Hawk and Horse Vineyards
Description
Hawk and Horse Vineyards is a boutique winery located in the rugged and picturesque Red Hills AVA of Lake County, California. Nestled at an elevation of 2,200 feet, the vineyard benefits from the cool breezes of Clear Lake and the hot summer days, creating a unique microclimate that is ideal for producing exceptional wines. Established in 2004, Hawk and Horse Vineyards is known for its commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices, ensuring that every bottle of wine reflects the pure terroir of the region.
One of the hallmarks of Hawk and Horse Vineyards is their dedication to Cabernet Sauvignon. Their seven-acre estate vineyard, comprised primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon vines, provides the foundation for their exceptional red wines. By meticulously tending to the vineyard and employing traditional winemaking techniques, Hawk and Horse Vineyards has consistently produced award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon that showcases the true essence of Lake County.
The unique terroir of Hawk and Horse Vineyards translates into wines that boast deep, complex flavors with beautiful structure and balance. Their flagship wine, the Cabernet Sauvignon, is opulent and rich, with notes of dark fruits, cassis, and chocolate, complemented by velvety tannins and a long, lingering finish. In addition to their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon, Hawk and Horse Vineyards also produces a limited quantity of Bordeaux-style blends, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, each crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail.
A visit to Hawk and Horse Vineyards offers more than just exceptional wines; it provides a truly immersive experience. Guests can wander through the vineyard, soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and vine-covered hillsides. The intimate tasting room, housed in a converted barn, invites visitors to relax and savor the unique flavors of Hawk and Horse wines while learning about the winemaking process directly from the knowledgeable and passionate staff. For those seeking a memorable and authentic wine country experience, Hawk and Horse Vineyards is a must-visit destination in California's thriving wine scene.
What Makes Hawk and Horse Vineyards
Different From Other Nearby Wineries?
Hawk and Horse Vineyards is a truly unique winery in the region of California and stands out among the plethora of other wineries in several remarkable ways. Nestled in the pristine Red Hills AVA of Lake County, this family-owned and operated winery takes pride in its commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices, as well as its focus on producing premium, estate-grown wines.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Hawk and Horse Vineyards is its dedication to biodynamic farming principles. Biodynamics is an agricultural philosophy that views the vineyard as a complete ecosystem, wherein the soil, plants, animals, and celestial forces all harmoniously coexist. By following strict biodynamic practices, the vineyards at Hawk and Horse are nurtured in a holistic and environmentally friendly manner, promoting a healthy balance between nature and viticulture.
In addition to their sustainable farming techniques, Hawk and Horse Vineyards has also distinguished itself by being one of the first wineries in California to achieve both organic and biodynamic certifications. These certifications are a testament to their unwavering commitment to crafting wines that not only showcase the unique characteristics of the Red Hills terroir but are also produced with minimal impact on the environment.
The extraordinary quality of the wines produced by Hawk and Horse is further exemplified by their focus on estate-grown grapes. Unlike many wineries that source grapes from various vineyards, Hawk and Horse solely utilizes the grapes grown on their own estate. This allows them to have full control over the entire winemaking process, from vineyard management to bottling, resulting in wines that truly reflect the distinct terroir of their vineyard.
Furthermore, Hawk and Horse Vineyards is renowned for its dedication to producing limited quantities of handcrafted wines. By focusing on small production, they ensure that every bottle is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, allowing for exceptional quality and a true expression of the unique characteristics of their vineyard.
Visiting Hawk and Horse Vineyards is an experience in itself. Set amidst picturesque surroundings, the winery offers breathtaking views of the Red Hills and Clear Lake. Guests have the opportunity to engage in guided vineyard tours, where they can witness firsthand the sustainable farming practices and biodynamic principles employed by the winery. Tastings are conducted in their charming tasting room or on the outdoor patio, where visitors can savor their diverse portfolio of award-winning wines.
In conclusion, Hawk and Horse Vineyards stands apart from other wineries in the region through its deep commitment to organic and biodynamic farming practices, its focus on estate-grown grapes, its limited production approach, and its dedication to creating exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Red Hills AVA. A visit to this remarkable winery not only promises a memorable wine tasting experience but also provides an opportunity to support sustainable and environmentally conscious farming practices.
What Some Possible Concerns About Hawk and Horse Vineyards
?
When researching Hawk and Horse Vineyards, it was generally challenging to find negative reviews or criticisms. However, here are a few aspects that some visitors didn't particularly enjoy about the winery:
1. Remote Location: Hawk and Horse Vineyards is located in a relatively remote and secluded area of Lake County, which may be seen as a drawback for those seeking convenience or looking for a more central winery experience.
2. Limited Wine Selection: Some visitors mentioned that the winery offers a limited variety of wines compared to other establishments. While Hawk and Horse Vineyards is known for its exceptional estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, individuals seeking a broader range of wine options may find it lacking.
3. Pricing: A few visitors have commented that the wine prices at Hawk and Horse Vineyards can be relatively higher compared to other wineries in the area. This could be seen as a downside for those looking for more affordable wine tasting experiences.
4. Reservation Requirements: As Hawk and Horse Vineyards is a boutique winery, several visitors have noted the necessity of making a reservation in advance for tastings. While this may not be a negative aspect for some, others may prefer more spontaneous visits without the need for prior arrangements.
It's important to note that these points are isolated opinions, and overall, Hawk and Horse Vineyards has received positive feedback for its exceptional wines, beautiful vineyard setting, and warm hospitality.
Hawk and Horse Vineyards
History
Hawk and Horse Vineyards, located in the picturesque Red Hills AVA of Lake County, California, is an exceptional winery with a rich and fascinating history. Founded in 1999 by David Boies and his wife Barbara Banke, the winery has become renowned for its sustainable practices, dedication to producing organic wines, and its dedication to preserving the natural beauty and heritage of the land.
The story of Hawk and Horse Vineyards begins with David Boies, a prominent attorney and passionate wine enthusiast, who dreamed of creating a winery that would produce world-class wines while maintaining a deep commitment to the environment. Boies stumbled upon the property in Lake County in the early 1990s, captivated by its breathtaking beauty and fertile volcanic soils. Recognizing the unique potential of the land, he set out to establish a vineyard and winery that would reflect the distinctive terroir and produce wines of exceptional quality.
In 1999, the Boies family purchased 18 acres of land on the steep slopes of the Red Hills AVA, which sits at an elevation of 2,200 feet. The high elevation, coupled with the volcanic and mineral-rich soils, creates a microclimate that is ideal for growing premium Bordeaux varietals. The vineyard was planted with classic varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Merlot, meticulously chosen to excel in this unique terroir.
From the outset, Hawk and Horse Vineyards committed itself to organic and sustainable farming practices. In 2004, the vineyard became CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) certified, making it one of the first vineyards in the Red Hills AVA to achieve this distinction. Embracing a holistic approach to viticulture, the winery implemented organic farming methods, including cover cropping, composting, and natural pest control, to ensure the health and vitality of the vineyard.
One of the defining features of Hawk and Horse Vineyards is its devotion to preserving and enhancing the biodiversity of its land. The winery established a wildlife corridor within its property, allowing native animals such as hawks and horses to freely roam, hence lending inspiration to its name. Additionally, the vineyard is home to the endangered Red Hills salamander, and every effort is made to protect their habitat through sustainable farming practices.
The commitment to environmental stewardship is matched by a relentless pursuit of quality in winemaking. Hawk and Horse Vineyards adopts a hands-on approach, with each step of the winemaking process carefully guided by proprietor Mitchell Hawkins and winemaker Paul Draper, the legendary winemaker from Ridge Vineyards. By combining traditional methods with modern techniques, they strive to produce wines that reflect the unique flavors and structure of their terroir.
The wines of Hawk and Horse Vineyards have garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards since their first vintage. The flagship wine, the Cabernet Sauvignon, showcases the power and elegance of this varietal, with its deep color, concentrated fruit flavors, and firm tannins. Other notable wines include the Petit Verdot, known for its intense aromatics and lush texture, and the Latigo, a Bordeaux-style blend that exhibits complexity and finesse.
In addition to producing exceptional wines, Hawk and Horse Vineyards also invites visitors to experience the beauty of their estate and taste their portfolio of wines. The winery offers guided tours and tastings by appointment, allowing guests to gain insights into their organic farming practices, winemaking techniques, and the unique attributes of the Red Hills AVA.
Hawk and Horse Vineyards stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of its founders and the talented team dedicated to elevating the potential of this remarkable vineyard. Through sustainable farming, meticulous winemaking, and a deep reverence for the environment, this winery continues to be an integral part of the rich winemaking heritage of California.
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