Dry Creek Vineyards is owned by David Stare, a visionary who played a pivotal role in bringing the now-famous grassy, grapefruit style of Sauvignon Blanc to our shores in the early 1970s. David Stare's passion for winemaking and his commitment to quality have made Dry Creek Vineyards a renowned and respected winery in the industry.
I had the pleasure of meeting David Stare during a visit to Dry Creek Vineyards, and his dedication to his craft was evident from the moment we spoke. He shared with me the story of how he founded the winery in 1972, driven by a desire to produce exceptional wines that showcased the unique terroir of the Dry Creek Valley.
Growing up in a family of farmers, David Stare had a deep appreciation for the land and a keen understanding of the importance of sustainable farming practices. This ethos is reflected in Dry Creek Vineyards' commitment to organic and sustainable vineyard management. The winery was one of the first in the region to be certified sustainable, and they continue to prioritize environmental stewardship in all aspects of their operations.
During our conversation, David Stare also spoke about the challenges he faced in introducing the grassy, grapefruit style of Sauvignon Blanc to the American market. At the time, most consumers were accustomed to the oaky, buttery Chardonnays that dominated the market. However, Stare believed that the Dry Creek Valley's cool climate and unique soil composition were perfectly suited for producing a vibrant, aromatic style of Sauvignon Blanc.
To bring his vision to life, Stare planted Sauvignon Blanc vines in the vineyard and meticulously crafted the wine to accentuate its natural characteristics. The result was a revelation. The grassy, grapefruit notes and crisp acidity of Dry Creek Vineyards' Sauvignon Blanc captured the attention of wine enthusiasts and critics alike, establishing the winery as a leader in this style of wine.
Today, Dry Creek Vineyards is still family-owned and operated. David Stare's son, Kim Stare Wallace, serves as the President of the winery and carries on his father's legacy of producing exceptional wines. The winery has expanded its portfolio to include a range of varietals, including Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, all crafted with the same commitment to quality and sustainability.
Visiting Dry Creek Vineyards is an experience that truly showcases the passion and dedication of the Stare family. The tasting room, nestled among the vineyards, provides a picturesque backdrop for sampling their wines and learning about their winemaking philosophy. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, offering insights into the wines and the history of the winery.
Dry Creek Vineyards is owned by David Stare, a visionary winemaker who introduced the grassy, grapefruit style of Sauvignon Blanc to the American market. His commitment to quality, sustainable farming practices, and his passion for showcasing the unique terroir of the Dry Creek Valley have made Dry Creek Vineyards a respected and renowned winery in the industry.