The Hilt Winery is owned by Jonata and The Hilt, LLC. Jonata is a renowned winery located in the Santa Ynez Valley of California, known for producing exceptional wines from the Ballard Canyon AVA. The Hilt, LLC is the parent company that oversees both Jonata and The Hilt wineries.
Jonata was founded in 2000 by Charles Banks, a well-respected figure in the wine industry. Banks had a vision of producing world-class wines in California, and Jonata quickly gained recognition for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The winery is known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and its dedication to showcasing the unique terroir of the Santa Ynez Valley.
In 2004, Banks acquired a property in the Santa Rita Hills AVA, known for its cool climate and ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir. This property became The Hilt winery, with a focus on producing small-lot, single-vineyard wines from meticulously farmed vineyards in the region.
Unfortunately, in 2014, Charles Banks was indicted on federal fraud charges unrelated to the wineries. As a result, control of Jonata and The Hilt was transferred to the receivership of a court-appointed trustee. The trustee oversaw the operations of both wineries until a buyer was found.
In 2017, the Jackson Family Wines, a well-established and respected wine producer, acquired both Jonata and The Hilt wineries. The Jackson family, led by the late Jess Jackson and now his widow Barbara Banke, has a strong portfolio of wineries across California and other wine regions around the world.
Under the ownership of the Jackson Family Wines, Jonata and The Hilt continue to thrive, producing exceptional wines that showcase the unique characteristics of their respective vineyards. The wineries benefit from the Jackson family's extensive resources and expertise, allowing them to continue pushing the boundaries of quality and innovation.
The Hilt Winery is currently owned by the Jackson Family Wines, who have played a significant role in the continued success and growth of both Jonata and The Hilt wineries.