The Malibu Vineyard

Restauranteurs Michael and Kim McCarty planted two acres of grapevines on a steep terraced hillside surrounding their home in Malibu. The cuttings came from Mount Eden Vineyard and Joseph Phelps Vineyard. The original vineyard was planted under the direction of Chalone's Dick Graff and Jim Effird. The first vintage was produced in 1989 and included Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc blend, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. From 1989 to 1992 the winemaker was Steve Dooley of Edna Valley Vineyard and since 1993, Bruno D'Alfonso and most recently in colloboration with his spouse, winemaker Kris Curran.

The Malibu fire in 1993 consumed the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blocks. Full recovery of production was delayed until 1997. Grapes did not ripen sufficiently for production in 1999 and 2000. Deeming certain varietals as unsuitable for the location, the entire vineyard was removed and replanted to Pinot Noir (clones 777, 667 and 115) using updated trellising.

The Malibu Vineyard Rambla Pacifico Pinot Noir is available on wine lists at Michael's Santa Monica and Michael's New York and can by purchased by contact sommelier Andrew Turner at Michael's Santa Monica (310-451-0843).