Peter Franus

Peter Franus Wine Company: Crafting Unique Wines with a Personal Touch

Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, the Peter Franus Wine Company stands as a beacon of quality and passion in the world of winemaking. Established by Peter Franus, a seasoned winemaker with a deep respect for tradition and a penchant for innovation, this winery has been producing exceptional wines since its inception in 1987. With its vineyards located in the prestigious regions of Carneros and Mount Veeder, Peter Franus Wine Company has carved out a niche for itself, creating wines that are not only delightful but also a true representation of their terroir.

The vineyards of Peter Franus Wine Company are strategically located in two distinct areas of Napa Valley. The Stewart Vineyard in Carneros, renowned for its cooler climate, is the source of their vibrant Sauvignon Blanc, Albariño, Chardonnay, and Merlot. This unique site benefits from a touch of saltwater intrusion, imparting a magical quality to the vines and, subsequently, to the wines. Peter Franus has nurtured a relationship with this vineyard for over two decades, ensuring that the fruits are of the highest quality.

The Brandlin Vineyard on Mount Veeder holds a special place in the heart of Peter Franus. Since 1991, he has been producing the Peter Franus Brandlin Zinfandel from this vineyard, which boasts of dry-farmed vines over 90-years old. The field blend, predominantly Zinfandel with additions of Mourvèdre, Charbono, and Carignane, results in a wine with unparalleled layers of complexity. The Peter Franus Brandlin Zinfandel 2019 is a prime example of this, capturing the essence of Mount Veeder in every sip.

In addition to the renowned Zinfandels, Peter Franus Wine Company has expanded its repertoire to include Cabernet Sauvignon from the same Brandlin Vineyard. The Peter Franus Cabernet, first produced in 2016, has quickly gained recognition for its quality and distinctiveness. Peter Franus Merlot, another exquisite creation, showcases the versatility of the Carneros region.

The farming practices at Peter Franus Wine Company are a blend of tradition and modernity. With a minimal intervention philosophy, Franus ensures that the natural character of the wine shines through. This approach aligns with his belief that great wines come from great vineyards, and his role is to facilitate the expression of the vineyard’s character in the wine.

Peter Franus’s journey in the wine industry is a testament to his commitment and love for winemaking. After graduating from the University of California at Berkeley, he pursued his passion for wine by enrolling in Fresno State’s viticulture and enology program in 1978. His first encounter with Mount Veeder, the location that would later become integral to his winemaking, was in the early 1980s, and it left a lasting impression on him. This experience, combined with his intuition and minimal intervention approach, has shaped the wines of Peter Franus Wine Company.

The range of wines produced by the company reflects Peter Franus’s philosophy and dedication. The Peter Franus Sauvignon Blanc, with its fresh and lively character, is a tribute to the cool climate of Carneros. Meanwhile, the Peter Franus Zinfandel and the Peter Franus Brandlin Zinfandel 2019 are expressions of the unique terroir of Mount Veeder, characterized by their rich, complex profiles.

Peter Franus Wine Company is more than just a winery; it is a reflection of Peter Franus’s journey, philosophy, and dedication to the craft of winemaking. From the cooler climes of Carneros to the rugged terrain of Mount Veeder, each bottle of Peter Franus wine tells a story of passion, tradition, and the pursuit of excellence. This winery continues to enchant wine enthusiasts with its delightful, complex, and harmonious wines, inviting them to explore and discover something new with each taste.