Justin Kahler

Justin received his Bachelors of Science degree in Enology and minor in Chemistry from California State University, Fresno.  While at Fresno State, he was key student on the winemaking team, sensory panel and assisted teaching Enology courses.  He has worked for Peter Michael Winery, in the Knights Valley of Sonoma and Church Road Winery, in the Hawke’s Bay region of New Zealand.  While working for these premium wineries he developed his winemaking by working closely with the winemakers in both the winery and vineyards.

Justin’s winemaking philosophy is built on a foundation of science, experience and the use of his palette.  Decisions are never made on a whim or without thought.  Justin is a firm believer that world class wine is made in the vineyard.  “It is exciting to be working with our estate and long-term leased vineyards as well as purchasing from hand-selected vineyards from the west side.  I know from the beginning that I am starting with the best fruit possible and employ a more natural winemaking style to transform those qualities into wine”.  A belief that making optimal ripeness picking decisions is a critical component of winemaking; each vineyard block is monitored closely.  Combined with the use of minimal winemaking intervention, attention to detail, blending wines to correct any natural flaws and creating wines that are a true varietal expression or perfect blends, are a few of the aspects that define his winemaking style.

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