Hawk Hill Vineyard
Approximately 24.9 acres in size and just over 18 acres are under grapes. Our soils are Goldridge fine sandy loam, famous for producing some of the world’s best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. These soils have their origin in ancient shallow seabeds and have significant influence from eroded volcanic ash. This makes the soil slightly acidic.
Our goal is to provide the highest quality fruit, sustainably farmed, to the top winemakers in California. Located in the confluence of the Russian River, Sonoma Coast and Green Valley AVAs, Sonoma County, California, our grapes are grown in the famous Goldridge soils and benefit from the extended hang time necessitated by the cool marine-influenced climate. Meticulously tended by hand, our vines express the full extent of character afforded by this unique terroir, giving the winemaker a full palette of tools to develop the highest expression of the winemaker’s art.
What We Grow
The Welcome Sign Is Out
We grow two premium quality varietals: Chardonnay (clone 5 on 3309 rootstock); and Pinot Noir (Pommard Clone 4 on 3309 rootstock, and Dijon Clone 115 on 3309 rootstock). The vines face south/southeastward with an elevation of 386 ft (117.95m) at its low point, to 610 ft (185.9m) at the high point. This range of elevation helps keep the vineyard above the fog line much of the time, improving ripening characteristics. The cool, marine influence lengthens the ripening time. This extended hang time allows the fruit to achieve incredible sugar accumulation while maintaining fruit acid.
Trellising
Modified Scott Henry Trellis System
Trellising is done via a modified Scott Henry system. Two fruiting wires are maintained with canopy canes trained upward, to gather sunlight, and another set of canes trained downward to collect and concentrate heat. All vineyard work, including harvest, is done by hand pruning.
Origin of the Name
Hawks Soaring Above the Vineyard
Hawk Hill Vineyard was named for the Red Tail and Cooper’s hawks that are seen regularly riding the thermals above the vineyard. The wind and coastal influence of the nearby ocean are the defining features that, in conjunction with the outstanding Goldridge soils, produce extraordinary Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes.