afewwines.com

All About Wines, Wineries, and Wine Events

Briceland Vineyards Summary

5959 Briceland-Shelter Rd.
Redway ,CA 95560
United States
(707) 923-2429
bricelandvineyards.com


Briceland Vineyards Description

Briceland Vineyards is a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque region of Humboldt County, California. Established in 1985 by Andrew Morris, this family-owned winery boasts a rich history and a commitment to producing exceptional cool-climate wines. Situated on a lush hillside, Briceland Vineyards takes advantage of the unique microclimates and diverse soil types of the region, resulting in wines that truly reflect the terroir.

With a focus on sustainability and organic practices, Briceland Vineyards takes great care in every step of the winemaking process. From the meticulous hand-picking of the grapes to the use of native yeasts, they ensure only the highest standards of quality. Their diverse range of varietals includes Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Gewurztraminer, and Zinfandel, each showcasing the elegance and complexity that Humboldt County has to offer.

One of the defining features of Briceland Vineyards is their commitment to showcasing lesser-known grape varieties, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate unique flavors. Aside from their classic offerings, they produce rare varietals such as Albariño and Sangiovese, captivating the palates of wine enthusiasts seeking something new and exciting.

A visit to Briceland Vineyards is not just about the wines but also an opportunity to experience the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Their inviting tasting room, with its panoramic views of vineyards and rolling hills, provides an intimate and relaxed atmosphere for guests to sample their exquisite wines. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are passionate about sharing the stories behind each wine, creating a truly memorable and educational experience for visitors.

In conclusion, Briceland Vineyards is a boutique winery that combines passion, sustainability, and innovation to craft exceptional cool-climate wines. With their commitment to showcasing unique varietals and their idyllic location, they offer a sensory journey that celebrates the best of Humboldt County's terroir. A visit to Briceland Vineyards is an opportunity to indulge in incredible wines while immersing oneself in the beauty and charm of California wine country.

What Makes Briceland Vineyards Different From Other Nearby Wineries?

Briceland Vineyards stands out among the many wineries in the enchanting region of California for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the winery's commitment to crafting exceptional wines using sustainable and organic practices sets them apart. Briceland Vineyards firmly believes in maintaining the health of the environment and employs methods that minimize their ecological impact. This dedication to sustainable winemaking not only creates remarkable wines but also showcases their unwavering commitment to Mother Nature.

Another aspect that sets Briceland Vineyards apart is their focus on producing small-batch, artisanal wines. Unlike some larger wineries in the area, Briceland Vineyards prides themselves on their attention to detail and hands-on approach to winemaking. By deliberately keeping their production volumes low, they maintain precise control over every step of the winemaking process, ensuring the highest quality in every bottle.

Moreover, Briceland Vineyards has a unique advantage in terms of their vineyard locations. Situated in the breathtaking southern part of Humboldt County, their vineyards benefit from the region's distinct microclimates. The combination of coastal influences and diverse terroir creates ideal grape-growing conditions, resulting in wines with exceptional character and complexity. Briceland Vineyards skillfully captures these terroir-driven nuances, allowing wine enthusiasts to truly experience the essence of this captivating wine-growing region.

Additionally, Briceland Vineyards takes pride in their commitment to showcasing lesser-known grape varieties. While many wineries focus on the classics, Briceland Vineyards strives to introduce customers to new and exciting varietals. With an adventurous spirit, they experiment with unique grapes, such as Albariño, Valdiguie, and Trousseau, offering wine lovers a chance to discover hidden gems and broaden their palates.

Furthermore, Briceland Vineyards goes beyond simply producing exceptional wines. They actively engage with the local community, hosting various events, including vineyard tours, wine tastings, and educational seminars. These activities provide visitors with the opportunity to connect with the winemakers, learn about the winemaking process, and deepen their understanding and appreciation for the craft.

Lastly, Briceland Vineyards has garnered recognition and accolades for their wines from esteemed wine competitions and publications. These accolades not only reinforce the quality and craftsmanship behind their wines but also serve as a testament to their dedication to excellence.

In summary, Briceland Vineyards distinguishes itself from other wineries in the region through its commitment to sustainable and organic practices, small-batch production, unique vineyard locations, emphasis on lesser-known grape varieties, community engagement, and recognition for their exceptional wines. These factors combine to create an extraordinary and unforgettable wine experience, making Briceland Vineyards a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

What Some Possible Concerns About Briceland Vineyards ?

While opinions may vary, here are a few common criticisms that some people have expressed about Briceland Vineyards:

1. Limited variety: Briceland Vineyards specializes in producing organic wines, which may not appeal to those who prefer a wider range of wine styles or varietals. Some visitors have mentioned that they were hoping for more diversity in the wines available.

2. Remote location: Located in the remote region of Humboldt County, Briceland Vineyards might be out of the way for some travelers. Visitors have mentioned that the winery's location makes it harder to access compared to more popular wine regions in California.

3. Small tasting room: Some visitors have found Briceland Vineyards' tasting room to be small and lacking in ambiance. While the quality of the wines is praised, the limited space might detract from the overall experience for those looking for a more spacious and comfortable setting.

4. Limited amenities: The winery does not offer a restaurant or food pairing options, which can be disappointing for those who enjoy wine tasting experiences that include culinary offerings. Additionally, some reviewers have mentioned that the overall visitor experience may lack additional amenities or activities beyond wine tasting.

5. Reservation-only policy: Briceland Vineyards operates on a reservation-only basis, which can be inconvenient for spontaneous visitors or those who prefer more flexible plans. This policy restricts the ability to drop in without prior arrangement, potentially limiting the accessibility of the winery.

Briceland Vineyards History

Briceland Vineyards, nestled in the picturesque region of Humboldt County, California, boasts a captivating history rooted in passion, dedication, and a deep appreciation for winemaking. This family-owned and operated winery has become a symbol of quality and innovation in the California wine industry.

The story of Briceland Vineyards begins in the late 1970s when owners Andrew Morris and Maggy Wassilieff first set foot in the idyllic town of Briceland. Inspired by the untamed beauty of the area and their desire to craft exceptional wines, the couple decided to establish a vineyard in 1985. This marked the birth of Briceland Vineyards, which was one of the pioneering wineries in the region.

Initially, Briceland Vineyards focused primarily on growing traditional grape varietals such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel. However, Morris and Wassilieff soon recognized the unique potential of the local terroir and the region's ability to produce distinctive wines.

They began experimenting with lesser-known grape varieties and exploring different winemaking techniques, pushing the boundaries of what was traditionally done in California winemaking. This bold approach led to the introduction of varietals like Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, and Syrah, which found their niche in the cool-climate vineyards of Humboldt County.

Briceland Vineyards quickly gained recognition for its exceptional wines. The winery's commitment to sustainable practices and organic farming contributed to its growing reputation as a producer of high-quality, environmentally friendly wines. This dedication to sustainable viticulture has been central to the philosophy of Briceland Vineyards since its inception, ensuring the long-term health of the land and the vines.

Over the years, Briceland Vineyards has expanded its vineyard holdings and now cultivates grapes on several properties across Humboldt County. Each site is carefully chosen to maximize the grape's potential and reflect the unique characteristics of the land.

Today, Briceland Vineyards continues to be a leading force in the dynamic and ever-evolving California wine scene. Their handcrafted wines showcase an unwavering commitment to quality and showcase the diverse flavors and aromas that Humboldt County's terroir has to offer.

The winery's tasting room, located on Briceland-Thorn Road, allows visitors to experience the warm hospitality and genuine passion that Morris and Wassilieff have for winemaking. Guests can explore a range of wines, from crisp and refreshing whites to bold and robust reds, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills.

With each passing year, Briceland Vineyards continues to push the boundaries of winemaking, fostering innovation and creativity in an industry steeped in tradition. Their unwavering dedication to crafting exceptional wines that embody the spirit of Humboldt County ensures that Briceland Vineyards remains a captivating and exciting fixture in the California wine world for years to come.

Introduction

Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!

I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....

After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.

Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.

Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.

As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.

Cheers! - Franklin Laurel