Bacigalupi

Hard-working, salt of the earth type folks, about 50 years ahead of the sustainable agriculture movement.

Helen and Charles Bacigalupi started farming their precious old vine grapes in Russian River Valley in 1956. When we got word that Helen might part with 5 tons of their Century Clone Zinfandel, we drove over to her ranch and simply fell in love! Not only with the wonderful grapes, but with Helen and Charles as well. Decades before sustainability became en vogue, the Bacgialupis pioneered innovative farming practices that made them true stewards of the land. Experience counts.

Charles passed away in 2013, leaving a remarkable legacy and some of the most meticulously-kept vineyards you'll find in the world.

The Bacigalupi Vineyard is planted amongst rolling hills and steep hillsides in rocky volcanic and sandy loam soil. One of the first vineyards of its kind, this vineyard avoids chemicals and tilling and allows vines to grow as high as four feet above ground to improve air circulation.

Situated about 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the Russian River Valley is characterized by a chilly morning fog that dissipates in the afternoon, providing temperature variations of up to 40 degrees throughout a day. These variations, combined with a generally cooling growing season, allows fruit to achieve incredible levels of ripeness.

Town: Healdsburg

Region: Sonoma County

Appellation: Russian River Valley

Wines: Zinfandel