As we welcome a new season, we celebrate the evolving connection between our vineyards, the land that sustains them, and the longhorn cattle that roam the Yountville Hills. This spring, we’re excited to share how the Yountville Hills shape our farming practices, highlight new vineyard replants, and reflect on the promising 2024 harvest.
The Yountville Hills: A Defining Presence
Framing our vineyards, the Yountville Hills play a crucial role in vine growth and fruit development. Their unique geology—marked by an exposed vertical soil profile—reveals layers of iron-rich and volcanic materials, remnants of a hilltop that once stood over 2,000 feet tall in what is now the Stags Leap District. A seismic shift eight million years ago relocated it to its present-day elevation of 114 feet, creating a rare vertical bedding of ancient volcanic rock.
The hills also moderate fog intrusion from the San Pablo Bay, influencing microclimates and fruit ripening, while regulating wind flow to protect vines from extreme gusts. This dynamic environment contributes to the complexity and depth of character in our wines.
Longhorn Cattle: Stewards of the Hills
Across 460 acres, nearly 60 longhorn cattle graze freely, naturally reducing dry grasses and underbrush to help mitigate wildfire risk. Their movement across the land fosters biodiversity, ensuring a balanced ecosystem where native plant species can thrive. This practice aligns with our philosophy of working in harmony with nature, blending vineyard management with land conservation.
New Vineyard Replantings: A Season of Growth
This year, our vineyard development continues with both classic varieties and new experiments:
- Block House Vineyard: Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Meunier are being replanted under an 8-foot row spacing approach, optimizing vine health, water efficiency, and fruit quality.
- Rock Cairn Vineyard: New plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, including a special block of Cabernet Sauvignon Clone 4 at the vineyard’s highest slope, where better exposure and drainage enhance fruit concentration.
- Albariño Debut: Planted last year at Rock Cairn Vineyard, our Albariño vines will bear fruit for the first time this season, offering an exciting glimpse into this variety’s potential in our soils.
2024 Harvest Recap: A Vintage to Remember
The 2024 harvest totaled exactly 2,024 tons, marking a memorable vintage. Yields were slightly higher than 2023, but the season brought its challenges, with four major heat waves testing the vines. Thanks to careful vineyard management, the vines adapted well, preserving balance and quality.
We’ve already bottled the 2024 Elizabeth Rose Pinot Gris and Rosé, capturing their fresh, vibrant character, while the rest of the vintage continues its journey in the cellar. We can’t wait to share these wines with you soon—stay tuned for their release!
Looking Ahead
From the geological history of the Yountville Hills to the evolution of our vineyards, our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and craftsmanship remains strong. We’re honored to share this journey with you and look forward to raising a glass together in the seasons ahead.
Cheers to spring and all the possibilities it brings! Alec, Viticulturist
