Originally published in the St. Helena Star
When was your winery founded?
“Property acquired in 1943. First vintage was 1952.”
Why did you choose to be in the Spring Mountain District American Viticultural Area (AVA)?
“The McCreas had a friend who knew the property was for sale. They were in search of land to start their dream winery.”
Who is owner? Who is winemaker? Who is vineyard manager?
“Gaylon Lawrence Jr., Reid Griggs, Macy Stubstad.”
How many acres do you farm in the Spring Mountain District AVA? How does that break down into types of varietals/acre?
“We have just under 42 acres planted to vines at Stony Hill.”
Do you farm sustainably/organically/biodynamically?
“We are CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) and Demeter certified.
Please describe your vineyards: soil; exposure; narrow spacing; type of trellising; irrigation/dry-farmed, etc.
“Our vineyards are planted to diverse soils, dotting the extent of our ridgeline between Ritchey and Mill creeks. The property starts at 400 feet with residual soils based on sedimentary bedrock, decomposed sandstone and shale, and stretches up to 1,500 feet where we find soils derived from more iron-rich volcanic material. We have a variety of exposures, and the bulk of the parcels are on north- and east-facing slopes. We have multiple spacing and trellis systems suited for each particular soil type and aspect, ranging from just over meter-by-meter eschala to 6 x 12 foot terraces on a California sprawl system.”
Wineries today try to differentiate the visitor experience. What is unique about visiting your winery/tasting room?
“The Residence at Stony Hill is a hospitality center based in the family home of the McCreas in which they lived for three generations. Its beautiful mid-century modern design and our esteemed team curates an intimate time capsule experience on our exclusive jewel box of a property up on Spring Mountain with one of the best views in the Napa Valley.”
What might surprise people to learn about you/your winery/your operation?
“We house some of the oldest Riesling vines in the United States! Planted in 1948.”
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?
“The Spring Mountain District AVA’s terroir produces some of the most elegant wines I’ve enjoyed. There is a beautiful balance of red and black fruit finishing with a brilliant structure only found on mountainsides. Also, with Bothe-Napa Valley State Park within the region to preserve much of the land, the forestry and surrounding grounds are absolutely stunning. A hidden gem for sure.”
What’s your favorite place in St. Helena to eat, drink or relax?
“Press Restaurant! Whether it’s dinner in their wine cellar or a cocktail at the bar, it’s always a wonderful place to be.”
Learn more about Stony Hill Vineyard here
(This is the latest in a series of Q&A articles highlighting winemakers and grapegrowers in the St. Helena area. This piece was submitted by Michaela Kelly and Reid Griggs of Stony Hill Vineyard.)