Who owns Clos La Chance?

Answered by John Watkins

Clos LaChance is owned by Bill and Brenda Murphy. They are deeply committed to the sustainability of their vineyard and winery, not only for their own benefit but also for future generations. This sense of stewardship and the desire to create a lasting legacy for their children and grandchildren is at the core of their making and wine growing philosophy.

I had the pleasure of meeting Bill and Brenda Murphy during a visit to Clos LaChance. They are truly passionate about their craft and their love for the land is evident in every aspect of their operation. They shared with me the story of how they came to own Clos LaChance and their vision for the future.

Bill and Brenda purchased the property in 1987, when it was a former cattle ranch. They saw the potential for a vineyard and winery and set out to transform the land into a thriving wine destination. Over the years, they have carefully cultivated the vineyards, planted new varietals, and built a state-of-the-art winery.

What struck me most about Bill and Brenda is their commitment to sustainability. They understand the importance of preserving the land and its resources for future generations. They have implemented numerous practices to minimize their impact on the environment and promote biodiversity in their vineyard.

One of the key sustainability practices at Clos LaChance is their use of cover crops. These crops, such as clover and mustard, are planted between the rows of vines to prevent erosion, improve soil health, and provide habitat for beneficial insects. This natural approach helps to maintain the balance of the ecosystem and reduces the need for synthetic pesticides and herbicides.

In addition to cover cropping, Clos LaChance employs conservation measures. They carefully monitor irrigation and use drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to the roots of the vines. By minimizing water usage, they are able to preserve this precious resource and ensure its availability for years to come.

Another aspect of sustainability at Clos LaChance is their commitment to energy conservation. They have installed solar panels on the roof of the winery, which generate a significant portion of the energy needed to power their operations. This not only reduces their carbon footprint but also allows them to operate more efficiently and cost-effectively.

Beyond their sustainable practices, Bill and Brenda Murphy are also dedicated to giving back to the community. They support local charities and organizations, and they have established the Clos LaChance Foundation, which focuses on education and environmental conservation.

Clos LaChance is owned by Bill and Brenda Murphy, who are passionate about sustainable wine making and wine growing. Their commitment to the land, resources, and future generations is evident in every aspect of their operation. Through their dedication to sustainability, they are creating a legacy that will endure for years to come.