Occidental Winery is owned by Steve Kistler, a renowned winemaker with a long and impressive career in the wine industry. After working with vineyards all over California for 35 years, Kistler decided to establish his own winery in the remote and rugged region of the western Sonoma Coast.
I had the pleasure of visiting Occidental Winery last year and was truly impressed by the passion and dedication that Steve Kistler brings to his craft. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to visit many wineries and meet with various winemakers, but there was something special about Occidental.
During my visit, I had the chance to speak with Kistler about his journey and what led him to start his own winery. He explained that after years of working with different vineyards and gaining a deep understanding of the unique qualities of each region, he felt compelled to create wines that truly reflected the terroir of the western Sonoma Coast.
Kistler's decision to plant his own roots and establish Occidental Winery was a culmination of his vast experience and a desire to make wines that he could truly call his own. He carefully selected vineyard sites that showcased the cool climate and maritime influence of the Sonoma Coast, believing that these conditions would yield wines of exceptional elegance and complexity.
One of the aspects that struck me about Occidental Winery was the meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the winemaking process. From the careful vineyard management practices to the gentle handling of the grapes during harvest, Kistler and his team strive to preserve the purity and expression of the fruit.
It is also worth mentioning that Occidental Winery focuses primarily on Pinot Noir, a grape variety that thrives in the cool climate of the Sonoma Coast. Kistler's expertise in working with this varietal is evident in the exceptional quality of the wines produced at Occidental.
In addition to his dedication to winemaking, Kistler is also deeply committed to sustainable and organic farming practices. He believes in nurturing the land and preserving its natural resources for future generations. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the vineyard management practices at Occidental Winery.
As I reflect on my visit to Occidental Winery and my conversation with Steve Kistler, it is clear to me that this is a winery driven by passion, expertise, and a deep connection to the land. Kistler's decision to establish his own winery in the western Sonoma Coast is a testament to his unwavering commitment to creating wines of exceptional quality and character.
To summarize, Occidental Winery is owned by Steve Kistler, a highly respected and experienced winemaker. His decision to establish his own winery in the western Sonoma Coast is the culmination of his years of experience and a desire to create wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of the region. The meticulous attention to detail, focus on Pinot Noir, and commitment to sustainable farming practices are all key aspects that make Occidental Winery stand out in the wine industry.