“Linda and Lester Schwartz took
the high-risk /
high-reward
route . . . ”
—Sonoma Magazine
Farming, Adventure, and Vision
Founders Lester and Linda Schwartz’s story of establishing a vineyard on the Sonoma coast in 1988 is a testament to their vision and perseverance. Despite being advised against planting in the challenging conditions of the cool, foggy coastal ridges near the Pacific Ocean, they remained undeterred. After years of experimenting with various clones, rootstocks, and trellising systems, they concluded that the land had the potential to produce exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In 1994, they sourced heritage clones they believed would best express the terroir and began planting the first vineyard blocks.
Commitment to the Land
Their dedication extended far beyond planting vines—they were deeply involved in every detail of developing the vineyard. They dug holes, planted vines by hand, and precisely laid out their 51-acre site with roads, underground drainage, and irrigation. They also built a reservoir and engineered a custom trellis system to help the vineyard flourish. Their unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship laid the groundwork for a truly exceptional vineyard on the Sonoma Coast.
Lester and Linda Schwartz . . . studied the soils and weather patterns of these remote ranges and persisted in planting . . .Robb Report
Passion for Wine
In tribute to their South African heritage, Lester and Linda took a significant step by sourcing Pinotage bud wood from the original founding blocks in South Africa. This decision was not only a nod to their roots but also a groundbreaking move in the U.S. wine industry. They became the first private growers to import these grapevine cuttings through the Foundation Plant Services, which operates alongside the U.C. Davis School of Viticulture and Enology. This achievement highlights their commitment to innovation and their deep connection to their heritage, further enriching the diversity and uniqueness of their vineyard.
Craft
Today, Lester and Linda continue their hands-on approach to vineyard management, working closely with Jeff Pisoni, who joined Fort Ross as winemaker in 2009. The trio frequently walk the vineyard together, making crucial viticultural decisions and determining the optimal time to harvest each block. Despite the challenges of their vineyard’s untamed and extreme location, Lester and Linda’s dedication has paid off, as they have successfully cultivated a thriving vineyard that defies the initial skepticism of academics. They remain deeply involved in the day-to-day operations, ensuring that the vineyard continues to produce exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Sonoma coast.
Wine & Nature Society
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