Wine tasting at Preston was a fun experience. The tasting room had a welcoming atmosphere with lots of funny books decorating the bookshelves and samples of their olives and sourdough. There were other groups also present, but we were attended quite quickly. Hidden gem. This is what wine country should feel like...to be continued.
We booked the 10am tour and tasting and I was very impressed. The tour was about an hour and a half. We started in the front tasting room, went outside to the vineyards, to the caves where they store the barrels and finally to the room with the tanks. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was willing to answer any questions we had. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who wants the full winery experience!
Amazing little winery with great wines. The 2010 Merlot Grand Reserve was like anything I have had before and I don't even like Merlot usually. The wine jams are also out of this world. Try the petit Verdot jam, you won't be disappointed. Wonderful place with amazing wines. This wine is made with passion that comes through. Try the Pinot Noir...yes, Pinot in Lodi...really well done. This is a hidden gem that won't be hidden for long. You won't be disappointed! Open Friday - Sunday- or by appointment
Overlooking the beautiful Highland Valley of Ramona there are about 4 acres of grapes that enjoy the breeze, which blows most of the day. In Italy, Aglianico is considered the Barolo of the south. Our Aglianico grapes were first planted in early 2007. Approximately, 2000 vines were planted both on the east and west sides of the vineyard. Followed, was the Nebbiolo, planted only on the east side. In 2008 and 2011 we added the Aleatico grapes. We produce two kinds of wines from this grape: a dry wine and sweet dessert wine, both with incredible aromas.
In 1960, Stephen Russell became one of the first graduates of UC Davis' now-renowned Enology program, part of the inaugural class alongside a Franciscan monk. Without family ties or connections in the wine industry, Russell quickly made his mark by becoming the first formally trained enologist hired by the Gallo family. However, after feeling disillusioned with winemaking in his twenties, he decided to step away from the industry. He returned to school to pursue a PhD and embarked on a successful academic career in cancer research, eventually becoming the head of the cancer program at the University of Kansas Medical Center.
Despite his accomplishments in academia, in 2001, Stephen and his wife, Mary, returned to California to fulfill a long-held dream by founding Prodigal Wines. The “prodigal son” had returned.
Nestled in the picturesque hills of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation, Prodigal Wines is known for producing some of the region’s finest Pinot Noirs. The sloping vineyard is planted with clones 115, 667, and 777. With a focus on limited production and careful clonal selection matched to each vineyard block, Prodigal continues to craft world-class wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area.
For wine lovers visiting California's wineries, Prodigal Wines offers a captivating story of redemption and artistry, with exceptional wines that celebrate the journey of a man who returned to his first passion.
Crafted from 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon grown in a unique microclimate in Napa’s Rutherford Bench, this fine red wine possesses great depth of flavor and a richness that could be matched only by a great amarone. Smoke scents and flavors of dark plum, bitter chocolate, and dried herbs dominate the latest release of this ultrarich wine.
PROMISE has, and always will, represent promising yourself to pursue your passions and setting the intention to live a life well-lived; Facing your fears and challenges while finding gratitude, joy and love everyday – especially during the tough times. It’s about remembering the simplest things in life are the only ones that matter: sharing moments with the ones you love and who love you – with a great bottle of wine of course!
It has been a wonderful ride thus far. On behalf of everyone in the PROMISE Family, we are deeply grateful to all those who have helped us on the journey. We feel like we are just getting started.
Francis Johnson and his wife Kristina recently became the proud new owners of a stunning 25-acre estate in the Sierra Foothills, having purchased this slice of paradise on January 5, 2024. Along with the breathtaking property, they inherited an esteemed line of Rhone wines recognized for their exceptional quality.
Founded in 2001 by Ron Pieretti and Wendy Sandra, Prospect 772 has long been dedicated to producing some of the finest Rhone wines available. As the new stewards of this winery, Francis and Kristina are committed to honoring the legacy established by Ron and Wendy, employing their tried-and-true winemaking techniques to ensure the continued excellence of the wines.
They will carry on the tradition by producing all the legacy wines of Prospect 772, including the beloved Black Tie Charlie. In addition to these established favorites, they plan to introduce two new varietals during their first year, starting with Tatum's Grace, a delightful white wine that will be released in April 2024.
Wine lovers and enthusiasts are warmly invited to stop by and enjoy a glass of wine with Francis and Kristina. They look forward to many years of winemaking and building friendships in the vibrant wine community.
Classic Family Roots with Italian Style
Provenance Vineyards began in 1999 and quickly earned a stellar reputation as the Napa Valley Cabernet house. Over the years, Provenance expanded into also producing tasting-room only regional exclusives and single-vineyard wine for other red, Bordeaux-style blends and white wine. Its founding family had the vision to produce fine wines that were true works of art of unique “provenance” or authentic origin.
Over the years, the brand has passed through the hands of two corporate owners. And in November 2021, the Allen Lombardi family acquired Provenance Vineyards. Attracted to its rich history, timeless style and strong growth potential, the Lombardis are committed to building the next chapter of the brand – increasing domestic distribution (and expanding globally) in fine wine shops and restaurants. The goal is make Provenance Vineyards wine more accessible to Napa wine lovers throughout the world.
Produce limited amounts of hand-crafted wines from the Dry Creek Valley and the Puccioni Ranch. Pucioni Vineyards has been growing grapes and making wine at the Puccioni Ranch since 1904. Pucioni family were one of the last families in Sonoma County to use a mule and a plow.
Punk Dog Wines represents an adventurous approach to winemaking. The goal is to craft wines with immense character, bold flavors, and unconventional blends. Fully embodying a Californian spirit, Punk Dog Wines refuses to be constrained by traditional blends or preconceived notions.
The name "Punk Dog" is inspired by Sophie, a small dog with a larger-than-life personality. Mischievous and strong-willed, Sophie is known for her playful antics, like running around with a stolen sock and rewarding her pursuers with enthusiastic kisses.
When establishing the winery, the founders questioned the necessity of using grapes from the same region or adhering to conventional blending practices. They explored the effects of combining varietals that might not traditionally be paired and blending grapes harvested at varying ripeness levels.
The philosophy behind Punk Dog Wines was influenced by a cellar master’s advice during the founder’s first vintage. After enduring long days of labor, the cellar master remarked in his Bulgarian accent, “Eric, smile! You’re making wine!” This perspective of taking winemaking seriously while maintaining a sense of fun has become central to their approach.
Sophie, with her bold and adventurous nature, is the perfect mascot for the winery. Reflecting the same spirited attitude and sense of adventure, the team’s goal is to create outstanding wines while enjoying the process. With the work done and the “cows home,” the invitation is simple: relax, enjoy the wine, and share in the fun.