Growing Cabernet in Suisun Valley, California
About the soil
The Miller Vineyard is planted in rich rocky soils located at the very upper end of the Suisun Valley.
The climate and soils were unique enough to be awarded AVA status in 1982. The property is located at the east side of the Howell Mountain range opposite Napa Valley at the base of the Twin Sisters. The twin peaks were created by two volcanos from which much of the richness of the soil and rocky soil were derived.
The climate benefits from the San Francisco Bay winds tempering the growing season. Average rainfall is moderate with an average of 28 inches per year.
About the grapes
The Miller Vineyard Cabernet
Cabernet clone 685, known for its deep color and rich flavors was planted in 2017 on Schwarzman rootstock, which is low to moderate vigor.
Heritage Vineyard Management of Napa performed the initial planting and continues to manage the vineyard today.
About the grower
Miller has been growing grapes for over 36 years.
David first began growing grapes as part of a family business in the 1980s. They operated 300 acres of cabernet, merlot and Chardonnay in the Clarksburg area of California. The grapes went to Robert Mondavi (under the Woodbridge label) and later to LangeTwins, for specialty vintages.
Wanting a property to call home, David purchased 14 acres in Suisun Valley about 9 years ago, and planted 8 acres of cab in 2017.
While grape growing was primarily a side passion, David recently sold his bay area laboratory automation company and now devotes his time to viticulture. He looks forward to many years ahead of nurturing the land to produce the highest quality grapes.
The specifics
8 acres
in Suisun Valley AVA, Fairfield, California
Planted in 2017
Planted by Heritage Vineyard Management of Napa
Cab Clone 685
Cabernet clone 685 on Schwarzman rootstock
4 x 6.5’ spacing on VSP
Expected Crop
35 tons
“I want to produce quality fruit that can lead to a long term successful winery relationship.”
— David Miller