Winemaking

Wines shaped by the coast—balanced, bright, and made for your table.

Our Head Winemaker
Jill Russell

For winemaker Jill Russell, everything begins in the vineyard. Each decision—from pruning to picking—is about shaping fruit that carries balance and depth, reflecting where it’s grown. That foundation guides everything that follows, from the first taste in the field to what’s poured at your table.

Across the property, Jill and Vineyard Manager Matt Mahoney work block by block. Each section is treated as its own vineyard—defined by clone, vine age, and subtle shifts in soil and exposure. It’s an approach that allows the character of each place to shine in the finished wine.

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"As a winemaker, my philosophy is about creating wines that allow the vineyard and vintage to shine."

Winemaker - Jill Russel

Crafted for Well-Lived Tables

Katherine’s Vineyard gives us Chardonnay with palate-cleansing acidity and a rich, vibrant texture. The unique microclimate here stretches the growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen fully while holding onto their natural acidity. Jill preserves that coastal freshness by increasing the portion fermented in stainless steel—bringing a natural food-friendly edge to the wine.

Julia’s Vineyard is home to our Pinot Noir. A grape that asks for patience, it’s farmed meticulously throughout the season, with multiple passes at harvest to bring in fruit at just the right moment and create a layered, savory expression. The result is Pinot Noir that feels lifted and textural with Santa Maria spice—naturally suited to the table.

Preserving Coastal Character

In the cellar, a sense of place is carried forward. Based on what she tastes in the vineyard, Jill guides each block to stainless steel or barrel. Fermented and aged separately, each lot retains its identity, ready to add depth and complexity to the finished wine.

Blending begins in the spring. Each component is considered—some standing on their own, others coming together to create balance. The goal is always to showcase the vineyard and the vintage: wines that feel complete, harmonious, and ready for the table.

A Finishing Touch

Oak is used with restraint. Like a finishing touch, it softens the natural acidity of our coastal climate or adds dimension, never overwhelming the wine but bringing a subtle polish. Each barrel is sustainably produced and thoughtfully chosen, down to the wood, grain, and toast level.

For Jill, all these choices shape wines that are meant to live alongside food, whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch shared with friends. Because in the end, the wine belongs where it’s poured, passed, and enjoyed.