We use to measure time in minutes, now we count the seasons turning. Fourteen years ago Raye and I traded our lives in Chicago for the beauty and community we found in the Anderson Valley.

It didn't take long for our plans to have a small vineyard to grow to include producing wine as well. With the help and encouragement of many local valley grapegrowers and winemakers and the support of our entire family, we have planted our vineyard, studied at Davis and helped out at neighboring wineries. Our 2007 Pinot Noirs represent Raye's Hill's 10th vintage.

Using our own grapes and those of other small local vineyards we employ winemaking techniques that are compatible with our cool climate. These include extended fermentations for full extraction of varietal flavor and aroma, long barrel aging to round and concentrate the flavor. We do all this with a gentle hand and watchful eye.

Our expectations are high. We know our area produces grapes with great varietal character and at the end of the day it is the grapes that make the wine.

We are bound along with the grape growers in this adventure and feel privileged to be able to "toil" in the vineyards.

 

 

   

Raye’s Hill Vineyards & Winery | P.O. Box 572, Philo, CA 95466 | Phone: (707) 895-3439