Snowden Vineyards produces classically styled, terroir-driven wines reflecting the unique heritage and character of their site. The Snowden family came to the ranch in 1955. Originally a 160 acre homestead, the property has a grape-growing history dating back to 1878. During the decades of their stewardship, four generations of Snowdens have been privileged to walk the woods and vineyards of this lovely and secluded place.

This beautiful wine has a bright and engaging bouquet of plums and tobacco flowers. The palate is seamless and velvety with the hallmark poise and vibrancy of winemaking that preserves nature's heartbeat. Sustainable, biodynamic.

Vineyard Notes:
At an altitude of over 2000ft above sea level, the Zayante Vineyard, high in the Santa Cruz Mountains, benefits from a cool yet sunny microclimate. The Merlot is own-rooted, dry-farmed using biodynamic practices.
Winemaker Notes:
At the 2000 ft in the Santa Cruz Mountains the Zayante vineyard is a tiny jewel surrounded by dense, wild forest. By virtue of being ungrafted, dry farmed with biodynamic practices, this is a unique expression of Merlot; fruit-driven and plush. All subsequent choices were made to preserve this raw and true own-rooted Merlot. It was picked by hand, fermented by native yeast, minimal sulphur and handling, pressed early, and barreled into Snowden-Vineyards-seasoned French oak. The wine is vibrant with plush dark fruits. It will be a joy immediately and has the potential to age and evolve for decades for those with the patience.