Inspirations August 1, 2025 12:26

Some things and people that had an influence on me.

My estate Owl Hill Vineyard c. 1986. The Napa Gamay  (Valdiguie) wine I made from this site was outstanding. Seeking the full potential of this vineyard, I was inspired to plant Syrah.

A tour of Italian Swiss Colony at Asti, CA in 1957 was my first connection to a winery and inspired me to start my own. I remember these tanks like it was yesterday. Staves from one of them are now my tasting bar.

Martin Ray was way before the time of the “boutique” winery boom (1940’s until 1972). He pioneered premium varietal wines. He inspired me with his perseverance and the example of quality that can be accomplished on a small scale.

Writing by Hugh Johnson. I was particularly inspired by his melding of geography and winegrowing in “The World Atlas of Wine”.

Wines of Cote Rotie. Earthy, tannic, reserved and elegant. Impressions after tasting these wines made me want to replicate their style. I was inspired to plant Syrah and Viognier on the hillsides here at Frick in the Dry Creek Valley.

Ridge Geyserville in the 70’s. Wines that made me aspire to making interesting and good wines that speak to where they are grown.  At that time I did not know I would end up in Geyserville.

The Wine-Art store near downtown LA. This is where i hung out in the 1960's and bought all the stuff to make my first batch of wine in the garage at home.

Professor of Enology Dr. Maynard Amerine (University of California Davis 1935-1974) I read his writings. I poured over his recommendations of what varieties should be planted in different climate zones. I was also fortunate to hear this legend’s lectures at UCD