1. Our first label with a sailboat was in 1982.
Dating back to the 1982 David S. Stare Reserve Red, sailboat imagery has graced our labels, capturing the spirit of the high seas and our passion for the sport. From the very beginning, we made an intentional effort to choose a class of boat that would fit the nature of the winery. We decided that the J Class yachts would be our inspiration – specifically those boats from 1929 to 1937. Considered the golden years of yachting, the J’s of the 30s were in a class by themselves. They were extremely dangerous to sail and the complex rigging and lack of a motor made them sailable only for the most experienced skippers.
2. Our roots in the sailing community run deep.
We have been strong supporters of sailing at all levels, from youth programs and collegiate teams to international sailing regattas and as the Official Wine of the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series Races in Chicago and New York. We are proud to be the “Official Wine for Sailors” and carry on the traditions of the past, while innovating for the future.
3. Yes, we know that sailboats can’t actually sail on a dry creek.
The irony of a winery named “Dry Creek” Vineyard with sailboats on the labels is not lost on us – it certainly captures our family humor, yet it also makes perfect sense. We believe that the art of winemaking and the skill of sailing have a lot in common. Like winemaking, sailing is fun, adventuresome and romantic. Like sailing, the art of winemaking demands skill, discipline and plenty of help from Mother Nature.
4. They are all based on real, historical boats.
For over 35 years, we have worked diligently with a local artist, Michael Surles, to create these original pieces of art that have come to express each of our wines. His innate ability to capture the spirit of these boats is uncanny from their shape and color, all the way down to the intricate rigging on the sails. The vessels have their own story to be told, just as our wines do. For example, Lulworth is the boat that graces our Fumé Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc bottles. Built in 1920, Lulworth’s name comes from Lulworth Castle, which belonged to her second owner. Lulworth was built as a racing boat to compete in the premier yachting league in Europe: the British “Big Class.” Lulworth is modern and sleek yet displays old world charm – much like our Fumé and Sauvignon Blanc wines.
Which is your favorite boat? Tag us in a photo on Instagram or use #drycreekvineyard for a chance to be featured on our Dry Creek Vineyard Instagram page!