Cornell Vineyards

Nestled in the heart of the Mayacamas Range, just west of the Spring Mountain District, lies Cornell Vineyards, a beacon of viticulture that harmoniously blends history with modern farming practices. Over two decades ago, Henry and Vanessa Cornell embarked on a journey to revive a land once nurtured by early settlers, transforming 240 acres of wild terrain into a vineyard that respects its past while looking to the future. Today, Cornell Vineyards stands as a testament to the dedication and passion of its founders, producing wines that truly represent the essence of their mountain estate.

Location and Foundation

Cornell Vineyards is located in a region known for its ideal mountain terroir, part of the historic Mayacamas Range. The vineyard’s inception in the late 1990s marked the beginning of a new chapter for this rugged and untamed land, which offered sweeping views and a diverse geological landscape. The decision to return the rolling hillsides to vineyard cultivation was driven by a respect for the land and its history, setting the stage for the creation of distinctive and expressive wines.

Vineyard Landscape

The vineyard’s location is characterized by its dramatic elevation ranging from 1500 to 1920 feet, offering a variety of soil types including volcanic, sandstone, rock, and clay. This geological diversity, a result of ancient seabeds and the erosion of lighter soils, has led to the identification of 20 distinct vineyard blocks. Each block, with its unique combination of soil, exposure, plant material, and design, contributes to the complexity and character of Cornell’s wines. The average block size of 0.70 acres, along with careful row spacing and trellising, exemplifies the meticulous attention to detail that defines Cornell’s farming practice.

Sustainable Farming Practices

At the heart of Cornell Vineyards’ philosophy is a commitment to observation, biodiversity, and sustainable farming. The vineyard’s resident team, deeply connected to the land, practices meticulous care in cultivating the vineyards. This approach is rooted in a profound respect for the surrounding ecosystem, aiming to preserve its biodiversity while achieving the highest quality of grapes. In 2015, this commitment was further solidified by inviting the core vineyard crew and their families to reside on the property, fostering a deep bond with the land and a mutual dedication to its stewardship.

Wine Production

Under the guidance of winemakers Francoise Peschon and Elizabeth Tangney, Cornell Vineyards specializes in producing Cabernet Sauvignon that is reflective of the terroir and the vintners’ principles. The winemaking team’s approach is characterized by modesty and precision, allowing the wine to express the balance, complexity, and grace of the estate. Besides Cabernet Sauvignon, the vineyard also cultivates all classic red Bordeaux varieties, including Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, and a small allocation of Chardonnay, ensuring optimal blending potential and variety.

Cornell Vineyards’ journey from a rugged plot of land to a premier vineyard estate encapsulates a story of vision, dedication, and respect for nature. By harmonizing traditional farming practices with a deep understanding of the land’s unique characteristics, Cornell has succeeded in producing wines that not only capture the complexity of their terroir but also embody the spirit of their endeavor. It is this radical commitment to the land and to the craft of winemaking that makes Cornell Vineyards a distinguished name in the world of viticulture, offering a taste of the Mayacamas Range that is as authentic as it is exquisite.