Lussier Wine Co, which now produces four Pinot Noirs, a Chardonnay, and an "Old Vine" Chenin Blanc, all while maintaining a small-scale, boutique approach.
Monroy Wines is a dynamic addition to the small-batch winemaking scene, driven by the passion of Adolfo and his wife, Nohelia. Blending the artistry learned from top Napa Valley Cabernet houses with the expertise of Russian River Pinot Noir Estates, they craft refined cabernet sauvignons. Adolfo, recognized as one of the Latinx experts reshaping American wine by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, brings his unique background and deep respect for wine to create distinct, harmonious, and truly exceptional wines.
Monroy Wines is a labor of love by two passionate wine enthusiasts, winemaker Adolfo and his wife, Nohelia. While they come from different wine backgrounds, both share a deep reverence for the art of winemaking. Adolfo transitioned from a career in molecular biology to become a winemaker, gaining experience at vineyards like Clos du Bois and Benovia and traveling to diverse wine regions worldwide. Nohelia, a native of wine country, has roots in Sonoma County, watching it evolve with the growth of the California wine industry. With a family deeply involved in wine, Nohelia's experience in the business side of the industry complements her role alongside her husband.
Inspired by the mysterious tale of a century-old murder, Murder Ridge Winery, led by California winemaker Steve Adler, pays homage to the haunting past with its label and logo. The vineyards of Perli Vineyards, where the grim events unfolded, now flourish under Adler's stewardship, producing unique wines in the rugged terrain of Mendocino Ridge.
Nestled just nine miles from the Pacific Ocean, the vineyards' high elevation and coastal influence yield grapes coveted by discerning winemakers. Despite the challenges posed by the steep hillsides, Adler employs meticulous farming techniques to nurture low vigor vines, resulting in small, flavor-packed clusters. With each bottle, Murder Ridge Winery encapsulates the essence of farming in the wilderness, crafting wines that reflect the untamed beauty and storied history of the region.
Established in 1998 by visionary John Copeland, Pine Mountain Vineyards occupies 36 acres in the heart of the newly designated Pine Mountain–Cloverdale Peak AVA, perched at elevations ranging from 2,200 to 2,800 feet. Nestled within a 600-acre ranch, it boasts diverse flora, including oak, madrone, and manzanita woodlands, native grasslands, fir forests, and more. The property is meticulously managed to harmonize high-altitude viticulture with the preservation of its pristine ecosystems.
Pine Mountain Vineyards is on the western flank of Pine Mountain, right in the heart of the Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak AVA. This mountainous terrain, with well-drained, sandy, and gravel-rich soil, creates a unique micro-climate, offering cooler days, warmer nights, extended sunlight, and refreshing oceanic breezes. This terroir yields intensely flavored, colorful fruit, with smaller clusters, much like top Cabernet Sauvignon sites in Napa Valley.
PWR Wines, led by vintner Matt Reid, is dedicated to making great wines accessible to all without compromising quality. Since 2009, Matt, alongside his late wife Marcy Webb, has championed California's vineyards, forming close relationships with growers to showcase each site's unique character. With a minimalist wine making approach, PWR ensures that every glass reflects the vineyard's essence.
Matt's journey from San Francisco to UC Davis and prestigious wineries like Seavey and Quixote paved the way for PWR's inception. Marcy's background in public health enriched their venture until her passing in 2019. Matt continues their legacy, crafting wines that honor Marcy's spirit and commitment to excellence.
With two barrels, a ton of fruit, and the support of friends, Puppione Family Wines began in 2017. They approach winemaking with a straightforward philosophy. Simple, but far from easy. They rely on native yeast fermentations, whole clusters, foot crushing, neutral oak aging, minimal additives, and no fining or filtering. Thanks to the dedicated growers they partner with, who practice sustainable and organic farming, Puppione Family Wines can employ these timeless methods, resulting in wines that radiate energy, freshness, and purity. It's that simple, though far from simple.
Dee wanted to make a baby blanket, while Chris quietly planned to create wine for everyone. Unbeknownst to all, they were about to start a winery. This newfound venture was their way of commemorating life's moments. Like many families, they held traditions close to their hearts, and for them, it was making wine—a yearly ritual of togetherness, gratitude, and storytelling. When sharing these wines, they built a community in the moment, inviting others to be a part of their family tradition, celebrated in every bottle.
In 2018, Kara Marie Wines was born from a profound passion for crafting exceptional, fruit-forward wines that captivate the senses. What started as a modest endeavor, producing a mere 100 cases of exquisite rosé, has since transformed into an extraordinary journey. Inspired and nurtured by a seasoned winemaker who believed in the eloquence of letting the grapes speak for themselves, we've embraced this philosophy with our own innovative touch.
Kara Marie Wines has now evolved into two distinct brands: Ra Ra Wine Co. for those timeless classics that first ignited her passion, made with minimal intervention and no oak influence to let the fruit shine; and Little Ra Ra Ferments, where she unleashes her creative flair, offering a range of natural wines driven by experimentation and whimsy, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality. In both brands, Kara's guiding philosophy remains clear - wine should be enjoyable and delicious.
In 1997, Red Car Wines was founded by Mark Estrin and Carroll Kemp, sparking their passion for wine. They started a low-budget winemaking project in 2000, gaining acclaim for their distinctive label featuring an old Los Angeles Pacific Electric Trolley Car. After purchasing a 128-acre vineyard in Cazadero in 2003, their journey included challenges, but they dedicated the wine Cuvee 22 to honor Mark Estrin's memory after his passing. Red Car Wines employs sustainable practices to manage their vineyards. They focus on promoting native grass species in the vineyard, which are drought-tolerant and minimize competition with grapevines.
Red Car Wines continued to grow, adding new vineyards and simplifying their brand, emphasizing the importance of their "True North" – the unique geography, soils, and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. They successfully introduced a popular Rosé of Pinot Noir and produced outstanding wines, with a 2018 Syrah receiving high praise from wine critic Antonio Galloni. The dream that began in 1997 had come true.
The name "Rock and Clay" originated during Kent's laborious vineyard work, a nod to Namesake Vineyard's unique soil composition. More than just a reference to the vineyard's soil type, it embodies the soil's pivotal role in shaping the concept of "terroir." Rock and Clay wines aim to encapsulate the distinctive sensory essence emanating from each of our single vineyard sources. The wine labels depict birds by local artist Roger Hall that play a prominent role in the vineyard's seasonal rhythms, from the melodious Western Meadowlarks in spring to hawks and barn owls in winter.
Wine unites Carol and Kent in their shared passion. Carol, a former wine shop and wine importation company owner and writer, is complemented by Kent, who earned an enology degree from UC Davis in 1985 and has pursued a career in the biopharmaceutical industry. Their journey began as "garagiste" home winemakers, and it was their deep connection with the grape sources, cultivated over the years, that drove them to venture into the world of commercial winemaking.
Theopolis Vineyards, a boutique winery in California's prestigious Yorkville Highlands, was established in 2003 in the rugged interior of Anderson Valley. Wine Critic Robert Parker awarded the inaugural 2006 harvest a remarkable 94-96 points. Owner Theodora R. Lee, known as Theo-patra, Queen of the Vineyards, a dynamic Texan lawyer, now produces award-winning wines, including a rich Petite Sirah, Rosé of Petite Sirah, Symphony white wine, and Pinot Noir from Anderson Valley, Yorkville Highlands, and Santa Lucia Highlands.
Theodora Lee, known as Theo-patra, Queen of the Vineyards, founded Theopolis Vineyards in 2003, inspired by her law firm mentors who were vineyard owners. She purchased land in Anderson Valley's Yorkville Highlands in 2001, where she later planted her 5-acre vineyard in 2003. Ms. Lee's dedication to both law and winemaking has led to her recognition in various publications and media outlets. Her impressive resume includes roles as a settlement commissioner, arbitrator, mediator, and community leader in organizations like the YMCA of San Francisco and the Bay Area Black United Fund.
Tongue Dancer Wines, born from curiosity and desire in 2012, reflects James and Kerry MacPhail's vision of creating wines that dance on your tongue. With a focus on taste, texture, and an unwavering dedication to quality, Tongue Dancer Wines is a testament to James's mastery as a winemaker and his commitment to continual innovation.
James MacPhail, the winemaker behind Tongue Dancer Wines and The Departure. With 29 years of dedication to crafting exceptional Pinot Noir & Chardonnay, James is fueled by a deep love for the grape and an insatiable curiosity. His journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of quality and a commitment to trusting his instincts.