Claypool Cellars

World-renowned musician Les Claypool of the alternate rock band Primus is the man behind Claypool Cellars along with partners Jay Meyer and Slawek Michalak. Claypool originally intended to make wine for himself and friends, but the wine was really good and the next thing he knew he was in the wine business. About 500 cases of Purple Pachyderm ( a name linked to the Primus song, "Southbound Pachyderm") Pinot Noir are produced at Vinify Wine Services in Santa Rosa. Grapes are sourced from Hurst Vineyard in the Laguna de Santa Rosa watershed of the Russian River Valley. Claypool claims there have been Sasquatch sightings in the redwoods near the vineyard. The first release was from the 2007 vintage and was crafted by Shad Chappell. A 2008 Hurst Vineyard single vineyard wine is planned.

Claypool is a man of many interests and talents. Besides his innovative slap-style of bass playing, he wrote and directed a film (Electric Apricot), wrote a book, directed several solo projects (Oysterhead, The Frog Brigade), and wrote the theme song for the TV show "South Park." He lives in the Russian River Valley.

The wines (a Rosé called Pink Platypus is also produced) are sold online.