Nestled in the picturesque Sta. Rita Hills AVA of California, Melville Winery stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of family-owned and operated estates. Founded in 1989, this captivating winery has been producing exquisite Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah wines, captivating the palates of wine enthusiasts worldwide.

Spread over 49 hectares (120 acres) of vineyards in Santa Barbara County, Melville boasts three neighboring sites that provide an ideal environment for cultivating a diverse range of grapes. Embracing innovation and tradition, Melville skillfully plants different clones and blocks on a variety of soil types, which offers them a wealth of options to craft their exceptional Pinot Noirs.

What sets Melville apart from the crowd is their commitment to quality. Vines are meticulously planted at over triple the density of the average Californian vineyard. This ingenious approach allows them to maintain their output while deliberately limiting the yield of each vine. By doing so, they ensure that every grape receives the utmost care and attention, resulting in wines of unparalleled distinction.

At harvest time, the grapes are carefully hand-picked on a block-by-block basis, ensuring that only the finest fruit makes its way into the cellar. Embracing their heritage and passion for winemaking, the various Pinot Noirs and Syrah are typically vinified in small open-top fermenters, with approximately 30 percent of stems retained. The wines are then aged for around nine months in neutral oak barrels, allowing the unique flavors to develop and mature gracefully.

Among their portfolio, the trio of Chardonnays stands out. Melville’s dedication to experimentation is showcased in the Clone 76 Inox, a Chardonnay fermented and aged in stainless steel, a rarity in the wine world. The other two Chardonnays are crafted in old oak barrels, each revealing the winery’s mastery in handling different techniques to produce delightful varietals.

Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or just beginning your journey into the world of wines, a visit to Melville Winery promises an immersive experience. Revel in the scenic beauty of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA as you sip on their finely crafted wines, each bottle bearing the soul and passion of this exceptional Californian winery. Melville Winery invites you to savor the essence of their remarkable wines, where tradition meets innovation in every delightful drop.