Vineyards
A Boutique Vineyard in the Shadow of Mt Diablo....
J Doran Vineyards began on a steep hillside in the historic California wine country. Planted literally by hand in 2004, the hillside was so steep and access restricted so it did not allow for the use of commercial equipment. J Doran Vineyard is as "Hand Crafted" and "Old School" as you can get.The original vineyard is 90% Zinfandel located within sight of the critically acclaimed Cline Cellars Ancient Zinfandel vineyards. There is also a 10% Pinot Noir.
J Doran Vineyards is blessed by access to many of the finest vineyards in California, if not the world. In making wine, "You make great wine in the vineyard"...
From the cool coastal climates perfect for Chardonnay or Pinot Noir to warm regions wonderful for Cabenet Sauvignon, We are particular in not only the vineyards we work with but the methods and specifics of harvesting our grapes. "Terrior" a word often used in wine making is but one part of making great wine. Hang time, canopy management, brix levels, irrigation routines can all affect the quality and flavor of the grapes. Our commitment and attention to detail are what set us apart.
Our attention to the vineyard during all stages of the growth & harvest are critical to our small lot artisan approach. We constantly work in and monitor the vineyards in conjunction with the vineyard managers. By not only understanding exactly what is going on in the vineyard, knowing it's every twist & turn, we can make decisions other wineries cannot. By being familiar with every nuance, we instruct not only what lot within the vineyard to pick, but we can literally take it to the precise rows and lots. We can pass over rows that were improperly irrigated, choose the the rows that face morning or afternoon sun, getting the very essence of what is best in each vineyard we work with in order to bring you a wine with uncompromising quality.