Merryvale Vineyards relocates wine production to cooler Sonoma Coast
- Merryvale Vineyards is relocating Pinot Noir and Chardonnay production from Carneros to the Sonoma Coast.
- Jeff Crawford, the head winemaker, emphasizes a European style and meticulous attention to detail.
- This strategic move showcases Merryvale's commitment to producing elegant wines that reflect the cool climate of the Sonoma Coast.
Merryvale Vineyards, a historic winery established in 1933 in Napa Valley, is embracing a significant shift under the guidance of head winemaker Jeff Crawford. Transitioning from their Carneros vineyards, the winery is now moving its production of ultra-premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to the cooler Sonoma Coast. This change reflects a strategic commitment to crafting elegant wines that embody a European style, departing from the bold flavors that characterized Napa's earlier production trends. Jeff Crawford, whose journey in winemaking has been deeply influenced by his mentor and work experience at Merryvale, strives for precision and excellence in every step of the winemaking process. Throughout his career, Crawford's meticulous approach has been fueled by a passion for detail and a desire for balance in wine. He initially feared that pursuing winemaking as a career could diminish his love for it, but his experience has only deepened his enthusiasm and dedication to the craft. The Schlatter family, who has owned Merryvale since the early 1990s, recognized Crawford's passion and detail-oriented mindset, aligning with their vision of creating refined wines that express the elegance of Napa and Sonoma. The move to the Sonoma Coast is more than just a geographic shift; it reflects a holistic approach to winemaking. The cooler climate offers conditions that are conducive to producing wines that are both refreshing and nuanced. The winery aims to exemplify this vision through the meticulous cultivation and blending of grapes, seeking out the most exquisite characteristics that the vineyards have to offer. As Crawford leads the charge in this transition, Merryvale Vineyards stands at the forefront of a new era in California winemaking, one that honors the legacy of its past while striving for innovation in its future. This bold step not only signifies a commitment to quality but also places Merryvale in a unique position within the ever-evolving landscape of California wines, focusing on balance, elegance, and a reflection of their surroundings.