Stryker Winery
A promising Sonoma winery that we have to follow
Stryker Sonoma is a young family property, located in Alexander Valley (Sonoma County) close to Geyserville . It was established in 1999 on the “ruins” of the old vineyard: SOMMER VINEYARDS. At the time of the acquisition the vineyard had phylloxera therefore they had to pull and replant almost all the vineyards. Currently, the only remaining former vineyards are a few rows of old vine Zinfandel at the entrance.
The Stryker Sonoma‘ building
The Winery was built by architects Richard Schuh and Almy Nielsen. Stryker Winery opened its doors to the public in 2002. The building is a subtle blend of wood, glass, concrete and stone all this in taupe, chocolate and “natural stone” allowing it to blend into the landscape.
This creation was born from the desire to have a place which design was modern, and friendly, to take the most advantage of the beautiful view of the “Alexander Valley” while respecting the harmony of the landscape. The challenge ended in a great success!
If you go to the property you will quickly fall under the spell of the terraces. This entry is naturally shaded by wisteria vines on wood blinds, which also offer a wonderful play of light with the sun. Its exhibition allows us to enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley. The second terrace at the back, has a beautiful stone fireplace. It is an invitation to imagine a beautiful winter evening in front of a fire between friends and a glass of wine in hand.
Meeting with Tim Hardin, winemaker of Stryker Sonoma….
Tim Hardin (pictured), current Stryker Sonoma winemaker sees himself as a farmer before becoming a “winemaker”. His passion was born 21 years ago after working two days in a winery… a fast lightning in the world of wine.
He and his team are passionate about wine and attach great importance to produce wines that combine traditional and modern viticulture. Their motto is to produce quality wines (in small quantities), very fruity, woody (but not excessively), and that each one reflects their terroir.
Wooded without excess because for him the excess of wood is a fairly recurring characteristic to the wines of the region
If you have to describe your passion in 3 or 4 words, what do you want to choose? What is the wine for you?
« For me, the passion begins in the vineyard, personally walking the blocks, pruning the vines and managing the crop is what allows me to make the best possible wine from our 27 acres of estate vineyards. »
What characteristics in the wine allow you to recognize yours wines in a blind tasting?
« For me, the acidity in my wines is the dead giveaway. I strive each year to maintain a pH and acidity that I enjoy, one that I believe gives my wines balance and longevity. Another marker of my wines is my barrel selection. I choose specific barrels for specific characteristics, not relying on any one cooperage. This allows me to make a wine with stylistic cues unique to our winery and vineyards. »
For my part I would say what characterizes the wines of this winery is the suavity and a regularly nice tension. The wines are fruity, gourmand and always well-balanced. The Petit Verdot is particularly successful.
Do you have any future project for the winery?
« I’m excited for our first vintage of Cabernet franc. We were fortunate to harvest our first estate crop of this fantastic grape in 2014 and will be releasing it next year. It’s also wonderful to see the transition to seated tastings at the winery. I always feel it’s important to slow down and relax with a sip of wine, and an afternoon spent on our observation deck with a little charcuterie is perfection. »
The anecdote of the week will focus on the name of the property: Stryker Sonoma
While the name is simply the family name few people are aware of the humble legacy this family leaves behind with each coming generation. As proprietor of Stryker Sonoma, Pat Stryker seeks to honor a family tradition: the pursuit of excellence. Pat’s grandfather, the late Homer Stryker, an orthopedic surgeon and founder of Stryker Corporation, revolutionized healthcare through his innovative design of medical devices and quality production process. While Stryker Sonoma is not affiliated with Stryker Corporation, Pat remains inspired by the legacy of her grandfather’s work and his dedication to the highest standards. Pat’s personal commitment to excellence is heartfelt in all of her various ventures including Stryker Sonoma.
Pat is a philanthropist and founder of Bohemian Foundation, which works to empower citizens and impact communities through its strategic grant making programs and special initiatives. Bohemian Foundation focuses locally in the areas of music and youth, and globally in the areas of public health, poverty alleviation and the environment. The Foundation is based in Fort Collins, Colorado, where Pat resides. Pat is not active in the daily winery management or operations.
Thanks to Tim, to Brian and to the team for their hospitality.
Stryker Sonoma
5110 Highway 128
Geyserville, CA 95441, USA
Toll-Free: 800-433-1944
Local: 707-433-1944
www.strykersonoma.com
