Green & Red Vineyard

From its humble beginnings, Green & Red has remained committed to sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention winemaking. This dedication to authenticity and quality has earned them a loyal following and critical acclaim, solidifying their place as a respected producer in the Napa Valley landscape.

Nestled in the picturesque Chiles Canyon of Napa Valley, Green & Red Vineyard boasts a rich history rooted in a passion for Zinfandel. Founded in 1969 by Jay Heminway, the winery emerged as a pioneering force, dedicated to showcasing the potential of this often-underestimated varietal. Heminway's vision was to craft wines that reflected the unique terroir of the Vaca Mountain Range, a goal that continues to drive the winery's philosophy today.

The name "Green & Red" itself is a nod to the vineyard's natural surroundings, representing the vibrant foliage and the rich, red soils that contribute to the character of their wines. This connection to the land is at the heart of everything they do.

The vineyard is divided into distinct blocks, each with its own unique characteristics. These include the Chiles Mill Vineyard, known for its rocky soils and concentrated fruit; the Catacula Vineyard, which imparts a distinctive earthy character; and the Tip Top Vineyard, situated at the highest elevation, contributing bright acidity and vibrant aromatics.

Green & Red Vineyard's location in Chiles Canyon is crucial to its unique terroir. The Vaca Mountain Range provides a cooler microclimate compared to the valley floor, allowing for a longer growing season and contributing to the development of complex flavors in the grapes. The elevation also plays a role, offering excellent drainage and sun exposure.

The varied soil types, ranging from volcanic to sedimentary, further contribute to the complexity of Green & Red's wines. These diverse terroirs allow them to produce Zinfandels with a range of expressions, from elegant and refined to bold and powerful.

In addition to Zinfandel, Green & Red also produces other varieties that thrive in their unique microclimate, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. These wines are crafted with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality as their flagship Zinfandels.

Green & Red Vineyard is primarily celebrated for its Zinfandel, showcasing the grape's versatility and potential for greatness. Their Zinfandels are known for their balance, complexity, and expression of terroir, often exhibiting notes of red and black fruit, spice, and earthy undertones.

The winemaking philosophy at Green & Red emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the fruit to express itself naturally. They employ traditional techniques, such as native yeast fermentation and aging in neutral oak barrels, to preserve the purity and integrity of the wines.

Potential visitors are encouraged to contact the winery directly to inquire about tasting opportunities and vineyard tours. These experiences often provide a deeper understanding of the vineyard's unique terroir and the winemaking process.

While Green & Red Vineyard may not offer a traditional tasting room experience, opportunities to engage with their wines and learn about their philosophy are available. Due to their smaller production and focus on sustainable practices, visits are typically arranged by appointment and may involve more intimate, personalized experiences.

Keep an eye on their website and social media channels for announcements about special events and releases, which may offer additional opportunities to sample their wines and connect with the Green & Red team.

Looking to the future, Green & Red remains dedicated to preserving the integrity of their land and continuing to craft wines that showcase the potential of Zinfandel and other complementary varietals. They are committed to innovation and experimentation while staying true to their core values.

Green & Red Vineyard has established a legacy of producing exceptional Zinfandel that reflects the unique character of Chiles Canyon. Their commitment to sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking has earned them a respected place in the Napa Valley wine community.

The winery's ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices and educate consumers about the importance of terroir will ensure that Green & Red Vineyard remains a vital and influential force in the Napa Valley wine industry for generations to come.