Winery

The Somerston’s property is the foundation of everything they do. The property is 1628 acres of natural beauty, with over 200 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards, winery, and a developing ranch and farm. The Vineyard has over 200 acres planted on elevations of 850 to 2400 feet above sea level. It’s cool nights, low morning temperatures, late morning fog and warm afternoon temperatures give their vineyards a slow and even ripening – allowing them to produce high quality Cabernets, Sauvignon Blancs, Blends, Syrahs, Pinots and even some bubbles!

On the property you will find over 1500 natural, grass-fed, hormone-free Dorper Sheep. The sheep graze the entire property and are rotated into new areas ahead of maturing invasive plants and weeds. They have several areas dedicated to gardens; including fruit trees, flowering beds, vegetable gardens, bee hives, and olive trees.

Like other elements of the farm, bees play an integral role in sustaining the flowering plant on the property and produce a savory product. Graced with rich soils and a temperate climate, their trees have proven ideal for a blend of Italian and Spanish olives. Today, they have 39 olive trees with plans to expand to well over 50; some are over 30 years old. The trees produce rich and fragrant extra virgin olive oils. Located in their eastern valley, the winery is a renovated 12,000 square foot barn. The facility is designed to be functional, practical, and energy efficient.

Craig Becker (General Manager / Director of Winemaking and Viticulture) join us for this year’s TWE. Craig Becker is a founding member of Somerston. He is a seasoned winemaker and has worked with a wide range of varieties planted at some of California’s top hillside vineyards. Driven by his strong interest in plant and soil science Craig attended the University of California at Davis studying plant physiology, hydrologic science, enology, and viticulture. It is Craig’s artisan approach to winemaking and his extensive knowledge in viticulture that enables him to create superb wines from a wide range of varieties and sites. As General Manager of Somerston, Craig oversees all aspects of the business from viticulture, winemaking, sales and marketing, finance and business development.

www.somerstonwineco.com