Larkmead Announces Their Research Block With Maiden Voyage of Chenin Blanc

Last time we checked in with the Solari Baker family and their epic work at Larkmead Vineyards, they were releasing the first wines made entirely by winemaker Avery Heelan, after taking the reins following the exit of Dan Petroski in 2021. Today, they are excitedly announcing yet another years-in-the-making release that is sure to make waves in a wine region dominated by rich and sultry red wines.

Larkmead Vineyards is pleased to announce the release of its inaugural wine, a Chenin Blanc, harvested from their leading-edge Research Block—a three-acre vineyard planted to evaluate the performance of diverse grape varieties under changing climatic conditions. The release of the 2023 Estate Chenin Blanc marks a significant milestone for Larkmead as it showcases the innovative spirit and commitment to excellence that has defined the winery for generations.

“ After years of experiencing climate change’s impact firsthand in Calistoga, our family recognized that we needed to protect our community and the future of Napa Valley as a world-class winemaking region ,” remarked Kate Solari Baker, Proprietor of Larkmead Vineyards. “ It has been gratifying to be a part of this innovative endeavor, and to see our team’s hard work and research result in this exciting Chenin Blanc .”

Established in 2020, the Research Block stands as a beacon of viticultural experimentation and sustainability, reflecting the Solari family’s forward-thinking ethos, their commitment to wine research, and the importance of continued Bordeaux-varietal cultivation in Napa Valley. The Research Block is planted to eight different grape varieties that lend themselves to blending experimentation, ensuring the quality of Napa Valley’s wines in an ever-changing climate.

There's a historical Chenin Blanc precedent to call back to, and one of the most magical wines I've ever tasted in my life is the unicorn bottling of 1974 Pritchard Hill Chenin Blanc from the Chappellet Family. Chenin Blanc was one of most planted grape in the early 1970s in Napa. Sadly the grapes went into cheap jug wines, and as tastes & fashion changed, they were replaced by more popular varieties like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. When Larkmead planted their Research Black in 2020, only 5,000 acres remained of Chenin Blanc in the Napa Valley, down from the height of 32,000 acres back in 1980.

The Solari family champions research and innovation in viticulture, and has since the beginning of their Larkmead proprietorship in 1948, back when the esteemed Professor at the University of California, Davis, Dr. Harold P. Olmo planted his first clonal research station at Larkmead Vineyards. In continuation of Dr. Olmo’s legacy of experimentation, the 2023 Estate Chenin Blanc is the inaugural release showcasing years of dedication to innovation and quality.

“ Having the opportunity to experiment with grape varietals from other growing regions allows us to expand our farming knowledge and improve our techniques across all wine production ,” stated Avery Heelan, Winemaker at Larkmead Vineyards. “ This Chenin Blanc truly embodies the ethos of Larkmead Vineyards—a commitment to environmental stewardship and pursuit of excellence .”

Over the next 18 months in barrel, Heelan's plan is to study the other Research Block varietals harvested from the 2023 vintage. Future bottlings may include a Mediterranean blend with Tempranillo and Touriga Nacional, or a California heritage blend of Charbono and Petite Sirah—the latter honoring the varietals planted in Calistoga over a century ago. “Our goal is to expand our knowledge and explore inventive ways to continually improve our Cabernet Sauvignon-based blends,” said Heelan. “These varietals bring characteristics to our cellar that are innovative and exciting for the future of Larkmead.”

With just over 100 cases produced and priced at $75 per bottle, the 2023 Estate Chenin Blanc is exclusively available through the Solari Membership starting TODAY—August 28, 2024. For more information about the 2023 Estate Chenin Blanc and details on how to join the Solari Membership, please visit larkmead.com or contact the winery directly at (707) 942-0167.