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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
