McIntyre Family Wines lies in the “sweet spot” of Monterey County’s Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. Originally planted in 1973, the 80-acre site (60 acres planted) boasts some of the Highlands’ oldest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines.

Proprietor Steve McIntyre is one of the most knowledgeable viticulturists in California. As owner/operator of Monterey Pacific, he farms 16,000 acres in Monterey County.

The McIntyre Estate Vineyard was among the first properties in the Santa Lucia Highlands to be SIP (Sustainability In Practice) Certified, using numerous holistic regenerative practices including carbon sequestration with Biochar produced by slow pyrolysis.

WINEMAKER SERIES OVERVIEW

“The idea for the Winemaker Series was born out of impatience and age-related urgency! As fervent believers that collaboration amplifies the creative process, we bring you this Winemaker series, recognizing many of the great wine makers we have had the privilege of collaborating with over the decades. If I’m lucky I’ll get to participate in another 20 to 30 vintages as our vineyards and wines evolve. Collaborating with a diverse set of winemakers and viticulturists provides exciting opportunities to experiment and accelerate our pace of discovery. Each Winemaker brings their own style and experience, just as a great chef or a musician, to the process of producing a life enhancing experience best shared with others”!

“This wine was handcrafted by Don Van Staaveran, who brings nearly 50 years of winemaking experience to the endeavour. After spending his childhood on a Dairy, Don graduated Cal Poly in Fruit Science and over the span of 50 years rose to the top of Château St Jean, Artesa, and Three Sticks.  Like a lot of great winemaker’s he has worked in the vineyard as well as the cellar, in all facets of wine growing. Notably, he also makes wooden surfboards under the Cloudbreak Watercraft brand. We are extremely grateful and honoured to present Don‘s passion for your enjoyment!” – Steve McIntyre