Following our sale of the Eisele Vineyard in 2013, we found an exciting property further south, on the eastern bench of the incomparable Oakville AVA. Originally planted to Cabernet Sauvignon in 1985, the 10-acre vineyard here benefits from southern sun exposure and cool marine air that flows in during the afternoon and hangs on until morning, helping to preserve natural acidity in the grapes. The soils are alluvial loam, washed down from the Vaca Mountain range.

In 2014, we began a phased plan to completely replant the vineyard by 2020, intent on realizing the potential of the fruit grown on this special site. We farm our vineyard organically and biodynamically, providing an optimal viticultural environment for the vines. Working closely with us are viticulturist Steve Matthiasson, biodynamic consultant Jeff Dawson, and vineyard manager Pete Richmond and his Silverado Farming team. Pete was the honored Napa Valley Grapegrowers’ Grower of the Year in 2019.

We are focusing on four heritage Cabernet clones, plus small blocks of Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Musque, and Semillon. The initial replants of white varietals in 2014 have already contributed character and embellishment to the Accendo Sauvignon Blanc program. The Sauvignon Musque offers an exotic aromatic profile, while the Semillon fleshes out the mid palate and gives gravitas and opulence to the blend. We anticipate the young replants of Cabernet Sauvignon will soon contribute to our Cabernet Sauvignon wines.