Originally published in the St. Helena Star
When was your winery founded?
“My parents, Chris and Betsy Peacock, built their home on the vineyard property. They sold their fruit to Barnett for several years in the ’90s. Once my Dad realized that he was sitting on some amazing vines, he started bottling in 1999, which was our first vintage of our estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon.”
Why did you choose to be in the Spring Mountain District American Viticultural Area (AVA)?
“Chris and Betsy Peacock purchased 50 acres of land from the Raymond family in the early ’90s. They fell in love with the property for their forever home and were swept away by the views looking over the valley down to Napa and up to Calistoga, We were lucky enough to have 6.5 acres of planted Cabernet on property. They built their rammed earth home from the bottom up as well as flew in a bunch of the olive trees and landscaping.”
Who is owner?
“My mother, Betsy Peacock, is the owner of the house and I am the owner of the Peacock brand.”
Who is winemaker?
“Craig Becker has been our winemaker since our first vintage in 1999. He also makes wine for Somerston Estate (where our wines are made) and Kelleher wines. Prior to make our wines, he spent time at Robert Mondavi and Spring Mountain Vineyard. We think he is a brilliant winemaker.”
Who is vineyard manager?
“Gallagos Vineyard Management.”
How many acres do you farm in the Spring Mountain District AVA?
“6.5 acres of planted Cabernet Sauvignon.”
Do you farm sustainably/organically/biodynamically?
“We are 100% organic, but not certified.”
Please describe your vineyards: soil; exposure; narrow spacing; type of trellising; irrigation/dry farmed, etc.
“Our vineyards are 100% terraced and in Akin soil (red color). Seventy percent of the vineyard is rock, which is great for the irrigation and drainage. One thing very unique to Spring Mountain is 95% of our vineyard has western exposure sun.”
Wineries today try to differentiate the visitor experience. What’s unique about visiting your winery/tasting room?
“It is my mother’s home and we do not have a winery on property. Unfortunately, we are not open for tastings. You can always get wine through me, and I do take wine on the road as well.”
What might surprise people to learn about you/your winery/your operation?
“Views, views, views!”
What is special about the Spring Mountain District AVA in your opinion? Is it misunderstood? What do you wish visitors knew about it which perhaps they don’t?
“It is truly a gem of an AVA. I do not think that it is misunderstood, just not as well known as others. Once people discover us, they love Spring Mountain wineries and wines. That makes us special!”
What’s your favorite place in St. Helena to eat, drink or relax?
“Hands down, Cook is one of my favorites in the whole valley! Goose & Gander in the downstairs bar for the amazing drinks and ambience.”
Learn more about Peacock Family Vineyard here
(This is the latest in a series of Q&A articles highlighting winemakers and grapegrowers in the St. Helena area. Rebecca Peacock Fogg owns the Peacock Family Vineyard brand.))