Welcome To

5 The 130-acre estate includes 26 acres of head-pruned, spur- trained vines planted in nine distinct blocks of Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Grenache, and Tannat. South-facing hillsides, chalky soil, hot sunny days, and cooling afternoon breezes from the coast define the flavor and intensity of the grapes. Under Leduc's minimalist approach and sustainable farming practices, the vineyards are free of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, and yields are kept low to guarantee the highest quality fruit possible and to ensure the health and longevity of the vines. Leduc brings a French sensibility in crafting the wines: they are big and bold, yet elegant with finesse and complexity. The focus here is on red wines. The portfolio includes Rhône-style single varietals such as Grenache and Mourvèdre, and the uncommon Tannat (native to southwest France), a deep-hued, tannic wine TOP LEFT: Winemaker and Vineyard Manager Bastien Leduc farms the organic 26-acre Estate Vineyard using sustainable practices to ensure the vineyard yields top quality fruit. Photograph by Rebecca Leduc TOP RIGHT: Bastien grew up helping his father on his family's organic vineyard in the southwest of France. He holds a degree in viticulture and oenology as well as in organic agricultural consulting. Photograph by Mike Larson BOTTOM LEFT: A 100-year old barn at the base of the vineyard houses the company's farming equipment, and keeps grapes cool during hot harvest days. While there is no wine tasting at the vineyard yet, it's part of the long- term dream for Seven Oxen. Photograph by Adriana Neal BOTTOM RIGHT: Bastien learned about winemaking and vineyard management from his father, Claude, at a very young age. Claude visits Bastien from France every winter to lend his palate and assist with blending at Seven Oxen. Photograph by Adriana Neal

• Cover