Ram’s Gate Winery
… The Gateway of Sonoma
Fledgling winery, that opened its doors in September 2011. The buildings (winery, cellar, storage buildings), they were built in 2008.
Prior to the establishment of a vineyard that land was a multi-activity area: agriculture, grape growing and a livestock. Ram’s Gate Winery was thus created in 2008 by Jeff O’Neill with Michael John, Peter and Paul Mullin Violich four friends with a shared enthusiasm for wine, architecture and socializing. In a short time they met the challenge of creating a vineyard that reflects their passions (wine, architecture, socializing) but also a property that was a synonymous with elegance and finesse.
Personally I especially liked the atmosphere in this property. I see myself very well placed in living room, in front of the fireplace, with a glass of wine in hand and contemplating the magnificent view of the valley. A landscape where the vine, olive and rock seems to be the only masters of the world. A moment of pure relaxation!
Meeting wine around a glass of wine, winemaker Jesse Fox assistant to Ram’s Gate Winery
Jesse Fox is a former chef in a Parisian restaurant (Le Cordon Bleu). This young epicurean likes to say that there are many similarities between his old job and his position as assistant winemaker. In both cases the concepts of the product are respects, fun, hospitality, passion and expression are the key words.
These words make you recall something? Yes? Passions, the philosophy of the founders of this property.
After multiple experiences in California but also abroad (Argentina and New Zealand) he entered the service of Ram’s Gate as an intern in the cellar. There, he remained only in a short training time as the Master of the Cellar noticing his expertise made him quickly climb the ranks to become the his happiness as his assistant today.
Three words to describe your business, your passion?
“youthful” (the vineyard and the team in place), “Experience” (a young team but with many experiences in the United States and abroad), “Passion” (created and managed by a team of passionate people).
The term “experience” is understood in the sense that making wine is a complete adventure from beginning (planting of vines) at the end (when you can enjoy the fruits of his labor).
What is sought each year?
A triple balance the first between acidity and the level of alcohol, the second between flavor / sugar / soil. The third is in my opinion one of the most important, the balance between expression of the terroir, expressions of people working in the vineyard, and the creativity of these people.
Where does the name “Ram’s Gate” come from?
First the name is explained by the fact that before being a vineyard, the breeding of sheep / ram (English: ram) was present in that field. More it’s situated at the entrance of the Carneros Valley, this property is also the same as the first vineyard you can see when you cross the road in imprinting.
What is the leitmotif of RAM’S GATE ?
“The focus is placed on quality and not quantity, leaving out small quantity.” I think there is no need for further explanation.
Some information:
- 160 hectares
- Maturing in oak barrels 90% French, 10% American oak barrels. Heater M and M +
- Grape Vineyard: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Black, Syrah, Chardonnay, 15% Pinot blanc, grenache blanc, zinfandel, grenache
- Malolactic fermentation in barrels
- Soil: clay, rock, sand
- “Sustainable agriculture” but not certified.
- 25 wines
For the wine anecdote, this property has a large kitchen in its tasting room. There are regularly (on reservation) cooking classes “wine and food experience” …with lectures by a great local chef.
Side project:
The management team would, in the near future, develop a red wine assembly ….
If you’re in the area don’t miss to visit this property, you will not regret it!
Thanks to Jesse Fox, Brittany Starr and Kat Fitch for their great hospitality.
Jonathan Choukroun Chicheportiche
Ram’s Gate Winery
28700 Arnold Drive Sonoma,
CA 95476, États-Unis
(707) 721-8700
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