REGION: California

In 1954, Alex and Graeme MacDonald’s great-grandparents planted vines on To Kalon, a vineyard dating back to 1868. Sold to Mondavi for 60 years, these grapes were part of his Reserve blends. Since 2004, the MacDonalds have crafted wine here, releasing their first vintage in 2010.

Marcassin (French for ‘young wild boar’) is a VERY small winery located on the Sonoma Coast. The Marcassin vineyard is planted 50/50 to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and is about 10 acres in size. Helen Turley is one of the most influential winemakers in the industry, receiving critical acclaim for almost every wine she touches. Helen and her husband John Wetlaufer feel the perfect size for a vintage is 100 barrels, enough for 2,500 cases.

Martha Stoumen, a winemaker since 2014, focuses on organic, minimal intervention wines from dedicated farmers. She prioritizes healthy soils, native fermentation, and chemical-free farming practices, producing about 8,000 cases annually. Authentic, vegan wines with vibrant flavors.

Martinelli wines are born in the vineyard, with 450 acres of 100% sustainably-farmed estate vineyards, they can afford to be selective. Small-production vineyard designated wines showcase the family’s favorite blocks, capturing the terroir of each site while highlighting the nuance of the vintage.

Mayacamas Vineyards, at 2,400 ft on Mt Veeder, spans over 50 acres with a history dating back to 1889. Revived by the Taylors in 1941 and later by Robert Travers, the estate is now guided by the Schottenstein family and winemaker Andy Erickson, emphasizing tradition and organic viticulture.