Description

Laurel Glen Vineyard Summary

Explore the unique charm and exquisite wine offerings of Laurel Glen Vineyard, a prestigious vineyard nestled on the east-facing slopes of Sonoma Mountain in California. Known for its distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon, this vineyard combines organic farming techniques with a rich history to produce wines acclaimed for their complexity and quality.

History and Background

• Patrick Campbell founded Laurel Glen Vineyard in 1977, starting with an exceptional clone of Cabernet Sauvignon, now recognized by UC Davis as the Laurel Glen clone.
• The vineyard originally planted Cabernet Sauvignon in 1968, which has thrived under the unique microclimate provided by Sonoma Mountain.

Vineyard Details and Wine Production

• Location and Climate: Situated on the east-facing slopes of Sonoma Mountain, protected from the harsh Pacific winds. This elevation provides a perfect balance of sunlight and cool temperatures, fostering a slow ripening of grapes.
• Organic Farming: Committed to organic practices, the vineyard eschews all synthetic products like pesticides and herbicides. Traditional methods are employed to enrich the soil and manage pests.
• The stress on vines from the mountain's elevation results in smaller, flavor-concentrated fruits, especially notable in their Cabernet Sauvignon.

Visitor Information and Experiences

• Tasting Room: Located in a historic building in Glen Ellen, Sonoma Valley. This venue offers a tranquil setting that reflects the area's rural charm.
• Visiting Details: Tastings are available by appointment, ensuring a personalized experience for all guests.
• Online Store: Visitors can purchase current releases and select library vintages via the vineyard's online store.
• Contact Information: To inquire or request specific vintages not listed online, customers can contact the tasting room at (707) 933-9877 or [email protected].

Notable Wines or Specialties

• The Laurel Glen Cabernet Sauvignon stands out for its intensity, complex flavor profile, and balanced acidity—qualities that make it unique in the California wine landscape.
• The vineyard also offers access to rare library vintages, particularly highlighting the potential longevity and evolving complexity of their wines.

Wine Club and Special Events

• Membership Benefits: Wine club members receive significant discounts on purchases, exclusive access to the wine library, and invitations to special events.
• Laurel Glen Vineyard holds several events annually, celebrating their exquisite wines with the community and club members.

Recognition

• Critical Acclaim: Praised by Sonoma Magazine and The Atlantic for its iconic status and the continual quality improvement over the years.
• According to San Francisco Chronicle, Laurel Glen Vineyard produces a Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals the best of Napa without the premium price, remaining a hidden gem for many wine enthusiasts.

Laurel Glen Vineyard not only captures the essence of Sonoma's terroir in every bottle but also maintains a commitment to sustainable and organic viticulture, ensuring the legacy and purity of their wines for future generations.