Our Stonehaven Vineyard in Wine Producing Heaven
An extinct volcano sheds light on Coombsville’s deep past and bright future
Coombsville, located at the southeastern end of the Napa Valley, is recognized for its for slow-ripening Bordeaux-style wines. Our AVA distinguishes itself within the Napa Valley by its noticeably cooler climate and soil conditions, the latter a mix of well-draining river rock, mineral-rich volcanic ash along with diatomaceous soils. We are located in a “horseshoe” band of hills with Mt. George and its striking 1,877-foot peak prominently dotting our horizon. Our extinct and distinctive volcano is visible from just about every vineyard plot in our AVA. Oftentimes, you’ll find it shrouded in fog, with the San Pablo Bay stirring up the wind and often creating thick marine conditions – ideal conditions for growing grapes.
The One Way to Farm— Sustainably
Since 2009, Coombsville’s First Certified Organic Vineyard
Being an organic vineyard is a governmental certification process that requires annual inspections; sustainable farming is a philosophy or way of life. We adhere to both. Since the beginning, we have practiced a sustainable farming philosophy and went a step further to become a California Certified Organic Farm (CCOF) because we believe in staying true to our values as well as the high standards of CCOF. That means no chemical (manufactured or natural) pesticides are used – only natural fertilization, biological pest management, etc. The area of Coombsville has a long and rich heritage – there were vineyards next door when we first moved here that were planted in the late 1920’s. Rolling hills and seasonal streams abound and we want to make sure they stay as beautiful and healthy.
Hawk Boxes
Hawks are not only beautiful but are a great way to control rodents in the vineyards. We have two hawk boxes on the property that are occupied all year long.
Soil
Healthy soil is the foundation for healthy vines. Vines that are farmed with sustainability in mind are more vigorous, produce healthier fruit and are less susceptible to disease. Quality soil offers a richer diversity of nutrients and balance while providing the vines a less stressful environment.
Cover Crops
Cover crops, such as legumes and poppies enhance our soil, improving water infiltration and protecting against erosion during our rainy season. They suppress weeds and provide a supportive environment for healthy insects, such as ladybugs, to live and thrive, thus controlling other insects that have a negative impact on the vines.
