Sonoma Grapemasters

Last issue I profiled Kings Hill Cellars as one of a number of wineries allowing budding winemakers to make a small quantity of their own wine. Another player is Sonoma Grapemasters, a new division of Owl Ridge Wine Services in Sebastopol. This custom-crush facility, which has 34 boutique winery clients, offers vine-to-bottle programs that allow non-commercial clients to produce a barrel or more of their own fine wine. The program is a hands-on experience guided by a consulting veteran winemaker. Individuals or groups may take advantage of this ”make-wine-with-the-pros” program.

To learn more, contact the Program Director, Stephen Yafa, a well-known wine writer who recently started his own Pinot Noir label, Segue, at Owl Ridge Wine Services. His phone is 415-389-1183 or e-mail him at syafa@sonomagrapemasters.com. Visit the website at www.sonomagrapemasters.com.

You know you are itching to make your own wine. Now is your opportunity to explore your “purple thumb.”