Chiarito Vineyard

Located just south of Talmage and East of Ukiah on the upper benchlands of the Russian River, the Chiarito Vineyard experiences moderately hot days and cold, clear nights—a similar climate to southern Italy and it’s perfect weather for Zin (or its southern Italian sister, Primitivo). Soil type is Pinole gravelly loam, a well-draining alluvium derived from sedimentary rock. There are two acres of vineyards planted around 18 years ago from St. George rootstock. The vineyard is thinned for 2½ to 3 tons per acre. The vineyard is head-trained, staked and tied with willow branches. It is dry farmed, plowed and cross cultivated. John is one of the of the last winegrowers to still plow his vineyards and practice dry farming techniques. Alongside the vineyards, John has planted a vegetable garden, fruit trees and olive trees, creating a rich and healthy environment.