Our Wine Growers
We’re so proud to work with some of the finest growers in all the world. These are our truest friends and collaborators.
Aloria Vineyards
Following their dreams, Rob and Sheri Hendriks, left the rush of High Tech and planted themselves in vineyards of gold. Renamed Aloria, we were inspired by the beauty, the quiet and the diversity of the rolling hills above New Melones Reservoir. We haven’t looked back, even when times got tough, and we move forward with our intention of leaving this place nurtured and unharmed as we possibly can. With that intention, we are very proud to announce that Aloria Vineyards is a newly certificated California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance Certified Vineyard!
Dalton Vineyard
Dalton Vineyard was founded in 2001 by Jim Dalton, inspired by his daughter’s words, “Dad, you loved two things in life, gardening and wine. Why don’t you go out and start a vineyard or something.” Jim worked hard and bulldozed over 30 acres of land at the turn of the century to make his vision a reality. By 2005, the vineyard’s syrah had been made into an award-winning wine at the California state fair (double gold).
Desmond Estate Vineyards
Early in 2000, Bill was looking for something to keep himself “outta trouble” and realized grape growing could be just the thing. Our property is located on Starr Road – home to some very notable vineyards – and Bill knew he could follow their lead. So, with every intention of selling the grapes to local winemakers, Bill sold his Harley, bought a fork lift, and planted the vineyard. He made the fatal mistake of crushing our first crop to produce a barrel for us at home!
Jordan Oaks
Jordan Oaks is a lovely family vineyard nestled in the rolling hills of Calaveras County. The tranquil setting and location allows for restful rejuvenation. The perfect foothills location in the heart of Gold Country. Lovely peaceful setting in the vineyard, close to golf, boating, skiing, and hiking. Surrounded by grapes, golf and adventure. Connect with Jordan Oaks www.JordanOaks.com
La Rosa Family Vineyard
Joe and Mary La Rosa planted the La Rosa Family Vineyard at their home in Hughson, California, in 2011. Each harvest, together with their three sons and extended family, they wake before dawn to hand pick their bounty of PrimitivoPrimitivo and Barbera. Once picked, the La Rosa’s drive to the mountains to not only deliver their gorgeous fruit to our waiting crew, but also stay and help us hand sort each cluster.
Rorick Heritage
Forlorn Hope’s estate vineyard is located in Calaveras County, just outside of the town of Murphys in the Sierra Foothills. The first vines were planted by Barden Stevenot in 1976 and expanded to its current 75 acres in 2000; Matthew Rorick took over the vineyard in 2013 and converted the farming to organic practices. At an elevation of 2000′, it is situated on limestone soils beneath a top layer of schist.
Villa Vallecito
There is more to our vineyards than spectacular scenery. The proximity to the lake with cooling breezes along with seasonably warm days make this area ideal for growing grapes that produce spectacular and award winning wines. We manage our vineyard closely to make sure the grapes we produce are worthy of the Villa Vallecito name. From the time our vines were planted in 2001, we have nurtured each and every varietal to suit its specific needs.
Vino Metate
The Vino Metate vineyard is located Southwest of Angels Camp, in Calaveras County. Owned by Michael Stange and his wife, they planted a vineyard of Spanish varietals in honor of their family’s heritage.