Dommen Vineyard

Wineries: Donkey & Goat, Berkeley CA; Gamba, Windsor, CA; Tratorrie Frams, Geyserville, CA

Historical Producers: Bedrock Wine Co., Parmeson Wines, Carlisle, St. Francis, Piper Sonoma, Bear Boat

Description: Many of the old vines are pre1930s. The earliest plantings Sonoma County records is 1930s. The majority of the vineyard is still dry-farmed. Though due to the drought stress and replantings of the missing vines, irrigation has been installed. The vineyard has been meticulously maintained by Willy Dommen Sr, it is showing its age. The objective is to maintain the old vines as far into the future as possible. We recognized the treasure our parents left us siblings and decided to rehabilitate the old vines. I remember those grapes were used to make some great wine. The old vines have undergone a substantial rehabilitation over the last few years. Jake (Viticulturist Bedrock) guided the rehab activities.

Facts: The vineyard is an example of a classic Italian field blend. Primary varieties include: Carignan, Zinfandel, Alicante Bouschet and Grand Noir with a sprinkling of whites. Over 16 varieties have been identified when the vineyard was mapped by Morgan Peterson and Jake Neustadt from Bedrock. Several varieties were identified by UC Davis DNA testing including: Clairette Blanche, Peloursin, St. Emilion, Beba, Listan Blanc and Durif Blanc. Our sub-block of Grand Noir is even mentioned in Jancis Robinson’s “Wine Grapes.” The missing vines have since been replanted with Zin (Rockpile on St. George), and the rootstocks (St. George) have been grafted with Zin (rockpile) and Grand Noir (FPS).