Hendry Ranch is one of Napa Valley’s most beloved hidden jewel properties and a devoted grower of not just Zinfandel but a dozen other vinifera varieties.
Across Napa’s Dry Creek at the western edge of the historic Oak Knoll District, where volcanic Mt. Veeder starts to rise, lay the historic Hendry Ranch and winery. The Hendry family has been farming here for nearly 80 years and scientist proprietor George Hendry, who grew up on the ranch, knows his dirt like the backs of his weathered farming hands.
Identified as “blocks”, the diverse Hendry Ranch vineyards contain thirteen varieties including Zinfandel block 28 and blocks 7 and 22. Hendry is also the rare winery that produces Zinfandel’s Italian twin, Primitivo.
George and his veteran vine-whisperer nephew Mike Hendry know that all the ranch’s wines reveal unique character and structure traits according to soil type and vine clonal type. When you immerse yourself in a guided vineyard tour and tasting – quite possibly with George or Mike themselves, you come away enlightened about what goes into the practice of farming prime Napa Valley grapes and crafting world class wines at the highest level. Hendry’s wine’s are pure, balanced and ageworthy. The engaging, educational visits either indoors or outdoors require appointments in advance.
