Description

Great Bear Vineyards Overview

Great Bear Vineyards encapsulates exquisite winemaking fused with a profound respect for nature, driven by a family's dedication to sustainable agriculture and artisanal expertise. Located near Downtown Davis, this winery stands out with its award-winning vintages and its unique, terroir-focused approach to viticulture.

History and Background

Great Bear Vineyards was established with its first vine planting in 2014, followed by its inaugural vintage in 2016. Owned and operated by Jenny and Marcus along with their four children, the vineyard rapidly became recognized for its premium wines. The owners bring a vast array of experiences, having traveled and studied winemaking techniques globally. Notably, Jenny completed the UC Davis winemaking program, with design and mentorship from UC Davis viticulture professors, cementing the vineyard’s foundation in expert knowledge and world-class viticultural practices.

Vineyard Details and Wine Production

• Terroir: Situated on Rincon loam soils, the vineyard benefits from a unique climate influenced by warm days and the cooling Delta Breeze at night.
• Sustainable Practices: Certified organic by CCOF, the vineyard emphasizes sustainable and regenerative farming, including deficit irrigation and maintaining a permanent cover crop to enhance soil health.
• Production Size: Annually, Great Bear produces approximately 24,000 bottles (or 2,000 cases).
• Winemaking Philosophy: Wines are fermented with natural wild yeast and crafted with minimal intervention, using traditional techniques, which includes oak barrel aging.

Notable Wines and Specialties

Great Bear Vineyards has garnered multiple accolades and high scores for their wines:

• Albariño: 96 Points
• Cabernet Sauvignon: 93 Points & Double Gold Medals
• Chardonnay: 91 Points
• Roussanne: 91 Points
• Rosé Fleur Rouge: 96 Points

Additional products:

• Olive Oil: Fresh and peppery, harvested with 75% of olives still green.
• Fruit: Orchards produce various fruits with harvests contributing to local food banks.

The vineyard also featured in Netflix's Indian Matchmaker Series 3.

Visitor Information and Experiences

Great Bear Vineyards offers an enriching array of visitor experiences:

• Wine Tasting and Tours: Including picnics and specific vineyard tours.
• Events: Farm-to-fork dinners, weddings, private parties, and special member-only dinners.
• Educational Opportunities: Wine pairing classes and harvest opportunities.
• Photoshoots: Available in their picturesque lavender field, vineyard, or winery.

Join the Great Bear Family

Visitors can join the vineyard's wine club for exclusive access to new releases, discounts on wines and events, and a regular newsletter updating members on vineyard activities.

Contact Information and Location

Great Bear Vineyards is conveniently located close to Downtown Davis, offering easy access for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic, family-run vineyard experience imbued with passion, sustainability, and exceptional wine crafting.

Stay connected by joining the vineyard's mailing list for the latest news and updates directly to your inbox.

Great Bear Vineyards invites everyone, from casual visitors to connoisseurs, to discover both the beauty of nature and the meticulous craft of winemaking intertwined at their vineyard.