In 1997 began the pursuit of a dream; it started with 75 acres on Jack Creek Road in Templeton, CA. Before the first vine was planted Jack Creek Cellars made the commitment to farm the finest fruit possible, even if it meant a longer period of time before the vineyard became financially viable. The first priority with the fruit produced from the vineyard has always been excellence, believing strongly that without remarkable fruit you cannot make a world-class wine.
In 2001, Jeff decided to venture out with the goal of making world class wines. Initially, he limited his production to Pinot Noir from Bien Nacido in 2003, he expanded his horizons a bit and added Pinot Noir from Solomon Hills Vineyards in the Santa Maria Valley. Jeff also wanted to produce a white wine so he added a Pinot Blanc from Bien Nacido in 2004 and a Bien Nacido Chardonnay in 2008. Jeff tragically passed away in 2010 just as he was coming into his prime as a winemaker. Remembered as a friend, co-worker, and extraordinary winemaker, the Miller Family, owners of Bien Nacido and Solomon Hills Vineyards, purchased the J. Wilkes wine label with the intent of paying tribute to all of Jeff's accomplishments and continuing his legacy of making outstanding wines from the Santa Maria Valley.
