ABOUT
Carving vineyards into the volcanic Diamond Mountain terrain has produced fruit that, with vision and expert guidance, results in a remarkable Cabernet Sauvignon that finds its peers among the finest offerings from Napa and Bordeaux.
“The Vineyardist has extraordinary terroir and a highly acclaimed vineyard management and wine-making team which is engaged in the daily pursuit of perfection.”
Becky Kukkola
In 2000, following a decade-long search, husband and wife Dirk Fulton and Becky Kukkola discovered the perfect location on which to establish their new vineyard. With more than 100 acres to serve as the foundation of their efforts, their clear vision has come to life: to create a world-class wine Estate and to serve as stewards of this historic site.
More than a century earlier, pioneer vineyardist Lorenz Petersen cleared the land and planted a vineyard. As he became a skilled farmer and winemaker, Peterson’s production brought international wine brokers to Calistoga each spring to buy wine by the cask. In the 1800s, someone who farmed the vineyard, crafted the wine and then marketed it himself and was known as a Vineyardist.
Kukkola named the endeavor The Vineyardist as an homage to both Peterson and their firm commitment to being involved in all aspects of their wine project.
Jim Barbour, one of Napa’s leading viticulturists, was hired to redevelop the historic vineyards and plant new blocks on the steep, rocky hillsides. Currently, legendary pioneer of organic and biodynamic farming, Phil Coturri, oversees the sustainable growth of our fruit to fully express the vigor and individuality of our terroir.
Esteemed winemaker Tony Biagi leads the wine program. Building upon a history of success, his expertise has been essential to the creation of a singular wine expressing the power and elegance of the Estate’s historic terroir.
