I had the opportunity in 2016 to spend two weeks working harvest in the famed Russian River Valley of Sonoma County, California. I worked along-side an amazing young winemaker, Erica Stancliff, and through this process. I discovered I didn't need to own my own vineyard - I could buy grapes directly from growers. I decided to collaborate with Erica to make my own wine the following year, sourcing grapes from areas best known for their elevation and soil composition that resulted in "stressed" vines. It is said that Stressed Vines Make Better Wine® due to the fact that you get a smaller quantity of higher quality grapes. Thank you for joining me on my wine-making journey that was inspired by some of the most amazing wines I have had the pleasure of tasting around the world. It’s a journey that starts with just one sip of wine, lovingly produced from some of California’s truly amazing "Stressed Vines."
Stressed Vines Cellars is a heartfelt homage to founder Rob Barney's passion for wines that tell a story of resilience and character, emerging from vines that have weathered more challenges than your average vineyard. We are devoted to old vines, dry-farmed vines, and high elevation vineyards, each contributing unique qualities to our meticulously crafted collection of wines including Chardonnay, Rosé, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon.
