Starting Your Own California Vineyard

Sitting in class, gazing at images of scenic vineyards from around the world, I yearn to be there. They all seem as tranquil as they are appealing to the eye. Yet driven by these peaceful plots is a thriving industry. The wine industry is amidst a golden age as production and quality are reaching new highs in places all over the world. So can I be a part of this golden age? Can a small investment of just a few acres become profitable and provide high quality wine grapes? The following is an attempt to further explore my dream of owning a vineyard by determining basic processes and costs necessary to run a successful vineyard.

The process of conceptualizing a new vineyard started with determining what general area of the world it would lay. An American vineyard is attractive in this case as there are no issues with citizenship and/or language. From New England, to the Midwest, to out west; vineyards exist all over the United States. California’s booming grape and wine industry, along with superb growing conditions, makes it an attractive option for a vineyard. By beginning to narrow in on a region for a vineyard, it becomes possible to conjure potential varietals to be grown. Pinot Noir is currently the highest valued grape in California and although difficult to grow has great return potential.

One of the oldest grape varieties, the wine from these grapes has been enjoyed by ancient Romans and all those who enjoy the great burgundy pinot noirs of today. Its age and genetic instability has produced hundreds of clones. In selecting a clone, small quality berries are important for good berry-skin ratio and a high quality wine. Additionally, a clone with loose berry clusters is more resistant to botrytis, an undesirable fungus that removes water from grapes. Keeping quality and botrytis resistance in mind, pinot noir clone 777 was selected as it is characterized by small quality grapes and botrytis resistance. Additional characteristics of clone 777 relative to other pinot noirs include a short life cycle (late bud burst and early maturity), higher degree of sugar content, moderate yields and weak acidity.

With region and clone selection complete, specific site selection is the next step. Somona’s reputation for producing