Winemaking

Our farming practices and winemaking techniques both revolve around the concept of quality. Our sparse, well-drained soils assist us in farming, as we try to achieve naturally a crop of superior fruit in smaller quantities. The volcanic ash and gravelly loam unique to Howell Mountain makes that task easier, and our unique micro-climate gives us a more even growing season than others in Napa Valley.

---

At harvest, we hand-pick into small 5 pound trays to keep the integrity of each individual berry prior to crush, and we harvest in small lots only as the unique sections of our vineyards ripen. These lots are allowed to ferment separately throughout the majority of the wine-making process to capture the unique character of the different parts of the estate's vineyards. We believe that our premium barrel aging program allows the oak to be a lovely component of our wine, giving gentle structure and spice, while allowing the fruit to shine and creating a wine that is age-worthy, but enjoyable upon release. Gentle farming, careful harvesting and balanced blending during the winemaking process combines to create consistently well-made wines that are true expressions of our unique appellation.