Small Production Local Wine Brands to Try in the Bay

California makes 81% of wine for the US, and made $66.8B in retail value in 2020. With so much money in the industry and number of wineries in Napa and Sonoma alone, it’s easy to be overwhelmed. Oftentimes, the big names like Mondavi, Silver Oak, Joseph Phelps, or others get all the attention. And yet, there’s countless locally-made wines and bottle shops we may rarely stroll upon. This is an attempt to introduce you to the lesser-known and small production wine brands—the ones where the owners and staff will get to know you by name or your unique flavor preferences.

An unusual blend of underrepresented Italian grapes, St. Romedius produces wine that pairs with picnics, porch days with the kids (and/or neighbors), or a casual stroll on the coast with a significant other. Winemaker Robert Pintacsi is all about letting the grapes speak for themselves, and they have a lot to boast about. Grab the summertime fun box before it runs out!

Similar in mindset, Benevolent Neglect is a hands-off kind of brand. Their unfiltered, unfined processes highlight the grapes’ natural qualities. The minimalistic approach allows their wines to breathe on their own, in their own spotlight. If that’s not convincing, their labels are like a piece of art! 

If you consider yourself a Grenache Guerilla, Grenachista is the brand for you! Their singular focus encourages experimentation and refinement with this Rhône-style grape. From naturally sparkling to a medium bodied red, Grenachista is a passionate one-person show that preaches minimal intervention in the winemaking process. 

Their winemaker, inspired by cooking, uses organic methods to grow unique grapes with good texture and a nice balance of flavors. They don't make a lot of wine at once, so each bottle gets special attention, letting the grapes tell their story. Every bottle is a mix of old ways and the unique land, giving you a taste of something special. Prima Materia invites you to enjoy their wines, where each sip is a simple celebration of great taste.

Still curious about small production in the Bay? Check out Bay Grape in Oakland or Napa, sip on some local wine (sans douchery as it's known), or attend a winemaker class!