Our Future Home

Late in 2004, Gerhard and Linda purchased a 112-acre parcel of historic land bordering Mount St. Helena and overlooking the picturesque Knights Valley with ranges in altitude from 1,200-2,200 feet.

The plan is to retain the natural beauty of this incredible property for the community and family, especially given the historical significance of the site. In the mid -1860's, the original Ida Clayton Toll Road that passed through the property and was used as a route to Lake County's mercury mines, which was a critical element for separating gold from the ore during California's gold rush. The property was also the sanctuary for Robert Louis Stevenson, beloved author and California's favorite adopted son. He spent many weeks sitting outside writing poetry while taking in the breathtaking views.

Vineyard & Winery Development

Soon 40 acres of the property will be transformed into world-class vineyards – all planted to the five red Bordeaux varietals and Petite Sirah. Soils vary greatly within this property and are accommodating to the six varieties. The area's growing conditions are typical for mountain sites. Daytime high temperatures are up to ten degrees lower compared with the valley floor, but inversion layers keep overnight temperatures higher. These more moderate swings are aided by the fact that the property sits above the fog line and subsequently receives more sunshine hours. The longer growing season will result in later harvests, not starting before October, and allows for full physiological maturity of the fruit. "We are ecstatic about this new mountainside property and believe the grapes from the future estate vineyard could potentially even exceed the quality of our current wines," Gerhard adds.

Cave excavation and winery facility construction should begin (pending permits) late 2008 to allow Gerhard and Linda to produce and house up to 7,500 cases of fabulous Delectus wines. Continue to check this website to watch the progression up in Knight's Valley!