Originally published in the St. Helena Star
When was your winery founded?
“1996.”
Why did you choose to be in the Spring Mountain District American Viticultural Area (AVA)?
“While looking for vineyard property in the Napa Valley, Steve and Linda Sherwin fell in love with Spring Mountain on a trip from St. Helena to Santa Rosa one day. On their drive Steve mentioned to Linda, ‘I want to live up here,’ and a shortly after that, they found their dream property at the top of Spring Mountain.”
Who is owner? Who is winemaker? Who is vineyard manager?
“Steve and Linda Sherwin are owners. Steve and Matt Sherwin are winemakers. The Sherwins manage the vineyard closely with Peter Nissen.”
How many acres do you farm in the Spring Mountain District AVA? How does that break down into types of varietals/acre?
“Seventeen acres of vines.”
Do you farm sustainably/organically/biodynamically?
“We farm sustainably while maintaining a healthy vineyard and soil composition.”
Please describe your vineyards: soil; exposure; narrow spacing; type of trellising; irrigation/dry-farmed, etc.
“Our vineyards are located at the top of Spring Mountain above the fogline where we receive all-day sun exposure to help ripening. We have 8-foot and 10-foot row spacing, which was very common during the time of development of our property in the late ‘90s. We have Red Aiken soil and have a permanent cover crop between rows. We irrigate from our own reservoir.”
Wineries today try to differentiate the visitor experience. What’s unique about visiting your winery/tasting room?
“Our goal is to showcase our unique property while creating an experience where guests feel as if they are coming into our home. During your visit at Sherwin, you will notice our patriotic roots with our Commemorative Etched American Flag Bottle, designed right after 9/11, on display.”
What might surprise people to learn about you/your winery/your operation?
“We are the only producers of alcohol in the United States that have federal permission to place the image of the American flag on a bottle of alcohol.”
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?
“Spring Mountain is special for many reasons, however, we believe that it is the close community that makes Spring Mountain such a special place. Every visit to Spring Mountain is a memorable experience.”
What’s your favorite place in St. Helena to eat, drink or relax?
“Eat: Brasswood and The Charter Oak.”
Learn more about Sherwin Family Vineyards here
(This is the latest in a series of Q&A articles highlighting winemakers and grapegrowers in the St. Helena area.)