Who owns the largest vineyard in California?

Answered by Christopher Steppe

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can share with you the details about the ownership of the largest vineyard in California. It is fascinating to explore the world of vineyard properties, and in California, the big conglomerates dominate the scene.

Constellation Brands is another major player in California's vineyard ownership. They are a multinational conglomerate that owns famous brands like Robert Mondavi, Ravenswood, and Kim Crawford. Their vineyard holdings in California are substantial and diverse.

The Wine Group is yet another significant contributor to California's vineyard ownership. They have a wide range of wine brands under their umbrella, including Franzia, Cupcake Vineyards, and 7 Deadly Zins. Their vineyard properties add to the vast tapestry of California's wine industry.

Delicato, a family-owned winery, is also a notable player in California's vineyard ownership. They own the largest single vineyard in the state, the San Bernabe Vineyard, which spans a massive 5,000 acres. Located in Monterey County, this vineyard is a testament to Delicato's commitment to producing quality wines.

Kendall Jackson, a well-known winery, also owns vineyard properties in California. They are known for their estate-grown wines, and their vineyards contribute to the richness and diversity of California's wine regions.

These conglomerates, along with others, have made significant investments in acquiring vineyard properties across California. Their ownership of vineyards allows them to have greater control over the quality and sourcing of grapes for their wines. It also gives them the advantage of producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of specific regions.

In my personal experiences as a sommelier, I have had the opportunity to visit some of these vineyard properties owned by the conglomerates. It is always fascinating to see the vastness of these vineyards and the meticulous care that goes into cultivating the grapes.

While the conglomerates dominate the vineyard ownership in California, it is important to note that there are also many smaller, family-owned vineyards that contribute to the diversity and character of the state's wine industry. These vineyards often produce limited quantities of high-quality wines, showcasing the passion and craftsmanship of the owners.

Delicato owns the largest single vineyard in California, the San Bernabe Vineyard in Monterey County. However, the big conglomerates like E & J Gallo, Constellation Brands, The Wine Group, Delicato, and Kendall Jackson hold significant vineyard properties throughout the state, shaping the landscape of California's wine industry.