History
Handcrafted wines from our garage. That’s how it all started in the early ‘70s in Los Angeles. The lure of the wine country caused us to abandon our primary vocations (I taught ESL and Art practiced architecture) to pursue the joys of winemaking and farming in the Napa Valley. In 1979, along with Art’s brother’s family, we purchased a ranch about halfway between Rutherford and St. Helena, on which we built Whitehall Lane Winery where we produced some great wines in the ‘80s.
The next chapter in the story leads us to Judd’s Hill where we devoted ourselves to creating small lots of premium handcrafted wines. It was here on our hill that we pioneered Napa Valley Custom MicroCrush, where we make small lots of custom wine for grape growers and wine enthusiasts. Judd had been living in Southern California and handling our sales there. In 2003, he married Holly and they moved here in 2004 to create a full and wonderful family business experience. Her MBA and passion for doing things right has made her a perfect CFO and partner.
The development of the JUDD label added more variety to our lineup of Cabernet and Merlot. Judd produces Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir and Syrah, and his creative eye, astute nose and discerning taste buds keep us anticipating what the next new wine might be.
The four of us put in long days, but we have fun and love working together. We find winemaking to be an endlessly fascinating business which allows us the pleasures of continual learning and social interaction.
Art, Judd and Holly join me in wishing you the joy of your family and friends sharing a bottle of fine wine with our toasts to your good health!
Bunnie
