History

Our roots run deep in the Dry Creek Valley. As the first new winery in the Dry Creek Valley following Prohibition, our pioneering influences are still felt today. From the first planting of Sauvignon Blanc to the establishment of Dry Creek Valley as an American Viticultural Area (AVA), our family winery continues that tradition of innovation under the leadership of the second generation.

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1972

First winery built in Dry Creek Valley after prohibition, revitalizing region’s wine industry.

First in Dry Creek Valley to plant Sauvignon Blanc (DCV3).

Introduced first Sonoma County Fumé Blanc.

1983

First winery built in Dry Creek Valley after prohibition, revitalizing region’s wine industry.


		1972
		First winery built in Dry Creek Valley after prohibition, revitalizing region’s wine industry.


		1972
		First winery built in Dry Creek Valley after prohibition, revitalizing region’s wine industry.


		1972
		First winery built in Dry Creek Valley after prohibition, revitalizing region’s wine industry.

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Timeline

Dry Creek Vineyard Historical Facts


		1972
		First winery built in Dry Creek Valley after prohibition, revitalizing region’s wine industry.

Early Years, Dave Stare
Performing Sugar Test

1972

First in Dry Creek Valley to plant Sauvignon Blanc (DCV3)

1972 Fumé Blanc Sonoma County

1972

Introduced first Sonoma County Fumé Blanc

1983 Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley

1983

Initiated Dry Creek Valley’s AVA status and first to label wine with Dry Creek Valley appellation

1985 Meritage

1985

One of first wineries to use term “Meritage” on the label to describe a Bordeaux style blend

1987 Zinfandel Old Vines

1987

Coined the term “Old Vines” Zinfandel

Kim and Don Wallace

1990

The second generation joins the winery, sharing the same passion for winemaking (and sailing) as patriarch, Dave Stare

DCV7 Heritage Zinefandel

1994

Following nine years of selection trials from old vines, planted first “Heritage” Zinfandel vineyard

1997 Heritage Clone Zinfandel

1997

First to release Zinfandel from “Heritage” vines

Dry Creek Vineyard

2002

Investment and capital improvements assure that wine quality will remain consistent

The Dry Creek Vineyard Family
Dave Stare, Don Wallace,
Taylor Wallace, Spencer Wallace,
and Kim Stare Wallace

2005

Family Owned and Operated Since 1972