Our Vineyard
Our Estate Vineyard
The first planting occurred in 1974, when former owner Edward Keith decided to start his own wine business. At the time, he planted several acres of Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon, which are now over 50 years old. These old vines are low-yield, producing very concentrated and intense fruit.
After purchase of the property in 2014, the Maxville team began an extensive redevelopment and restoration of both the vineyards and the riparian corridors. Presently over 100 acres of vineyards are planted and primarily include Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petite Sirah, among other varieties.
As vineyard owners, we are passionate about growing the highest quality grapes for our Maxville Estate wines, and we care deeply about preserving our land and soil for future generations. We practice fish-friendly farming, as certified by the California Land Stewardship Institute.
Chiles Valley
Our 1,000-acre estate is located in the esteemed Chiles Valley AVA, an appellation nestled in the Vaca Mountains of Napa Valley. Our complex soils are well-drained, as they are formed of material derived from weathered sandstone and shale on the west-facing slopes and alluvial fans along the base of our hills.
The climate is cooler in the winter compared to most of the Napa Valley, and come summer we experience very warm weather with large diurnal shifts. Our microclimate results in a longer growing season, giving our grapes an opportunity to mature with subtle flavors, full body, and overall complexity that rival those grown in the best sites on the main valley floor.
Additionally, we employ dry farming methods and other viticultural techniques to stress our vines, coaxing them to focus on growing rich, concentrated berries.