The Barrel Program
We're going to make it really easy (and more cost effective) for you to take the first step in starting your own winery. We'll take you through all the winemaking steps (even if you're out of town) with video and updates about your wine. Twenty four cases is a lot of wine (well, for some) so we suggest getting together some friends or colleagues to share the experience and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions 
Who makes the wine?
I do with the help of some consultants if needed
How do you get such great grapes?
There is no reason to go through all this unless you can make great wine from great vineyards. In this business “it’s who you know” and I know a lot of people in the business growing great grapes (and love golf). With these contacts I can get a ton or two of premium fruit that will make those top tier quality wines ($50 plus a bottle).
How can I follow the process?
Part of the fun of this program is to learn and feel a part of your wine. We want to include you in the process as much as possible. You’ll get updates that will include pictures, video and lab results. And if you’re in town we’ll arrange for you to visit and taste your wine from the barrel.
When do things get started?
Harvest (when the fruit is picked) is in October, although you should get started with planning ahead of time - the earlier you start, the more choices you have for vineyards. If you miss harvest or want to accelerate things, you can always look into our Adopt a Barrel program (buy barrels that are close to be ready to be bottled).
24 cases seems like a lot of wine, isn't it?
For some clients, 24 cases goes in a blink of the eye. But most of our clients form or join a group or two to get smaller amounts of wine but still share in the experience.
How long does it take until I get my wine?
White wines are generally bottled the spring or summer after harvest (although more oaked wines can age longer). Pinot Noir is usually good to go around August, after around 10 months in barrel. But more extracted versions can take longer to soften up tannins. Cabernet takes the longest and is typically bottled in summer after 20+ months in barrel.
How much does this cost, really?
Our simple barrel pricing covers everything including grapes, barrel, wine making, custom wine labels and packaging. Some clients upgrade to really heavy bottles or multiple labels per barrel (where there is a surcharge), but most wines fit into the standard wine pricing. Pricing is $2,880 to $10,900 per barrel ($10 to $36 per bottle) based on vineyard and packaging.
When and how do I pay?
You can pay in installments - 2/3 in October when you begin making wine and 1/3 the next June. Check or credit card work fine.
Call us at 707-529-6458 to discuss the details