All great wine begins with a passionate farmer. The grapes of the area’s most progressive vineyards, James Berry, Denner, and Ohana, currently grace the wines of Villa Creek Cellars. Per acre contracts insure that the fruit comes off the same blocks each vintage. The Cherry’s own 60 acre estate on the west side of Paso Robles boasts elevations of 1400-1800 feet, calcareous soils, south facing slopes and ample water. Grape growing conditions don’t get much better. The Cherry’s look forward to planting their first grape vines in 2012.
james berry
Pebble and Terry Smith were among the first to recognize the potential for Rhone varieties in Paso Robles. The stunning James Berry Vineyard is home to Pebble and Terry as well as to their son, Justin and his wife Heather. Together they have created what Robert Parker calls one of five grand cru vineyard sites in California. As a continual model for studies in progressive farming practices, the Smith family has worked to create a sustainable eco system that produces the finest grapes in the area. Limestone covered hills under which an ancient seabed floats, are the foundation for this amazing planting. The Villa Creek High Road blend is always comprised of this world class James Berry Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah.
denner
Ron and Marilyn Denner relocated to Paso Robles in the late 90’s to create another world class vineyard in our ever changing appellation. Located just across the road from James Berry, Denner Vineyard boasts of the same grape-loving soils as well as diversity of exposures and microclimates. The Denner’s commitment to sustainable farming practices insures healthy pesticide free fruit. The Denner Grenache is a staple of the Villa Creek Cellars portfolio.
ohana
Simon and Hillary Graves’ Ohana Vineyard is the source of our amazing Tempranillo. Another progressive couple, both vineyard managers by trade,the Graves were among the first to plant Tempranillo in our area. Vega Sicilia cuttings they just may be! The Graves have been the inspiration for many as the varietal seems to thrive in our conditions. Ohana Vineyard resides at the east end of the Templeton gap where ocean breezes and fog temper the warm climate. The Mas de Maha Tempranillo blend has won over many a Syrah drinker to favor the fruit forward elegance of Tempranillo.
bassetti
Ellis and Susie bassetti live and farm a small ranch 3 miles west of the Pacific Ocean that has been in the Bassetti family for nearly 100 years. The property is planted to flowers, herbs and trees that they utilize for their business, Green Valley Flower and Herb. In 1998 they ripped and cleared 7 acres to plant their first wine grapes. Under the guidance of John Alban the Bassettis planted several clones of Syrah. This cool and rocky site creates wines with a keen focus of minerality tempered by black fruits and spice.
